The origins of woven vinyl flooring
Nils-Erik Eklund, a Swedish manufacturer specializing in traditional weaving, introduced a revolutionary floor covering based on woven vinyl in 1948. The company, which adopted the name BOLON, has continued to develop and stay at the cutting edge of new technologies. In 2003, the founder's two granddaughters, Annica and Marie Eklund, took over the company with the aim of making it a creative design company. Their mission has proven to be a real success since Bolon now collaborates with the biggest names in architecture (Jean Nouvel, Cappellini, etc.), fashion (Armani, Missoni) and design, and counts renowned brands as clients. worldwide such as Sheraton, Mercedes, Adidas, Google, Microsoft….
From the design of its products to their production, in Ulricehamn in Sweden, the Bolon company remains very committed to the concept of ecological production. Its products have received Green Tag certification, granted for compliance with demanding environmental criteria relating, for example, to human health, the preservation of the ecosystem, the impact on biodiversity, and the social responsibility of a company.
How is woven vinyl flooring made?
Inspired by textile weaving, PVC fibers, with the addition of polyester and/or fiberglass, are woven (one strand at a time) to obtain an aesthetic, flexible and durable floor covering. It is then necessary to heat the material obtained, at high temperature, to give it greater resistance. A layer of polyurethane is then applied to it, to make the woven vinyl floor scratch-resistant and simplify maintenance. Its manufacturing process gives it different aspects and textures, which bring it closer to the textile floor.
Woven vinyl flooring is available in strips of different widths, in the form of rolls or tiles of 50 x 50 cm. Its thickness can vary, but it is generally between two and four millimeters. A usage classification (residential, commercial, or industrial) is specified on the packaging. By the complexity of their warp and weft weaving as well as their unrivaled quality, Bolon woven vinyl flooring ranks first in this market.
The multiple advantages of Bolon woven vinyl flooring
Since its creation, Bolon floor covering has generated real enthusiasm. We appreciate the softness to the touch of this material, its superior resistance and its innovative design. Fully recyclable, its emission class of volatile pollutants into ambient air has been assessed at A+, a criterion of excellence. The Bolon woven vinyl floor is also a reference of choice for people suffering from allergies; it retains little dust and does not attract mites. Bolon coverings can be installed both at home and in a workplace. Their superior durability allows continued use in all rooms where they are installed.
Available in a variety of bespoke colors and textures, woven vinyl flooring suits any decor, due to its natural yet modern look. The subtly irregular pattern uses light and color to make the Bolon floor a unique decorative element. Fireproof, rot-proof and waterproof, woven vinyl is not affected by UV rays. Compatible with underfloor heating, Bolon floor covering has anti-slip and anti-static properties; it also promotes better thermal and sound insulation. Easy to maintain (hot water, neutral cleaning product) and install, it is guaranteed for 15 years by the brand.
The major Bolon collections
Each new Bolon flooring collection is as elegant as those that came before it. The “BKB” collection, which is available in a wide range of natural shades, is reminiscent of coconut fiber and sisal rugs. The “Silence” Collection, luxurious and satiny, is inspired by traditional wooden flooring and the Inca art of South America. “Bolon by Bolon”, a collection designed by designer Jean Nouvel, is available in six new harmonious colors; versatile, it allows great flexibility in terms of decoration. As for the “Bolon by Missoni” collection, it pays homage to the vibrant and invigorating colors of the style of this well-known Italian designer.
During Stockholm Design Week (2017), Bolon floor covering models stood out by combining woven vinyl with another natural material (cotton, wool, metal wire, etc.). In collaboration with Doshi Levien, a renowned design studio, the “Bolon By You” collection was born. This is a unique approach that allows designers (architects, designers, etc.) to imagine a woven vinyl floor that corresponds to their project. They can personalize it thanks to the choice of 6 artistic patterns, 4 shades of warp thread as well as 12 colors for the weft thread. In 2019, the Bolon company launched its “Diversity” collection, which is a tribute to innovation and audacity, two values that have driven them for seven decades.
The exclusive partner of the Bolon brand, in France
Since 1994, the company Artépy, based in Mâcon, has distributed products from the Swedish brand Bolon. We have a large number of showrooms throughout France where you can discover a wide range of woven vinyl flooring models and other creations. You can communicate with us by leaving us a message via the contact form on our site, or by calling us. Do not hesitate to request a free quote before undertaking any work.
