finishes or timber-lookalike textures are very
popular. The biophilic nature of the material is
soothing and has been proven to be one way for
interior designers to reduce stress levels.
These materials also offer several options.
Wattyl’s I.D. range is an interior paint with a
surface finish that increases the effectiveness of
being cleaned, effectively resisting the problems
of mould and fungus growth. For the same
reason, surfaces painted with this range resist
stains. The overarching positive in all of the
applications is the extremely low VOC formula.The Eco-Style range at Rockcote is another
exceptional product in this arena, and while
they too discourage the growth of fungus, the
Rockcote name is synonymous with being
able to withstand harsh conditions, including
rigorous or industrial cleaning action. On top of
that, they offer a touch up paint (which is very
much in demand, especially in hospitals) which
is low fume-emitting and quick-drying, a strong
financial consideration in a healthcare context,
where it is desirable to avoid closing patient
rooms overnight.But what about when you want to see that
grain and texture, and really bring home the
natural attraction of the medium?
Timber stains are essentially divided into
treatments that really sink into the wood –
using a dye rather than a pigment to carry the
colour – and are commercially often combined
in the one product.
Engineered timber products such as LVL
or Gulam can be stained – Resene, Wattyl
and Dulux have products suited from primer
to third coats.left Timber finishes or timber-lookalike textures are very popular in education
settings. Below Institutions for health and education deserve special consideration,
as they host people who are more sensitive than others in many ways.ArchITecTure & desIgn /Practical/ jul-sep 201960ADQ3_058_063_Paints_V2.indd 60 26/7/19 5:17 pm