VEATU Flooring was appointed to undertake a comprehensive flooring upgrade within the O2, covering the VIP corridor, back-of-house corridors, level 2 and level 3 as well as the associated restroom facilities. The works incorporated a combination of sheet vinyl, luxury vinyl tile (LVT), and an epoxy resin coating across an area of about 1,400sq m.
The project involved a full uplift of the existing floor finishes, followed by extensive subfloor preparation and the installation of new, high-performance flooring systems, delivered to meet the demanding requirements of a high-profile, high-traffic venue.
Why was this project considered sustainable?
This project was delivered with sustainability at its core, through responsible material selection, efficient resource management, and a clear focus on long-term performance within a high-traffic environment.
Veatu Flooring adopted a value-engineering approach that prioritised durability and whole-life performance, selecting flooring systems designed to reduce the frequency of replacement and ongoing maintenance requirements. By recommending alternative materials that exceeded the specified performance criteria, the project achieved improved lifecycle value while reducing overall material impact.
Sustainability was further supported through detailed planning and phased working, which minimised disruption within a live venue and helped to reduce waste through accurate material ordering and efficient installation. Careful setting-out ensured design intent was maintained while limiting unnecessary offcuts.
Robust waste management procedures were adhered to throughout the project. Materials including cardboard, plastics, metals, and used replacement blades were segregated where possible and disposed of via the appropriate recycling channels. In addition, early identification and remediation of subfloor issues created a stable, long-lasting base for the new flooring, helping prevent premature failure and extending the service life of the installation.
The sustainability of the products used in the installation
The sustainability of the installation was supported through the careful selection of products with strong environmental credentials, long service life, and proven performance within demanding commercial environments.
Karndean Opus was specified for its durability and long lifecycle, making it well suited to high-footfall areas. The product is designed for longevity, helping to reduce the need for premature replacement and associated material waste. Karndean flooring is manufactured with a strong focus on responsible sourcing and compliance with UK and European environmental standards, supporting lower environmental impact across its lifecycle.
Polyflor Apex 55 was selected for back-of-house areas due to its robust construction, high slip resistance, and low maintenance requirements. Its durability contributes to extended service life, reducing replacement frequency and material consumption over time. Polyflor products are manufactured in the UK, helping to reduce transportation-related carbon emissions, and the Apex range contains recycled content and is 100% recyclable at end of life.
Subfloor preparation products were chosen to ensure a stable, long-lasting foundation, which is critical to the sustainability of the overall flooring system. Ardex P4 and P51 primers, Ardex K 40 Flow, and Ardex Feather Finish were used to create a sound, SR1-standard subfloor, minimising the risk of failure and extending the lifespan of the finished flooring.
Ardex compounds are formulated for high performance and longevity, helping to prevent rework, reduce waste, and avoid unnecessary future interventions.
AF 145 adhesive was specified for its strong bond strength and reliability, ensuring the flooring performs as intended throughout its lifecycle. Secure installation reduces the likelihood of remedial works and contributes to long-term sustainability by protecting the integrity of the finished floor.
Collectively, these products supported a sustainable installation by prioritising durability, reduced maintenance, extended service life, and responsible manufacturing practices, ensuring the flooring solution delivers long-term value while minimising environmental impact.
