FOR nearly two decades, fibre has been quietly reshaping the flooring market with a commitment to design-led, innovative products that balance style, sustainability, and practicality.
At the helm is founder and managing director Julian Downes, whose vision has helped the Devon-based business grow from a niche supplier of natural plant fibre flooring into an established name
in high-end hospitality, residential, and commercial design.
From natural fibres to a broader vision fibre began 17 years ago with a simple yet compelling range of natural products such as sisal and seagrass, supplied directly to the trade. Julian, drawing on his early career with Crucial Trading and later experience in retail, saw a gap in themarket for stylish, design-driven woven products paired with reliable, personal service.
‘I wanted to create a company that could both inspire customers with exciting products and truly understand their needs,’ he explains. That ethos of partnership (being approachable, dependable, and value-driven) has remained at the core of fibre’s identity even as the company has expanded its range and reputation.
In addition to fibre, Julian co-founded Artisan Luxury Flooring three years ago, bringing both ventures together under one roof to strengthen their combined impact on the market.
Harrogate and beyond
Industry events have long played an important role in fibre’s journey. The company has attended the Harrogate Flooring Show on-and-off for decades but returned three years ago with renewed
focus.
‘It was about supporting Artisan Luxury Flooring, but also about the show itself, which under new management had taken a fresh direction,’ says Julian. ‘The attendance has improved, the atmosphere feels more dynamic, and the mix ofsuppliers and exhibitors is much more
balanced.’
fibre continues to maintain a strong presence at exhibitions, including its upcoming appearance at Decorex in London’s Kensington Olympia, where the company will showcase its latest ranges to designers, architects, and specifiers.
A sustainable future: Econyl and reimagined ranges
One of fibre’s biggest moves in recent years has been the adoption of Econyl, a regenerated nylon made from recycled materials, including discarded fishing nets and industrial waste.
‘The switch allows us to offer products that not only look stunning but also make a real difference environmentally,’ Julian says. The production of Econyl requires significantly less water and
electricity, reducing landfill waste and carbon footprint. fibre’s five reimagined contract ranges are Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Sigma, and Sierra, and they highlight this commitment. Once produced using virgin nylon, these collections have been redeveloped with Econyl and refreshed with an on-trend, sustainable colour palette. Grouped into two families, Alpha, Beta, and Gamma focus on low-profile, flat woven contract flooring, while Sigma and Sierra provide versatile solutions for
luxury apartments, offices, and hospitality spaces.
Each comes with flexible backing options: traditional action-back or a felt-backed alternative that simplifies installation by removing the need for underlay. Additionally, Sigma and Sierra are available not only as 4m broadloom but also in tiles and planks, offering further versatility for specifiers.
Differentiation through design
Asked what sets fibre apart, Julian is clear: ‘It’s our focus on the niche, on offering woven products that are not just robust but also stylish and thoughtful alternatives to conventional contract flooring.’ That sense of differentiation (innovative but practical, stylish yet durable) runs through the company’s collections.
fibre’s strength also lies in its people.Dedicated contract manager Jo Edwards, for instance, plays a vital role in building relationships with architects, contractors, and designers, ensuring projects receive expert guidance and support.
Looking ahead
With sustainability and presentation at the forefront, fibre is entering its next chapter with confidence. ‘We’ve changed how we present our products: bringing together thoughtful groupings, providing more choice in backing, and making everything accessible online and through our social
media channels,’ says Julian.
For him, the future of flooring lies in balancing aesthetics with environmental responsibility, while never losing sight of customer service. From Devon to the global design stage, fibre continues to
prove innovation and integrity can be seamlessly woven together.