Lamin-Art Announces 15 New Abstract Designs

A mix of ancient and modern design trends has influenced the latest expansion of our ever-inspiring collection of Abstract high-pressure decorative laminate motifs.  Lamin-Art is proud to offer 5 new patterns that are sure to compliment any contemporary commercial interior:
 

The Streamline series reflects the stylish simplicity and compressed linearity that was the hallmark of the Streamline Moderne movement in 1930's and 40's architecture.

Sandstorm is a delicate earthen design that expresses a collision of liquid concrete and natural sandstone for a neutral aesthetic perfect for today's modern healthcare environments.

The adventurous Odyssey series is the epitome of vibrant, vertical, and spontaneous designs that are influencing today's commercial interiors.

Edgewave makes a distinctive and sophisticated statement by conveying surface depth and dimensionality through the tension between straight lines and curves.

And Versailles depicts a modern interpretation of ancient gold leaf used throughout history to embellish important artifacts and palace interiors.

Each of these 5 new designs is offered in 3 fashionable hues for a total of 15 additions to Lamin-Art's diverse selection of geometric, random, and organic Abstract patterns.  All 15 items are available for specification in either Textured or Gloss finish and can be ordered in 4' X 8' or 4' X 10' sheet sizes.

To view these latest editions to our line, visit www.laminart.com/abstracts.

EPA To Explore National Formaldehyde Standard

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that it will begin an investigation this fall into the presence and impact of formaldehyde in homes, schools, and offices.  The investigation comes on the heels of another EPA decision not to extend nationally the formaldehyde standards that are about to be put in place in the state of California.  California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulation 93120.12 aims to reduce formaldehyde emissions levels from substrates such as particle board, plywood, and medium density fiberboard (MDF) by as much as 70% of current levels over the next 4 years.  California plans to enforce these new standards through strict certification requirements, as well as extensive documentation and record keeping on the part of manufacturers.  The Sierra Club had requested the EPA extend the California standard nationally; however in its decision, the EPA decided it needed more time and input to determine a need for appropriate regulatory action on a national scale.  The first phase of the California regulation begins in January.

As a decorative surfacing material that is used in conjunction with composite wood panels, you can rest assured that Lamin-Art high-pressure decorative laminates are GREENGUARD Certified low-emitting products.  This means they can be safely used in conjunction with CARB-compliant composite wood panels and GREENGUARD Certified adhesives to ensure healthy indoor air quality.  To learn more about how these new standards could impact your business, we invite you to visit our website, or download a full Flash presentation on the effects of the CARB regulation here.

Lamin-Art to Mark Milestone in '09

Lamin-Art first introduced the use of pearlescent inks to the decorative laminate industry in the early 80's.  Inspired by the shimmery particles used in the cosmetics industry, Lamin-Art launched a series of solid colors which featured unparalleled light reflection, luster, and depth in 1984.  In 2009, we will celebrate the 25^th anniversary of this innovation, and we're looking for exciting projects and innovative designs where our Pearlescence Solid Colors have been installed.  If you've worked on a project utilizing Pearlescence or know someone who did, drop us a line to thesource@laminart.com.  Your project could be featured in our upcoming 25^th anniversary celebration.

Enabling Green: Tip #2

No doubt you are being asked to design and/or build work environments that are "greener," but what about your own work space and daily habits.  Are you being as "green" at work as you are trying to be at home?  Here are a few things you can do in the workplace to conserve resources.  Pass these tips along to your co-workers and together you can all have a huge impact:

According to the Sierra Club, computers in the business sector unnecessarily waste $1 billion worth of electricity a year.  Try making it a habit to turn off your computer when you leave for the day, but be sure to check with your IT department to make sure the computer doesn't need to be on in order to run backups or perform other maintenance operations.

The average U.S. office worker uses 10,000 sheets of copy paper a year.  Try printing on both sides or use the back side of old documents for faxes, scrap paper, or drafts.

Look for more green tips in upcoming editions of the Source, or visit our website at www.laminart.com/eco-enable.