LOUGHTON Contracts was tasked with an installation at Arbuthnot Latham, 20 Finsbury Circus in London. The installation, which took place between February-July 2024 involved six floorlayers, and featured large-format ceramic tiles from Solus, expertly water jet-cut to precisely align with the intricate ceiling detail within the building.

Curved brass trims, supplied by CAT, were seamlessly integrated into the design, adding an elegant yet functional element. Additionally, the main staircase was templated and fabricated using the same ceramic tiles, which were also precision-cut to incorporate brass anti-slip bars, enhancing both safety and aesthetic continuity.

The ground floor event space featured a bespoke broadloom carpet designed to replicate the intricate ceiling detail while aligning precisely with critical points around the supporting pillars. This highly detailed design process demanded extensive collaboration across multiple design meetings to ensure accuracy. Additional broadloom carpet was installed in the CEO’s office and boardroom, featuring intricate patterns where seaming details were critical to achieving a flawless finish. Meeting rooms were fitted with a body-and-border carpet configuration.

The walkways and internal feature staircase were enhanced with an LVT installation designed to meet a precise aesthetic vision. WFA produced a bespoke timber plank finish that enabled the installation team to extend the flooring design onto the ceiling — an extraordinary achievement for a flooring contractor.

The client brief was that flooring choices should reflect the client’s brand identity, creating a welcoming yet professional environment. Additionally, transitions between flooring types were to be seamless, with appropriate trims to ensure accessibility and safety. Acoustics were an important factor, especially in meeting spaces and open-plan work areas.

With regard to a timeline, the installation had to be aligned with the overall project schedule, ensuring minimal disruption to other trades. Installers were asked to comply with all site safety regulations, including dust control and safe handling of adhesives and materials, and flooring offcuts and waste had to be managed responsibly, with recycling of materials where possible.

The project began with a comprehensive site assessment to evaluate the condition of the subfloor and identify any issues that may require preparation work. This included checking for moisture levels, cracks, or uneven surfaces that could affect the installation. Measurements were taken to determine material quantities and ensure accurate planning. The layout was carefully reviewed to identify transition points between vinyl, ceramic, and carpet areas, ensuring seamless connections.

A phased installation plan minimised disruption. Each flooring type had specific curing and drying times that were factored into the schedule to avoid compromising the finish.

During installation, clear zoning ensured materials were handled efficiently, reducing movement of products across the site. Vinyl and ceramic tiles required precise cutting for a seamless fit, while carpet tiles were typically laid in a strategic pattern to enhance the overall design. Installers paid close attention to transitions, ensuring smooth connections between flooring types using appropriate trims or thresholds.

Regular checks throughout the installation ensured quality standards were maintained. Once complete, a final inspection was carried out to confirm all flooring was securely fitted, transitions were smooth, and any adhesive residues were removed. Providing the client with cleaning and maintenance guidance helped prolong the life of the flooring.

By carefully planning each stage — from assessment to final inspection — installers delivered a professional, durable finish that met the project’s design vision and functional requirements.
Managing project timelines and coordinating with other trades was a huge challenge. In large-scale refurbishments or new office fit-outs, flooring installation is just one part of a broader construction schedule. Installers often need to work around electricians, painters, and furniture deliveries, making efficient scheduling essential. Delays in other areas of the project can push back flooring installation, which in turn affects move-in dates. To mitigate this, flooring teams must be adaptable and work closely with project managers to keep the installation on track.

Material logistics and handling also presented a challenge in large projects. With multiple flooring types being installed across different office areas, ensuring the right materials arrive
on-site at the right time is crucial. Delays in material shipments or storage limitations can slow down progress. Additionally, for flooring types like broadloom carpet and vinyl sheets, large rolls can be cumbersome to manoeuvre within tight office spaces, requiring strategic planning to transport and cut materials efficiently.

Environmental factors can also impact the installation process. Adhesive-based flooring installations, such as carpet tiles and vinyl, require specific temperature and humidity conditions to ensure proper bonding. If an office space is still under construction and lacks climate control, excessive moisture or temperature fluctuations can compromise the installation, leading to warping, lifting, or adhesive failure. Installers must monitor these conditions and take preventive measures like using moisture barriers or acclimating materials before installation.

Finally, maintaining a high standard of finish across a large space is a challenge that requires skilled craftsmanship. Consistency in seam alignment, pattern matching, and transition between different flooring types is essential for a polished, professional appearance. Any imperfections in the installation can be highly visible in a corporate setting, making precision and attention to detail critical to achieving the desired outcome.

Despite these challenges, experienced flooring professionals use strategic planning, high-quality materials, and skilled labour to ensure a successful installation. By addressing potential issues proactively, they can deliver a durable, visually appealing, and functional flooring solution that meets the demands of a high-profile office environment.

‘Before the vinyl installation, we evaluated the current subfloor condition,’ says Loughton. ‘We made sure it was clean, level, dry, and structurally sound. The subfloor was thoroughly cleaned of adhesive residue from previous flooring. A moisture test was conducted to ensure the subfloor was dry enough. We installed 6mm plywood sub floor and sanded down uneven areas and ensured there were no loose boards.

‘For better adhesion, a primer was applied. This helped the adhesive bond properly and ensured longevity. Once the subfloor was properly prepared, the vinyl flooring was installed smoothly, ensuring durability, stability, and a professional finish. Proper subfloor preparation is critical for a successful ceramic tile installation, ensuring the tiles bond securely and remain crack-free over time. The subfloor must be flat, stable, clean, and dry to support the rigid nature of ceramic tiles. We inspected and cleaned the subfloor. We then levelled the subfloor, using a self-levelling compound to smooth out dips and irregularities. We then performed a moisture test and if moisture levels were too high, we applied a liquid waterproofing membrane before tiling.’

Loughton says it is still committed to promoting and only using responsible/certified suppliers/products regardless of sustainably credits required for the project. ‘Loughton prioritised sustainability throughout our supply chain. While most materials were specified by the architect, we actively sourced from responsible suppliers wherever possible. As an ISO 14001 accredited company with FSC and PEFC certifications, we ensured our supply chain met stringent environmental standards through regular reviews and supplier meetings. We provided environmental product declarations (EPDs) and collaborated closely with our suppliers to promote the use of recycled materials, including carpet tiles and protective coverings. Additionally, we offered environmentally friendly adhesives and floor levellers with low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs). To support BREEAM certification, we requested EPDs from our suppliers, ensuring compliance with sustainability requirements.’

To support the sustainability brief, Loughton says, ‘We actively promoted the use of recyclable and renewable materials while sourcing from accredited suppliers and prioritising local labour whenever possible. To minimise our environmental impact, materials were delivered directly from the manufacturer to the site, reducing transport emissions. We also worked closely with suppliers to limit packaging waste by using reusable materials instead of cardboard. Additionally, we operated a pallet return scheme to ensure the reuse of timber pallets, further reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.’

With respect to the disposal of products, Loughton adds, ‘We minimised waste through proactive measures such as pre-installation surveys to ensure precise material quantities, reducing excess. Wherever possible, we participated in take-back schemes, retained off-cuts for reuse, and returned pallets to suppliers to support a circular supply chain. Additionally, we only removed packaging, when necessary, further limiting unnecessary waste.’

The company pointed out Milliken’s Tracing Landscapes was noteworthy for its sustainability credentials.

‘The recent flooring installation at Arbuthnot Latham’s prestigious new London offices is a shining example of expert craftsmanship and meticulous planning,’ said the client. ‘The project involved the seamless integration of vinyl flooring, ceramic tiles, and carpet tiles, each chosen to enhance the building’s aesthetic while meeting the practical demands of a busy corporate environment. The vinyl flooring installation was particularly impressive, providing a sleek, contemporary finish in high-traffic areas such as corridors and breakout spaces. The carefully selected woodgrain design adds warmth and elegance, blending beautifully with the office’s sophisticated interior. The installation team’s attention to detail ensured flawless joins and precise cutting, resulting in a smooth, professional finish. Ceramic tiles were expertly installed to deliver both style and practicality.

‘The tiles’ neutral tone complements the modern design scheme and the clean grout lines and perfectly aligned tiles reflect the installer’s commitment to precision. The carpet tiles in the open-plan offices and meeting rooms provide a comfortable and stylish solution. Their carefully coordinated pattern and colour scheme contribute to a cohesive design throughout the workspace. The installers ensured each tile was laid with accuracy, achieving consistent alignment and maintaining a seamless visual flow. The use of high-tack adhesive ensures stability while allowing easy tile replacement if needed — a smart choice for a dynamic office setting. Overall, this flooring installation stands out for its exceptional quality and thoughtful execution.

‘The combination of materials not only enhances the visual appeal of the offices but also ensures durability and practicality in each area. Thanks to the installers’ expertise and dedication, Arbuthnot Latham’s new headquarters now boasts a flooring solution that is as functional as it is visually impressive.’
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