Forbo Flooring Announces Winner of Marmoleum Design Challenge

This Marmoleum Design Challenge was aimed at designers (aged 18 and over), with the aim of imagining a 10 square metre module, inspiring relaxation and tranquility, to be installed in the heart of spaces such as hospitals, schools or offices (non-residential). And this, from the emblematic linoleum of Forbo Flooring in its Marmoleum, Bulletin board (notice board) and Desktop (furniture covering) versions.

Thus, between the end of February and the end of April, no less than 440 participants registered, from 61 countries! 6 finalists (including a French project) found themselves in the running and it was the proposal "Breathe" from the Finnish design studio Tuominen Patel that won all the votes. Let us recall that the jury was made up of personalities from the world of design and architecture: Ilse Crawford, Founder of Studioilse; Christine Vandover, Head of Design at HOK; Arianna Lelli Mami & Chiara Di Pinto, Founders of Studiopepe; Max Fraser, Editorial Director of Dezeen and Tamar Gaylord, Senior Designer at Forbo Flooring. The members decided on various evaluation criteria, such as the overall idea, aesthetics, functionality & practicality, originality, positive impact on the well-being of users, use of Marmoleum and impact on the environment.

The winner: Breathe by Tuominen Patel

This Helsinki-based design studio, founded in 2005 by Terhi Tuominen and Jitan Patel, works on interiors, furniture and objects.

For the Marmoleum Design Challenge, they envisioned a versatile, pastel-toned “breakout” space with configurable partitions to encourage connection and social engagement, whether that’s hosting small gatherings or yoga sessions. Friendliness promotes well-being " confide the designers.

The project is characterised by distinctive geometric shapes and three main components: a circular Marmoleum floor, Desktop furniture and Bulletin board partitions. Rather than dividing the spaces, it exploits the radial orientation of a clock to merge the segments harmoniously. The circular configuration is inspired by the “democratic nature of the circle”, as all its members would be in an equal position vis-à-vis the others. A circle means completeness and unity, it is the center of everything »

This modular design was designed to support a range of activities, such as playing, learning, working and socialising. The mobility of the curved Bulletin board partitions, mounted on castors, ensures flexibility and scalability, ideal for adapting the space to varying privacy needs and changing uses.

Finally, a harmonious combination of the colours of the Marmoleum, Desktop and Bulletin board coverings helps to create a decidedly calming and welcoming atmosphere.

« Breathe stood out for its community spirit ", confides Max Fraser, editorial director of Dezeen. And he continues: " We were drawn to this concept because it emphasised the social element of wellbeing and the importance of togetherness, rather than creating a single-occupancy space to retreat into isolation. »

It is worth noting that in addition to a £5.000 prize awarded by Dezeen, Tuominen Patel's designers will see their concept realised and unveiled at a launch event at Forbo Flooring's production site in Assendelft, the Netherlands, which specialises in the manufacture of Marmoleum.

And 5 finalists who did not disappoint!

Kanso, by Jonathan Tordjman and Gabriela Neyroud – Paris, France

“Kanso is a place where you can be calm and isolated without being locked up. Our goal was to allow caregivers to focus on the present moment, thus improving their psychological well-being.”

The name “Kanso”, meaning simplicity and sobriety in Japanese, reflects the essence of this regenerative space offering a variety of uses such as meditation, contemplation, napping, stretching and reading. Its refined atmosphere, in green and brown tones, is inspired by the aesthetics of Japanese tea rooms. The Marmoleum floor imitates tatami mats, with a contrasting weld to create a pattern framing the space, and matches the natural materials such as oak and recycled fabric canvas.

Marmo Tents, by In-Between Architects – Hong Kong

« Marmo Tents is more than a multifunctional pavilion. It is a dynamic and itinerant platform that visits different cities, fostering collaboration with local artists and designers. »

This group of tents demonstrates exceptional flexibility and scalability, using cardboard tubes from Marmoleum roll centers as well as Marmoleum strips for its structure. By integrating these tents into a professional environment, the space is clearly intended for relaxation and rejuvenation. In addition, the idea of ​​pet tents contributes to emotional support in companies and schools.

Seasonal Sanctum, by Matthew Pratt – London, UK

« Seasonal Sanctum is designed to resonate with the natural rhythms of the four seasons.. Inspired by the organic forms of nature, the pavilion's design gently embraces flowing curves, reflecting the harmonious transition of time as one season seamlessly blends into another. »

By choosing seasonal material palettes from the Marmoleum range, the space envelops occupants in this material and the essence of each season, inviting reflection on the cyclical nature of life. Through its thoughtful design and innovative approach, the space aspires to uplift users and promote their holistic well-being.

Duinpan, from Jelmer Reus – Zaandam, Netherlands

« True relaxation comes from the great outdoors. Duinpan offers a multitude of relaxation options and embodies a harmonious blend of tranquility, nostalgia and playfulness, just like choosing the perfect spot to sit on the edge of the dunes »

The distinctive feature of this project lies in the fluid transition of the linoleum from the floor to the object, recalling the natural passage from the beach to the dunes. The intention is to place this object in a space where the linoleum covers the adjoining floor, thus creating a harmonious integration between the floor and the object that blend perfectly into the environment.

Thoughts shell, by Liliya Dzis – New York, USA

« The interplay of textures, natural materials and soft lighting provides a refuge from the sensory overload of the office, allowing users to recharge and refocus throughout the day.”

This 10 square meter sanctuary is designed to promote mental well-being in busy environments such as offices, schools and lobbies. Marmoleum, in a calming light green, covers the floor and walls, creating an enveloping and peaceful atmosphere.

Curved walls lead to a built-in bench filled with soft debris from Forbo Flooring products, giving the materials a second life. This multifunctional piece provides space for comfortable seating, meditation or impromptu gatherings.

[1] Based in London, with offices in Hoxton, as well as New York and Shanghai