Laminate surfaces have become a popular choice for residential and commercial purposes due to the flexibility, strength and range of design options they provide. However, the selection and application of laminates for interior laminate use differ greatly between residential and commercial. Recognising these variances in order to purchase laminates that have both aesthetic appeal and are able to perform as necessary within a given space.
Residential Interiors: The Combination of Comfort and Style
Laminates are primarily an aesthetic choice for residential interiors, where the selection of laminate is based on its ability to enhance individual style. Wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, TV cabinets, wall panelling, and furniture within the bedroom are the most common residential applications for decorative laminate. The homeowner is likely to select laminates with warm tones, realistic wood grain textures, soft matt finishes or subtle patterns in order to create a comfortable and warm atmosphere.
Ease of cleaning and maintenance is another consideration when making a selection of laminate for residential use. Since residences have a lower volume of traffic than commercial establishments, interior laminate that is stain-resistant, easy to clean, and colour-fast or long-lasting will typically suffice. Flexibility in design offers the homeowner the ability to embrace new trends, which will require the exploration of various textures and finishes.
Commercial Interiors: Durability and Performance Are Key
In commercial interiors, there is a much higher emphasis on performance and longevity. Because offices, retail establishments, hotels, hospitals and schools receive consistent foot traffic and experience high use, laminates used in these spaces will be able to withstand scratching, impact, moisture and frequent cleaning.
Predominantly, the commercial use of interior laminate has a preference for neutral colours, uniform texture and finish in order to maintain brand consistency and a professional appearance. In addition, laminate is most commonly used for workstations, wall coverings, reception areas, partitions and other space-saving storage solutions, with the primary objective of maintaining a more or less constant appearance over the life of the material even under high wear and tear.
Design Approach: Customisation vs Technology Consistency
With residential interiors, maximum opportunity to customise design reflects an individual’s personality, whereas commercial interiors have a requirement for consistency and function over customisation. While design is still relevant for commercial applications, it must enhance the efficiency of use, safety and durability of the space.
However, modern laminates are doing a good job of bridging this divide. Advances in manufacturing technology allow laminates to be manufactured with the appearance of products that are of superior aesthetic quality without sacrificing any structural or material strength; thus making interior laminate suitable for use as a decorative product in personal residential spaces and as a high-performance product in commercial interiors.
Selecting the Correct Laminate for the Correct Space
The first step in selecting the right interior laminate is to understand how the space will be used. Residential spaces experience design driven by comfort, and commercial spaces receive design driven by performance. By matching the laminates to the functional needs of the space, the homeowner and designer can develop a pleasing and lasting interior that is functional.