Discovering the Future of Surface Design. Interzum 2025

From May 20 to 23, 2025, Cologne hosted Interzum 2025, one of the world’s leading trade fairs for interior design materials and furniture production technologies. LAMIDECOR’s Sales and Marketing Director, Imanol Gil, and Export Sales Representative, Nadja Schleich, attended the event to gain insights into the latest innovations and future directions in decorative surfaces.

Emerging Trends in Surface Design

One of the most significant shifts observed at Interzum was the return to cleaner and more refined wood decors. The design trend is moving away from rustic aesthetics with heavy knots and dramatic grain patterns, giving way to more subtle, homogeneous finishes that enhance calmness and visual continuity in interior spaces.

Another notable development is the renewed emphasis on vertical wood grain orientation. While horizontal layouts remain present, vertical structures are regaining popularity, offering a more slender and architectural appearance that adds height and elegance to furniture and paneling.

Technological Innovations: Anti-Fingerprint and Super-Matte Finishes

Among the most talked-about technologies was the continued rise of Excimer technology, which enables ultra-matte, anti-fingerprint surfaces with exceptional resistance to wear and touch. These finishes are especially valued in high-traffic applications like kitchen furniture and commercial interiors.

Additionally, deep pore textures are gaining traction for their ability to replicate the authentic tactile qualities of natural wood.

Commitment to Sustainability: Circular Economy and Biobased Materials

Interzum 2025 emphasized sustainability under the theme «Rethinking Resources: Circular and Biobased Solutions.» The fair highlighted the use of biobased materials and production processes aimed at reducing environmental impact, aligning with circular economy principles.

LAMIDECOR: Inspired by Innovation

LAMIDECOR’s presence at Interzum 2025 underscores its dedication to innovation and sustainability. The trends and technologies explored during the event will inspire the development of new collections that meet the evolving aesthetic and functional demands of the market.

The Making of Decorative Paper: Where Aesthetics Meet Engineering

Decorative paper may look like a simple surface solution, but it’s actually the result of a complex and highly refined manufacturing process. Blending art, materials science, and industrial technology, it plays a vital role in today’s furniture, interiors, and architectural components.

In this article, we explore how decorative paper is made — from the initial design to its transformation into a high-performance, ready-to-use product.

From Inspiration to Digital Mastery

At the heart of decorative paper lies a powerful visual component. Designers begin with inspiration from real-world materials — natural wood, stone, textiles, or solid tones — which are then captured digitally, either through high-resolution scanning or creative composition.

But the design isn’t only about appearance. Each image is carefully prepared to ensure it can be printed flawlessly and adapted to various surface sizes and formats. Repeatability, scale, and texture alignment are all considered before the file is ready for production.

Turning Paper Into a Technical Surface

What sets decorative paper apart from traditional printed material is how it evolves from a visual design into a functional surface component. Once the artwork is finalized, it’s printed onto a specially engineered base paper using gravure or digital printing technologies:

• Gravure is the go-to solution for long production runs and consistent color.
• Digital printing offers more agility for short runs, prototyping, or personalized designs.

However, the transformation doesn’t stop at printing. The printed sheet undergoes resin impregnation — a critical step that infuses the paper with melamine-based resins, granting it resistance to heat, humidity, and abrasion. At this stage, it becomes more than a decorative element: it becomes an industrial surface material.

To complete its technical profile, a protective lacquer coating is applied. This determines the final finish — whether matte, gloss, satin, or textured — and may include advanced features like registered embossing, where the surface texture precisely matches the visual pattern.

Ready for Industry: Versatility in Application

Once treated, decorative paper is converted into one of two main formats:

• Finish Foil, a pre-finished, adhesive-ready surface ideal for use on MDF boards, moldings, and interior components.
• CPL (Continuous Pressure Laminate), which undergoes additional pressure-based lamination to enhance durability, making it suitable for heavy-use environments like kitchens, offices, and public spaces.

Each roll or sheet is then cut, coiled, or packaged according to customer requirements — prepared for integration into modern, automated manufacturing lines.

Conclusion: The Art and Science of Surface Design

Decorative paper is far more than printed imagery. It is the intersection of graphic creativity, chemical engineering, and surface functionality. Every layer, treatment, and finish is designed to meet both aesthetic and industrial standards.

At Lamidecor, we bring this process to life with precision, offering decorative solutions that elevate the performance and style of any space.

Elevating Interior Design with PVC-Vinyl: A Modern Solution for Durable Spaces

In today’s fast-paced interior design world, selecting the right materials can make or break a project—especially in environments where durability, aesthetics, and practicality are non-negotiable. PVC-Vinyl has become a front-runner in transforming how professionals and homeowners approach surfaces like walls, furniture, and trim. More than just a decorative layer, it’s a strategic choice for resilient design.

Rethinking Surface Materials: Why PVC-Vinyl Stands Out

Unlike traditional options that may sacrifice durability for appearance—or vice versa—PVC-Vinyl strikes a unique balance. Its synthetic composition delivers long-term performance in demanding environments without compromising on style. Whether you’re outfitting a high-traffic hallway or refreshing a dated cabinet, vinyl surfaces provide a clean, modern look that lasts.

One of the standout features of this material is its installation flexibility. With both peel-and-stick and customizable formats available, it caters to everyone from DIY enthusiasts to large-scale manufacturers.

• Peel-and-stick vinyl is perfect for renters, remodelers, or anyone looking to upgrade furniture or walls with minimal effort.
• Custom-fit vinyl sheets are widely used in commercial and industrial settings, where exact dimensions and durable finishes are critical.

Beyond Aesthetics: Functional Beauty in Demanding Spaces

PVC-Vinyl isn’t just chosen for its appearance—it thrives where many other materials fail. Let’s explore how it supports both style and function:

• In kitchens and bathrooms, where humidity and stains are constant threats, vinyl’s water resistance keeps surfaces looking new.
• In office or retail spaces, it handles daily wear and tear with ease, maintaining a polished, professional aesthetic.
• For furniture and cabinetry, it allows for fast, cost-effective customization, turning basic surfaces into design features.

Its smooth, non-porous finish resists scratches and is incredibly easy to clean—ideal for busy households or commercial interiors that demand low-maintenance solutions.

Design without Limits: A Material That Follows Your Vision

Designers love vinyl for its creative potential. The variety of patterns and textures—ranging from faux wood and stone to bold geometric prints—makes it easy to align with any design concept, from minimalist to eclectic.

Need a Scandinavian look? Opt for matte white or light oak finishes. Want something more industrial? Try brushed concrete or metallic styles. The possibilities are nearly endless.

Why It’s a Smart Investment

Choosing PVC-Vinyl is more than an aesthetic decision—it’s a long-term investment in functionality and style. Here’s why it’s gaining ground among professionals and homeowners alike:

• High durability in tough settings
• Moisture and stain resistance
• Effortless installation and upkeep
• Wide design selection for tailored interiors
• Budget-friendly customization without sacrificing quality

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can vinyl coverings handle moisture-heavy spaces?
   Yes, they’re water-resistant and ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
2. Is it suitable for commercial interiors?
   Absolutely. PVC-Vinyl holds up under daily wear, making it perfect for offices, shops, and even public buildings.
3. Can vinyl be used to personalize furniture?
   Yes. It’s a cost-effective way to refresh or customize cabinets, drawers, and shelving units.
4. How long does vinyl cladding last?
   With proper care, it can retain its appearance and functionality for many years—even in demanding environments.
5. What’s the maintenance like?
   Very low. A damp cloth and mild detergent are usually all it takes to keep it clean.