E147 – Why Laminate Is Making a Comeback: Trends, Sustainability, and Style

• Historical Reflection:
  • Frances discusses the cyclical nature of design trends, noting how materials and colours from past decades are making a return.
  • She highlights the vibrant, bold colours of the 1960s and 1970s, which are now influencing contemporary design, albeit with a modern twist.
• The Laminex Story:
  • Laminex, an Australian manufacturer, began its journey in Brighton, eventually moving to Cheltenham in 1952. The company’s commitment to local manufacturing is noteworthy, as many brands have moved production offshore.
  • The company is celebrating 90 years of operation, with ongoing manufacturing in Australia, including a new focus on sustainability.
• Modern Laminate Advantages:
  • Design Trends: Laminate is embracing new colours and textures, including earthy greens, terracottas, and lifelike timber finishes.
  • Sustainability: Laminex has made significant strides in sustainability with solar farms at regional plants and achieving Global Green Tag certification, highlighting their commitment to eco-friendly practices.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Laminate provides a budget-friendly alternative to high-end materials like natural timber and stone. It is durable, scratch-resistant, and available in various finishes such as matte, gloss, and fingerprint-resistant.
• Practical Benefits:
  • Versatility: Laminate is suitable for benchtops, cabinetry, and desktops. It can be used creatively in kitchen and bathroom designs, including curved applications.
  • Maintenance: It is non-porous, low-maintenance, and resistant to warping, making it ideal for various applications.
  • Design Flexibility: With laminate’s ability to be manufactured in large sheets, it can be used to create seamless surfaces. The material’s versatility extends to incorporating contrasting colours and finishes for a unique design statement.
• Innovative Uses:
  • Frances shares examples of recent projects where laminate was used to achieve modern, stylish designs. These include incorporating bold colours and textures into cabinetry and using laminate’s flexible properties to create curved features.
• Support for Local Manufacturing:
  • Frances underscores the importance of supporting Australian-made products, highlighting that many local manufacturers, including Laminex, are still producing high-quality goods domestically.
  • This support not only benefits local industries but also ensures high standards of quality and sustainability.

Related Episodes:

• Kitchen Design Essentials Series:
  • For more information on benchtops and laminate, check out episodes 36 and 38, where Frances delves into the essentials of kitchen design.

If you’re considering a renovation or new build, explore the potential of laminate. Its affordability, versatility, and evolving design options make it a strong contender for various applications in your home. Embrace the latest trends and sustainable choices by incorporating laminate into your design plans.