Located in Manchester’s regenerated NOMA scheme, Material Source Studio is a design hub which provides an inspiring environment for designers to immerse themselves in ‘beautifully useful’ products and materials.
Presenting a resource library of the very best materials and furniture brands, it was key that the flooring provided a neutral background which would allow focus to remain on the product displays but would also itself be timelessly stylish. Keen to select practical flooring with equally strong form that would complement the industrial nature of the building, the studio designers opted for an interesting blend of minimalist surfaces to differentiate and complement the display zones.
The team opted for the warm handcrafted grain of Warm Brushed Oak from the Van Gogh multi-format range and the cool concrete style of Quebec from the LooseLay range, with their subtle textures and detailing but also additional installation and acoustic benefits.
The subtle texture and delicate flowery grain of Warm Brushed Oak brings a comfortable natural character to activity zones on the lower floor and on the staircase where it serves to balance the bold black balustrade. Ideally suited for use in older buildings, the rigid core format is designed for installation over uneven sub-floors and comes with an enhanced acoustic layer which reduces sound transfer by 21dB. Installing the large sized planks (56” x 9”) in a straight laying pattern has emphasised the clean elegance of the oak design and achieved a reassuringly calm biophilic vibe.
In other areas the pale creamy-grey tones of Quebec, inspired by a sample of light natural slate and finished with a polished concrete style emboss, has created a gentle blank canvas. With tiles held in place without adhesive by a combination of weight and friction, the loose lay format offered quick installation as well as acoustic benefits. Providing an ideal background to changing upper floor displays, the loose lay floor can also be easily lifted for relaying in a different configuration or to access underfloor services. The generous 20" x 24" tile format amplifies Quebec’s streamlining effect and a sense of spaciousness, allowing visitors to give most (but not all) of their attention to the interactive displays.
Darren Clanford, co-founder of Material Source Studio, said: “ When serving a design driven audience, it goes without saying that the interior of Material Source Studio needed to be aspirational. Working with products and materials from the best built environment brands in the business allowed us to create a versatile palette of dynamic, on-trend schemes. We very much took inspiration and creative direction from these products, keeping beauty and usability in mind throughout.
“Sustainability is at the heart of Material Source Studio. We follow the reuse, reduce, recycle methodology and a part of that is selecting flooring products which will stand the test of time in terms of their durability, but also enduring style.
“We hope to positively impact every person that walks through our door. We can do that by providing them with an environment that is considered in every sense. This extends from the walls and the furniture to the floors, with all elements working harmoniously to promote a positive, healthy atmosphere.”
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