FLOTEX® from Forbo Flooring, when design is anchored in the floor!

Thanks to its ultra-dense short pile, made up of 80 million polyamide fibres/m² anchored by electrostatic flocking in a PVC backing, Flotex® combines the warm appearance and comfort of a textile with the robustness and hygiene of a PVC covering.

Its high-definition digital printing transforms each floor into a true canvas of expression for interior architects and designers seeking singularity and character. Its technical qualities also meet the most rigorous expectations: exceptional resistance to heavy traffic, wear and humidity, simplified water maintenance, sound absorption up to 21 dB, anti-slip R13 and hypoallergenic properties certified by the British Allergy Foundation (BAF). Not to mention that with the Flotex Lab service, customization becomes limitless, giving rise to unique, expressive projects that are perfectly integrated into their context. Flotex® thus establishes itself as a true storytelling tool on the floor, capable of transcribing the visual universe and identity of a place down to its smallest details.

Three projects, three design visions… one material: Flotex®

Caron 3200 in Val Thorens: a pinnacle of technology and design

At an altitude of 3200 meters, at the top of the Val Thorens slopes, the Caron 3200 building embodies a true feat of engineering and aesthetics. Built under the project management of SETAM (responsible for ski lifts) and operated by TMR[1], this exceptional place was designed to combine innovation, hospitality and immersion in the heart of the Alpine landscape.

After seven years of studies and 18 months of construction in extreme conditions, Caron 3200 opened its doors on January 27, 2025. As Eric Bonnel, director of Val Thorens Tours & TMR, confides, “ This is an exceptional achievement, born from a technical and environmental challenge: transport of materials by helicopter, water supply by cable car and on-site treatment via the installation of a mini-purification plant, heating by solar panels and by recovering heat from the cable cars... A responsible approach, both in substance and in form. »

Designed as a contemporary refuge perched in the treetops, Caron 3200 houses, on 4 levels and 800 m2, a panoramic restaurant (130 seats), an exclusive wine bar - the highest in Europe - offering no fewer than 1000 vintages, a souvenir shop, a modular space (which can host exhibitions, seminars and conferences) as well as a rooftop with a bar/snack bar and breathtaking views of the mountain.

For this ambitious project, the architectural firm STUDIO ARCH and interior designers STUDIO ARCH INSIDE, a long-standing partner, proposed a cladding solution combining optimal durability, thermal comfort and tailor-made aesthetics. 

“We needed a material that could withstand extreme conditions while also embodying the unique spirit of the space. Flotex® perfectly met this dual requirement.” says Leslie Serrecchia, interior designer – STUDIO ARCH INSIDE.

Experienced in high-altitude design, Leslie Serrecchia is well-versed in the technical challenges of mountain environments. With several projects completed in resorts, she has already chosen Flotex® for its proven qualities: robustness, comfort, and customization options—key assets in spaces subject to high demand and exposed to climatic hazards.

To decorate the floors of the catering areas, the shop and the multi-purpose room, she drew inspiration from the world of old ski lifts, a clear reference to the history of the site:

« The wood effect with zinc inlays evokes the wide planks of yesteryear, while the warmth of the pattern contrasts with the harshness of the outdoor climate. The goal: to offer a feeling of comfort, from the first steps inside.

To create this design, the architect provided a laminate sample to the Flotex Lab service, which reproduces its shades, veins and textures with extreme fidelity.  

"This floor goes beyond a simple decorative function; it is a graphic evocation of the mountain, its cabins and its heritage." underlines Eric Bonnel.

For the vertical corridors, a deep, burgundy-toned Flotex® from the Forbo Flooring catalogue was selected. This warm and elegant shade subtly echoes the colours of Val Thorens' visual identity, while creating a striking contrast with the whiteness of the exterior landscapes.

In a few words... Flotex® serving alpine requirements:

• High resistance to intensive use (with ski boots!), shocks and humidity
• Thermal and acoustic comfort, ideal for relaxation areas
• Easy maintenance, even in an isolated site
• Custom wood and zinc effect pattern, perfectly integrated into the interior design
• Immersive and playful creation, perfectly integrated into the hotel's design
• Customizable 3D pattern for a unique identity
• Optimal acoustic performance for collective spaces
• Simplified maintenance, suitable for intensive hotel use

Flotex® in Courchevel, also designed by Studio Arch Inside

Another example of the alliance between performance and creativity, Flotex® flooring was installed in the Maison de Moriond in Courchevel. This multifunctional public building located at the foot of the slopes, owned by the town hall, houses numerous services: access to ski lifts, ski pass sales, ski school, tourist office, luggage storage, children's areas, daycare centers, multipurpose room, and staff rooms.

A busy place, it has benefited from a dedicated layout to streamline the flow towards the snow front. Leslie Serrecchia designed visual signage integrated into the ground: arrowed cable car motifs, without text, created with Flotex Lab. These markers, contrasting and immediately understandable by all (white circles, black drawings), intuitively guide users to each level, regardless of their age or nationality.

Flotex® once again stands out for its key qualities: resistance to moisture and ski boot traffic, ease of maintenance, sound absorption and a warm feel. Coral duo mats from Forbo Flooring complete the layout in the building's entrance areas, ensuring cleanliness and comfort and extending the life of the interior floors.

IBIS Styles Bordeaux Gare: a floor that tells its story in 3D

STUDIO VERSAVEL, A global design agency based in Saint-Malo and specializing in hospitality, has signed the bold transformation of the IBIS Styles Bordeaux Gare in a field of sensory experiences.

From the elevator entrance, the floor becomes interactive: the floral pattern takes on a new dimension as the interlocking writing suddenly becomes decipherable (Welcome/Goodbye). Thanks to 3D glasses available at the reception desk, the customer truly immerses himself in a friendly bouquet!

The tone is set: here, design is not just something you look at, it is something you experience.

The scenography continues in the meeting room where the floor, printed using the RGB process, is transformed according to the projected light.

Didier Versavel, designer of the project, explains: “ A green light reveals water lilies, conducive to relaxation; in blue light, butterflies encourage conviviality; in red, dragons appear, for a more intense atmosphere. Creativity made possible by Flotex®'s high-definition printing technology and its ability to reproduce colors, details and contrasts with exceptional precision."

« Flotex is a blank slate for the designer... but with the qualities of a high-performance floor. A real toy! ", rejoices Didier Versavel who implements it in many of his creations.

Resistance to intense footfall, acoustic comfort, ease of maintenance and extensive customization: these are all advantages that naturally led to the choice of Flotex®, a product already used in other hotels in the Accor group.

Pascal Fredet, Director of Operations, testifies: “ This is the first time I've seen such a positive response from customers. Visitors are engaged, intrigued, amused... Flotex® is a vector of emotion here, beyond its function, a trigger for memories. Everyone plays the game, young and old! »

It's worth noting that the immersive experience doesn't stop at the floor: cushions, wallpaper, paintings, ceilings, and headboards also play with contrasts and overlaps. By blinking or using 3D glasses, hidden messages appear, even in the bar logo and drinks menu. A playful setting that brings every corner of the hotel to life.

For a place welcoming both business travelers and families, the objective was clear: to create an immersive, powerful, inventive universe... but also sustainable and easy to live in on a daily basis. The Flotex® solution therefore stood out due to its excellent value for money and impeccable technical performance, particularly in terms of acoustics – a key criterion in an urban hotel.

Delivered in June 2024, this project demonstrates the narrative power of the floor in contemporary hospitality, and the relevance of close partnerships between operator, designer and manufacturer. 

In a few words... Flotex® at the service of the originality and comfort of the IBIS Styles Bordeaux:

Toulouse Football Club: the club's passion right down to its feet

For the official Toulouse Football Club store and over 500 m² of space within the Stadium, the flooring becomes a key element of the fan experience. At the helm of the project, Aurélie Tripier, interior designer and founder of the Toulouse-based design agency The Retail Office, imagines a 100% TéFéCé retail universe, faithful to the club's DNA and thought out down to the smallest detail.

« From the very first brief, Toulouse Football Club gave me carte blanche with a single requirement: that the store's design be entirely in the club's colors. I wanted to create a showcase store where fans would have an immersive and fun experience, as if they were stepping onto the pitch. " explains Aurélie Tripier.

She therefore designed a completely custom Flotex® floor, styling a diagonal football pitch, to break up the perspective, energize the space, and reinforce the sense of depth. Purple grass, white stripes, lines extending onto the furniture: the effect is immediate and memorable.

And Aurélie Tripier clarified: “ The Flotex Lab gave me complete graphic freedom. I was able to take my idea to its conclusion, without compromise. The print quality is stunning, the colors are dense, and the technical resistance is perfect for such an exposed location. »

With just 62 days between briefing and opening, the project was a race against time. Printed in Château-Renault, the Flotex® flooring was installed in two days thanks to meticulous preparation and close collaboration between all stakeholders.

"The floor had to withstand heavy traffic and everyday wear and tear... I was looking for a floor covering that was durable, easy to maintain, and warm. Flotex® combined all of these qualities, while also providing real comfort underfoot." continues Aurélie Tripier.

For his part, Karim Houari, Director of Operations, Toulouse Football Club, specifies:

« We were looking for a solution that would visually embody our identity in a high-traffic area. Forbo Flooring helped us achieve this ambition, offering quality, durability, and elegance. The floor has become a true means of expression for our club. »

As for Pierre Salvador, director of the company CERMSOLS, in charge of the installation, he confides:

« Thanks to Aurélie's precise work, we were able to lay out the decor based on her measurements, and everything was perfectly aligned. Printing, installation, and deadlines: everything flowed together efficiently. We installed 70 m² in just two days, in challenging logistical conditions, right in the city center. »

One year after opening, the store has exceeded all expectations, doubling its sales. A second phase of renovations is underway to optimize the shelves and expand the product offering.

« The best compliment came from the club's CEO: "She's as crazy as we are!" This project allowed me to combine storytelling, design, and commercial efficiency. With Flotex®, that's exactly what I'm trying to create. " concludes Aurélie Tripier.

In a few words... Flotex® at the heart of the Toulouse Football Club universe:

• Personalized football-themed design in club colors
• Faithful rendering of colors, for a 100% supporter atmosphere
• Optimal resistance to heavy traffic, even on match days
• Walking comfort and sound absorption for a pleasant environment

[1] Tarentaise Maurienne Restoration