DOMOTEX MARKET REPORT


market by the end of 2026. In 2019, one year before the pandemic, house-building reached the highest level in two decades. Some estimates suggest demand is still exceeding supply and it will generate a need for substantial construction in the coming years, something that has prompted pledges of additional funding from the German government. The versatility of laminate means it remains one of the most frequently laid fl oor coverings in Europe. But alternatives such as wood, natural stone and bamboo are becoming increasingly popular as fl ooring trends continue to mirror a more natural approach in interiors. Vinyl is also tipped to be popular; soft underfoot, warmer to the touch than tiles and available is assorted levels of gloss, which means greater choice in terms of looks. Some tiles can even be grouted for an even more realistic appearance. They also withstand water, don’t easily dent, stain or fade - and they’re easy to install. Concrete fl oors - highly durable, sustainable and inexpensive - off er


a viable contrast, especially when attention is paid to the surface fi nish. Their ability to work well with both rugged industrial design and modern minimalism, not to mention the on-trend Bauhaus- inspired designs, have maintained its popularity. In short, its reputation for being cold, damp, and best left to warehouses and garages, disappeared with the advancement of nuanced applications, upgraded materials, and adventurous designs. Rustic stone tiles continue to


off er an alternative to classic white tiles in kitchens and bathrooms. Terracotta tiles – whether they are the original Italian or Belgian reproduction variety – will endure way after Instagram has stopped promoting them the way it does. Increasingly popular is the use of distressed concrete, particularly as an alternative to distressed wood, although both go through similar artifi cial processes to minimize the highly polished look and produce an enhanced ‘worn’ patina. Its look is fl exible enough to be integrated into most types of decor but it’ll be popular in industrial and contemporary styles. “You can expect to see engineered hardwood fl oors still going strong


NEW TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING IN WOOD MAKE


IT A VERY FEASIBLE OPTION IN BATHROOMS AND KITCHENS


WHERE MOISTURE COMPONENTS ARE BEING CONSIDERED


BACK TO CONTENTS DOMOTEX 2022


in 2021 and beyond,” says designer Linda Hayslett of LH Designs. “The options have grown for not only quality but also for types of fi nishes, colours, and materials; it’s here to stay.” Designer Breegan Jane agrees, noting that smarter materials open up even more options. “New technology and engineering in wood fl ooring make it a very feasible option in bathrooms or kitchens, where the moisture components are also being considered in the design layout,” she says. Fumed wood – produced stain-


free and enhanced by being placed into an ammonia-fi lled chamber


QUO TE


Breegan Jane | Designer


which causes a reaction has occasionally been seen as being a little experimental, mainly because the fi nished colour cannot be predicted. But, generally, the results are rich dark tones which enhance the natural grain, unlike liquid ammonia which can damage the fi bre and weaken its structure. Many retailers say the colour result


here is at odds with the light, white oak of European woods, although they do predict a compromise going forward with a trend towards mid-tones. But for the shock factor, there’s little more dramatic than graphic tiles, an “experimental” trend which has been gaining a lot of momentum recently.


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