The Challenge
The UCLA Medical Clinic in affluent Malibu, Calif., is a family-physician practice dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare, from newborn care to routine checkups. In designing the space – including common areas, hallways and exam rooms – Daphne Thiele of Gensler design and architecture sought a floor that would contribute to a calming aesthetic while meeting the practical needs of the healthcare environment, which includes both foot and wheeled traffic.
“We wanted the materials to reflect the soothing aesthetic of the nearby ocean to promote the natural healing process,” Thiele said. “We wanted the facility to feel relaxed and comfortable, while ensuring all clinical functions could be performed uninhibited.”
Sector: Healthcare
Client: UCLA Medical Clinic
Location: Malibu, CA
Designer: Daphne Thiele, Gensler Design
Area: 5,000ft2
Product: Opus collection, Weathered Elm WP511
The Solution
Thiele chose Weathered Elm (WP511), a gluedown LVT product from Karndean’s Opus collection. Flooring in the Opus collection has a 20 mil wear layer and is backed by a 15-year commercial warranty. Like all Karndean LVT, the flooring is waterproof, hygienic, slip-resistant and easy to clean. No harsh chemicals or noisy machinery are required for maintenance.
“The warmth and character of Weathered Elm made it a natural choice as part of our overall vision. Ultimately, we chose Karndean LVT because we were confident it offered the durability and performance that would be demanded of the flooring.” - Daphne Thiele, Gensler Design
The Results
Thiele said she would continue to recommend Karndean to clients for projects in healthcare and other sectors. In assessing the installation, she was impressed with the artistry and craftsmanship of the Weathered Elm design.
“It had a beautiful weathered texture that evoked driftwood at the beach. It truly looks like natural wood, and I’m sure most patients think it is,” she said.
Opus Product Specifications
| Standard | Gluedown | |
| Size | 36” x 6” | |
| Thickness | 2.5 mm | |
| Wear Layer | 20 mil | |
| Commercial warranty* | 15 years | |
| Bevelled edge | Micro | |
| Slip resistance** | ASTM D2047 | Pass (Dry 0.89) |
| Acoustic impact noise reduction | ASTM E2179-09 ASTM E492-09 |
ΔIIC = 4 dB IIC = 44 dB*** IIC = 71 dB**** |
Download the full Opus gluedown technical data.
*Subject to terms
**Slip resistance is measured on ex-factory product. Slip resistance can be affected by many factors including but not limited to: product installation and underlayment, surface contamination, use, wear and how the product is maintained. Textural variation along the surface of the product can affect nominal values.
*** (6” Concrete Slab w/Drop Ceiling)
**** (6” Concrete Slab w/Drop Ceiling + QuietChoice)
