13 new retro modern style laminates from Formica

Formica last month introduced several new laminate designs that I think could be great for a Retro Renovation kitchen countertop or even a bathroom vanity. In particular — I’m loving the new “dogbone” design, and the new Warp and Weft designs. Dogbones are a classic midcentury motif — as in “dogbone sofa” … and Warp and Weft, in my mind, is a clear play on vintage Linen laminate (the most popular design in midcentury America).

I received some 5″x7″ samples from Formica — and point retro-modern fans in particular to: Dogbone in White, and Weft in Neutral, Seed (a light green), and Cafe (heading toward harvest gold). These are really nice — a great addition to our arsenal of midcentury modern kitchen countertop laminate alternatives.

Here is a slide show of the new Formica lineup. To launch it, click on the first image and it will enlarge. Move forward via the arrows underneath the photo:

Additionally, here are some selections from the Formica news release… I’m always interested in reading about the theory behind the choices.

Here’s what they say about the influences for this collection:

Menswear – Classic and highly usable, subtle optical solids and classic patterns are workhorses with the ability to be mixed and matched in many ways

Weave– A modern introduction of woven patterns, whether manmade or organic, is in high demand

Graphic– Focused mostly on architectural and organic elements, these inspirational patterns grab attention, communicate from a distance and are simply fun

Color Texture– Texture is key to achieving the dimension and realism that the architecture and design community desires, adding drama and depth to an otherwise flat color

Graphic Patterns are fun, inspirational and compelling, focusing mostly on architectural and organic elements and influences. Whether breaking down patterns to the cellular level or viewing them from 30,000 feet, they convey depth and complexity while remaining usable, evoking a tactile quality and inviting touch.Solid Color Extension

Seven “Newtrals” – new neutrals – in complex shades of chameleon browns, beiges, greens and grays, reflect the emerging “less is more” attitude. Efforts to be more conservative and make color selections for the sake of longevity are becoming more prevalent. These seven “Newtrals” are available in Matte, SculptedTM or MicroDotTM finishes:

·     5342 Earth – Truly harmonious neutral in a stylish mid-tone grounded brown
·     5443 Possum – Versatile yet calming botanical khaki with a touch of green
·     5344 Seed – Warm gray green that is minimalist in its approach
·     5349 Fossil – Sophisticated grayed blue that maintains the clean, fresh and healing feelings associated with water
·     2297 Terril – An “almost black” architectural gray with blue-black undertones
·     1097 Citadel – Classic mid-tone warm gray that is a fresh respite from neutral brown
·     1903 Café – Classic gold that easily transitions between contemporary and traditional; it contains influences from nature and the global community

Patterns Extension
The Optical Solids — Warp and Weft –appear to be a solid color from afar, a closer look reveals subtle menswear and weave details. In weaving, warp and weft fibers take on different qualities when threaded through the loom and are the inspiration for the two new weaves:
·         Warp Pattern – Stronger and more graphic in nature
·         Weft Pattern –  Softer and more subtle

Graphic Patterns are fun, inspirational and compelling, focusing mostly on architectural and organic elements and influences. Whether breaking down patterns to the cellular level or viewing them from 30,000 feet, they convey depth and complexity while remaining usable, evoking a tactile quality and inviting touch.
·         Dogbone Pattern – A playful, geometric featuring dog bone-like shapes seen in modern sculptural and architectural wall installations
o        5281 Dogbone White – Warm neutral white negative background with positive gray dogbones
o        5283 Dogbone Storm – Negative background of dark gray with positive dogbones that coordinate with 2297 Terril
·         Geo Pattern – Inspired by the structure created by crossing and meandering lines on a map, the orderly yet chaotic Geo models the network of roads, interstates and rivers from a bird’s eye view
o        5270 Geo White – Clean white with a gray pattern
o        5272 Geo Folkstone – Warm gray background with a dark  gray pattern
o        5273 Geo Citadel – Warm gray with a darker charcoal gray pattern
o        5274 Geo Fossil – Grayed blue background of fossil with gray pattern

Formica® brand high pressure decorative laminates have received FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) Chain of Custody certification and are GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified.

Please Note: Formica®, 1-800-FORMICA, and the Formica® Anvil Logo are registered trademarks of The Diller Corporation. ©2010 The Diller Corporation

Get them:

• Update June 2016: Formica’s link structure changed…. search the names of these laminates from their homepage.