In any given interior project, architects typically have a wide variety of interior wall paneling options from which to choose.
For high-traffic spaces like schools, airports, and public restrooms, the option of a phenolic wall panel system (also called high-pressure laminate panels, or HPL cladding panels) is proving to be a reliable choice.
As a globally trusted phenolic panel manufacturer, Fundermax has been in the industry for over a century. With this amount of experience, we are familiar with the array of interior wall paneling options generally available to architects and designers.
When a project involves high-traffic areas, the benefits of HPL cladding stand out regarding four significant factors.
Benefits of Installing Interior HPL Cladding Panels
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1. Durability & Longevity
High-pressure laminates, specifically HPL cladding panels, are made for durability and longevity. The U.S. Green Building Council describes phenolic panels as “an ideal material for both interior and exterior applications” and affirms that their greatest asset is “their strength and durability that allows them to maintain their performance and appearance over a long lifespan.”[1]
2. Impact Resistance
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HPL cladding panels are scratch- and graffiti-resistant. This means that when using interior phenolic wall panels, they can withstand traffic all the way down to backpack level in schools, luggage level in airports, and more.
3. Cleanability
Phenolic cladding panels are easy to clean, primarily because the material is non-porous, impervious to moisture, and does not support the growth of mold or mildew.
Additionally, Fundermax HPL cladding panels can stand up to the wide range of harsh chemicals and solvents required for the kind of cleaning that high traffic areas demand.
4. Appearance
There is no need to sacrifice design in the name of durability, or vice versa. Shanko Chowdhury, an executive business head of decoratives, notes, “HPL comes in a wide range of styles, making it a favorite with designers and architects.”[2]
Consider the cohesive design created by utilizing the same material and décor in multiple locations, whether wall panels, bathroom partitions, lockers, or even furniture. Beyond the various colors and finishes available from phenolic panel manufacturers, laser-printed phenolic panels are also available for further customized design specifications, as in Fundermax’s Individualdécor.
Examples of High-Traffic Spaces Where HPL Cladding Thrives
Consider the aforementioned benefits of HPL cladding in the following high-traffic applications.
Hotels
With the combination of luggage and a high amount of foot traffic, it’s expected that hotel entrance ways, waiting areas, elevator entrances, and front reception will require a high amount of durability and wall protection from whatever material an architect chooses.
Fundermax interior phenolic panels offer not only durability but also cohesive design. This Wyndham Grand Hotel utilized complementary interior wall paneling options, including white with decorative backlighting in the reception and restaurant areas and decorative woodgrain in the stairways and halls.
Workplaces
Workplaces offer a host of high-traffic areas including
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Bathrooms
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Reception and seating areas
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Work counters and workspaces
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Stairwells
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Entranceways
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Elevators
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Shower rooms and/or Locker rooms
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Lunchrooms
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Kitchen areas
The benefits of HPL cladding panels meet the range of demands presented by these various areas, all while maintaining high design.
Consider these vastly different HPL washroom partitions that have their own unique design but carry all the same benefits.
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This seamless interior/exterior design of this phenolic wall panel system delivers the company’s desired aesthetic while maintaining all of the necessary durability.
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Schools
What environment demands more durability and cleanability from its materials than a school? HPL cladding panels are up for the challenge regardless of the specific application.
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Wall protection throughout hallways and stairways
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School entrances, lobbies, and cafeterias
By including school colors and mascots in the design, branding can be incorporated without compromising durability.
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Transportation: Airports and Train Stations
Similar to schools, choosing a durable, long-lasting phenolic wall panel system is paramount in the transportation industry because the panels need to withstand the rigorous demands of the environment, and they must also be easy to clean.
When people travel with luggage, it is common for the luggage to push against the wall, causing damage and leaving marks and scratches. With high-quality, durable Fundermax phenolic panels you can prevent damage and remove any marks, dirt, or graffiti using the recommended cleaning protocol.
Malls/Shopping Centers
Malls and shopping centers receive high traffic from both patrons and employees. The high design and high durability of HPL cladding panels are a wise choice for various applications including
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Employee and public lockers
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Wall protection in hallways and walkways
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Custom signage and digital graphics
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Durable food court furniture
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Store fixtures/shop fitting
Furniture
As much as we have discussed the benefits of HPL cladding for architectural wall panels, it is important to note that you can give an entire location a completely cohesive design by carrying the same décor from the walls to the furniture.
Fundermax HPL cladding panels can be manufactured into furniture and other applications that enhance the design aesthetic while offering the same durability, longevity, and cleanability of the architectural wall panels.
Even when used in a furniture application, Fundermax phenolic panels are made to withstand the rigors of high-use applications.
Consider the advantages offered for lunchrooms, food courts, reception and seating areas, casework, countertops, and more.
Considering the unique benefits of HPL cladding, it is no surprise that architects are recognizing this material as a smart choice when designing for high-traffic environments, whether for walls or other surfaces.
If your next project involves a school, airport, or other high-use areas, we would love to offer our knowledge and experience in the area of high-performing, high-design HPL cladding panels. Contact us today to discuss how we can help.
[2]Long-Lasting Wonder | Construction Week Online
[1]Phenolic Panels for Durable Wall Coverings and Cladding | US Green Building Council