OPEN PLAN OFFICES ARE OUT… AGAIN
Why businesses are finally saying goodbye to one-size-fits-all layouts
Tried, tested, and always specced.
At PACT, we're constantly searching for that sweet spot where performance meets beauty — materials that can take a beating and still look brilliant. These are our staples: the surfaces, finishes and fabrics we come back to again and again. Not because we’re stuck in our ways, but because they’ve earned their place.
Timber-Effect LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile)
All the warmth of wood, none of the drama.
This is our go-to for flooring — especially in busy, communal areas. LVT mimics timber so well that most people can’t tell the difference, but it’s far tougher underfoot. Scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and easy to clean, it’s ideal for high-traffic spaces like offices, corridors, and even washrooms. Many versions now come with built-in acoustic backing, which is a huge win for open-plan layouts.
Corian
Sleek, seamless, and built to last.
Corian is a solid surface material we reach for time and time again when we need a worktop that looks pristine but works hard. It’s non-porous, easy to clean, and holds up beautifully in high-use areas like tea points and reception desks. Plus, its seamless joins make it one of the most hygienic materials out there — no nooks or crannies for dirt to hide in.
Concrete-Effect Porcelain
The cool, industrial look — without the drawbacks.
Real concrete is gorgeous, but it’s not always practical for commercial interiors. That’s why we often opt for concrete-effect porcelain tiles. They deliver the same visual impact, minus the cracking, curing time, and maintenance headaches. They’re also lightweight, easy to install, and available in a massive range of styles — from soft matte greys to deep charcoal, polished finishes to modular patterns.
Limewash
Not about perfection — all about texture and tone.
Limewash is a natural paint made from slaked lime and earth pigments, creating a chalky, soft finish with beautiful tonal variation. It gives walls depth and a natural, characterful patina. We love it for creating calm, grounded spaces. And when the real thing isn’t viable due to timelines or substrates? We turn to limewash-effect wallpapers or wall panels (some of which are acoustic — win-win).
Go-To Fabrics
Tactile, sustainable, and built for the everyday.
Recycled Polyester (rPET) Upholstery
Performance meets purpose.
rPET fabrics tick a lot of boxes. Made from post-consumer waste, they help divert plastic from oceans and landfills — and the best ones carry third-party certifications like Cradle to Cradle. We often specify from brands like Camira (especially the Oceanic range, made from marine plastic) and Kvadrat (their Re-wool and Revive lines are stunning and sustainable).
Faux Leather
Durable. Wipeable. Luxe.
Faux leather is a commercial interiors classic for a reason. We use it across soft seating, booth upholstery and breakout furniture. It’s incredibly hygienic — able to handle tough cleaning without losing its soft-touch feel. And with the modern colour palettes now available, from soft neutrals to bold accents, there’s no trade-off between style and practicality.