Walls and Floors Forum 2007 marked a new turning point in the approach to interior finishes here in the UAE.  In a consistently evolving world of finishing materials, this forum successfully created the opportunity to learn about the latest developments in finishing materials, focusing on wall and floor finishes.

The Walls and Floors forum took place last Sunday 11th November at the Shangri-La hotel in Dubai.  It was organised by APID (Association of Professional Interior Designers) attracting top interior design professionals as well as USA manufacturers, local suppliers and university undergraduates.

The President of APID, Kenneth Laidler opened the forum stressing the importance of walls and floor’s finishes and the need to bring the different members of the industry together.

The distinguished speakers, Allen Parker and Patty Madden, shared the insights on significant industry issues. 

Allen Parker, Mohawk’s Vice President of the world’s largest manufacturer of carpets based in USA, demonstrated the impact of international colours and designs in soft floorings.  Allen addressed the importance of ‘Connecting with Nature’ and realising modern finishes are inspired in ‘What is Old is Better Again’. As a result, Mohawk has been collaborating with the European automobile leader BMW and continuing unparallel success in the industry.

Patty Madden, the iconic USA designer of commercial vinyl wallcoverings, spoke about her own sources of inspiration and the importance given to lighting in modern technology. Patty reached the pinnacle of high design through the use of advanced laser technology, contrasting lighting and enhancing the patterns whilst giving them a 3D effect. Patty Madden’s brand is nowadays the most sought after in the industry.

Dr John Alexander Smith, Vice President of APID and lecturer of Interior Design in Dubai’s American University mediated the Panel Discussion formed by UAE senior designers, Stephanie Backhouse, Isabel Pintado, Amani Al Lauz, and Fatma Hamad bin Fahad. In a diverse forum of opinions, Dr John Alexander Smith concluded the importance of constant research applied to training, especially for undergraduate students.

Mr. Ali Nikzad, CEO of BSH and sponsor of the event, thanked the attendees for sharing their inspirations, skills and successes and assured the continuation Walls and Floors Forum in 2008.