WITH noise reduction playing an increasingly important part in key building standards such as BREEAM, architects and designers need to specify flooring solutions that not only look the part and can stand up to the demands of busy commercial environments, but which can also create acoustically sound spaces.

With Forbo Flooring Systems’ newly updated Allura Decibel Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) collection, described by the company as an innovative offering combining style and practicality, this is reportedly possible.

Says the company: ‘A unique proposition in the market, Forbo’s updated Allura Decibel collection meets the demand for stylish, luxury acoustic floorcoverings no matter what the application area. Offering 19dB impact sound reduction, the collection is available in 49 contemporary colourways, which are split between two ranges: woods, and stones and materials.

‘In the woods range, architects and designers will find a variety of beautiful wooden aesthetics that replicate their natural counterparts, as well as a selection of brand-new designs, including Serene Oak, Ash and Twine, a unique and on-trend hybrid between wood, stone and textile aesthetics for a softer and more elegant take on modern wood.

‘The stones and materials element to the range sees the introduction of striking new designs, such as Stromboli, a more mottled stone effect and Emperador, which has a marbled appearance.

Additionally, and exclusive to the Decibel range, there is a new abstract tweed design, Scott, which provides a softer, almost textured aesthetic, and is an alternative to some of the more industrial designs found within the stones and materials range. There is also a new digitally printed design, Sky, which is reminiscent of beautiful early morning sunrises, helping to bring the outside in.’

Karen Wilding, marketing communications manager from Forbo Flooring Systems, spoke about the updated collection, saying: ‘Most publicly used spaces, from offices and hospitality venues through to multi-occupancy buildings, can often be noisy places, which can negatively impact the health and wellbeing of those who work, play or live there. For this reason, it’s important architects and specifiers have access to sound acoustic flooring that can aid in the reduction of transmitted noise, thus helping to create healthier indoor spaces. With this in mind, we wanted to update our Allura Decibel collection to provide a use anywhere, high-quality acoustic LVT floorcovering in a range of designs that reflect the modern trends on the market.

‘Delivering exceptional acoustic properties, Allura Decibel doesn’t just offer architects and designers a stylish and practical LVT floor covering, but it can also help with sustainability goals too. This collection is installed using tackifier, which means it can be easily removed for re-use or can be recycled at the end of its long and useful life. This aids in the circularity of the flooring industry, as well as reducing waste further down the line.’

In the development of the new Allura Decibel collection, Forbo has continued its work in increasing the sustainability of its portfolio. It says: ‘Produced in Europe based on zero waste principles and using 100% green electricity, Allura is a 100% phthalate-free, REACH compliant product and contains recycled content. The excellent dimensional stability ensures safe and hygienic floors, as dirt isn’t trapped in the seams; and the superior embossed lacquering system guarantees long lasting appearance retention and improves resistance to stains and scratches.

‘Not only this, but Allura Decibel is also available in two different qualities: a product with a wear layer of 0.8 mm for intensive use and a product with a wear layer of 0.35 for use in any residential environment.’

For more information, visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/alluradecibel or for more information on Forbo’s sustainability policy, visit www.forbo-flooring.co.uk/sustainability
www.forbo-flooring.co.uk