How Technology Is Revolutionizing Design

Tue, 09 Sep 2014 15:41:00 GMT

The 3D Printing Revolution

When NASA tested the first ever 3D printed rocket engine injector, it became the perfect analogy for the stratospheric ascent of 3D printing in the multidisciplinary world of design. In just a couple of decades since its market launch in 1988, Chuck Hull’s brainchild has already made an astronomical impact in several fields: Fashion embraced the advent of 3D printed clothes; medicine created its first 3D bio-printed living tissue and, architecture found ultimate expression in an intricate 3D printed room. The list goes on.

3D Printing: Design Impact

What makes the technology highly adoptable is its ability to dramatically shrink the time between design and fabrication. A prototype that used to take weeks or months to produce now requires only a few hours, or even less. The 3D printer simply follows instructions fed through appropriate software and proceeds to build the object layer by layer. This process, called additive manufacture, minimizes waste. It also eliminates the need for molds, additional manpower, and other expenses inherent in traditional production, reducing costs like never before. Depending on the machine, it can work with a wide range of materials, including plastics, ceramic, metals, polymers, sand, and even food.

The abbreviated cycle time lets the innovator test, iterate, and make enormous leaps in design, as Nike demonstrated with its series of 3D printed football cleats, Danish designer Mathias Bengtsson with his Cellular Chair, and Italian architect Andrea Morgante with his interpretations of the Peroni beer bottle.

Print-to-order services, like Shapewaysand Ponoko, have sprung up on the Internet, attracting everyone from professionals to amateurs who wish to see their vision come to life in a matter of weeks, and maybe even land a buyer at the other end. Drawn will print your furniture, while Nervous System will produce the jewelry you designed through its online platform, where parameters are defined with a click and drag of the mouse.

A Step Further: Technology-Aided Design

Customization and the ease to do so are almost unquantifiable premiums in this age. But with the aid of elegantly written algorithms, or computer-coded tasks, anyone can create something unique and beautiful out of nothing. The Formica Envisualizer™ lets users experiment with forms and colors, repeating patterns and kaleidoscopes, giving them the power to create complex patterns in seconds. It’s the logical evolutionary step following the introduction of the brand’s Envision™ custom laminate program, where high-performance laminates can be customized using a photo, illustration, or painting.

Create beautiful patterns like this in seconds with the Formica Envisualizer™.

Next Stop...

As computer-aided technology continues to be fine-tuned to simplify the complex process of design, we will soon witness an unprecedented era of innovation and artistry, where our creativity is constrained only by our imagination. Next stop, 4D printing.

Retail Trends: Six Laminate Installation Ideas

Mon, 02 Jun 2014 12:44:00 GMT

Store interiors must look stylish and communicate brand values-and be able to stand up to high-traffic demands. The versatile qualities of high-pressure laminate (HPL) make it an ideal choice for busy retail outlets: Laminate is durable and easy to keep clean; it can be used horizontally or vertically and can hold a curve to create a striking design feature...and so much more.

Here are six ideas for laminate installations for retail environments:

1. Color Play for Retail Design

Color choices play a central role in any retail design theme and offer many ways to make an impression, from full walls of vivid hues, to incorporating brand colors as subtle accents. Laminates offer almost endless design possibilities for both surfacing and structural forms, such as ColorCore2™ where color goes all the way through-making them a solid choice for sleek cabinetry or other storage needs.

2. Cosmetic Countertops

When it comes to cosmetics counters, wear and dullness won't do. And for both aesthetics and longevity, laminate is hard to beat: Texture can be used not only to add design interest, it can also hide wear and tear and fingerprints. Estee Lauder's store locations decided to switch from lacquer to a customized Formica® laminate designed to match the brand's signature deep blue hue.

3. Completely Custom

For truly unique installations that make any retail space stand out, why not create your very own custom laminate? Formica Envision™ makes this possible. Whatever your application, you can design your own look. Create your own surface art utilizing a sketch, photography, logo, illustration, or painting and have it produced on our high-performance laminate. It's quite an impactful way to make a bold brand impression.

4. Timeless Woodgrain Appeal

Retail trends come and go, but the timelessness of woodgrain looks is designed to last, especially when it comes to laminate surfacing options. Woodgrains represent classic, sophisticated looks that promise to age well-and stay in style. The latest laminate woodgrain patterns allow you to create visual texture and warmth now more than ever before. Try new woodgrain color choices in white, ashen gray and charcoal black to add modernity, while classic colors in contemporary grain patterns work well at bridging the gap between old and new installations.

6926 Smoky Walnut Woodline: Perfect for Doors or Fitting Room Partitions!

5. Solid Colors for Longevity

Choosing colors with staying power doesn't mean designers should have to stick only with neutrals or "safe" options to stay relevant through the next several seasons (or even years). Consider a broader range of complex and cheerful hues that show a bright future-either as primary design elements or simply as accents.

6. Finishing Touches

Last, but not least, don't forget about finishes. As befits retail, the difference is in the details. Textures add both visual and tactile interest to any color, and laminate lends itself beautifully to a variety of textural choices. For a modern statement, try our MicroDot ™ collection, comprised of concave circles arranged in a tight grid. Or, how about adding some shine? Metallics deliver textures reflecting energy and modernity-a stylish way to add flair to a broad range of applications: walls, retail fixtures, furniture, displays, signage and more.

Ready to explore laminate options for your next project?

View all ranges of Formica® Laminate

2014 Hospitality Design Expo: First Look

Wed, 28 May 2014 15:19:00 GMT

Since 1992, Hospitality Design Magazine has presented the HD Expo annually to bring interior designers, architects, owners/operators and developers together to observe the latest trends in the hospitality industry.

Here, Formica Corporation’s North American design team reports back on a few of the top trends witnessed at the 2014 show.

1) Texture: Texture was a huge story at the 2014 HD Expo. Mainly witnessed in geometric shapes, texture was key for ceramics, porcelain, leather, wood and more.

Textured surface panels at KMK Design

2) Blurred Lines: Blurry lines and fuzzy patterns make you look twice-is that pattern out of focus? You don’t need your eyes checked-blurry is “in”!

Blurred Lines at Kirk Nix

3) Algorithmic Design: Many patterns looked like they had been created using mathematical tools. Love this trend? Create your own patterns using our new Formica Envisualizer™ design platform!

Algorithmic pattern at Interface Hospitality

4) Classic Geometrics: While blurred lines and algorithmic designs were popular, many manufacturers also relied on tried and true classic geometrics.

Jonathan Adler for Kravet Contract

5) Gilded Wood: Wood has traditionally been more refined in the Hospitality segment as opposed to the rustic looks often used in Retail. This year, wood received a gilded treatment with otherwise rough-cut slices or logs.

Gilded wood at Palecek

Stay tuned for more updates from the 2014 HD Expo...we've got more trends to share!

High Design Goes High-Tech with the Formica Envisualizer design platform

Fri, 16 May 2014 19:59:00 GMT

Designers, this one is for you! We’re excited to announce the launch of our latest innovation: the patent-pending Formica Envisualizer™ design platform…your new resource for inspiration and creative expression.

Pattern created using the Formica Envisualizer^TM design platform

Now in beta, the Formica Envisualizer^TM design platform gives you the power to explore the limitless possibilities of algorithmic pattern generation. Upload your own image to see the possibilities, or design something completely unexpected by scaling, distorting and randomizing shapes or drawing with kinetic brushes. Customize color palettes using CMYK, RGB or HEX codes. The results? Truly original, complex and captivating works of art that can be shared in a public gallery or downloaded as a vector image for further refinement.

To learn more about how the Formica Envisualizer^TM design platform can inspire your next design project or to request an invitation to join the beta test, go to www.formica.com/envisualizer

Pattern created using the Formica Envisualizer^TM design platform

We’re currently collaborating with the A&D community on the features and functionality to include in the next evolution of the Formica Envisualizer^TM design platform. "While design-forward products and patterns will always be central to our brand, we believe it is equally important to develop new resources that inspire the design process and empower the creation of truly customized surfaces," said Formica Corporation's Vice President of Marketing, Amy Gath. Please provide your feedback here.

Solid Surfacing 101

Mon, 05 May 2014 13:11:00 GMT

When you consider all of the surfacing materials available today, solid surfacing holds a singular place, offering many unique features and benefits. With solid surfacing, you can enjoy:

Seamless looks
Minimal maintenance
Cleanliness advantages of a non-porous material
A wide variety of colors and patterns

Read on to find out more about what makes this versatile material a popular choice for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops and much more.

773 Luna Sail White Formica^® Solid Surfacing

Material Basics

What is solid surfacing, exactly? Formica^® Solid Surfacing is a man-made surfacing product made up of a combination of a natural mineral fiber called ATH and a resin, which could be made of acrylic, polyester, or even an acrylic-modified polyester.

In brief, Formica^® Solid Surfacing is made from:

ATH (natural mineral filler) + Resin = Formica^® Solid Surfacing

Seamless Looks

One of the top reasons homeowners choose solid surfacing is to achieve a smooth, "seamless" look. And unlike granite or many other surfacing materials, the nature of Formica^® Solid Surfacing allows for seamless, integrated sinks - a beautiful and functional option for most any kitchen or bathroom installation.

Non-porous Practicality

Because Formica^® Solid Surfacing is non-porous, it does not require sealing. By contrast, granite and many other natural materials must first be sealed, and then resealed regularly to prevent staining and bacteria growth. Given that most countertops tend to be in high traffic areas that see plenty of use, solid surfacing is a popular choice for busy families who need surfaces that are easy to keep clean.

High Style, Low Maintenance

Solid surfacing is repairable and requires limited maintenance: In most cases, all that's needed to clean Formica^® Solid Surfacing is a cotton towel and a mild liquid detergent or household cleaner. Because it's non-porous, it's bacteria-and stain-resistant by nature, making it a smart choice for kitchens and baths. As far as other maintenance, small chips and scratches on solid surfacing can be easily buffed out.

Just a little care goes a long way towards keeping your countertop in top condition. As with most surfacing products, it's recommended that you use cutting boards when working on your solid surface counters. Also, you'll want to use trivets when placing hot objects on your countertops.

All told, it's pretty simple to keep your solid surfacing looking as good as new. For more information on solid surfacing care and cleaning, visit our Product Use and Care guide.

A Plethora of Patterns, Colors & Possibilities

Given the almost endless design possibilities of Formica^® Solid Surfacing, your most challenging home decor task might be choosing which color, pattern or textural look is right for your space. Plus, color goes all the way through solid surfacing, allowing for plenty of customized versatility wherever you might install it, from bathrooms and laundry rooms to kitchens and bar rooms and beyond.

Formica^® Solid Surfacing can be:

Routed
Shaped
Sculpted
Engraved
Sandblasted
Backlit

Solid Surfacing: A Solid Choice

Tough, beautifully seamless and low-maintenance, Formica^® Solid Surfacing shapes itself to virtually any design concept. With a coordinated palette of more than 60 colors and patterns, there is a choice to suit any style.

Ready to explore our line of solid surfacing options?

View our complete collection of Formica^® Solid Surfacing

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not meant to be technical in nature and does not provide any warranties. Information about Formica^® product warranties and technical data can be found at http://www.formica.com

Laminate 101

Tue, 29 Apr 2014 18:43:00 GMT

What comes to mind when you think of laminate? Not just the laminates of yesteryear; we're talking about modern-day laminates. Thanks to technological, material and design advances, today's laminates allow for far more decor and finish possibilities than ever.

As the original manufacturer of high-pressure laminate, Formica Corporation is pleased to offer you some helpful information on this versatile material.

Read on to find out more about laminate, one layer at a time.

Material Basics

What is laminate, exactly? High-pressure laminate is a surfacing material created by saturating sheets of decorative and kraft paper with resin, which is a type of plastic, then pressing them together under high heat.

Formica® Brand Laminate is made from:

Decorative paper for style + Kraft Paper for flexibility +Resin for durability

Built-in Value

Beyond its almost endless color and design possibilities, part of the beauty of laminate is that it's far easier on the budget than most other surfacing options on the market today. For instance, while a typical cost per square foot of installed granite may be roughly $120, Formica® Brand Laminate is closer to $25 per square foot installed.

Easy Care

Unlike some of the other surfacing materials that traditionally require regular sealing to keep bacteria at bay, laminate is easy to clean and maintain. In most cases, all you need to clean laminate is a cotton cloth and some mild liquid detergent or household cleaner. Stone surfaces such as granite countertops traditionally require special cleaning products in addition to annual re-sealing. For more information on laminate care and cleaning, visit our Product Use and Care guide.

Easy Installation

Knowledgeable DIYers can install laminate themselves. Sometimes having someone else do the work is good, too. Installation is pretty straightforward and painless.

A Pattern for Everyone

Laminates offer more varied options for colors, patterns and finishes than any other surfacing material. And with so many design choices, think of all the places perfect for laminate: kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and bar areas.

Formica® Laminate offers more than 260 regular laminate patterns, plus an additional 24 stone and wood look-a-like laminates in our large-scale pattern collection, 180fx® by Formica Group.

Bye-bye, Brown Lines

In the past, laminates only came with visible seams. Now there are edging detail products available, such as IdealEdge® by Formica Group, that can eliminate those "brown lines" and offer a more stylish finish. These sophisticated customized edges work especially well to complete stone look-a-like patterns.

Ready to explore your laminate options?

View our complete line of Formica® Laminate

5 Top Design Trends from Salone del Mobile Milan EuroCucina

Wed, 23 Apr 2014 14:56:00 GMT

We love talking trends at Formica Group! That’s why we’re excited to share our love for the top trends we saw at Salone del Mobile Milan EuroCucina earlier this month.

Our North American design team was on-site to report on the latest and greatest in European design. Here’s what they found:

1. Matte Finishes: No longer limited to cars and nail polish; matte finishes are making a statement when applied vertically in kitchens.

2. Raw Wood Countertops: Wood cabinetry and countertops are showing up in matte finishes with no stain-giving the appearance of real wood. Many of our Formica® Laminate woodgrain patterns capture this important trend.

3. American Mid Century Meets European Modern: European kitchens get style tweaks like angled cabinet fronts, retro diner grills, and heavy industrial hardware, all elements found typically in American Mid Century. Any of our laminates would be at home in this style of kitchen.

4. Backsplash Storage: The modern European kitchen has traditionally favored open space over wall cabinets, but this year our team saw more backsplashes serving a functional role as storage systems.

5. The Thin Countertop: Large format tile gains momentum in the European market with a thin, modern profile. Other materials, including metal, compact, engineered stone and real stone follow suit. Like the look? Check out Formica Compact™, a two-sided laminate product.

Which new trend is your favorite? Tell us in the comments, below!

Countertops 101

Wed, 16 Apr 2014 12:32:00 GMT

When it comes to kitchen and bath design, countertops stand out. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen renovation or a bathroom redesign, countertops and vanity tops become major focal points. As such, you’ll want to carefully consider the surfacing materials you select.

The materials you choose will impact not only the look of the room, but your everyday experiences within the space. And chances are, these countertop areas will see a lot of use. So think about style and function.

Finding the look you want within your budget—and that meets your practical needs—can be easier than you think.

Here are some “material details” designed to help you make informed decisions regarding your remodeling and decorating.

Looking beyond the surface

In addition to finding a look you love, you’ll want to consider each material’s inherent properties and how each will fare under the demands of everyday living.

A little bit of information for comparison can be useful. Let’s take a closer look at surfacing options.

Some countertop surfacing materials include:

Laminate
Marble
Limestone
Granite
Quartz
Stainless steel
Solid surfacing
Tile
Concrete

So how do these materials stack up against your own needs? Here are some pros and cons of four of the most popular countertop materials.

1. Granite

Pros:

Has the highest heat resistance of all surfacing materials
Very durable
Resists bacteria and stains WHEN SEALED

Cons:

One of the most expensive surfacing options
Porous material requiring annual maintenance and frequent resealing
Visible seams
Not easily repairable
Requires special cleaning products
Limited color and pattern options

2. Quartz

Pros:

Resists bacteria and stains
Durable
High resistance to scratches
Non-porous
Easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

Among the most expensive surfacing options
Visible seams
Not repairable
Edges can chip
Limited color and pattern options

3. Laminate

Pros:

Value; it’s one of the least expensive surfacing materials
Durable
Easy to maintain
Relatively easy to install; can be installed by knowledgeable DIYers
Can be paired with undermount sinks
Widest variety of color and pattern options, in addition to many texture choices
Options are available to avoid visible edges, such as special post-forming, or the use of IdealEdge® decorative edges by Formica Group decorative edges, which can turn an ordinary laminate installation into a dramatic stone lookalike

Cons:

Seams can be visible, depending on products used and counter designs
Not 100% scratch or heat resistant
Not easily repairable

2. Solid Surfacing

Pros:

Virtually seamless
Allows for integrated sinks
Resists bacteria and stains
Repairable
Limited maintenance needed
Multiple color and pattern options

Cons:

Not 100% scratch or heat resistant

With so many materials available, it can be tough to decide what’s best for you—and for your budget. A little information can go a long way in helping you achieve the look you want.

Rest assured, there’s a surface option for virtually every person across every budget level. Check our our countertop products now.

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. This information is not meant to be technical in nature and does not provide any warranties. Information about Formica^® brand product warranties and technical data can be found at http://www.formica.com

Formica® Laminates 100th Anniversary Collection Featured on Houzz!

Thu, 27 Mar 2014 13:23:00 GMT

Formica Group

Looking to get more out of your kitchen island? Check out this great article by our friends at Houzz for inspiration. Two of our 100th Anniversary Laminates, 6610 Endless Graytone and 6616 Mint Dotscreen, are featured in the article's first image. Here are a few more photos from the same gorgeous kitchen!

A closer look at the unique kitchen island, showcasing 6610 Endless Graytone (top) and 6616 Mint Dotscreen (shelving).

An extension of the island, featuring a breakfast counter surfaced in 6610 Endless Graytone.

Did you know? Our "Endless" patterns are especially unique. Patterns repeat only every 500-700 sheets...length equivalent to more than a mile!

Get the look in your own home: Order your free samples of 6610 Endless Graytone and 6616 Mint Dotscreen, today!

Enter To Win New Formica® Brand Countertops!

Mon, 24 Mar 2014 19:24:00 GMT

Love the look of the latest Formica® Brand Laminates?

Here’s your chance to feature them in your home- ON US!*

One lucky winner will receive up to 200 square feet of 180fx® by Formica Group or Formica® Laminate, plus $1,500 to use toward the installation cost of either product!

Here’s How to Enter:

1. Visit Formica Group on Facebook and “like” us.

2. Fill out the entry form.

3. Select your favorite kitchen featuring NEW 180fx® by Formica Group or Formica® Laminate patterns from the gallery provided, or search the web for your own kitchen inspiration image.

4. Share your image on Pinterest.

Don’t wait! Contest ends March 26, 2014!

*Contest runs March 5-26, 2014. Winner will be notified by March 31, 2014. Terms and conditions apply. Please see official contest rules and regulations on the official entry page.

NKBA Shares Bath Trends for 2014

Mon, 24 Mar 2014 17:08:00 GMT

Share the Love recently featured the latest kitchen trends identified by the National Kitchen and Bath Association’s (NKBA) annual Design Trends Survey … now we’re diving into the bath portion of the results. Based on feedback from 420 kitchen and bathroom professionals, the following trends are making a splash:

Contemporary style is now more in demand than traditional style. A major shift largely attributed to consumers’ preference for spa- and zen-like retreats. Related to this trend, 64 percent of designers specified soaking tubs in master baths.

Beige and bone color schemes, white fixtures and polished chrome faucets were most specified in 2013. Gray will be the fastest growing color scheme in 2014 (we also noticed this trend for kitchens and baths featured at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show).

Bathrooms continue to be designed for all stages of life, as 57 percent of respondents incorporated accessible and/or universal designs last year. Reflective of this trend, 84 percent specified comfort-height toilets, 81 percent specified comfort-height vanities and approximately 50 percent specified zero-threshold showers. Demand for such design features is expected to grow even more in 2014.

Our 180fx® River Gold reflects the beige and bone color trend in baths.

The most in-demand bath features noted by survey respondents included ceramic or porcelain tile floors, linen storage cabinets, undermount sinks (did you know that Formica® Laminate loves undermount sinks?) and wall-hung floating vanities, console tables and open shelving.

For more results, download the 2014 NKBA Kitchen & Bath Design Trends Survey report.

You also can find the latest trends for bathrooms here on our website.

NKBA Shares Kitchen Trends for 2014

Mon, 03 Mar 2014 15:02:00 GMT

What will be the trending styles, features and materials for kitchens in 2014? The National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) recently unveiled the results of its annual Design Trends Survey of kitchen and bathroom professionals. Based on the feedback of 420 respondents, the notable trends included:

Transitional kitchens are still tops … though just by a hair. Clean and simple contemporary is a close second and is predicted to be the fastest growing kitchen style in 2014.
Kitchens continue to be designed for all stages of life, as 56 percent of respondents incorporated accessible and/or universal designs and easy-maintenance features into kitchens last year.
Kitchens continue to be the home’s organization hub, as two-thirds of respondents incorporated docking/charging stations, desks and home offices.
Already popular, wood flooring and glass backsplashes are expected to grow in 2014.
Greener products continue to be in demand, as 63 percent of respondents specified energy-saving appliances and 40 percent of respondents specified water-saving faucets in 2013.
Satin nickel is the most popular faucet finish; polished chrome will continue to flourish.
Stainless steel continues to be the most popular sink material specified by respondents.

Can you spot the trends in this kitchen featuring 180fx® Magma Black?

The most in-demand kitchen features noted by survey respondents mirrored those highlighted during the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show #kbtribechat hosted by @FormicaGroup, including induction cooktops, French door appliances, touch-activated faucets and LED lighting.

For more results, download the 2014 NKBA Kitchen & Bath Design Trends Survey report.

5 Ways to Create a Welcoming Kitchen

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 13:07:00 GMT

One goal often on to-do lists is to make our living spaces more welcoming and more reflective of our personalities. Real Simple recently shared five ways to create a cozy home; here’s how to make these ideas work in the kitchen using our own images as illustrations.

Play with Color. Color brings cheer to the kitchen. If you wish to remain on neutral ground, infuse color though accessories or accent furniture. Or, go bold by painting walls or cabinetry a bright shade or by installing a countertop in a non-traditional hue (especially if choosing an affordable material such as laminate!).

Formica® Laminate Red Ellipse

Mix and Match Materials. Mixing materials of different textures, such as stainless steel, concrete and reclaimed wood, throughout the kitchen adds warmth and visual interest. It’s also practical and on-trend for countertops. Go ahead and invest in a marble slab for a baking prep area and use a coordinating laminate or solid surfacing pattern on other surfaces. Or, simply mix laminate with solid surfacing!

Formica® Laminate Smoky Brown Pear and Formica® Solid Surfacing in Copper Quartz and Luna Stone

Invite Nature Inside. Kitchens are great places for bringing the outdoors in. Pot a few herbs, hang a vertical garden or display garden-themed accessories.

Contemporary Kitchen design by Detroit Landscape Architect Bright Green

Add natural textures, such as unfinished wood, stone and petrified wood (as seen below), to surfaces.

Formica 180fx® Petrified Wood

Create Your Own Work of Art. Chalkboards are ideal for posting schedules and grocery lists, but also work wonders as blank canvases for doodles and inspirational quotes. We snapped this image of an antique chalkboard turned backsplash in Milan … a whimsical way to add character AND repurpose.

Marchi Group

Embrace Spontaneity. Speaking of whimsy, let 2014 be the year that you let go of rules and decorate with heart. Unset the table with an eclectic mix of beloved serving pieces and unmatch the chairs. Hang kid art with pride. Create an impromptu display of meaningful items on the buffet. It’s about joy, not perfection.

Merillat's Great Vintage Kitchen at KBIS 2014

Mon, 17 Feb 2014 13:00:00 GMT

Formica Corporation spotted a lot of great exhibits at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, but one that left us feeling a bit nostalgic was Merillat’s 1946 vintage kitchen.

Here's a wide-angle view ...

... and a few close ups.

Retro Renovation recently dove into this kitchen’s back story … and into Merillat’s broader history. Here’s a fun fact – Merillat says it was the first cabinet manufacturer to bond Formica® Laminate directly onto cabinet doors.

Read and see more here.

To continue your walk down memory lane, check out our Vintage Formica® Laminate board on Pinterest.

See Formica® Coordinates to the Pantone® Fashion Color Report Fall 2014

Thu, 13 Feb 2014 13:47:00 GMT

Make way for the future! The Pantone Color Institute® recently released its Fashion Color Report Fall 2014. Since the fashion world is a major influence on home décor, be on the lookout for these hues to pop up in textiles or accessories later this year.

According to Pantone, this year’s palette was influenced by a diverse mix of books, artisan crafts, photography, retro architecture, exotic landscapes and the children of rock legends — all spanning the last 100 years.

“This is a season of untypical colors — more reflective of the imagination and ingenuity, which makes for an artful collection of colors and combinations not bound by the usual hues for fall,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®.

The report notes that Radiant Orchid, the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year, will be joined by nine other hues. We scoured our wallboards to identify coordinating Formica® Laminate patterns, as seen below.

— Sangria, an exotic red that evokes a sense of glamorous adventure and faraway destinations
— Aurora Red, a sophisticated shade that adds verve and spark

— Mauve Mist, a romantic and elegant purple reminiscent of the deco era, stimulating a sense of femininity and empowerment
— Cypress, a majestic and powerful green

— Bright Cobalt, a subtle twist on traditional cobalt blue with a slightly green undertone
— Royal Blue, an evocative and dignified blue with more complexity and excitement than navy
— Aluminum, a futuristic stainless steel that serves as a complex neutral

— Cognac, a classy and cultured brown that takes a typical autumnal color to a sumptuous realm
— Misted Yellow, a warm and optimistic ray of sunlight

See the Pantone® Fashion Color Report Fall 2014 for more on the colors as well as the contributing influencers and designers.

#kbtribechat Identifies Top Products, Trends at KBIS 2014

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 13:47:00 GMT

Formica Corporation had the pleasure of once again hosting the popular #kbtribechat in our booth last week at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS). This smart group of industry professionals, retailers and manufacturers weighed in on the top products and trends emerging from the show.

Courtesy of KBIS 2014

Innovative design and new technology had fingers tweeting the fastest. A few products garnering the most attention included:

Thermador’s Pro Series Range with Indoor Grill
Opus International’s Aroma Sense showerheads
Dacor’s Discovery™ iQ ovens, the world’s first to feature integrated, wirelessly-connected tablets
Hafele America’s motorized storage
The Viking Professional French Door Double Oven
Delta Faucet’s Delta® Temp2O™ Technology for showerheads that monitors water temperatures
Crossville Tile’s wood-look tiles
Pfister Faucets’ and GE Appliances’ Slate finishes

Of course, we have to mention the rave reviews for our newest 180fx® patterns … it was hard to convince some visitors that the countertops in the booth weren’t made from real walnut or granite slabs!

In addition to product shout outs, there were a few broader kitchen and bath trends noted, including gray, the new “it” color, LED lighting appearing in all sorts of spaces and the continuing movement toward more open shelving options.

Check out the KBIS #kbtribechat transcript for more insights and be sure to view related images on the #kbtribechat Design and Construction Week Pinterest board.

#kbtribechat friends, it was wonderful to connect with you in person! Thanks again for stopping by!

Top Residential Trends Inspire New Formica® Laminate Patterns

Thu, 06 Feb 2014 14:00:00 GMT

Formica Corporation launches seven new Formica® Laminate patterns with Premiumfx™ finishes that address three major trends in the residential market ― Soft Stones, White and Gray Stones and Non-Traditional Materials ― while still maintaining a timeless beauty that won’t go out of style. The patterns make their first public debut at the 2014 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, February 4-6, in Booth #N1063. See these, and all new patterns, here.

Trend 1: Soft Stones

Formica® Laminate Lava Flow

Soft Stones feature subtle veining and lyrical movement down the length of the surface. The new Flow patterns ― 6699-46 Sand Flow and 6700-46 Lava Flow ― reflect this trend by featuring a fine granular sandstone design.

Trend 2: White and Gray Stones

Formica® Laminate Argento Romano

White stones remain hot for 2014, while gray stones are up and coming. Two new laminate patterns address this trend: 6696-46 Carrara Bianco, an elegant white marble influenced by the popular 180fx® pattern Calacatta Marble, and 6697-46 Argento Romano, a gray-based neutral with taupe and beige accents that provides an alternative to pure white stone.

Trend 3: Non-Traditional Materials

Formica® Laminate Paloma Dark Gray

As Millennials start to invest in kitchen and bath upgrades, they demonstrate individuality by experimenting with non-traditional materials such as wood, concrete and engineered stone. The new Paloma series ― 6366-46 Paloma Dark Gray, 6729-46 Paloma Bisque and 6698-46 Paloma Polar ― provides clean, modern quartz-inspired looks ideal for any space.

The seven new laminates feature the softly polished Etchings™ Premiumfx™ finish, which is etched and dappled with highlights from tiny fissures reminiscent of those found in real granite and stone.

All Formica® Laminate patterns are available with IdealEdge™ laminate edge profiles. Suitable for curved, clipped or 90-degree corner installations, IdealEdge™ decorative edges transcend the customary limitations of laminate by eliminating flat edges and brown seams.

In addition to unmatched aesthetics and performance, all Formica® Laminate patterns are designed to minimize environmental impact. Each pattern is certified under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) and the GREENGUARD Certification Program (including a GREENGUARD Certificate of Compliance Gold).

Formica® Laminate with Premiumfx™ finishes are approximately $18 per square foot installed (price varies based on geographic location and edge treatment option) and are available through national home centers, such as Lowe’s Home Improvement and The Home Depot, as well as independent kitchen and bath retailers. Customers can search by zip code or city on www.formica.com to find their nearest retail location.

4 New 180fx® Patterns Debut at 2014 KBIS

Wed, 05 Feb 2014 14:00:00 GMT

Formica Corporation, the inventor of high pressure laminate and the first to pioneer large-scale laminate design, adds four sweeping exotic granite patterns to its best-selling 180fx® Collection. The patterns make their first public debut at the 2014 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, February 4-6, in Booth #N1063. See these, and all new patterns, here.

The 2014 180fx® introduction includes:

180fx® River Gold

3546-46 River Gold in Etchings™ Finish: An inviting creamy-white granite with linear veins of gold and gray highlighted by chocolate-brown crystals. One of the most desirable granites, it reflects the trend toward light and white sophisticated stone. The Etchings™ finish enhances the “river-like” quality of the pattern with its light linear movement.

180fx® Lapidus Brown

3547-RD Lapidus Brown in Radiance® Finish: A versatile and timeless granite that features vibrant gold tones and rich iron veining highlighted by creamy white crystals and gray and black pebbles. Its rich color palette will coordinate with a variety of cabinetry, from light golden maples to cherry to antique black. The Radiance® finish highlights the crystalline structure.

180fx® Magma Black

3548-RD Magma Black in Radiance® Finish: A dramatic stone that lives up to its name, each slab appears as if liquid lava has been poured over it. Rivers of gold, gray and rust ― highlighted by pure white crystals ― create a bold pattern. The Radiance® finish deepens the black background and accents the pebbles and crystals.

180fx® Red Dragon

3549-RD Red Dragon in Radiance® Finish: An exotic and alluring rich red with dramatic veining and gray crystals. The Radiance® finish intensifies the color and complements the crystalline structure.

All 180fx® patterns are available with IdealEdge™ laminate edge profiles. Suitable for curved, clipped or 90-degree corner installations, IdealEdge™ decorative edges transcend the customary limitations of laminate by eliminating flat edges and brown seams.

In addition to unmatched aesthetics and performance, all 180fx® patterns are designed to minimize environmental impact. Each pattern is certified under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) and the GREENGUARD Certification Program (including a GREENGUARD Certificate of Compliance Gold).

The 2014 180fx® patterns start at $21 per square foot installed (price varies based on geographic location and edge treatment option) and are available through national home centers, such as Lowe’s Home Improvement and The Home Depot, as well as independent kitchen and bath retailers. Customers can search by zip code or city on www.formica.com to find their nearest retail location.

Hello from 2014 KBIS!

Tue, 04 Feb 2014 16:49:00 GMT

It’s 2014 Design and Construction Week in Las Vegas and we’re thrilled to be part of the action at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, February 4-6. Stop by Formica Corporation Booth #N1063 and check out:

New Products: Formica Corporation launches four large-scale 180fx® granite patterns and seven new Formica® Laminate patterns that reflect the most popular kitchen trends. See the new patterns here.

Celebrity Appearances: There’s nothing like a little star power to energize our booth! Mark and Theresa from MyFixItUpLife will broadcast live February 4 at 10 a.m. PT.

MyFixItUpLife with This Old House

In addition, the KBIS edition of At Home with Gary Sullivan will be taped in our booth on February 5 from 2-5 p.m. PT. Listen to Gary's show on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST and Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon EST.

Special Events: It’s fun to match faces with Twitter handles! We’re excited to once again host #kbtribechat in our booth February 5 at 11 a.m. PT. This weekly Twitter chat draws leading professionals, retailers and manufacturers to discuss the latest in kitchen and bath design. The event will highlight all things KBIS, including the latest product introductions, top trends and must-see booths. Show attendees and exhibitors are invited to take part; visit the #kbtribechat blog for the official chat questions.

If you aren’t able to connect with us in person, be sure to follow our 2014 KBIS happenings on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

We’ll also provide some great post-show coverage here on Share the Love. Enjoy the show!

4 Top Trends From IMM Cologne

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 13:33:00 GMT

We love talking trends at Formica Group! Today, we’re sharing our love for the top trends we captured while at IMM Cologne, the international furniture fair.

Top Trend: COPPER, GOLD and ROSE GOLD

Metals, specifically in warm tones of gold and copper, continue to be a top material choice for lighting, furniture and home accents. Rose gold is just making its way in ... based on our observations, it will be big! Check out DecoMetal® Metal Laminates and Solid Metals patterns that reflect this trend.

Top Trend: WALL PUZZLES

Designers are reconstructing the classic shelving or wall system as puzzle pieces. The new systems are mixed and matched, featuring boxes and random shapes in different sizes and depths alongside shelves in various lengths. Colors are mixed and matched to create a custom palette.

Top Trend: A FEMININE TOUCH

Louise Campbell designed this year‘s Das Haus – a perfect example of the feminine element that is becoming so important in the design world. Whites, cosmetic reds, nudes and pastels evoke a light, inviting and warm feeling. Materials are natural and pure, featuring handmade or hand-colored patterns. Spaces are designed for socializing; walls are replaced by soft textiles that can easily be rolled up or down depending on the amount of transparency or privacy one desires.

Top Trend: PURE and NATURAL WOOD

We‘ve seen a surge of reclaimed and vintage wood grain looks in the past year. This trend now turns to more elegant versions of rusticity – a crack here and there, a sapwood line, a live edge every now and then. Overall, woods are presented as pure and natural; such simplicity is ideal for playful layouts, as seen above. Colors are lightening and new, super-matte finishes enhance appearances. Many of our Formica® Laminate wood grain patterns capture this important trend.

What's Hot for Baths? Depends on Who You Ask!

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 11:58:00 GMT

What’s hot for baths? According to the recently launched Winter Bathroom Study conducted by Houzz, it may depend on who you ask.

Bathroom Remodel Insight: A Houzz Survey Reveals Homeowners’ Plans

More than 7,600 homeowners planning or undergoing remodeling projects responded, and the opinions greatly differ between younger and older generations. For example:

Homeowners age 65 and older are more likely to forgo a bathtub than those under age 35.
Homeowners younger than age 45 are more likely to choose a rain shower and multiple showerheads, while those older than age 55 are more likely to prefer hand showers and sliding bars.
Homeowners are split on having an exposed toilet, however, older homeowners skew toward wanting more privacy. Younger homeowners (25 to 34 years old) prefer tankless or wall-mounted models over the traditional two-piece ones.

The study did note a few bathroom amenities that came out on top regardless of age:

Most respondents prefer all-glass enclosures for the main shower and 54 percent choose frameless glass. Forty-two percent plan to add a shower seat.
Most homeowners prefer white cabinets as their color of choice.
Brushed nickel and polished chrome are the leading choices for faucet finish.

Houzz didn’t survey respondents on countertop material preferences, although industry research shows that solid surfacing continues to grow in popularity. Seamless, non-porous and easy to maintain, the material is especially ideal for bathrooms, where bacteria and mold can loom. An added bonus: a solid surface vanity top can have a fully integrated sink – an option preferred by 12 percent of respondents. Click here for more on Formica® Solid Surfacing.

Click here to read the full Houzz report.

Raw, Reclaimed and Heavily Grained at Design Miami 2013

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 17:02:00 GMT

Designers are getting real with wood these days, bypassing fine finishes for natural textures and dramatic visuals. Formica Corporation noticed this design direction at last year’s GlobalShop, as fixtures and store displays were rustic. Design Miami 2013 provided even more great examples, including:

Antonella Villanova

Hostler Burrows

Moderne Gallery

R 20^th Century

For more event highlights, visit the Design Miami Design Log blog or browse exhibitor images at artsy.net.

180fx® Black Walnut Timber

Want to incorporate this trend into spaces using durable and cost-effective laminate? Our new 180fx® pattern Black Walnut Timber marries two thick, 170-year-old slabs of Black American Walnut – book matched and joined down the center with Walnut dovetails – with stunning large-scale realism.

On Trend: Biomorphic Design

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 11:31:00 GMT

The natural world is a major inspiration for designers. At Design Miami 2013, Formica Corporation noticed quite a few creations that resembled or suggested the forms of living organisms – otherwise known as biomorphism. Fluid, curvaceous and cellular, here are a few of our favorite pieces.

Galerie BSL / Ayala Serfaty

Galerie BSL / Taher Chemirik

Galerie BSL / Djim Berger

Carpenters Workshop Gallery

Galerie Maria Wettergren / Mathias Bengtsson

R 20^th Century Gallery

Gallery SEOMI / Myung Sun Kang

For more event highlights, visit the Design Miami Design Log blog or browse exhibitor images at artsy.net.

Material Trend: Warm and Wooly Felt

Mon, 30 Dec 2013 12:51:00 GMT

Felt, a material that many of us have been playing with since preschool, has become increasingly popular in both commercial interiors and home accessories. A reflection of the Homespun design theme so prominent at this year’s design shows, felt brings high-touch simplicity to high-tech spaces.

Don’t let felt’s humble nature fool you. The pieces that caught the attention of the Formica Group design team were incredibly modern and sophisticated, including …

Ayse Birsel for Filzfelt

Magic by KI

Vitra

Want to incorporate felt into your home décor? You can start small by placing a few colorful felt trivets on your laminate countertops …

Eclectic Oven Mitts And Pot Holders

… or by using woven felt storage baskets for magazines and throws.

Contemporary Baskets by Brooklyn Furniture & Accessories West Elm

Felt also is great for adding cushion to wood furniture, such as with these custom barstool “cozies” …

Modern Kitchen by San Francisco Architects & Designers John Maniscalco Architecture

… and for adding warmth to wood floors.

Eclectic Living Room by Philadelphia Furniture & Accessories usona

What's your favorite felt accessory this season?

Happy Holidays

Wed, 25 Dec 2013 14:23:00 GMT

Happy holidays from Formica Corporation to you!