More than a Flat Surface

For years, standard decorative laminate finishes started and ended with matte, gloss, and some slight variation thereof - not anymore.  Recent technological advancements have made it possible to offer an ever expanding range of options that add visual interest, as well as textural qualities to what has traditionally been perceived as a "flat" surface. 

Finish is commonly imparted to decorative laminate through the use of a plate in the manufacturing process.  Recent advancements have made it possible for embossing films to be used more frequently and cost effectively to impart dimensionality to the surface.  Our Chrysalis product line is a good example of the use of this new technology to create, when combined with our Pearlescence solid color papers, a surface with the visual and tactile characteristics of real brushed metal, but with added durability and easy fabrication.  Additional films are in development that could add even more interesting surface textures such as Venetian plaster techniques, woven designs, or effects that mimic the cellular structure of some wood grains just to name a few.

Another way to create texture in high-pressure laminate is the inclusion of particles embedded in the surface.  Natural fibers, as well as mica mineral and metal particles can be randomly interspersed in the melamine overlay to create a free-flowing motif and texture.  With our Abacá collection, recycled banana fibers were superimposed over solid color décor papers to create an organic-looking surface and texture.  With a wide array of natural, metallic and synthetic particles available, the possibilities are endless.  Exit the flat surface!

Alchemy: Turning Lead into Gold

The early history of science is steeped in mysticism and intellectual curiosity for the nature of chemical substances and processes.  The early alchemists, including such noted scholars as Sir Isaac Newton and Robert Boyle, sought to better uncover these mysteries of the physical universe through primitive forms of experimentation.  Today, we recognize the alchemists for their goal of turning common metals into more valuable metals such as gold and silver.  For those of us interested in design, we recognize and appreciate the quest to take what nature has provided us and manipulate it in some shape or form to better serve our human purpose.

It is in the same spirit of the alchemists that Lamin-Art introduces the Alchemy Collection - 10 glamorous metallic hues that stand-up to the abuse of high-wear horizontal surfaces better than real metals or metal laminates.  The Alchemy Collection features a dimensional, spiral-etched finish that looks and feels like real brushed metal.  The addition of melamine in the manufacturing process results in superior wear resistance making the Alchemy Collection suitable for any application requiring enhanced durability.  And unlike expensive real metal products, this cost effective surfacing solution means fabricators won't need special tools or have to worry about added wear on their current equipment.  It's a modern alchemy, engineered to transform the common decorative surface into something that can provide amazing visual impact AND superior durability.

Click here to request your samples today. 
Read more about the Alchemy Collection.

Design Coordinates

We know you've got a wide range of color and pattern choices for your interior finish selections.  But when you find that perfect shade, finish, or motif, do you find it hard to find other finishes that coordinate and compliment it? 

All Lamin-Art premium decorative laminates and Veneer-Art real wood veneers are 100% designed for commercial interiors and intended to compliment other items in our line.  Our Design Director, Hans Mutzke, hand selects 3 coordinate designs for each product in our catalog (Solid Colors excluded).  When you request large size samples, we automatically include samples of those coordinating designs with your requested pattern.  You can also find coordinating designs for each of our patterns on our website, www.laminart.com.  We hope this added service benefits you in your selections of interior finishes.