The ever-increasing rate of change in the working world is prompting many people to withdraw into their own four walls and invest more heavily in their home environments. Companies wishing to capitalize on this “homing” trend need to supply top-quality products that are highly customizable and sustainable. These developments have sparked a proliferation of new surface finishing technologies for home interiors, including some quite spectacular innovations. In response to this trend, LIGNA HANNOVER 2011 (30 May to 3 June) will have a whole display category dedicated to industrial surface finishing, enabling visitors to quickly gain a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art. In fact, true to its official motto, “Making more out of wood: Innovation – Efficiency – Vision,” LIGNA HANNOVER 2011 will cover the entire value chain, from coating materials through to production systems, auxiliary materials and services. All the leading suppliers will be there.
The surface finishing displays will have a strong focus on design and surface treatment as a means of introducing greater diversity into furniture and flooring products. High-gloss and matt finishes are important parts of the design mix. So, too, are tactile and visual texture. Some artificial films almost feel like wood to the touch, while real wood veneers are finding their way into high-end high-tech applications suitable for use even on three-dimensional objects. Customers are increasingly driving the choice of motifs. Their preference for natural designs reflects society’s growing appreciation of wood as a natural, sustainable resource. Modern production processes can deliver laminates that look almost identical to rare, precious timbers.