"Comfort will remain a trend"

Since 1972, Dieter Rischer has been working in product development at nora systems. Dirk Oswald, product manager for noraplan, has been with the company for three years. Their joint task: to develop a flooring for all areas of application where a particularly homely atmosphere is required. The result of this collaboration: noraplan valua. The rubber floor with its warm colors and naturally textured surface lends each room a cozy atmosphere.

What current trends in interior design does noraplan valua address?

Rischer: Primarily the trend towards more naturalness and authentic materials, which is evident not only in private homes but increasingly also in public buildings. As with any product development, we first asked architects from around the world about their requirements and ideas. Whether in China or the USA – planners favored a flooring with an irregular, original design. Some suggested offering the new floor in the original color of natural rubber. We also adopted this idea. Of course, insights from trend research are always incorporated into our development processes.

Can you tell us something about the colors and surfaces of noraplan valua?

Oswald: noraplan valua is available in 32 colors – eight with a subtle and 24 with a more pronounced grain. The color spectrum, even for the colorful tones, stays within the pastel range. To create an ambiance that appears inspired by nature, these subtle, warm colors are ideally suited. The two design variants also stem from the requirements of international markets. American architects, for example, tended to prefer the more heavily grained version, while European clients favored a more uniform appearance of the floor. With these two versions, we now offer planners maximum design freedom.

Why is noraplan valua offered in new formats for nora systems?

Oswald: This also responds to market demands. Planners wanted an alternative within the noraplan range to the traditional roll and tile formats. With noraplan valua, we are offering the first product available in both sheet and plank formats – and in several sizes: 610 x 205 mm, 610 x 305 mm, and 1120 x 405 mm. This provides a perfect solution for all areas of application, depending on the desired room effect.

In which areas do you see the greatest potential?

Oswald: With its warm, natural character, noraplan valua is naturally suited for use in healthcare, especially in healing environments. But we also see good sales opportunities in transportation, education, and office buildings. Homeliness will remain a trend for a long time – across all areas of application. Another major advantage of noraplan valua is its easy and straightforward cleaning. The surface is slightly textured but still extremely easy to maintain. I am confident that noraplan valua will soon become a permanent and successful part of the noraplan product family.