Case Study
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), Edinburgh
Design Michael Laird Architects

After acquiring new premises in Edinburgh, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors relished the opportunity to be able to put its own creative stamp and branding on the building. Brought on board to design the interior, Michael Laird Architects specified a range of products from Forbo Flooring Systems to create a floor space that was practical, impactful and complementary to the overall character of both the building and the RICS brand.

Hazel Pearson, associate at Michael Laird Architects, said: 'For this project, RICS needed an efficient layout that could clearly define the public spaces, such as the lecture theatres and meetings rooms, and the private spaces such as the office and management areas. Additionally, we had to represent the institute's branding and corporate colour in the most impactful way, and ensure a modern and fresh first impression.

'To do this we chose a very neutral colour palette for the entire building to act as a backdrop for the striking accents of rich purple - RICS' brand colour - which were featured in certain key areas. As we chose to paint the majority of the walls white, we really needed floor coverings that would be practical in terms of their colour and footfall, but that would also stand out against the white and bring a sense of warmth to the building.'

A fusion of Forbo's Allura Wood in Seagrass Oyster - an earthy grey - Marmoleum Real in Purple, and its Tessera Mix carpet tiles in neutral grey were installed throughout the building. Pearson said: 'We installed vinyl tile Allura in the breakout areas and walkways of the building as it is not only a very practical and durable product but also looks good. Throughout the main office areas and lecture theatres we installed Forbo's contemporary Tessera Mix carpet tiles as it has a very inspiring pattern thanks to the soft geometric shapes and angular framework. Along with the Allura, the carpet tiles encourage a more minimalistic look and bring a welcoming feel to the building.

'For the kitchen zones...a floor covering that would be easy to clean and maintain was a necessity. Forbo's Marmoleum Real was perfect as it has excellent performance characteristics and Forbo's Topshield2 finish - combined with its natural antibacterial properties - means the floor covering is both hygienic and easier to clean.

Fly Forbo! The design for the RICS was the winner of Fly Forbo's latest annual competition that seeks to recognise the most innovative flooring projects in the UK. Highly commended was Manchester Science Park and other projects recognised were Tower 42, St John Bossco, Atria One Green Investment Bank, Donabate Portane Library, and Karmarama (second phase).

This year's 2015/2016 competition is open for entries from 1 July, and architects and designers are encouraged to submit 'their most inspirational, innovative and creative projects which feature outstanding use of Forbo's flooring or surfacing products' for the chance to win a trip for two to Chicago. Nice! Check Forbo's website in July for details of how to enter. forbo.com

Hazel Pearson, Associate at Michael Laird Architects

How integral to the success of a project is the flooring?

'As it is one of the largest surface areas in a building, the flooring is hugely integral to every project. As such, it needs to be as innovative as the overall design.

A floor covering works hard, so it needs to be a high-quality specification, fit for purpose and look as great five years on as it does on day one.'

What type of flooring do you specify most often?

'I love Forbo's Marmoleum for its wide range of colours, value for money and how it stands the test of time in terms of style and durability. The fact that it is one of the most sustainable flooring products is the icing on the cake.'

What's the best value to be had in the flooring market right now?

'The trend for modular flooring offers the best value for all involved. For designers, it provides a perfect solution to creating stand-out features and designs as you can mix, match, combine or contrast various shapes, sizes and colours of tiles.

For contractors and end-users, of course, modular formats provide many benefits in terms of reduced installation time and wastage - therefore saving costs.' michaellaird.co.uk