Formica Expands Residential Offerings
For 2016, Formica has introduced the Laminate Residential Collection that features 10 new laminate patterns. Striving to stay current, Formica, which has been around since 1913, states all of these designs were influenced by current top design trends. “Research shows that homeowners are drawn to surfacing options that appeal to their personal style, and are looking to showcase their individuality and tastes,” said Gerri Chmiel, North American residential design lead for Formica Corporation.
The designs fit into three groups. Three of the ten new designs are part of the large-scale 180fx by Formica Group laminates. Three are three new standard Formica Laminates, and four are Jonathan Adler Collection designs. See the above slideshow for examples.
The large-scale 180fx patterns are: Café Azul, Black Fusion, and Oxidized Maple.
The Formica Laminates include: Neo Cloud, Weathered Cement, and Timberworks.
Grasscloth (Natural, Lime, and Slate) and Gray Josef Linen are part of the Jonathan Adler Collection.
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Contrary to current fashion, I actually like laminate as a material - for covering counters, cabinets - especially in areas that need to be easily cleaned.
I am delighted with the new patterns, with the awesome selection. Edge treatments have certainly come a long way.
IMO, it's a superior product - not to be seen as 'second-rate' to others. I suspect most of the bad opinions are more a complaint against the earlier trends, which delighted in sharp corners and solid colors.
One advantage of laminate is that it's hard enough to be tough, yet not so hard as to be the terror of the glassware (just compare to a granite counter!). Indeed, I'd like to see someone make counters with a thin, resilient layer under the laminate- be it of cork, or some sort of rubber. Even a few mills of 'bounce' will make a difference.
I'd also like to see laminates made with some sort of texture, and to be marketed for less traditional uses- such as behind the stove top and in certain bath areas.
The Timberworks pattern is quite awesome.