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SECTOR FOCUS FLOORING IN HOSPITALITY & LEISURE

flexibility and practical detail, inclusive These qualities are particularly valuable
environments remove barriers and in environments such as aged-living
reduce stigma, ensuring that everyone developments, where residents may
can feel welcome and in control of their experience memory loss, sensory
surroundings. sensitivities or reduced mobility. In these
Flooring plays a particularly crucial situations, a single continuous flooring
role in physical and emotional safety. design across key areas can support
It is one of the few design elements both safe movement and emotional
experienced visually, physically and reassurance, helping spaces feel
intuitively. coherent and non-stigmatising.
Surfaces that are predictable and When creating intentional
safe underfoot, aesthetically calming environments with neurodivergent users
and seamlessly integrated into the in mind, the use of predictable patterns,
Thoughtful design choices, surrounding architecture can help reduce subtle tonal variation and low-contrast
especially in fl ooring, can create anxiety, especially for users living with detailing can help reduce cognitive load
neurodiversity, neurodegenerative
environments that promote safety, conditions or disabilities, while clear and ensure the space feels comfortable.
comfort and emotional wellbeing transitions, reduced glare and consistent With wellbeing strongly connected
Craft Republic to how confidently people can engage
for everyone, says Richard Allen patterning will support orientation and with their environment, it’s clear that
familiarity, contributing to a sense of thoughtfully specified flooring will be
CREATING SPACES control and comfort. integral to achieving a reassuring sense
This is where performance-led but
THAT FEEL SAFE design-conscious flooring becomes of safety.
essential. Our new Opus collection was In busy commercial settings, opting
developed precisely to meet this need. for flooring like Opus that balances
ESIGN has the power to shape how Every design across the extended range natural design and visual calm with
Dwe feel. So, as we mark this year’s now offers 36+ slip resistance (assessed durability and enhanced slip resistance
International Day of Happiness (20 using a pendulum wet test), providing will contribute to a more inclusive and
March 2026), it’s worth reflecting on long-term performance in high-risk happier space.
how a considered choice of materials areas without imposing a visually As we mark this year’s International
can create a positive sensory experience intrusive surface texture. Day of Happiness, we invite architects,
and genuinely support wellbeing. For contractors and designers, this designers and contractors to consider
In commercial environments, means that specifying safety flooring how every material decision can not
whether hospitality venues, shared does not require compromising on style only support physical safety and hygiene
living spaces or public buildings, the or the overall emotional tone of a space. but also contribute to comfort, reduced
sense of emotional safety, comfort and With Karndean, a beautifully designed anxiety and a more positive user
confidence people experience is just as space can also feel like a safe space. experience, key factors in delivering truly
important as physical protection. Inspired by natural materials and inclusive spaces where everyone can
At the heart of this is an crafted to evoke authenticity and calm, thrive. 
understanding that inclusive design the Opus range introduces ten new www.karndeancommercial.com
enables everyone to use and enjoy a wood and stone designs with both Richard Allen is VP of sales for retail and
space confidently. By embracing choice,
space confidently. By embracing choice, practicality and biophilic familiarity. commercial, Karndean Designflooring
practicality and biophilic familiarity.
commercial, Karndean Designflooring

www.contractflooringjournal.co.uk 89
@CFJMagazine CFJ April 2026