Surface & Panel 2009 MAY/JUNE

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

& I

DESIGNING A BETTER “THIRD” PLACE

S

SECRETS OF SHOPPING

N

INTERZUM 2009 DESIGN TO INSPIRE

E D

MAKE IT , MATCH IT, INTRODUCE IT TO DESIGNERS

I

U N I T I N G M AT E R I A L S , T E C H N O L O G Y A N D D E S I G N

SandP_MayJun09.indd 1

6/22/09 4:55 PM

With 14,641 miles of paper and counting, Mike’s flawless colormatching run is the longest in history...

The only thing subtle about the gigantic press Mike Carlow runs is the shifting color it could print if not monitored closely. And on a scale where ink is measured in gallons and paper in tons, shifting color can get expensive very quickly. It’s the nature of the beast.

That’s why Interprint and its customers have developed comprehensive quality control systems that detect even the most subtle color flaws. Mike’s a supporter of color quality systems and he’s glad they’re in place. He maintains a great relationship with the QC staff, even if he hasn’t heard from them in awhile: Since the summer of 2006 – more than 30 months running – Mike hasn’t had a single color reject. That’s 14,641 miles of paper, up to 8 feet wide, printed with flawless color. It’s a record he and his Interprint teammates are proud of.

interprint_14000_sandp.indd 1 SandP_MayJun09.indd 2

Mike Carlow Printer Interprint, Inc.

6/22/09 4:56 PM

circle #01 on reader service card

It also happens to be a record Alex Matkovsky is beating. For 33 months running – 18,549 miles of paper and counting – Alex hasn’t registered any color rejects either. That’s enough paper to stretch three quarters of the way around the globe. The bar has been raised and the competition is on!

As Mike and Alex are quick to explain, however, the competition is actually a team event, and success isn’t measured by the mile, rather by the satisfaction of Interprint’s customers.

... of anyone not named Alex.

Alex Matkovsky Print Team Leader Interprint, Inc.

Interprint, Inc., 101 Central Berkshire Boulevard, Pittsfield, MA 01201 413.443.4733 www.interprint.us

SandP_MayJun09.indd 3

10/23/08 10:00:28 AM 6/19/09 2:44 PM

F

R

O

M

T

H

E

P

U

B

L

I

S

H

E

R ©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Let it Rain

A perfect storm is brewing on the housing front. It will not bring destruction as one might expect in these difficult times, but rather a welcome rain for a thirsty nation.

A perfect storm is brewing on the housing front. It will not bring destruction as one might expect in these difficult times, but rather a welcome rain for a thirsty nation. This storm will surprise just about everyone who believes the recovery will be painfully slow and imperceptible.

The forces contributing to this building storm were revealed by Greg Lewis, vice president of RISI at the recent Composite Panel Association spring meeting. First of all, housing starts have hit record lows not seen in decades. The most current data shows that we are at or near 500,000 annualized starts. Home prices have also fallen and interest rates are near historic lows, increasing “affordability” for potential homebuyers. Everyone knows about the huge inventory of homes for sale and the foreclosures driving it, but quietly and without much fanfare, the inventory of available homes has decreased from an almost 13 month supply to just under 10, and it is continuing to fall. Existing home sales have fallen from an annualized rate of 7.4 million units in 2005 to under 4.5 million units in mid 2009. Housing starts will remain weak (although improving) through 2009 with an expected annualized rate near 750,000 units in the fourth quarter of this year.

When you consider that the underlying demand for new housing continues at nearly 1.75 million units, and that new homes can’t be built overnight, we are going to get caught in a housing shortage by mid-to-late 2010. The severity of the storm will depend on how long builders hold off on new construction and how far existing inventories fall. If the industry remains skittish for too long we’ll wake up one morning with short supply, increasing pent-up-demand and rising prices.

And that might be the best thing that can happen.

The housing industry is a very cyclical business. The Joint Center for Housing Studies at Harvard University frequently state in their research that “the lack of residential investment is consistently and substantially the largest contributor to weakness in GDP.” In other words, it is not a downturn in the economy that leads housing lower, it is housing which leads the economy lower.

This is clearly evident in the current recession. New home construction has been falling since the end of 2005. Fortunately, the reverse is also true...residential construction and its big brother remodeling will precede the recovery, drive an increase in GDP and lead us out of this recession.

History has shown that a dramatic cyclical drop in the housing industry has been followed by equally impressive advances in new home construction. The actual number of new homes for sale has been declining for 36 months from a peak in mid 2006. If a new cyclical advance in the housing market is just beginning, it can’t come soon enough. And if the perfect storm of pent-updemand, record low starts and falling inventory catch us with a supply problem in 2010, then so be it. I’d rather have that problem than the one we faced in the last three years. If the storm is coming...bring it on...and let it rain.

Whether you agree with me, or think I am all wet, I would enjoy hearing from you.

All the best,

John Aufderhaar • Publisher, Surface & Panel • aufderhaar@charter.net

4

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 4

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:42 PM

CIRCLE #02 ON READER SERVICE CARD

We’re back in the spotlight, but you’re the one who will hear the applause.

(We’re okay with that.)

Premium MDF and HDF

A little of us goes into everything you make.

Call (800) 373-4383 today to find out how our superior boards can give you a superior product. www.clarionindustries.com

SandP_MayJun09.indd 5

6/19/09 2:47 PM

V O L U M E

7

•

N U M B E R

3

|

M A Y / J U N E

2 0 0 9

53

[

Ryan Wagner National Accounts Manager, Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-262-2080 FAX: 920-206-1767 ryanwagner20@yahoo.com

A

T

U

R

E

S

]

Make It, Match It, Introduce It to Designers Pfleiderer’s place in Volkswagen’s showroom redesign.

26

Designing a Better “Third Place” Workspring is specifically designed for knowledge work away from the office. With different workspaces for one or two workers or as many as 25, it offers all the tools and support we expect from a well-considered, thoughtful office, plus many of the comforts of home.

33

The Work Cell Advantage Conscientious design and careful production help to secure Steelcase’s position as a market leader in office space solutions.

40

Secrets of Shopping Successful stores use principles of art, architecture and theatre in visual planning and product presentation.

48

Interzum 2009 – A Bright Outlook for the Global Furniture Industry The 50th bi-annual Interzum international trade fair drew around 47,000 visitors from more than 130 countries to the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany between May 16 and 19, 2009.

53

Design to Inspire Playing with colors, abusing wood and attending fashion shows may sound like leisure activities, but for the three in-house designers at Interprint USA, décor development is a big responsibility.

PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING

E

20

48

John Aufderhaar Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-206-1766 FAX: 920-206-1767 aufderhaar@charter.net www.surfaceandpanel.com

F

CIRCULATION

Michelle Bruhn Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-674-6943 FAX: 920 206-1767 mlbruhn@sbcglobal.net

20

48

[ D E P A R T M E N T S ] 4

From the Publisher

9

From CPA's President

10

Regenerate California’s formaldehyde rule Is underway.

12

Tech Spec Innovation in decorative overlays leads to revised standards.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Suzanne VanGilder Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 608-698-0375 FAX: 920-206-1767 suzannevangilder@sbcglobal.net DESIGN/PRODUCTION

Karen Leno/ KML Design, Inc. 923 Forest Edge Circle, Coralville, IA 52241 PH: 319-430-5108 kmldesign@mchsi.com

On the cover:

The Art Institute of Chicago’s retail spaces reflect the museum’s design and blend with Chicago’s urban environment.

16

Industry News

36

Architect Spec Wisdom from "retail guru" Charles Sparks

56

Advertiser Index

57

Resource

58

From the Editor

C O M P O S I T E PA N E L A S S O C I AT I O N MAIN OFFICE

19465 Deerfield Avenue, Suite 306, Leesburg, VA 20176 PH: 703-724-1128 FAX: 703-724-1588 Toll Free 1-866-4COMPOSITES www.pbmdf.com CANADIAN OFFICE

Post Office Box 747, Station “B” Ottawa, Ontario CANADA K1P 5P8 PH: 613-232-6782 FAX: 703-724-1588 INTERNATIONAL TESTING AND CERTIFICATION CENTER

73 Lawson Road Leesburg, VA 20176 PH: 703-724-1128 FAX: 703-724-1588

SandP_MayJun09.indd 6

Surface & Panel is published bimonthly by Bedford Falls Communications, Inc., 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, Wisconsin 53098, telephone 920-206-1766, fax 920-206-1767. John Aufderhaar, President, Christine Aufderhaar, CFO. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical without written permission from the publisher. Subscription policy: Individual subscriptions are available, without charge, to manufacturers who engage in panel processing, qualified service providers and suppliers. Publisher reserves the right to reject non-qualified subscribers. One year subscription to non-qualified individuals: U.S. $50, Canada/Mexico $75, all other countries $100, payable in U.S funds. Single issues are $15, and must be prepaid. Bedford Falls Communications, Inc., does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material contained herein, regardless of whether such errors result from negligence, accident, or any other cause whatsoever. Printed in the U.S.A. Postmaster: Send address changes to Surface & Panel, 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098.

Please direct all subscription questions and mail to: Surface & Panel, 1617 Country Club Lane, Watertown, WI 53098 PH: 920-206-1766

6/19/09 2:48 PM

Ash Elegance

As soon as we’ve scanned it we’ll be putting it back!

circle #03 on reader service card

The American Family is constantly changing and redefining itself. Families are influenced by the places they live and where they travel. These influences could be anything from the beach to the countryside, the big city or an exotic destination. At Schattdecor we find that the effect these places have

SandP_MayJun09.indd 7

on a family is reflected in the design and flooring decor choices they make for their home. To learn more about our American Family Collection of flooring decors, or about the latest addition to the Schattdecor family in the US, give us a call at 314-209-1655 or visit us online at www.schattdecor.com

6/19/09 2:49 PM

CIRCLE #04 ON READER SERVICE CARD

CPA’s International Testing and Certification Center

CPA’s International Testing and Certification Center (ITCC) in Leesburg, Virginia, is a state-of-the-art facility engineered with tomorrow’s ultra low-emitting wood products in mind.

In 2009 the ITCC added six new ASTM D 6007 Small Chambers to significantly increase its chamber capacity. These new chambers are available for CARB quarterly compliance testing, daily mill quality control testing, informational/screening tests and servicing new clients. With a demonstrated 12 month track record, the ITCC’s state of the art sample conditioning area made entirely of inert material ensures accurate results for ultra-low emitting products. The ITCC also features three Large Chambers, perforators, desiccators and a full compliment of physical, dimensional and mechanical property testing.

Opened in May 2008, CPA’s newest facility expands on 40 years of independent, reliable testing services and CPA’s designation as “TPC-1” – the first certification agency in the world to be approved as a Third Party Certifier by the California Air Resources Board.

The CPA Formaldehyde Certification Program is the largest and most stringent in North America. CPA also offers its Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) and physical and mechanical certification programs, as well as certification to mill specifications.

■

CHAMBER TESTING CAPACITY SIGNIFICANTLY INCREASED IN 2009

■

ITCC NOW PREPARED TO OFFER DAILY QC TESTING FOR PANEL MANUFACTURERS

■

NEW CLIENTS BEING ACCEPTED FOR PRODUCT CERTIFICATION SERVICES OR INFORMATIONAL/ SCREENING TESTS

■

SPECIALIZING IN PARTICLEBOARD, MDF, HARDBOARD AND HARDWOOD PLYWOOD

ASTM E 1333 and D 6007 Test Specimen Conditioning Room

DEMONSTRATED TRACK RECORD OF ACCURATELY TESTING ULTRA-LOW EMITTING PRODUCTS SUCH AS CARB’S NAF & ULEF AS WELL AS FINISHED FURNITURE. New ASTM D 6007 Small Chambers for CARB Compliance Testing or Mill QC Testing

COMPOSITE PANEL ASSOCIATION Contact the ITCC today about available services and fees.

ITCC 73 Lawson Road, Suite 101 Leesburg, VA 20175 (703) 724-1128 Director of Laboratory Services, bharrington@cpamail.org Director of Certification Services, csurak@cpamail.org www.pbmdf.com

SandP_MayJun09.indd 8

6/19/09 2:50 PM

F R O M

About the Composite Panel Association Founded in 1960, the Composite Panel Association (CPA) is dedicated to advancing the North American wood-based panel and decorative surfacing industries. CPA represents both industries on technical, regulatory, quality assurance and product acceptance issues.

CPA General Members include the leading manufacturers of particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and hardboard, representing about 95% of North American manufacturing capacity.

CPA Associate Members include manufacturers of decorative surfaces, furniture, cabinets, mouldings, doors and equipment, along with laminators, distributors, industry media and adhesive suppliers. All are committed to product advancement and industry competitiveness.

CPA is a vital resource for both manufacturers and users of industry products. The association provides leadership on federal, state and provincial regulatory and legislative matters of interest to industry, particularly those with environmental implications.

As a highly-regarded and accredited standards developer, CPA writes, publishes and maintains industry product standards.

CPA operates an International Testing and Certification Center (ITCC) in Leesburg, Virginia and manages the Grademark Certification Program, the largest and most stringent testing and certification program of its kind for North American composite panel products. The association also helps manufacturers create in-plant quality control programs through educational programs and on-site assistance.

CPA compiles and publishes the most definitive industry performance data, as well as technical bulletins on the use of industry products and other educational materials.

The association also partners with Surface & Panel magazine in publishing this magazine as well as a yearly "Buyers Guide."

CPA‘S EPP PROGRAMS

DOWNSTREAM

LICENSED FACILITY PRODUCED IN A FACILITY THAT PURCHASES AT LEAST 50% CPA-CERTIFIED EPP PANELS.

CPA offers an Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) certification program, which certifies composite panel products that contain 100% recycled or recovered fiber and meet low formaldehyde emission limits. Most EPP-certified mills have also

achieved compliance with California‘s tough new regulation on formaldehyde emissionsthe CARB rule.

CPA‘s EPP has been extended to include finished (downstream) manufacturers that use EPP panels. Products carrying the EPP Downstream logo were manufactured by a company that has demonstrated its environmental commitment by purchasing EPPcertified composite wood panels.

CPA sponsors the 2009 Surface & Panel Buyers Guide, which is dedicated to providing the most comprehensive product information available about North American composite panel and decorative surfacing products.

The Guide includes in-depth descriptions of the different types of composite panels and decorative surfaces available, along with key features and services offered by the major producers of these products.

WOOD-BASED COMPOSITE PANELS

The three types of wood-based composite panels in the marketplace today are particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and hardboard. These panels can be engineered to the customer‘s specific physical properties and surface characteristics to create durable, functional end products. By their very nature, wood-based composite panels are among the greenest materials in the world, and a great choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

DECORATIVE SURFACES

Decorative surfaces are used in a wide variety of applications including: cabinets, mouldings, flooring, furniture, countertops, store fixtures, doors and shelving. Composite panels provide an ideal substrate for decorative surfaces – one that is consistent, uniform in strength and free of defects.

Decorative surfaces are broadly separated into overlays and coatings, and are applied to composite panels by various techniques. Overlays include foils, high pressure laminates, light basis weight papers, TFM (thermally fused melamine), veneers and vinyls. Coatings are available in both liquid and powder forms.

I

C P A ' S

P R E S I D E N T

s the US economy finally turning around? That’s the talk this spring and summer, even as economic indicators appear to give conflicting signals. One thing for certain is that we’re at least having these conversations, unlike last winter when every indicator appeared to be spiraling downward.

What’s also increasingly clear is that it’s time for designers, specifiers and manufactures to focus on what it means to be in a recovery mode, and where our business priorities should be headed.

Recent economic indicators suggest that the housing market may have finally hit bottom and that US consumer confidence is on the rise. Through May we’ve seen three consecutive months of rising confidence, something recorded only once before in nearly three years. While sales of new and existing homes are still expected to be down this year, many economists see this trend line moving up sharply in 2010, with the same for furniture and other home and office products. Even more significant is the “pent up demand” factor, with many studies showing the underlying demand for housing already beginning to outpace current supply. When economic indicators improve further we can expect a surge of interest coupled with the need for greater housing inventory and some corresponding recovery in home values.

For those companies in the composite panel and decorative surfacing industries, as well as for those who specify and use these products, this kind of a turnaround will drive our recovery too. The panel market itself is beginning to stabilize this year and most manufacturers are surviving the downturn and retooling their overhead to prepare for better days. I’m betting that much of that overhead does not get restored when those better days come. The economic malaise seems to have taught most of us that we can get our work done with less, and at CPA we surely have a new appreciation for what it means to be “lean.”

This issue of Surface & Panel once again celebrates the excitement of innovation, and highlights outstanding applications for composite panels and decorative surfaces. In the CPA pages we’ve also included valuable information on our new Voluntary Compendium of Standards for Decorative Overlays, as well as California’s rule on formaldehyde emissions. I hope you find this information useful and that you will let us know what you want to see in future issues. Your ideas are what shape this magazine and make it the unique publication that it is today.

MORE INFORMATION

Composite Panel Association 19465 Deerfield Avenue, Suite 306 Leesburg, Virginia, USA 20176 (703) 724-1128 www.pbmdf.com

Tom Julia • CPA President • tjulia@cpamail.org surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 9

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

9

6/19/09 2:50 PM

California’s Formaldehyde Rule Is Underway After the California Air Resources Board (CARB) published its final Composite Wood Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ATCM) early in 2008, the center of gravity for world emission standards shifted noticeably.

California has long been the inspiration for environmental regulations that have spread across the U.S. and the rest of the continent, but this particular ATCM has begun to have an impact throughout the wood products industries and around the world too. With EPA considering a national rule that would federalize much of the CARB standard, that influence is likely to grow.

Since California’s rule became final, CARB staff and the industries affected have focused on a variety of implementation issues.

CARB continues to address these issues through its regulatory advisories that help explain important subjects like labeling and certification. A few key issues are addressed below.

REGULATORY ADVISORIES. In 2008 advisories were issued on sell through periods, which differ for composites and finished products, and so-called retro-certification of existing inventories. An important advisory on labeling was also published. Already in 2009 CARB has issued advisories for retail stores and a pamphlet advising composite manufacturers on their duties. Issues that CARB has indicated that it will address in advisories later this year include laminated products vs. hardwood plywood definitions, the monitoring and tracking of mill certifications, and sell through provisions for fabricators.

Many specific issues have been addressed by CARB in a simple Q&A format. CARB has created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) list of narrowly focused responses to specific questions about rule application, and that FAQ list is regularly updated. Particular emphasis in the recent FAQ update were the topics of packaging (pallets, skids, dunnage, shipping containers), retail displays, replacement parts, enforcement, labeling, and third party certification.

An important change in one sell through period was recently announced in a regulatory advisory. Distributors and retailers of composite panels only (not finished goods containing composites) are now being allowed four (4) additional months to dispose of inventory beyond the May 31, 2009 deadline in the rule. CARB noted that the rule was written prior to the current recession and its decision explicitly recognizes the economic reality of the market.

THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION. The CARB rule requires the use

of certified composites in all finished products sold in California.

Since issuing its first Third Party Certification (TPC) approval in May 2008 to the Composite Panel Association (CPA) CARB has granted 27 additional TPC approvals for certification organizations around the world, with at least 10 other applications under review. CARB has continued to expand the tests it recognizes for quality control testing by certified facilities, and every significant test used in the world is now recognized by CARB. 10

MAR/APR 2009

SandP_MayJun09.indd 10

According to CARB, more than 400 mills worldwide have achieved CARB certification, and CARB’s most recent estimate of production capacity found it already sufficient to supply the California market. CARB expects there will be an adequate supply of certified composite panels to meet the needs of the entire U.S. market by the end of 2009 or in early 2010. CPA now certifies 63 facilities in North America, representing over 90% of the continent’s particleboard and MDF production capacity. Every North American CPA member plant supplying composites into California is certified and in compliance with Phase 1 of the rule.

CARB has begun to turn its attention to oversight of the TPC programs. Programs that were active last year filed a report on their 2008 certification activity this past April, and individual management review process for each TPC will be completed later this year.

ENFORCEMENT. CARB has recently begun to provide industry with a closer look at its plans for enforcement of the ATCM. Recent presentations have illustrated how CARB plans to account for both product and testing variability. CARB’s enforcement staff has indicated that they intend to include “deconstructive” testing techniques to enforce compliance with the rule - i.e., removal of laminations or finishes from finished products containing composites in order to test the underlying composites used in finished products. They have also said that variability from such an invasive testing technique will be integrated into their evaluations.

Last fall CPA and other industry stakeholders joined CARB staff to discuss deconstructive testing. The discussions focused on the technical issues anticipated from compliance. A general protocol was developed, numerous products were tested and the protocol continues to be refined.

OUTREACH. CARB staff, companies affected by the regulation and industry trade associations have participated in dozens of seminar presentations and workshops since the CARB rule was finalized.

CARB has posted the audio transcripts of several of its webinars and CPA continues to develop informational documents that are posted at our CARBrule.org web site.

Readers interested in keeping up with these and other developments should sign up to be included on CARB’s emails and advisories and visit www.CARBrule.org.

Efforts by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish a national standard based on the CARB rule are actively underway, and may include intervention by the US Congress. More in the next edition of Surface & Panel. s&p R E S O U R C E S

Composite Panel Association (CPA) 703.724.1128 or jbradfield@cpamail.org | www.pbmdf.com www.CARBrule.org - the reliable resource for compliance California Air Resources Board (CARB) 916.327.5615 or btakemot@arb.ca.gov www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/compwood.htm

surface&panel

6/19/09 2:52 PM

circle #05 on reader service card

Boise Cascade-Boise Evergreen (surface panel) 06-11-09-OUTLINE.indd 1 SandP_MayJun09.indd 11

6/11/2009 1:53:13 PM 6/19/09 2:53 PM

Innovation in Decorative Overlays Leads to Revised Standards

T

he evolution of decorative overlays and their limitless design and performance possibilities continues to be an area of great interest to designers and specifiers. These innovations necessitate the need to regularly review and update – and in some cases establish – relevant industry standards that provide a common basis of understanding throughout the industry and among all users of the products.

Last year, the Composite Panel Association’s Decorative Surfaces Council (DSC) undertook the challenge of reviewing existing standards that had not been updated in more than a decade. This June, the Voluntary Compendium of Standards for Decorative Overlays was completed and published. Never before has such a comprehensive resource for the application of these surfaces existed. The new compendium features several enhancements, including a reference section and glossary of terms.

The publication is a compendium of voluntary standards for decorative overlays made from cellulosic or polymeric materials. The purpose of the compendium is to outline the attributes of each type of overlay, provide the user with information and industry-accepted test methods to determine the performance and physical characteristics of the different types of overlay, and to allow identification of the appropriate product for a particular application. The decorative overlays covered in the compendium are decorative foils, three-dimensional lamination overlays, light basis weight papers, oriented polypropylene films (OPP), thermally fused papers, and vinyl films.

The use of the compendium is completely voluntary, and it does not preclude anyone from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing or using products not conforming to the standards.

Industrial grade particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and hardboard are recognized throughout the wood industry as ideal substrates for decorative surfaces. Decorative surfaces are broadly separated into two groups – overlays and coatings – and are applied to composite panels by different techniques to produce an incredibly diverse palette of decorative panels used in a wide range of finished products including cabinets, mouldings, flooring, furniture and store fixtures.

As an additional resource, CPA has developed a new test method for Light Basis Weight Papers, designated as CPA WR-01-2009, “Standard Test Method for the Evaluation of Wear Resistance of Laminated Decorative Surfaces Using Abrading Wheels.” This test, referenced in the compendium, measures the ability of a laminated decorative surface to resist abrasive wear-through of the decorative layer, utilizing a Taber rotary platform, double-head abraser equipped with abrading wheels. For more information visit www.pbmdf.com and click on “Standards & Test Methods.”

TABER ROTARY PLATFORM DOUBLE-HEAD ABRASER TESTING MACHINE

12

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 12

surface&panel

6/19/09 2:57 PM

C O M P O S I T E

P A N E L

A S S O C I A T I O N

ABOUT THE DECORATIVE SURFACES COUNCIL

The Decorative Surfaces Council (DSC) is part of the CPA and provides oversight for programs and publications that benefit the wood-based decorative surfaces industry.

Participation in the DSC is open to all CPA members.

For more information about the compendium and the DSC, or to obtain a copy of the new standard, visit www.pbmdf.com. s&p

To find out more about the dynamic uses of decorative surfaces, CPA publishes an annual Surface & Panel Buyers Guide dedicated to providing the most comprehensive information available about North American composite panel and decorative surfacing products. The Guide includes in-depth descriptions of the different types of composite panels and decorative surfaces, along with key features and services offered by the major producers of these products. The 2009 Surface & Panel Buyers Guide is available from CPA at no charge in printed form and online.

A NEW

DIMENSION in surfaces–

DIAMOND PLATE

Embossed thermo-fused melamine Now you can have a unique surface that’s perfect for garage cabinets or store fixtures with an industrial flair.

For stylish embossing look no further than KML. We offer an extensive range of colors and patterns, slotwall, custom machining, and NAUF/FSC options.

Call KML’s friendly staff today for a custom-made sample and let us put our surface expertise to work for you.

1-888-358-5075 www.kmlcorp.com

Your best source for thermo-fused melamine.

CIRCLE #06 ON READER SERVICE CARD

surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 13

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

13

6/19/09 2:58 PM

Composite Panels

&

Decorative Overlays Innovative Products for a Sustainable Future

COMPOSITE PANEL PRODUCTS: GREEN BY NATURE!

By their very nature, composite wood panels are among the greenest building materials in the marketplace. They are produced from recycled wood and wood residuals that would otherwise be wasted or dumped in landfills, making exceptional use of our valuable wood resource. They require less energy to make than other materials and produce fewer harmful by-products. And, they can be reused or left to biodegrade naturally when their service life is done.

When combined with the wide variety of innovative and durable decorative overlays available today, wood-based composite panels create products that are a great choice for environmentally-conscious consumers.

FIBER

Particleboard, MDF and hardboard are traditionally manufactured from recycled and recovered wood fiber. Alternate fiber types, such as agricultural residues, have also been successfully used in the production of composite panels. The wood species used by each manufacturer is noted in the Guide. Different species may impart unique characteristics to the panel such as color, weight and performance.

RESINS

The North American composite panel industry has always been a world leader in the development of high quality, high value, environmentally friendly products. For decades the predominant resin used to manufacture particleboard and MDF has been urea-formaldehyde (UF). This workhorse technology is strong, colorless and economical; and recent technological improvements have allowed manufacturers to reduce the formaldehyde emissions from their products to meet the tough new ‘CARB Rule’ requirements in California.

In addition many composite panel manufacturers are developing ultra low-emitting and “no added formaldehyde” products. These new systems will expand the panel options available to customers and allow manufacturers to develop products tailored specifically to the individual needs of every customer.

The North American composite panel industry has always been a world leader in the development of high quality, high value environmentally friendly products.

ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PRODUCT (EPP) PROGRAMS

The CPA's Environmentally Preferable Product (EPP) program is the most widely-specified environmental certification program for composite wood products in North America. It is the only environmental certifi cation program that has achieved ANSI accreditation.

Products certified to CPA’s EPP Certification Program must demonstrate that they are made from 100% recycled and/or recovered fiber and meet strict formaldehyde emissions requirements. CPA’s EPP program also meets or exceeds the strict California Air Resources Board (CARB) Composite Wood Air Toxic Control Measure Phase I, which took effect on January 1, 2009. The program requires ongoing testing and auditing to maintain certification.

CPA’s EPP Downstream Program takes the program one step further. Products carrying the EPP Downstream logo were manufactured by a company that has demonstrated its environmental commitment by purchasing at least 50% CPA EPP certified composite wood products.

EPP PRODUCTS: GOOD FOR YOU, GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT DOWNSTREAM

If you’re looking for assurance that the products you

LICENSED FACILITY

purchase are environmentally responsible, make sure

PRODUCED IN A FACILITY THAT PURCHASES AT LEAST 50% CPA-CERTIFIED EPP PANELS.

you look for products that carry the CPA EPP designation. By purchasing these products you’ll be supporting one of the greenest industries on earth while supplying your clients with products that are durable, beautiful and versatile. = CARB + 100% RECYCLED/RECOVERED

14

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 14

surface&panel

6/19/09 2:59 PM

CIRCLE #07 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Tafisa melamine panels from recycled and recovered wood fibres to the most naturally inspiring designs

www.tafisa.ca

SandP_MayJun09.indd 15

6/19/09 3:00 PM

Dossier : FG_TAFISA_SURFACE_PANEL_AD

Client : Tafisa

M A Y / J U N E • 2 0 0 9

No Time for Luxury – Focus on the Essentials The 2009 Pan American Laminates Conference has been relocated from the Cayman Islands to Toronto, Canada.

At the time the preparations started it looked like a great idea: to host a conference in the tropical paradise of the Cayman Islands.

Now, 18 months and one world economic crisis later, the exotic location has turned out to be a burden rather than an attraction.

“That’s when we decided to react,” explained Kurt Fischer, Founder and Managing Director of Technical Conference Management (TCM). “We canceled our arrangements at Cayman and moved the conference to mainland North America.”

The idea behind the Cayman conference was to enhance the social character of the meeting and facilitate the exchange of ideas by providing a pleasant environment, but the new economic situation calls for a more practical approach and more budget-oriented conference facilities.

The new venue will be Toronto, Canada.

Toronto can easily be reached from all industry locations in the US as well as in Canada.

Also, European delegates have far easier access to Toronto than they would have had to Georgetown. Lower airfares and hotel rates will enable more delegates to attend. And at the end of the day it is not the location that accounts for the success of a conference, but the number of attendees.

Key presentations at the conference will be given by Renee Hytry-Derrington of Formica Corporation and Jaime Velez of the renowned architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLC. Fischer extends an invitation to speak at the conference: “We are still accepting proposals for presentations at the conference. Of course, sponsors of the conference are also still welcome.”

16

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 16

KURT FISCHER, FOUNDER AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF TCM, WITH JOHN AUFDERHAAR, PUBLISHER OF SURFACE & PANEL MAGAZINE

HISTORY OF THE LAMINATES CONFERENCES

The first TCM Laminates Conference was held in Vienna, Austria in 2002, attracting 250 delegates. Since then the Laminates Conference and its spin-off conferences (Wood-based Panels Conference, Decor Surfaces Conference and Decor Foils Conference) have traveled around the world, making stops in Shanghai, Berlin, Montreal, Prague, Amsterdam, Vienna, Salzburg, and Barcelona. Many of the attendees are regular visitors who use the conference to stay in touch with the global industry.

Future events are scheduled in Stockholm, Sweden, and Innsbruck, Austria.

TCM AMERICAS

In 2008, Technical Conference Management began talks with Bedford Falls Communications to form a joint venture for organizing events in America. Plans were finalized in early 2009 by forming TCM Americas.

This joint venture will have offices in the USA and in Europe, and will be the platform for all further activities in North and South America.

EXECUTIVE ADVISORY BOARD

Another important step was taken in spring of 2009: The members the of Decorative and Industrial Laminates Committee, which had organized the DIL Symposia in Atlanta until 2008, decided to dissolve the DIL committee and join forces with TCM on the organization of conferences in North and South America.

The 16 members of the now called “Executive Advisory Board” will consult TCM Americas on future events. ■

EXECUTIVE ADVISORY BOARD

George Andrea, Hexion Specialty Chemicals John Beck, Sauder Woodworking John Benson, KapStone Paper Jean Briere, Shaw Industries Stephen Canary, Panolam Industries Dave Field, Interprint Michel Fortin, CDM Decor Papers David Healy, Healy & Associates Terry Jenkins, KapStone Paper Scott Laprade, Interprint Lee Miller, DSM Melamine Americas Holbrook Platts, Platts Laminate Technologies James Scott, MWV Specialty Papers Linn Yeager, DSM Melamine Americas ORGANIZER

Technical Conference Management KEG Fasangasse 1 A-2103 Langenzersdorf, Austria Phone: +43 (0)2244 33870-11 Telefax: +43 (0)2244 33870-20 Email: office@tcman.at Website: www.tcman.at CONFERENCE WEBSITE

www.laminates-conference.com

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:01 PM

CIRCLE #08 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Arjowiggins SAS and Technocell Dekor GmbH & Co. KG Announce a Cross Licensing Contract in Resin Saving Paper Technology ARJOWIGGINS and TECHNOCELL companies announce that they signed an exclusive cross licensing agreement on resin saving decorative papers for woodworking applications. This agreement, effective from end May 2009, grants TECHNOCELL access to the existing ARJOWIGGINS resin saving papers patents and gives mutual access to any resin saving papers patent application pending from both companies. It confirms ARJOWIGGINS and TECHNOCELL's ambition to bring customers, today and tomorrow, the best solutions to answer their needs.

Both companies are convinced that the resin saving papers technology will provide a significant economical advantage to the entire decor industry. In order to avoid a sterile patent law case, ARJOWIGGINS and TECHNOCELL agreed to promote this high performance technology through a major cross- licensing contract.

This decision clearly opens today the market and gives customers all the security and serenity to use the latest innovation, advantages and added value offered by the resin saving papers technology. ■

Flakeboard to Install Melamine Press at Duraflake Plant Flakeboard announces plans to install its third new melamine press at its Duraflake particleboard plant located in Albany, Oregon.

This press installation, scheduled for first quarter 2010 start-up, is the final stage of a melamine expansion plan that began with the purchase of three new presses in 2007.

“We are very eager to offer melamine surfacing to the highly recognized Duraflake® brand. Our customers will have their choice of industry leading fire-rated, moisture resistant, VESTA (NAUF) and a host of other specialty products available with TFM,” stated Kevin Shotbolt, Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Plant Manager, Dave Leding comments, “This is exciting news for all of us at Duraflake. It represents a significant investment in both our community, and in the stressed Willamette Valley forest products industry. It’s time for some positive news and I am proud that Flakeboard is leading the way by making this major investment in Duraflake’s future.”

This final installation will serve the western regions of Canada and the United States and supply those areas with melamine surfaced Duraflake® and Premier® products from both the Albany particleboard, and Eugene MDF plants, respectively.

Upon completion, this expansion will signify true North American-wide distribution, allowing Flakeboard to continue to expand its product offering, address the unique demands of local markets and service more regions with the broadest composite panel choices in North America. ■

surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 17

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

17

6/19/09 3:03 PM

Commercial Furniture Industry Launches “level” Certification Program for Furniture Sustainability Standard

ABET LAMINATI Opens Richmond, California Office and Warehouse ABET LAMINATI a leading manufacturer of high pressure laminate, is pleased to announce the opening of its Richmond, California office and warehouse facility. The 17,000 sq. ft. location includes 4,000 sq. ft. of office and showroom space in addition to its warehouse. In accordance with ABET’s environmental friendliness, the facility reduces electrical use by almost 80 percent thanks to several large skylights. Overhead lighting will be used only when needed on rainy days, a rare occurrence in sunny California.

ABET continues to be at the forefront of style and environmental sensitivity as seen in its recent GreenGuard certification and through its Tefor line of high pressure laminates made entirely from recycled materials.

ABET has additional offices and warehouses in Englewood, N.J. and Toronto. ■

18

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 18

BIFMA International, the trade association for the commercial furniture industry, representing the leading firms in the contract furniture market, today announces the premier of the product certification program, level. level will verify conformance to the first fully transparent, multi-attribute furniture sustainability standard addressing material utilization, energy and atmosphere impacts, human and ecosystem health and social responsibility.

Manufacturers evaluating products to the BIFMA e3 sustainability standard and undergoing an independent, third-party certification process can achieve the level conformance mark. NSF International and Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) are the first thirdparty certification bodies to be recognized under the level certification program. The standard is modeled after LEED with specific prerequisites, optional credits, and three conformance levels, with level 3 certification being the highest.

“For the past three years we have been

following the ANSI process, working with stakeholders and experts from inside and outside the industry to create a standard that can be used by all furniture producers,” said Tom Reardon, BIFMA Executive Director. “We also understand the importance of an independent evaluation and conformance verification process and invite additional certification bodies to participate in the program. We have to give our customers a simple and comprehensive way to understand how products contribute to green buildings and sustainability as a whole,” he added.

BIFMA member firms Allsteel, Gunlocke, HON Company, Herman Miller, Kimball Office, National Office Furniture and Steelcase have products that meet the standard’s requirements and have received third party certification by either NSF or SCS. Each firm will be showcasing their level certified products at NeoCon this year.

For more information, visit www.levelcertified.org. ■

Store of the Year, Fixture of the Year and Visual Presentation of the Year Announced at A.R.E. Design Awards FIRST AWARD EVER GRANTED FOR VISUAL PRESENTATION OF THE YEAR

The Association for Retail Environments (A.R.E.) celebrated the 38th anniversary of its awards presentation on Monday, March 23, during an awards ceremony in the Venetian Hotel. The presentation, held at the end of the first day of GlobalShop, presented 62 awards to 46 projects for the innovation and quality of their retail environment designs. During the evening, sixteen projects were awarded Grand Prizes onstage. In addition, the Store of the Year was awarded to department store Lane Crawford in Beijing, China.

A.R.E. members Linea LLP, Yabu Pushelberg, Audio Visual Technnique Ltd. and Moss & Lam Inc. contributed to the project.

The Fixture of the Year was awarded to member Giorgio Borruso Design for his Zu+Elements: Cashwrap in Milan, Italy. Lastly, for the first time in its history, A.R.E. announced a Visual Presentation of the Year, which was awarded to VANOC Olympic Store: Torch Tree & S-wall Presentation Grouping in Hudson Bay Company store in Vancouver, BC, Canada. The visual elements for this award-winning project were created by A.R.E. member, Eventscape Inc. Nineteen Outstanding Merits, a record-breaking 12 Visual Presentation Awards, and 12 Store Fixture Awards were also recognized during the ceremony and received their awards in the Winners Circle following the presentation.

Judges were Bruce A. Barteldt Jr., National Studio Principal, Little; Bevan Bloemendaal, Senior Director, Global Creative Services, The Timberland Co. (Retail); Michael Cape, Michael Cape Consulting; Steve Kaufman, Editor-at-Large, VMSD Magazine; Brad Lenz, Vice President, Shopin-Shop and International Stores, Liz Claiborne Inc.; Alison Embrey Medina, Executive Editor, DDI Magazine; Robert Ruscio, President and Principal Designer; and Marianne Wilson, Editor-in-Chief, Chain Store Age. ■

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:04 PM

New Brands at RENOLIT DESIGN The RENOLIT Group has reorganised the brand structure of its Business Unit RENOLIT DESIGN. By means of three product lines and new brands, the film manufacturer has integrated the key strengths of the traditional brands Cova and Alkor which have formed part of the Group since April 2006.

With the integration of the Industrial Foils Business from the Belgian company Solvay S.A. RENOLIT considerably expanded the product portfolio of the Business Unit RENOLIT DESIGN. At the end of 2007, the brand Benelit was also added following the takeover of the furniture film activities from Benecke-Kaliko, located in Hanover.

company’s selection of solid colours and woodgrains in fashionable colours with classic surface finishes. The collection contains all the major woodgrain species available in a range of different shades and tones as well as solid colours varying from light to dark and vibrant to subtle.

RENOLIT COVAREN is the stock range Premier collection. Incredibly realistic woodgrain prints, stylish solid colours and abstract designs are combined with superior surface textures. High gloss, metallics and pearl finishes contribute to the particular appeal of these films along with the latest raised embosses and matt finishes.

3D Stock Range with new brands

The traditional 3D film business of RENOLIT is complemented by decorative 2D films for applications in the furniture and caravan industry, interior construction and consumer electronics. The name Alkor is well established and respected within these markets, so the product line RENOLIT 2D Applications will take over these product names in connection with the umbrella brand – e.g.

RENOLIT ALKORCELL. In doing so, the company benefits from the existing brand strengths within the relevant market segments and expands its product portfolio. n

The company has developed two different product line approaches. Under the title RENOLIT 3D Stock Range, the group now offers a comprehensive, multifaceted design collection for furniture, office and retail interiors. It contains more than 170 solid colours, woodgrains and abstract prints, including 10 new high gloss woodgrains and 5 high gloss solid colours. The stock range is available to all customers, throughout the world.

The 3D Stock Range is divided into two distinct collections. RENOLIT ALKOREN presents the

The strengths of the 2D films

Süddekor LLC Introduces a New Solid Color Line Süddekor is pleased to announce the launch of a new Solid Color Line in August 2009.

Seven solid colors will be available in treated sheet form, offered in both 4 and 5 foot widths, with a minimum of 500 sheets per pallet. The line will be available to all customers and product will be accessible within a quick 7-day lead time.

The range will consist of 10 colors: black, white, and a range of almonds and greys.

Material will be produced at the Süddekor Treating Plant in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. This new project will be managed by Rob Binnall, who has been promoted to Sales Manager, Treating. This position builds on Rob’s technical knowledge of paper manufacturing and the performance characteristics of industry papers. s&p

circle #09 on reader service card

SandP_MayJun09.indd 19

surface&panel

ma y / j une 2 0 0 9

19

6/19/09 3:05 PM

CIRCLE #10 ON READER SERVICE CARD

MAKE IT MATCH IT

INTRODUCE IT TO DESIGNERS

smart Even in today’s economic climate, the demand for contoured work surfaces continues to increase.

Stiles is proud to introduce a smart solution for contour edgebanding challenges.

The Vector Revolution 180 is truly innovative with its simple operating logic.

Visit www.stilesmachinery.com/vector to watch a video of the machine in action and learn more about how the Vector Revolution 180 is a smart solution.

For more information, visit www.stilesmachinery.com or contact Stephan Waltman at 616.698.7500 or swaltman@stilesmachinery.com.

Pfleiderer’s Place in Volkswagen’s Showroom Redesign B Y

S U Z A N N E

V A N

G I L D E R

DRIVING EXPERIENCE

With technical expertise and the power of innovation, Volkswagen brings moving ideas to the road.

Volkswagen sets new standards with its technical revolutions, which is evident in its designs for the most economical car of all time, the largest and most potent diesel power plant ever to be installed in a passenger vehicle and the fastest sports car in the world. Beyond performance, Volkswagen’s unique styling meets the consumer’s need for vehicles that are visually appealing.

After all, one key to success is to look the part. Which is why the Volkswagen car group recently devised a new set of design guidelines for retail showrooms.

DESIGNING EXPERIENCE

A renowned Berlin design company created a fresh, formalized look to match Volkswagen’s global approach. Cuboids of varying size and dimension define the theme of the design, lending a sense of equality and neat angles to the furniture and fixtures in the space. The materials specification reflects many of the current trends in retail design, with white surfaces and inviting wood finishes. The main contractors for the Volkswagen showroom redesign selected three subsidiaries of Pfleiderer, Duropal, Wodego and Pergo to supply the engineered-wood products used in the showrooms.

20

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 20

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:06 PM

circle #10 on reader service card

It is not enough for the showroom design to be elegant and welcoming, the materials specified must be able to meet the performance needs of a retail environment. High-quality cherry wood laminate flooring from Pergo creates areas of warmth within the new contemporary design guidelines for Volkswagen showrooms. The finish ties into Duropal’s “Cherry Havana” HPL, which is used throughout the sales offices, waiting areas and display islands. Duropal’s award-winning “Solid Color” HPL, which has no visible joints or edges, is specified in “Icy White” for the construction of furniture elements. The design is brought together with decorative panels from Wodego. whose matching “Icy White” finish creates uniformity in color throughout all the counters, shelving, tables and design elements, regardless of a fixture’s performance requirement.

Wodego, Duropal and Pergo use consultants, who act as specification representatives, to regularly call on the architecture and design community. The consultants do not sell product, but visit firms to introduce new materials and designs into the marketplace. It was this kind of personal customer contact that helped secure the designation of Pfleiderer products for the new Volkswagen showroom design guidelines. By ensuring that the people who specify materials know and understand their products, Wodego, Duropal and Pergo consultants make it easier for their sales teams to succeed, often creating a kind of pull-through demand.

fast Would you like to produce twice as much in a fraction of the time?

The Weeke BHX 500 from Stiles can process two panels simultaneously with 32mm line boring, two dado grooves on the Y-axis and a toe kick in well under a minute.

Designed for routing, boring, and grooving flat panel components, the Weeke BHX 500 is a flexible CNC machining center that addresses just-in-time manufacturing needs. Learn how you can speed up your CNC processing.

For more information, visit www.stilesmachinery.com or contact Stephan Waltman at 616.698.7500 or swaltman@stilesmachinery.com.

SandP_MayJun09.indd 21

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

21

6/19/09 3:07 PM

circle #10 on reader service card

Manufacturing Experience

powerful Continuous developments ensure that Holzma panel saws feature the latest in technology while providing the highest level of efficiency.

Available from Stiles, the Power Concept enables Holzma 380 series panel saws to crosscut different strips to different part lengths in the same cutting cycle at cutting times reduced as much as 40%, driving down costs and lead times.

When you work with Stiles, you get experienced manufacturing consulting, steadfast service and support and the long-term value that you can only get from the experts. It’s all part of our commitment to your success.

Now that’s powerful.

For more information, visit www.stilesmachinery.com or contact Bill Pitt at 704.861.8239 or bpitt@stilesmachinery.com.

22

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 22

Pfleiderer’s fascination with wood began in 1894 with an operation that floated logs down the rivers Necker and Rhine, and it has been consistently expanded, reinvented and refined ever since. Throughout two world wars and a technological revolution, a handful of shrewd leaders guided Pfleiderer into its current position as an extremely vertically-oriented world leader in engineered wood. “Working with one of the world’s biggest carmakers shows yet again that our product portfolio is extremely attractive and meets the highest demands for design, quality and value for money,” says Michael Wolff, Chairman of the Board at Pfleiderer AG, Business Center Western Europe.

With approximately 6,000 employees worldwide, Pfleiderer currently operates 22 production and sales sites in North America, Eastern and Western Europe. Independently operated subsidiaries, or “Business Units” comprise a varied and ever evolving collection of brands, including North American board giant Uniboard. Business Units are diversified by product, region and in some cases market segment. Each is positioned to meet a targeted need of the vast global engineered-wood market. The combined international enterprises create an economy of scale that enables Pfleiderer to respond quickly and flexibly to a huge range of customers. Manufacturing competencies of Pfleiderer Business Units include the production of: HPL, TFM, MDF, HDF, adhesives, construction materials, particleboard, digitally printed materials, lightweight panel and laminate flooring.

The Business Units provide expertise at every step of the value-chain of engineered wood products, making Pfleiderer a powerful industry leader. “Being able to provide a worldwide service and meet the most stringent demands for quality means we can guarantee Volkswagen the best overall package,” explains Ralf Eisermann, Pergo’s CEO. Not only do Pleiderer’s subsidiaries offer expansive product lines with integrated matching finishes, but they also communicate directly with the design community. So when it comes time to specify materials for nearly any project, names like Duropal, Wodego and Pergo are fresh in the minds of the people who decide. When it comes to engineered wood, Pfleiderer provides practical solutions for practically any project. s&p

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:08 PM

circle #11 on reader service card

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

SandP_MayJun09.indd 23

6/19/09 3:13 PM

PEA C E restored by Salice

SandP_MayJun09.indd 24

6/19/09 3:14 PM

HOT NEW PRODUCTS

MAKE A LOT OF NOISE

BY KEEPING QUIET. Introducing Futura from Salice, the concealed runner suitable for all drawer applications, available in partial and full extension openings.

Futura is available in 3 versions: • Smove decelerated closing • Integrated Push opening for cabinets without pulls • Traditional Self-closing As a leading innovator in concealed hinge technology, Salice brings the same superior quality and respected customer support to the Futura line. Easily installed and dependable, customers receive advanced technology, innovative design and solid construction.

Specifications: • Exceeds ANSI TESTING 156.9 load capacity • Safety feature to prevent drawers from turning over during transport • Drawer height adjustment (+3 mm) • Finish – bright zinc plated • Lifetime warranty For detailed specs, availability and pricing, contact us by phone or visit www.saliceamerica.com.

2123 Crown Centre Drive | Charlotte NC. 28227 | 800.222.9652 | 704.841.7810 | www.saliceamerica.com CIRCLE #12 ON READER SERVICE CARD

SandP_MayJun09.indd 25

6/19/09 3:14 PM

Designing a better “third”place

Sometimes you just need to get away.

At the corner of Ohio and State streets in downtown Chicago, a short walk from the famous Magnificent Mile, a cozy Starbucks store beckons. People sit at tables enjoying Americanos, wireless access, and all the accoutrements of what social scientists call a “third place,” a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg.

S

eparate from our first place (home) and second place (office), such coffee shops, libraries, pubs, parks and other “great good places” are informal, safe, public places where people gather to soak in the atmosphere and mingle with others.

But this Starbucks, like any third place, has problems as a workplace. The coffee’s great and the ambiance is a refreshing break from the office, but this is no place for serious work. There’s little privacy for information on flat screens or in printed material. Holding a conversation is a public event, and the amount of space to work in is limited, at best. There’s a reason it’s a third place, after all.

26

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 26

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:15 PM

A better place for work, with its own welcoming ambiance, sits less than a hundred yards away at 12 East Ohio. It’s called Workspring, and it’s specifically designed for knowledge work away from the office. With different workspaces for one or two workers or as many as 25, it offers all the tools and support we expect from a well-considered, thoughtful office, plus many of the comforts of home.

“People look for the right blend of privacy and isolation that’s needed to get work done, but at the same time we want to feel connected to the greater whole. Third places lack territorial privacy, visual privacy, and acoustical privacy, and the tools that collaborative work requires. Workspring is something like a ‘two-point-five’ space: a place for work that combines both community spaces and private work studios. It’s in the middle of a great urban neighbor hood, yet it also has a quiet courtyard right outside. It’s the best of both worlds,” says Frank Graziano, designer for WorkSpace Futures at Steelcase, and part of a venture team that developed Workspring.

Mark Greiner, Steelcase senior vice president and executive sponsor of the Workspring venture, says the space is designed to fully integrate architecture, furniture, and technology to support collaborative, generative work – and it shows.

“Everything has a purpose, a story. Everything is intentional.

It’s obvious why you can display technology easily, why there’s a café here, why there’s a long space along the windows with pairs of chairs for conversations. People ‘get’ the space right away. We don’t have to tell them.”

surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 27

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

27

6/19/09 3:16 PM

A MIX OF OPEN AND PRIVATE SPACES

Workspring’s 4,500 square feet are divided about equally between private studios and communal spaces. The five studios range from 190 to 660 sq. ft., sized for groups of 2 to 6 and up to 25.

Inside are mobile tables at seated or standing height, ergonomic chairs, a built-in tool center with markers, sticky notes and other supplies, digital and analog content capture and display tools, and wireless access. The studio furniture and tools easily reconfigure to the needs of the moment.

Communal spaces begin at the Workspring entry. A long, L-shaped

28

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 28

couch and a pair of cubes topped with drawing paper sit opposite the café and a standing height peninsula. A few steps further, a standing height round table anchors the start of a curved wall that bridges the cafe and the walkway to all the studios.

The “forum” [pictured above] is a space with standing height tables and stools, and a curated selection of books and periodicals that represent Steelcase’s brand beliefs, much as a home library expresses what the owner feels. It’s a place to have coffee while waiting for colleagues, hold a small meeting, or look over something from the library.

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:16 PM

From here you’re drawn to the “oasis,” a long space that extends north and south along the five studios. Standing height and seated chairs and tables welcome up to four people at different furniture settings along a wall with several sets of French doors that overlook the courtyard. “People walk through here and say, ‘Okay, I get it.

This is a great place to walk over when I need to take a call, I can look through the window out over the courtyard, it’s a space with a visual break from the studio and the meeting,” says Greiner.

“Some people might look at all the communal space here and wonder why we didn’t build more rentable rooms,” says Graziano, “but these spaces serve an important purpose: they’re a front porch for each of the studios, places where small groups can collaborate, spaces where all of those important side conversations and spontaneous meetings take place. These interstitial spaces are an extension of the studiobased activities.”

The feel of the space straddles the line between home and work. “We hear ‘Zenlike’ a lot, and it’s a good way to put it. We want to provide a safe haven for great work to be done,” says Laate Olukotun, part of the Workspring venture team.

“People look for the right blend of privacy and isolation that’s needed to get work done, but at the same time we want to feel connected to the greater whole.”

Frank Gra ziano, designer for WorkSpace Futures at Steelcase, and part of a venture team that developed Workspring

circle #13 on reader service card

SandP_MayJun09.indd 29

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

29

6/19/09 3:17 PM

GETTING THE GROUP TOGETHER

Workspring was designed as an alternative not only to public third places, but also to traditional offsite meeting facilities at hotels and conference centers. Rick VanGelderen, principal of InterActive Studio, who designed the Workspring space along with Graziano, recalls a meeting many can relate to.

“We were working on a project in San Antonio. The architect was in Los Angeles, the food service consultant was in Minneapolis, and we were in Michigan. We had to get together, and everyone could get direct to Chicago, but where do we meet? At the airport? The hotel? We ended up at a hotel with a boardroom-like place in a convenient location but not the right kind of facility. “We couldn’t get in early because the room was booked for a breakfast until nine o’clock. The space was typical hotel-conference room décor with draperies all over the place.

We wanted to project things so we had to wait for someone to bring in the equipment, which was very expensive. The whole setting was cumbersome, a distraction, and a deterrent to good collaboration. We only had four hours together. We got a lot done, but how much more could we have gotten done without all those issues and distractions?

I know the experience would have been much richer in a better space.”

VanGelderen says video conference calls and internet-based meetings are effective, sometimes. “But there’s no replacing eye-to-eye. If you need or expect innovation to happen, you need a high-touch experience. Go to a place where they’ve got the tools and the knowledge and the places that will enable that to happen. You’ve got to bring the knowledge and the people, but the place should help the process.”

BUILDING ON THE PAST

Two workspaces Graziano and VanGelderen worked on in the past helped inform the Workspring space. “Arena Station was a kind of early version of Workspring for our own employees, a two-floor space with meeting rooms and open spaces in a renovated factory building in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan” says Graziano. Too much open space, it turned out. The workspaces were designed in the early 90s just as knowledge work was evolving from individual work to more of a group process. As a result, Arena Station’s more enclosed spaces were preferred by small groups over the larger, more open spaces that were similar to an open coffee shop.

“Even in short term situations, people seek privacy. It’s human nature. Groups expect a certain amount of enclosure, too,” notes Graziano. The Arena Station experience informed the design of the Steelcase University Learning Center in Grand Rapids, a space that 30

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 30

presaged Workspring. An old factory space was reborn as a state-ofthe-art educational facility with formal and informal learning spaces, including classrooms, breakout and touchdown spaces, a café, and an outdoor courtyard.

The Learning Center is reserved for employees and invited guests.

Since opening in 2000, it’s garnered rave reviews from visiting architects, designers, educators, and business executives interested in workspaces that foster learning, collaboration, and innovation. Workspring builds on the shoulders of Arena Station and the Learning Center, “and more than ten years of research we’ve done on environments for crossfunctional teams, collaboration, problem-solving, and knowledge sharing,” says Graziano. “It’s a way to put into play that knowledge, this time as a privileged third place that any business can use.”

LOOKING FOR THE “SINGULAR EXPERIENCE”

As work has become more team-oriented and collaborative, worker expectations for the places they work have also changed. The nonprofit International Association of Conference Centers says when it comes to offsite work locations, “more people today consciously seek to gather experiences; it’s central to their notion of quality of life.” As a result, people want “singular experiences, and facilities that deliver those can actually help attendees retain more of what they saw and heard from an in-person meeting; it engages all the senses to create distinct memories.”

Workspring responds to this gestalt with its walk-friendly north side Chicago location, outdoor courtyard, customized services such as healthy meals and snacks and the daily newspaper, and a full-time staff that works to make sure every Workspring guest gets the most out of their workspace. The attention to detail is stunning: studios, for example, have four different light levels, from “arrival” and presentation modes to full on or a soft, warm glow from fixtures mounted along room perimeters. Artwork, flowers, and background music pervade the space.

“Visitors tell us Workspring feels like a spa. We’ve had people come to work here and not want to leave,” says Courtney Williams, head of sales and marketing for Workspring.

“The space is wonderful,” says Carolyn Miller, principal at Interior Architects, Chicago. The firm used Workspring for a staff holiday party and she also attended a book signing here. “We were looking for something a little different, instead of a restaurant. The space is great and it can be used for many things. We have a very critical eye. The space is very well thought-out. It got rave reviews.”

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:17 PM

CIRCLE #14 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Visit us at AWFS Booth #1634

SandP_MayJun09.indd 31

6/19/09 3:18 PM

Material Responsibility Creating environmentally friendly, user-centric office spaces begins with the careful selection of materials. “Our primary focus for sustainable environments, inside and out, is the materials we place in and on our furniture,” says Julie Daly, Steelcase’s Director of Surface Materials.

Steelcase places a lot of emphasis on sustainable panels, textiles and surfaces.

Before a material is specified for a Steelcase product, it undergoes intense analysis. Compliance with CARB regulations is very important. “Steelcase was involved in the formation of the CARB regulations, so we make sure that our materials meet the letter of the law,” says Daly. CARB regulations have the most impact on substrate materials, so all the particleboard and MDF used in Steelcase products meet CARB standards. In addition Steelcase was granted a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody Certification in 2008. This ensures the materials used in Steelcase’s wood products come from well-managed forests.

Steelcase uses the McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC) environmental certification to better understand the environmental implications of materials. MBDC is a leading green design consulting firm whose Cradle-to-Cradle certification scrutinizes every aspect of a design for its environmental impact. It focuses on what goes into a product, but also on the potential to reclaim the product’s components at the end of its life. This comprehensive information helps Steelcase specify environmentally responsible materials. For example, Steelcase recently introduced sustainable textiles that are made from antimony-free polyester.

Antimony is a heavy metal commonly used as a catalyst for manufacturing recycled polyester. It poses a threat to humans and the environment. But Steelcase, in collaboration with Designtex, has developed a different, natural catalyst with no known harmful byproducts, which greatly increases the environmental viability of recycled polyester.

Another consideration for Steelcase is how their products will impact LEED certification. LEED is a system for evaluating the overall environmental performance of an entire building. Five categories are used to define what constitutes a “green building,” including indoor air quality. While furniture is not LEED certifiable in its own right, it can contribute points toward the certification of the whole building. “We use a great deal of laminate,” says Daly. “Our primary supplier is Wilsonart because they are so conscientious about indoor air quality, but we do have probably three other suppliers.” TFM is often specified for vertical surfaces and HPL is used for work surfaces. “For more design-driven products, we use HPL throughout,” says Daly.

Responsible materials plus functional design equals a healthy work environment. But perhaps more importantly, Steelcase’s commitment to producing environmentally responsible products helps drive the development of sustainable materials. And that is good for everyone. ■ 32

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 32

CEOs for Cities, an organization of city leaders from across the U.S., recently booked Workspring for conference breakout sessions, informal meetings, and a formal board meeting. “Breakouts ranged from seven to ten people. The natural light and the courtyard made for a refreshing breakout space,” says Rebecca Eggleston, program director for creative cities. “We had a board meeting in one of the studios. It was more private and that was necessary for board discussions. We also had an informal, open discussion in the entry area. That facilitated a more relaxed and informal dialogue. So the spaces worked well for different reasons.”

Another group of business executives based in Deerfield, a Chicago suburb, recently held their annual department review at Workspring. The last part of the day was set aside to visit some downtown attractions. “You know you’re in a great neighborhood when someone asks for a restaurant recommendation, and you have a plethora to choose from that are within walking distance,” says Faith Hurley, who provides guest services.

PLACE MATTERS TO KNOWLEDGE WORK

Pricing for Workspring is set at $140 per person per session, with studio space, shared spaces, food and beverages, tech services, and office supplies included. Discounts are available for weeklong sessions and other packages.

Bundled pricing appeals to business professionals especially in uncertain economic times because there are no hidden costs and the participants can focus on a productive work session. Workspring can be booked as early as 7:30 AM until 10:30 PM, weekdays.

How can you measure the value of a Workspring engagement? The qualitative nature of knowledge work makes it difficult to apply a pure return on investment (ROI) model. More professionals are using a return on objectives (ROO) approach to measure results against the business objectives of a work session.

In the end, location matters to knowledge work. A generic location will produce generic results. Thoughtful physical surroundings, seamless technology, the ability to easily share and capture information and ideas, private and open spaces, and gracious service centered on supporting the work process, can make all the difference.

“People will continue to work in coffee shops and other places, but this is another choice, a different space that can help change perceptions,” says Graziano. “And if you’re really looking to work together, to co-create and innovate, you need a place you can call your own and get messy.”

More Workspring locations are planned, says Greiner. “It’s a continuous learning experience, reinventing the experience for people in the space. It’s not like a product that you can design and engineer and than repeatedly manufacture. We have to improve each and every day to attract people back.” s&p

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:19 PM

“I have estimated that we have been able to decrease our through-put time by about 90% with this work cell we put in, compared to some of our other operations that we haven’t configured into work cells.”

RON KET TNER, SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER FOR STEELCASE’S WOOD PL ANT

THE WORK CELL ADVANTAGE

C

onscientious design and careful production help to secure Steelcase’s position as a market leader in office space solutions. Steelcase manufactures engineered-wood case goods in its Caledonia, MI wood plant, which is the first LEED certified manufacturing facility in the world. This progressive operation utilizes a production concept called the “work cell” to maximize the efficiency of its Biesse manufacturing equipment. The technological advantages from this approach include decreased throughput time, improved product quality and reduction of both inventory and waste.

Ron Kettner is the Senior Manufacturing Engineer for Steelcase’s wood plant. Over the past 21 years Kettner has worked in a variety of positions for Steelcase. “My definition of a work cell is a specific manufacturing department or area in the plant that makes a product. To accomplish this we bring differ-

ent kinds of equipment or different processes together and form a small group. A specific product is run through that small area in the plant,” says Kettner. “That is opposed to what I would call the old-fashioned traditional concept where there are departments of similar pieces of equipment. During production the workpiece is brought to a department, one operation is done, and then the piece is moved to a different operation with a different machine in the plant.”

SMARTER MANUFACTURING

Work cells are a key component to accomplishing lean manufacturing. Since product flows straight from one machine to the next, the movement of materials around the facility is greatly reduced. Work pieces within the work cell are very visible, which eliminates the need for bar coding and simplifies inventory control. This equates to a significant increase in efficiency. “I have estimated that

we have been able to decrease our throughput time by about 90% with this work cell we put in, compared to some of our other operations that we haven’t configured into work cells,” says Kettner.

Steelcase did not invent the concept of the work cell, but their application of the philosophy is unique. Everything within the wood plant was planned to meet the specifications of LEED certification. From using FSC certified wood and water-borne clarity finishes to operating for the reduction of waste, that commitment is engrained into the overall processes of the facility. Work cells are an important part of that. For example, the arrangement of a work cell allows for direct feedback from operators throughout the manufacturing process, so quality control is enhanced. If mistakes occur they are caught early enough to prevent large runs of bad product, which dramatically reduces waste. surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 33

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

33

6/19/09 3:19 PM

CIRCLE #15 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Because of the competitive advantages gained by work cells, their specific details and configurations are proprietary information. This particular work cell of Biesse equipment generally includes a Skipper boring machine, Selco panel saw and an edgebander. Once a product passes through the work cell it is fed into a manual trim station for assembly.

The work cell that Kettner helped to organize produces a particular line of furniture, called Currency, which is available through Steelcase’s Turnstone family. Currency products are made from a particleboard substrate with a melamine paper surface material. Steelcase’s paper patterns are proprietary, and the saturation is done

by Wilsonart and Coveright. A local distributor currently provides the TFM, though the wood plant is beginning to run a press in-house.

PLANNING FOR PRODUCTIVITY

The initial set up of a work cell is a significant investment in resources and space. Simply allocating an area on the plant floor and moving large pieces of equipment requires careful planning. But the benefits justify the investment.

Work cells can be adaptable enough to run different products down the same line. Kettner says,” One of the key things about Biesse machines, in general, is the flexibility of the machine to be able to produce different lines. Right now our cell is specific to Currency, but in the future it may be producing other furniture lines as well.” Another advantage is the ability to do smaller production runs. Kettner’s operation does not have to batch and queue products going through, so when a customer orders something it can be produced in a matter of days.

See us at AWFS Booth #2133

34

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 34

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:20 PM

“One of the key things about Biesse machines, in general, is the flexibility of the machine to be able to produce different lines.”

RON KET TNER, SENIOR MANUFACTURING ENGINEER FOR STEELCASE’S WOOD PL ANT

CIRCLE #16 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Rack & Roll with Smartech Fans of Smartech are jumpin’ and jivin’ because we’ve taken the guesswork out of how to store and deliver rolled thermofoil and other materials efficiently.

The efficiency of Steelcase’s work cell machinery is enhanced by BiesseWorks, the CNC software that allows programming for the Skipper routers.

BiesseWorks is a window-based language that runs on a PC. “With the exception of the specific machine control software and programs, there is very little proprietary computer programming or computer hardware on the machines,” explains Kettner, “so if the computer blows out we can just get a new PC, reinstall the machine programs, and we are up and running again. That helps to minimize machine down time, which is very important. Biesse really helps to support that initiative.” The Biesse machine control programs can also integrate third party software, so it offers a lot of programming flexibility.

Steelcase is an industry leader in office furniture and an innovator in streamlined production. Work cell manufacturing reduces machinery down time and waste while improving product quality. It is one aspect of Steelcase’s commitment to operating responsibly. And while the technological advantage goes to Steelcase, large-scale, careful manufacturing benefits everyone. s&p

Smartech’s HS-Series Motorized Roll Rack keeps rolled materials – such as RTF, fabric, paper or anything else – quickly and easily accessible. We tailor each rack to meet your specific needs – with capacity ranges from 10 to 46 rolls depending on the diameter. Other options include automatic roll retrieval and a cut-to-length system that save time and eliminate waste.

Then form your RTF with top-quality Steinbach membranes. A wide range of sizes in both silicone and natural rubber are ready for immediate delivery.

Different silicone durometers and textures are available to meet every press requirement. We can also customize the size – and even arrange to stock it for hassle-free convenience!

Sound like music to your ears? Visit our website at www.smartechonline.com or call 704.362.1922 for more information.

Smartech is the source For Steinbach Membranes.

surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 35

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

35

6/19/09 3:21 PM

WISDOM FROM A

RETAIL

GURU CHARLES SPARKS

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S BALCONY CAFE 36

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 36

C

harles Sparks + Company is a retail design, planning, and communications consultancy that applies multidisciplinary and integrated services to the shaping of consumer experiences.

CEO, President, and Corporate Creative Director of the firm, Charles Sparks, recently took the time to share his expertise with Surface & Panel magazine.

Sparks guides the creative team of professionals. His influence is recognized throughout all of the firm’s projects, and his work is among the most recognized for design excellence, receiving more than 40 national and international design awards.

His design background of 37 years spans consumer products, architecture, interior design, and branding. Sparks was inducted into the Retail Legion of Honor for Lifetime Achievement in January 2008 by the Institute of Store Planners (recently rebranded as the Retail Design Institute).

Sparks is a professional member of the Retail Design Institute, the Association for Retail Environments, the Museum Store Association, the International Council of Shopping Centers, the International Interior Design Association, and the American Institute of Architects. He also serves on the editorial advisory board of Display and Design Ideas (DDI) magazine.

Charles holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Environmental Design from the Art Institute of Chicago.

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:22 PM

circle #17 on reader service card

S&P: What is your company’s specialty?

Sparks:. As interior designers and interior architects we have to describe, specify and select all finishes, whether its part of the FF& E (furniture, fixtures and equipment) or leasehold improvements. We specify everything that goes into the facility itself, and anything that is built off site and brought there for fixtures and cabinetry and casework.

We do all the lighting specification and layout. So virtually everything you see, except for the merchandise, is specified by us.

S&P: How do you specify materials?

Sparks: The world is at our fingertips when it comes to the selections.

Of course we now have the new overlay of LEED ratings and all those things to look at. Obviously the right material performance is a consideration. There are environmental considerations, things such as low VOC’s and other requirements you have with LEED. We use MDF and HDF and all different composite things. Sometimes when it comes to loose fixtures we use some unusual backdrop materials such as laminations that are translucent, composite materials and resins; all kinds of different things. Part of it is driven by performance over a period of time, and cost. And part of it is driven by the pure aesthetics. We balance those 3 things together.

S&P: How important is it to your clients to have environmentally friendly or green materials?

Sparks: I think the whole industry has recognized that this is something that is the right thing to do. Our clients, and Neimans in particular, are being responsible and asking us, in our selection process, to sensitize them to what is possible. They want to know eco-friendly product selections and what rating or certification the product has. Some want information identified right on the back of the sample. Neiman’s asks us to put a little green butterfly, that is their symbol, on the sample itself so they know that there is some aspect of this. And that is an eco enabler.

The beauty of real wood.

The ease of a laminate.

Our process helps ensure a reliable selection of beautiful real wood veneer laminates, in design spaces of any size. Over 50 real wood veneer laminates. Shown here: Old Cherry Frise.

Call or visit to see them all.

treefrogveneer.com (800) 830-5448

S&P: As a design firm, how do you learn about what materials are available and what standards they meet?

Sparks: Well we have a LEED AP (accredited professional) architect on staff and we have others that are being trained that way as well. We make understanding the environmental implications of products a part of our inquiry and our screening of materials. It is not the only thing we look at, obviously, but we make it a part of our process in how we look at things. And we also factor it in our budgets because there are some premiums for certain things, though those seem to be becoming more manageable. Sustainable building is becoming a part of the regular vernacular and vocabulary of project elements.

Neiman Marcus San Antonio

SandP_MayJun09.indd 37

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

37

6/19/09 3:22 PM

“It would be beneficial if companies were proactive with updating us “as it happens,” because we always have to be a little bit out in front of what’s actually become run of the mill production.”

CHARLES SPARKS, PRESIDENT, CEO AND CORPORATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF CHARLES SPARKS + COMPANY

NEIMAN MARCUS LENOX SQUARE, ATLANTA

A lot of our clients though are interested in it, particularly the ones that are publicly owned. Some are doing a better job then others. We do a lot of work with Best Buy and though they carefully consider the green aspect, they are also careful about putting it out there. I think companies have realized that you just can’t say something is green, you have to know what kind of green it is. Green is doing nothing at all.

So that is true green. But we do live in this world.

Starbucks, on the other hand is looking more aggressively to using “post consumer” products. As they go through their ten-year total renovation they are taking product that they already have, either on the floor or in the casework in their stores, and grinding up that material so they can reuse it. In our test site that we did for them in Chicago, we identified a couple of resources that took some material and ground it up to make a counter surface. And it met the health codes and everything else. For them that kind of cradle to cradle point of view is important.

Nothing new gets cut down and shipped thousands of miles. Materials get recycled over and over again, it is that point of view.

S&P: Do specification representatives call on your firm to introduce new products?

Sparks: Actually, we probably don’t get called on enough. As profesNEIMAN MARCUS LENOX SQUARE, ATLANTA

38

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 38

sionals we have to keep up our CEUs and to do that we attend trade shows and seminars and so forth. Some of these are online now, which is very helpful. But we probably don’t get exposed as frequently as I’d like. It would be beneficial if companies were proactive with updating us “as it happens,” because we always have to be a little bit out in front of what’s actually become run of the mill production. We like to look at what’s being experimented with and the ways that materials are being combined and what that looks like. In design you have to be quick. s&p

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:24 PM

circle #18 on reader service card

SandP_MayJun09.indd 39

6/19/09 3:24 PM

NEIMAN MARCUS SAN ANTONIO

SECRETS OF SHOPPING B Y

S U Z A N N E

V A N

G I L D E R

D

ay-to-day life can occasionally seem a little ho-hum. And although throwing pottery, mastering the art of French cuisine or dropping everything to explore the world by sailboat/horseback/motorcycle are all good ways to liven things up, finding the necessary time can be prohibitive. There is a quicker way to add a little imagination to daily life. Go shopping! Now for many people, this is not news. After all, shopping expeditions can have all the characteristics of an adventure.

Some shoppers like the hunt. Others view shopping as an opportunity to explore the cultures and fashions of far away places. And for many, shopping is simply browsing the possibilities. Could the right supplies unlock hidden talents? The right clothes inspire exercise? Or the right gear encourage outings? Whether a person loves to shop, or is loathe to shop, there is no denying the emotional component of shopping. According to Charles Sparks, President, CEO and Corporate Creative Director of Charles Sparks + Company “Successful stores use principles of art, architecture and theatre in visual planning and product presentation. The ways in which these principles are used transmit a sense of excitement and energy into the shopping experience�

40

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 40

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:25 PM

Charles Sparks+ Company is a comprehensive interior design and interior architecture firm that works primarily in luxury retail, though they also create unique retail projects for museums and cultural institutions. A peek at a schematic floor plan for a Neiman Marcus department store gives some sense of how intricate designing retail space can be; and that is just two-dimensional. Considering that, with the exception of merchandise, Sparks+Co. describes and specifies virtually everything a customer sees in a store, including all the casework, fixtures, surfaces, furnishings and lighting, it is easy to be impressed with their design capabilities.

However, it is Sparks+Co.’s understanding of the relationships between exterior environments and interior environments, both in the way architecture relates to local environment, and the way that people relate to their surroundings, that makes their retail projects masterful.

Designing effective retail space is complicated.

But at the foundation of Sparks+Co.’s carefully detailed plans is a simple concept. “The whole philosophy is doing less with more, as far as our design initiatives and even aesthetics go,” says Sparks. In addition, he explains that a successful retail space has three universal functions: to orient, to engage and to persuade. Regardless of the type of retail project and the unique criteria of a store, the same straightforward philosophy and necessary functions guide Sparks+Co.’s designs.

A closer look at the seemingly very different environments of Neiman Marcus department stores and the retail expansion in the Art Institute of Chicago’s new Modern Wing reveals the common design philosophies.

“Successful stores use principles of art, architecture and theatre in visual planning and product presentation.”

Charles Sparks, President, CEO and Corporate Creative Director of Charles Sparks + Company

Neiman Marcus lenox square, atlanta

SandP_MayJun09.indd 41

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

41

6/19/09 3:26 PM

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S KID’S SHOP

FROM THE OUTSIDE IN

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO EXTERIOR 42

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 42

The first function of a retail space is to orient the customer. Sparks initially looks to the local environment for inspiration. “At the beginning of the design process we develop an understanding of the locale and the region and community that the store is going in,” says Sparks.

Neiman Marcus stores, for example, have similar merchandizing criteria, but their geographic locations help to define the colors, textures and accents used in the design. “Nobody likes seeing the same store wherever they go, yet it is very economical for chains to do that. But I think cookie cutter design is missing the point,” says Sparks. “Adjusting a design to the local neighborhoods and communities is one way of doing more with less.” To create unique interiors and casework that reflect the local color Sparks uses a wide range materials, including custom finished veneers from Ven tec and laminates. “We happen to like Lamin-Art. The Pearlescence in particular, has very good coloration and finishes. Some of their other series have good organic patterns and contemporary designs, including the metallics, which can be hard to come by,” says Sparks. Hand-dyed veneers, glass, metal and plaster, among other innovative materials and combinations are also used to capture the spirit of a place. Often these astounding decorative features are laid up on the common, dependable substrates of MDF, particleboard and occasionally HDF. The stores in the Art Institute of Chicago function to orient the customer both in a practical sense and in terms of appreciating the overall experience of fine art. The Modern Wing expansion, which opened May 16, 2009, gave the Art Institute an opportunity to renovate and reinstall almost all of its galleries, resulting in new traffic patterns. Sparks+ Co created three new retail concepts and renovated two existing store to optimize the retail locations so that they logically fit into active hubs between galleries. In part, the concept of the Modern Wing expansion,

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:27 PM

versatile Wemhöner pressing solutions from Stiles set the standard for versatility and production integrity. For faster lay-up of parts and reduced labor, the automatic Variopin® system eliminates the need for fixture boards and provides speed and efficiency. Membrane pressing technology delivers a better heat transfer to help the foil stretch and to provide a higher quality glue line. Part of the Total Production SolutionsSM from Stiles, the versatile Wemhöner pressing solutions maintain the integrity of your products with a consistent, durable finish.

For more information, please contact Stephan Waltman, V.P., at 616.698.7500 or swaltman@stilesmachinery.com or visit www.stilesmachinery.com.

Wemhöner Basic 1000 Plus

Wemhöner Universal 2000

Wemhöner Professional 3000

CIRCLE #19 ON READER SERVICE CARD

SandP_MayJun09.indd 43

6/19/09 3:27 PM

Store interiors are built to blend into the museum design and Chicago’s urban landscape

designed by Pritzker Prize winning architect Renzo Piano, is dominated by feelings of lightness and air. “It is not enough for the light to be perfect,” says Piano, “you also need calm, serenity, and even a voluptuous quality linked to the contemplation of the works of art.” This same hallowed sentiment is reflected in each of the retail spaces created by Sparks+Co. To achieve an open, “comfortably modern” feeling, Sparks carefully chose materials and finishes, including HPL in “White Suede” with matte finish from Wilsonart and “Ice White” with suede finish from Pionite, to build showcases that are both extremely durable and unobtrusive. The stores are designed to emphasize the clarity of the museum space, which ties in neatly to the surrounding urban area and Millennium Park.

Neiman Marcus San antonio

44

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 44

Meeting in the Middle

The second function of a successful retail space is to engage. For long -time experts like Sparks, there is an understanding, like inherent Feng Shui, of how people enter and then interact with a space. During the planning phase, Sparks+Co. already knows what merchandise will be showcased, and they use that information to create a block and flow plan that encourages customers to see what the retailer wants them to see, when they want them to see it. The design takes into consideration human nature and is planned with the customers’ point of view in mind.

Do people look left or right first? What will catch the eye and lead a person deeper into the space?

Within Neiman Marcus translucent materials are regularly employed to segregate areas while still encouraging a natural flow of traffic.

Doubled-sided textured, laminated glass, supplied by Twin City Creative Mirror and specialty resin panels from 3Form USA, invite customers to linger in an area while allowing their interests to wander into the next section of the store. Sparks also likes to use quiet colors with bold textures that play with light, creating surfaces that are interesting without being overbearing. He describes the materials he chooses in a visceral way, often relating back to the basic pleasures of food and comfort.

In addition to getting people to engage emotionally in a retail space, Sparks+Co. also takes into consideration how people will engage physically with the space. “We’ve got knife edge protectors and mop strips and corner details to protect, and you have to think about cleaning equipment, strollers and people walking into glass. For Neiman Marcus we do a lot of laminations and treatments on glass as part of our translucency imagery. It has aesthetic value, and also makes it safer,” says Sparks.

The same concept of engaging applies to the Art Institute stores, and carries with it a sense of permission. Imagine walking through a fine art museum, looking at great works of art that may not, under any circumstance, be touched. What an invitation it is to then enter a strategically placed store. Suddenly instead of one priceless object, a customer sees many of the same objects, and they are obtainable. “We talk about browse time,” says Sparks. “You have to slow the visitor down after seeing all the work in the galleries. At the conclusion of their visit, you are slowing them down and giving them a little bit of comfort and interactivity with merchandise they can touch, so lighting and atmosphere and having a little bit of softness underfoot versus hard stone flooring is helpful.”

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:28 PM

circle #20 on reader service card

WE LIVE INNOVATION EVERY DAY.

ARCLIN ANNOUNCES 12 NEW DISTINCTIVE DESIGNS that capture today’s exciting market trends. As always, Arclin Designs are ready when you are.

Innovation applied—it’s how we work at Arclin To learn more, visit www.arclin.com BONDING AND SURFACING SOLUTIONS FOR TODAY’S ENGINEERED MATERIALS MARKETS

Exotic Walnut Fresh Oak

Chocolate Latte

Bamboo

LA Luce Amati

Alabama Cherry

LA Notte Amati Blooming Cherry

Mocha Latte

Vanilla Latte

Caramel Latte

Cherry Latte

Please inquire about FSC availability.

Cert no. SCS-COC-001423 The mark of responsible forestry © 1996 Forest Stewardship Council A.C.

SandP_MayJun09.indd 45

6/19/09 3:28 PM

Neiman Marcus Plano, Texas

Not only is the retail space a little less formal, it is more durable.

In addition to the HPL millwork fixtures, stone and quartz are used throughout the Art Institute stores. The environment encourages interaction with the merchandise. The Balcony Bookstore Café for example, which connects the original main museum with the new Modern Wing, invites patrons to sit and relax; to enjoy a refreshing beverage amongst books and magazines that bring the magnitude of the art on exhibit into a more manageable scale. Each unique store flows freely into its museum surroundings, offering little oases where visitors can engage with objects.

From the Inside Out

The final function of a successful retail space is to persuade. Space planning and design are big parts of creating the emotional experience that is the impetus to purchase. Each unique retail setting must cater to its specific clientele. In different settings, people spend money for different reasons. Nonetheless, the goal is still the same, to persuade the customer to buy. For customers, a purchase happens when there is some internal resonance with the retail surroundings and merchandise.

That is what makes an acquisition satisfying.

For example, to consumers throughout the world, the name Neiman Marcus evokes images of luxury, high-fashion apparel, world-famous designers and flamboyant, fun-filled gifts. With a history that spans over 94 years, Neiman Marcus is in the business of selling a sense of entitlement and belonging. To make customers feel at home within the vast expanses of high-end merchandise, Sparks employs what he calls “moments of luxury,’ spaces on the retail floor that are adorned with exotic materials and lavish furnishings that invite a customer to stop and feel at home. That emotional comfort amongst the merchandise is key. After all, customers who feel at home amidst this level of luxury surely deserve to take a little bit of it with them.

46

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 46

It is an entirely different sort of persuasion in a museum setting. With the expansion of the new Modern Wing, The Art Institute of Chicago is now the second largest fine arts museum in the nation, second only to the Metropolitan Museum of Fine Arts in New York. It is a reflection of the city of Chicago’s dedication to marketing itself as a destination for cultural products and experiences. The Art Institute has always recognized that retail activity, in addition to generating revenue, is an integral and important part of the visitor experience. The stores are designed to appeal to the cultural traveler. They encourage customers to buy merchandise as a means of preserving enriching experiences. Plus there is an inferred sense of giving back to the Art Institute in particular, and supporting the arts in general, that comes free with each museum store purchase.

Unified Experience

Remaining true to the philosophy of doing more with less allows Sparks to create a wide variety of beautiful luxury and specialty retail spaces that orient, engage and persuade customers. From these simple concepts, Sparks+Co. works to create positive experiences at customer contact points in the store environment. They design the visual choreography of a project through the selection of color, products and materials; and balance the practical with the aesthetic. Each carefully selected finish communicates the intended experience, influences perception, and ultimately sets a persuasive environment for the presentation of merchandise or services.

From Neiman Marcus to the Art Institute of Chicago, store spaces must fit into the context of their location. Retail design is not exempt from the architectural goal of fusing the outside environment with the inside environment, in fact, for retail, the interplay in the design must penetrate even further into the emotionally sensibilities of the customer.

In the end, it is not enough for a store to look good, it also has to create the right emotional experience. After all, luxury shopping is not a commodity event like a run to the grocery. It is an adventure in emotions and possibilities. s&p

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:29 PM

We’re still moving forward.

WE’RE STILL FREE. [but you DO need to subscribe]

Complete this subscription form today and fax to

920-206-1767

or subscribe online www.surfaceandpanel.com TO MAIL: Place in stamped envelope and send to: ATTN: Circulation Director Surface & Panel Magazine 1617 Country Club Lane Watertown, WI 53098

1.

Please check the primary end product manufactured or services provided at your location. (check only one)

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/LISE GAGNE

❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ ❏ Surface & Panel magazine is your source for materials, technology and design.

Please sign here to start/continue your free subscription.

DATE _________________________________________________________________________________________ SIGNATURE (REQUIRED) ____________________________________________________________________ NAME (PRINT) _______________________________________________________________________________ JOB TITLE ____________________________________________________________________________________ COMPANY NAME ____________________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS ____________________________________________________________________________________

01.

02.

03.

04.

05.

06.

07.

08.

09.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

99.

Kitchen/Bath Cabinet Manufacturing Residential Furniture/RTA Office Furniture Store Fixtures Commercial Interiors Point of Purchase Displays Interior Design Commercial Cabinet Manufacturing Architectural Casework Countertops/Work Surfaces Laminated Components Furniture/Cabinet Designer Architecture Home Builders Other (indicate below)

_________________________________________________________ 2. Please fill in the category, which best describes your job title. (check only one)

❏ A. CORPORATE & OPERATING MGMT (Chairman of the Board, Director, President, CEO, Owner, VP, Secretary, Treasurer, GM and related personnel)

❏ B. PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT (VP Manufacturing, Plant Manager, Production Manager, Superintendent, Foreman, Supervisor, and related personnel)

❏ C. DESIGN (Designer & related personnel) ❏ D. PURCHASING/SPECIFYING (VP Purchasing, Director of Purchasing, Purchasing Agent, Buyer, Material Manager and related personnel)

❏ E. MARKETING & SALES (VP of Marketing and/or Sales, Marketing and/or Sales Manager and related Personnel)

CITY _________________________________________________________________________________________ STATE/PROVINCE______________________ ZIP/POSTAL CODE ________________________________

❏ Z. OTHER (must specify) _________________________________________________________

COUNTRY ____________________________________________________________________________________

3. What is the total number of employees at this business location? (required)

PHONE _______________________________________________________________________________________

❏ A 1-9

FAX __________________________________________________________________________________________

❏ B 10-19

❏ C 20-49

❏ D 50 or more

TO RECEIVE FREE PRODUCT INFORMATION FROM ADVERTISERS IN THIS ISSUE, CIRCLE THE CORRESPONDING PRODUCT INQUIRY NUMBER

E-MAIL ______________________________________________________________________________________

01

02

By providing your fax number, phone number or email address on this form you are agreeing to receive communications from Bedford Falls Communications pertaining to subscription renewal notices or forms, subscription confirmation or marketing information that may be of interest to you.

11

12

21

22

31

32

❏ Please check here if you do NOT wish to receive e-mail with selected information about companies and products advertised in Surface & Panel.

41

42

03

04

05

13

14

15

23

24

25

33

34

35

43

44

06

07

08

09

10

16

17

26

27

18

19

20

28

29

36

30

37

38

39

45

46

40

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

M AY/ J U N E 2 0 0 9 – C A R D VA L I D U N T I L A U G U S T 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 47

6/19/09 3:29 PM

2009

A Bright Outlook for the Global Furniture Industry

F O R

T H E

T R E N D - W A T C H E R

Hardware That Keeps Things Light F O R

T H E

Q U A N T I T A T I V E

The 50th bi-annual Interzum international trade fair drew around 47,000 visitors from more than 130 countries to the Koelnmesse in Cologne, Germany between May 16 and 19, 2009. Industry leaders from all over the world presented future-oriented solutions and concepts for a global furniture market. The 1,370 suppliers from 63 countries accounted for a 5% increase in occupied exhibition area.

70% of suppliers and 65% of visitors came from outside Germany.

According to independent visitor opinion survey, more then 90% of the trade visitors were involved in the decision making process for their companies.

F O R

T H E

Q U A L I T A T I V E

Exhibitors from all segments were very pleased with the number and caliber of visitors to their stands. Many registered an increased number of architects, interior designers, designers and representatives of the mobile world, such as BASF, Lufthansa, Porsche and VW, who wanted to learn more about new products.

According Frank Nessler, GRASS – Managing Director, Marketing/ Sales “In many aspects Interzum 2009 completely exceeded our expectations. We’re highly satisfied. We were extremely impressed by the high number and quality of the visitors.

48

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 48

Blum’s gracious press brunch exemplified the philosophy that there is a very important emotional factor to successful sales. Instead of giving visitors promotional gifts, Blum invited people to sign a guestbook. For each signature, Blum donated 10 euros to the “Light for the World” organization, which performs surgery to give sight to children in the Third World.

Blum’s kitchen hardware technology is legendary, and they exhibited many intriguing things, such as a new color, Terra Black, for TANDEMBOX, which allows for designer materials to be inserted into the drawer sides. They also introduced a wee little hinge with a whole lot of technology inside. CLIP top Blumotion is a furniture hinge with a complete soft-close damper system built in. It even has a de-activation switch. Looking into the future, Blum exhibited a concept study that incorporates lighting into cabinets and drawers using the same platform as the fittings.

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:30 PM

Grass kept things light with an elegant, modern and selfconfident new corporate design.

The exhibit’s handless white laminate surfaces (all the rage) were accented by green LEDs The exhibit showcased Grass’ outstanding work in sub-surface guide systems (Dynapro) and cabinet and flap systems. But wait, what’s that big green LED cube doing in the middle of the exhibit? Why, it is a feast for the senses for all who enter. Within the cube guests were treated to a musical introduction of Grass’ new hinge system, TIOMOS. A music video and accompanying light show within the cube somehow succeeded in stirring a real sense of passion for hardware.

There is no doubt Grass is dedicated to the symbiotic relationship between internal movement functions and external design principles in modern furniture making. Now if the song was only available on YouTube.

White On The Edge The white trend is undeniable.

From Duropal’s award winning “Solid Color” HPL that has no visible joints or edges to Skai’s 3D laminate film “colore opaco” in matte Titanwhite, furniture surfaces are currently being adorned in pure white finishes.

The good thing about white is that it goes with anything, and it is particularly lovely in conjunction with woodgrain.

Renolit took the opportunity of Interzum to clearly define new product lines and brands of 3D laminate films following the company’s acquisition of Cova and Alkor. Renolit 3D Stock Range is divided into 2 distinct collections.

Alkoren presents 170 solid colors (including the requisite white) and woodgrains. Renolit Covaren is the premier collection, which combines designs with superior surface textures.

Lightweight Panel Has Arrived What is strong, lightweight, easy to transport and available in myriad surface finishes? Its lightweight panel! And with a wide range of new developments in hardware and connectors, it is going to be everywhere.

Hettich also presented cubes of sensory light, but with the intention of illustrating the importance of lighting in architecture. The vast expanse of Hettich’s exhibit included a kitchen of the future, a live cooking show, award winning designs from a student contest and many areas full of drawers and doors just waiting to be touched.

Hettich also received an award, for the “Hettinject VB insert,” a special connector designed for lightweight panel.

Another innovative approach to lightweight panel connectors comes from Nehl, and maximizes the surface area of the laminate to add stability to the connector.

Upcoming issues of Surface & Panel will feature a series dedicated to the emerging sector of lightweight panels and the network dedicated to bringing it to market.

Häfele has spent the last five years working to develop hardware for lightweight panel.

“We are dedicated to ensuring every piece of hardware from Häfele can be applied to lightweight panel,” said David Winz, product manager for Häfele.

Included in their solutions are carefully-calibrated screws, blocks that are inset into the panel itself and a new adhesive insert Aerofix 100, that connects both surfaces of the panel to the anchoring mechanism.

SandP_MayJun09.indd 49

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

49

6/19/09 3:31 PM

High Tech Printing

For every trend there is a counter trend, and the laminate manufacturer’s came out in full color. Abet Laminati held true to its reputation for being an innovator in boutique laminates with high-fashion collections from well-known designers.

Collection Digitalia is a new Décor by designer Karim Rashid, whose aim is to provide contemporary people with strong impressions, shapes, images, sings, lights and colors. Paola Navone’s new series of serigraphies have a Longline finish that suggests tactile sensation.

50

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 50

surface&panel

There should have been a notice at the Koelnmesse warning visitors not to stand still for too long, lest they be digitally printed on. Whether it’s woodderived panels, mineral panels, glass, edgebanding or paper, digital printing, which can be used for very small batches, is meeting the market trend toward customizable finishes.

In addition to Schattdecor’s new “Digital VISION” printing, the company displayed its innovative prowess in the field of tactile surfaces. The new Smartfoil High Gloss Collection and Postfoil 3D post-impregnated finish foil collection, feature three-dimensional surface textures that will open up new design possibilities for furniture manufacturers.

Schattdecor’s stand displayed designs based on the degrees of intimacy within the home. “For All” showcased designs appropriate for areas where people entertain, “For Us” exhibited comfortable designs that would fit into a family area and “For Me” featured designs of self-expression.

Interprint’s laser-engraved designs have come to Interzum, well technically to the Design Post, a permanent interior design exhibit off-site but adjacent to Koelnmesse. Interprint chose to exhibit within an innovative, new environment to emphasize its commitment to inspiring people, not only in design, but in real life. There are many ways Interprint works to inspire people. Interprint’s

sond

laser-engraving capabilities bring unprecedented fidelity to décor paper designs. In addition the new “Paper Perfect” technology allows customer s to save up to 30% of resin during the impregnation process of décor paper.

Interprint is also active in the

“Fast Forward Partnership” with customers to promote new product collaborations. One result of this is a partnership with Pfleiderer and furniture supplier S-Prix to develop a surface with pictures for coloring that can be cleaned and re-decorated.

F.Ili

6/19/09 3:33 PM

T H E

V I S U A L L Y

S T I M U L A T E D

DUROPAL

2009

F O R

TABU

O

THE DOM CATHEDRAL IN COLOGNE

ne of the best ways to appreciate a world-class design show is through images. The following pictures feature some of the innovative exhibits at Interzum and local sights of Cologne.

SONDERSCHAU

POLYREY DESIGN POST

F.ILI ROSETTO

DEKODUR

COLOGNE ALTE STADT surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 51

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

51

6/19/09 3:34 PM

2009

F O R

T H E

RICK YOHN (PLAIN AND FANCY CUSTOM CABINETRY)

V O Y E U R

DIEGO FABRA (BLUE DESIGN CONSULTANTS), DENNIS KINNE (INTERPRINT USA), KENN BUSCH (MATERIAL INTELLIGENCE), CATHY BARRETT (FLAKEBOARD) PAWEL WYRZYKOWSKI (PFLEIDERER) DON RAYMOND (UNIBOARD)

JENS BAUER (INTERPRINT USA) DANA CARON, JAKE EVANS (EVOLUTION DESIGN STUDIOS)

JEAN BRIERE (SHAW INDUSTRIES) AND HIS WIFE SONIA

T

he Paparazzi was also present at Interzum 2009, and has supplied Surface & Panel with exclusive images of some of the people in attendance, as well as an insider look at a few industry events.

SUZANNE VAN GILDER (S&P)

WILLIAM HINES JR. (INTERPRINT USA)

KEN DICKERSON, (KOELNMESSE INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIRS)

KRIS HAHN (SHAW)

KARL RUEDISSER, STEVE REGELE, (BLUM) MARCO MUNOZ (REXCEL) DON JONES (KINGS MOUNTAIN INTERNATIONAL), MIKE MARCHAND (INTERPRINT USA)

PATRICIA ANGULO, (LAMITECH)

JASON SAWKILL (SUNCHEMICAL)

52

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 52

SIBYLLE THIERER AND LOTHAR ZINK LEAD HAFELE IN SONG

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:35 PM

Design to Inspire Interprint USA’s Design Philosophy B Y

S U Z A N N E

V A N

G I L D E R

P

laying with colors, abusing wood and attending fashion shows may sound like leisure activities, but for the three in-house designers at Interprint USA, décor development is a big responsibility. After all, Interprint is a leading décor paper printer, their products end up in everything from countertops, to flooring and furniture. “What I find enjoyable about working for our many customers,” says Design Manager Peter Garlington, “is that I am not dealing with one company’s product line, I am dealing with every company’s product line.” Décor development for Interprint requires the designers to be the juxtaposition between seemingly opposite ends of extremes. They must be technicians and artists; they must be innovators who can follow directions. They must keep one eye on the fashions of Paris and Milan, and the other to the sensibilities of the American Midwest.

And always, they must ensure their work continues to drive the laminate industry forward.

Fortunately for the design team, Interprint invests in exceptional people and cutting-edge technology, such as on-site laser engraving, that helps the designers to meet the broad needs of the laminate industry.

Since then laminate has only improved in performance and design. High-pressure laminate is arguably the best choice for flooring and furniture applications. But navigating the expansive world of materials can be daunting, and somewhere along the way a few of the same characteristics that made laminate desirable (low-cost and wide availability) started to negatively impact the public perception of laminate. To make matters worse, some contractors capitalize on this misconception and use ugly laminate designs as a disposable baseline for up-

selling other materials.

Contemporary décor development, with its unprecedented fidelity in natural designs and limitless possibilities in abstracts, geometric and modified organic designs, strives to reintroduce the cache element into the laminate realm. “We are slowly trying to turn the market,” explains Garlington. “I think it would be interesting to do a laminate marketing campaign that was a group effort of the printers, paper companies, suppliers and manufacturers to re-educate the consumer about what the product is and what it can be.”

THE ANTHROPOLOGY OF LAMINATE

Once upon a time there were very few options for counter top materials, and they all had drawbacks. Wood counter tops held bacteria. Marble counter tops were heavy and expensive. Both materials stain. And people grew tired of it. Then along came laminate.

It was durable, relatively inexpensive, easy to install and widely available. Regardless of the fact that initially few designs were available (“Boomerang” anyone?) people flocked to laminate.

FROM LEFT: PETER GARLINGTON, DESIGN MANAGER; SHELLEY FRENCH, DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT; RICK MURNANE, PRODUCT DESIGNER; JUDY WOLGAST, DESIGN DIRECTOR. surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 53

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

53

6/19/09 3:37 PM

Interprint's "Clicqout"

Interprint's "talic"

“The visual image that the laminate is supplying simply can’t be achieved by other materials.”

Peter Garlington, Design Manager, Interprint USA

Exceptional Design For All

Interprint’s design team is made up of three very different individuals who share a common philosophy that excellent design does not need to be exclusive to the extreme high-end of the specification market. Product Designer Rick Murnane explains his work, “Basically we are in the fashion business. We meet where the market is. Our job is to figure out how to make design work for us, so we pay attention to everything including: clothing, auto interiors and exteriors, architecture, wall coverings, and the colors and textures all around us.” In addition to their own ideas, Interprint USA has access to the design libraries of Interprint facilities worldwide. This global perspective helps the team to stay very current in the broad realm of décor development while focusing on the needs of their customers in the local markets.

To stay on top of trend movement each team member also maintains specialized professional affiliations that help to define that Interprint's "lincoln oak"

54

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 54

important intersection between design that is fashionable and also appropriate for décor paper. Murnane’s affiliation with the AIGA, the professional association for design and graphics, helps keep the Interprint team in touch with other realms of print-driven design and visual communication. Garlington is a member of the IDSA, the Industrial Designers Society of America. He is so committed to art of modifying materials that he collects old books on treating surfaces and carries out elaborate procedures in Interprint’s Materials Studio.

These experiments can be labor intensive and take a lot of time, but with décor paper they only need to be completed once before they can be reproduced. Design Director Judy Wolgast is an active member of Color Marketing Group (CMG), an organization that spans every aspect of design. “It has become a group where we really have to mine our own stuff because we are moving fast enough that we have to translate what we are seeing in front of us pretty quickly,” says Wolgast. “As trends are moving so fast CMG gives the opportunity to mine for ideas and translate information. At the same time we crosscheck within related industries of what we are observing in the marketplace. It is a pulse, so to speak, a great research sounding board. If I see that purple is being discussed for auto interiors, I might be inclined to be more daring in my color selections for laminate products.”

There are many different levels of expertise that the designers are called on to have at any one time. “Design is about finding a solution to a set of criteria,” says Garlington.

“And this is another point where the laser is

Interprint's "Ringer"

advantageous, it allows us to deal appropriately with big customers as well as very short run customers.” The design team uses their research and personal inspirations to do open décor development that they anticipate will meet the upcoming market needs.

Simultaneously they work with companies to fulfill their unique design objectives. “We use partnering discussions,” says Murnane, “we are not just an order filler. We have some customers who have strong in-house design departments, and we are their printer. We’re here to help them achieve what they are looking for in a range of color on press, but their designs are already realized.” The Interprint team also performs line reviews for clients to identify new opportunities in their design offering. They make suggestions relative to current trends and colors, and help customers to create a well-balanced product line.

The Technology of Art

While the designers are the creative force behind décor development, bringing a design out of the ether and onto paper is a collaborative effort. Garlington explains, “Yes, the laser is phenomenal, and we have high-speed presses and everything else, but the equipment alone isn’t the advantage. It is the combination of the company’s foresight to invest in good technology coupled with picking really good people to run those machines. That is the gain. The machines without people are just metal.” Each step in the process of bringing a design to life is overseen by an expert.

The actual printing of décor paper is done with the rotogravure method that uses engraved cylinders to apply pigments to paper. With the completion of their in-house laser engraving facility in 2009 Interprint USA solidified its position as a very vertically oriented printer. This dramatically decreased the time and cost involved in proto-typing new designs. “It used to be 3-6 months for us to

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:38 PM

There are 5 Elements to Good Design: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Material Sensibility Movement Scale Detail Color Play

develop a design for the cylinder and proof it, now we are overnight,” says Wolgast. Not only does this allow designers to dabble in short term trend development, but it also empowers them to provide a heightened degree of customer service. “There have been times when we have cylinders on press in the morning and something is not quite right. We can adjust the file, have lunch with the customer, and then have the cylinder back on press that afternoon,” says Wolgast.

Once a material is chosen/modified/created by the designers it goes to the reprographics department to be made into a usable format. The repro department scans the material for structure. The subsequent file undergoes a separation process that

pulls the design apart into different “units” that equate to layers of pigment on paper.

Each unit requires a different engraved cylinder. The design can undergo “plastic surgery” in the repro department. Knots can be moved or eliminated from wood grain, boards can be knitted together and any other necessary adjustments can be made to make the presentation meet the designers’ intentions. Next, a set of test cylinders are laser engraved and used in the lab press. If the design works it goes back to the laser center for engraving of the production cylinders “The laser engraving has really helped with the development of designs and the production quality,” says Wolgast. Garlington agrees, “The sheer fact that we have an engraving department that we can have a reasonable conversation with, that is concerned with the quality of the end product and not the bottom line, is a tremendous advantage.” Interprint also has in-house capacity to strip and plate printing cylinders, so they can be re-engraved with relative ease. “It certainly does allow us the possibility of doing more development, of becoming more specialized,” says Murnane.

And since each successful design is backed up by a digital file and a physical manuscript, even obscure patterns can be re-run with absolute accuracy.

MOVING FORWARD

Purposeful trend development requires a fiveyear, a three-year and a next year outlook. It starts with the far-out, broad view of fashion and then refines that perspective into the near future. In the long term everything from fine furniture in Milan to vegan footwear is taken into consideration. Color stories and textures that begin to repeat across multiple disciplines are indictors of emerging trends. At the three-year outlook enduring styles come into focus, and as the time frame narrows, what is happening next year should fit in. The design team at Interprint closely watches as trends taper into being. They diligently work to create designs that are both timely and appropriate for laminate, which must co-exist with other elements of design. But they are also innovators and artists, and within Interprint they have technology at their fingertips that allows for limitless possibilities.

CIRCLE #21 ON READER SERVICE CARD

“Dedicated to providing the highest quality 3D laminate with exemplary service and support, one customer at a time”

CHEMICAL TREATMENTS ON WOOD BOARDS FORCE REACTIONS WITH THE TANNINS THAT CAUSE A COMPLEXION CHANGE WITHOUT FILLING THE PORES OF THE WOOD WITH OIL OR STAIN. THIS WAY THE SURFACE OF THE WOOD STAYS CLEAN AND RAW LOOKING.

“We exist to help you succeed” SSI North America is a 3D laminate distributor offering vibrant solid colors, TFM matching wood grains and beautiful high gloss designs.

Always in stock, full rolls or cut to length, with same day shipping.

What you need when you need it, we have you covered.

961 Route 10 E, Unit 2-I Randolph, NJ 07869 P. 973.598.0152 / F. 973.598.0156 info@ssinorthamerica.com / www.ssinorthamerica.com surface&panel

SandP_MayJun09.indd 55

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

55

6/19/09 3:38 PM

Lifestyle boards help designers to see how fashion and attitude intersect across many disciplines.

From present, zooming out to next year, the design team at Interprint is helping customers to respond to the recent economic downturn that has impacted the housing market. Analysts predict, nearly unanimously, that turn around will come to the North American market by 2010. Laminate manufacturers need to be ready, particularly since people will be more cautious about spending. “We are looking to take advantage of the gains we get from laser to go back to those good running wood grains that have been in peoples’ lines for 10 and 20 year and re-create the manuscripts for a fresh look,” says Wolgast. One prediction, based on historical trends, is that people tend to gravitate toward the familiar in times of uncertainty. Many companies realize that there is a great opportunity to refresh their current lines now. This way, when the housing market does recover, they can offer enhanced traditional designs without putting out the same product they had three years ago.

The three-year outlook for Interprint décor development responds to the industry’s need to prove that composite panels and decorative surfaces are not the products of last resort, but desirable materials in a d v e r t i s e r

i n d e x

34 . . . . . . . . . American Adhesives Coatings Co.. . . . . www.aacc-hotmelts.com 45 . . . . . . . . . Arclin. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.arclin.com 39 . . . . . . . . . Biesse America. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.biesseamerica.com 59 . . . . . . . . . Blum.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.blum.com 11. . . . . . . . . . Boise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

www.bc.com

5 . . . . . . . . . . Clarion Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.clarionindustries.com 8 . . . . . . . . . . Composite Panel Association ITCC . . . . . . . . . . www.itcclab.org 2–3. . . . . . . . . Interprint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

www.interprint.com

13. . . . . . . . . . KML Corporation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kmlcorp.com 31 . . . . . . . . . Lamitech. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.lamitech.com.co 29 . . . . . . . . . Multisource Laminates. . . . . . . . www.multisourcelaminates.com 24-25. . . . . . . Salice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.saliceamerica.com 7 . . . . . . . . . . Schattdecor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.schattdecor.com 35 . . . . . . . . . Smartech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.smartechonline.com

their own right. And while the design team is always hunting for the next classic, they are also experimenting with designs that are impossible to find in nature. “We develop designs with realistic expectations in the market,” says Murnane, “but we are also trying to introduce talking point designs that may find some footing for discussion, that might be a new direction of development.” Garlington agrees. “If all we’re ever doing is a photo-realistic copy of stone, then we are missing the point.

A graphic image or an abstract that is really good could take hold. The younger clientele is becoming design savvy enough that if they are presented with a good option they may, strange as it may sound, choose laminate over solid surface or stone. The visual image that the laminate is supplying simply can’t be achieved by other materials.”

Looking five-years out into the future allows for even more expansive possibilities. In addition to aesthetics, designers are beginning to contemplate adding value to the décor paper. An example is creating “active” laminate surfaces using thermal temperature changing inks similar to those found in kiddy cups and spoons. A hot pan placed on a counter top could radiate a color signature that tells that the surface is hot. In response to the trend toward sustainability, an exciting concept is developing décor paper with photovoltaic inks so that a sun-filled living room is putting power back into the house via the floor. Where technology and art converge anything is possible.

Bringing it Home

Whether it is the familiar comfort of a wood design or an edgy boutique graphic, Interprint’s design team knows that one thing is always true when it comes to décor development. It must be aesthetically pleasing. “Advanced technology and emotional selling points are great,” says Murnane. “but it has to look good. Design is still star number one.” If making maple more demonstrative or creating a viable abstract composed of stick figures seems like a big job, that’s because it is. For the designers at Interprint, décor development is a blend of customer service, make believe, fashion and precision.

Thankfully they have access to sophisticated technology and a brilliant production team to help with the task. s&p

20-21-22-43. . Stiles Machinery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.stilesmachinery.com 60 (BC). . . . . . Süddekor LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.suddekorllc.com 55 . . . . . . . . . Surface Source International. . . . . . . . www.ssinorthamerica.com 15. . . . . . . . . . Tafisa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.tafisa.ca 19. . . . . . . . . . Therm O Web . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.thermoweb.com 37 . . . . . . . . . Treefrog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

www.treefrogveneer.com

23 . . . . . . . . . Uniboard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.uniboard.com 17. . . . . . . . . . West Fraser MDF Sales and Marketing. . . . www.westfraser.com

“We develop designs with realistic expectations in the market, but we are also trying to introduce talking point designs that may find some footing for discussion, that might be a new direction of development.”

Rick Murnane, Product Designer Interprint USA

56

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 56

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:39 PM

M a y / J u n e • 2 0 0 9

Sutton Lacewood and Stockholm Ash from Interprint-USA New décor designs advance image and print clarity when developed with InterprintUSA's new laser engraving technology: Sutton Lacewood for upscale furniture and Stockholm Ash for flooring

Flakeboard Introduces a High Performance Light MDF Panel Flakeboard is pleased to introduce eLite™ MDF, a new ultra light panel.

This elite product is uniquely manufactured using a patented system at Flakeboard’s Eugene, Oregon MDF plant. The high performing eLite is an exceptionally versatile product that yields freight and inventory savings, labor benefits and extended tool life.

circle #22 on reader service card

circle #24 on reader service card

Technique & Technology

TANDEM plus BLUMOTION is now Made in the U.S.A.

Vast improvements in design, print, treating and overlay technology have given laminates unique new looks. Süddekor's power of new technology and unsurpassed design expertise furthers the development of laminates by creating exceptional designs that support treatments for high-gloss or registered embossed finishes, bevel edged planks and specialty printer borders.

TANDEM plus BLUMOTION, the premium full extension concealed runner system from Blum, Inc., is now a “Made in the U.S.A.” product. Manufacturing here allows Blum to react more quickly to the changes in demand in the market, to better control product quality and most importantly, to better service their customers.

Trendy New Bamboo from Kustom Materials Laminators

circle #23 on reader service card

KML has added four new trendy Bamboo designs to its extensive collection of over 64 colors and patterns of thermo-fused melamine. Light Bamboo and Burnt Bamboo are KML exclusive designs with matching HPL and edge banding. KML also offers “green” options for particle board and medium density fiberboard substrates.

circle #25 on reader service card

circle #26 on reader service card

SandP_MayJun09.indd 57

surface&panel

m ay/j u n e 2 0 0 9

57

6/19/09 3:40 PM

F

R

O

M

T

H

E

E

D

I

T

O

R

A Global Event Attending Interzum in Cologne was certainly the highlight of a busy spring. Overall, the event was encouraging. From the small, polite and economical land of Germany, I was able to see North America’s composite panel and decorative surface industry from a new point of view. Although intellectually I understand the idea of a global market place, actually leaving the United States

Although intellectually I understand the idea of a global market place, actually leaving the United States helped provide a better perspective of both the geographic isolation of North America and how our large consumer market relates to the world market.

helped provide a better perspective of both the geographic isolation of North America and how our large consumer market relates to the world market.

Pre-show I did as much preparation as time would allow. I researched local customs and business practices. Instead of the comfy yoga clothes I usually wear when I am alone at my computer I packed more formal attire and several (don’t ask how many) pairs of nice shoes. I even did my best to learn basic German pleasantries and doubled my German vocabulary to nearly a dozen words!

And since Koelnmesse is the fourth largest conference venue in the world, I carefully planned my days at Interzum to make sure I called on as many companies that do business in North America as possible.

At Interzum I attended press conferences and visited many, many booths. In fact, I hauled an entire suitcase full of press kits back to the states. Thank goodness for the exhibitors with espresso bars in their stands. As I listened to people talk about their evolving products and technologies, the overall message was optimistic. Companies that serve markets throughout the world are reporting a definitive recovery in smaller markets. Businesses that have weathered the economic storm are not only sustaining, but they are growing. While there may be some aspect of “one man gathers what another man spills” to this optimism, there is no doubt that the market is moving forward.

That is not to deny that hard times are still affecting our industry. Even while in Germany I learned of layoff’s happening in the United States. Although everyone I met was very polite and respectful, there was an underlying sense that North America is something of an economic problem child. Be that as it may, there is no denying the tremendous buying power of the North American market. Those of us who live in North America are not the only ones anxiously awaiting the definitive restoration of our economic health. There is opportunity in this.

My last night in Cologne I dutifully drank the local beer (ein Kolsch Bitte) as I cruised down the river Rhine. I thought about how markets are something like boats. The small ones turn around more quickly than the big ones. It takes boats of every size to keep products moving throughout the world, and everyone is better off when they stay afloat.

Prost!

Suzanne VanGilder • Editorial Director • suzannevangilder@sbcglobal.net

58

M AY/J U N E 2 0 0 9

SandP_MayJun09.indd 58

surface&panel

6/19/09 3:41 PM

Most of our energy goes into making our innovations stand out.

Setting the standard for concealed runner systems, TANDEM is another innovation from Blum that no one notices, but everyone talks about.Perfecting motion Perfecting motion

Visit booth 2645 at AWFS and ask about TANDEM, made in the USA.

800-438-6788 / blum.com

circle #23 on reader service card

BLUM-13726-09 AWFS Teaser_Surf&Pnl.indd 1 SandP_MayJun09.indd 59

4/17/09 3:46 PM 6/22/09 4:57 PM

circle #24 on reader service card

SandP_MayJun09.indd 60

6/22/09 4:58 PM