Rapidly renewable, beautiful, energy efficient, and long lasting–it is no wonder cork flooring is skyrocketing in popularity. Cork is a great option for designers looking for new ways to incorporate eco-friendly materials into their designs. With the release of our new cork collections, Ecology I + Ecology II, let us take you through why cork is the newest superstar for sustainable flooring. 

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A Renewable Resource

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Cork is sourced from cork oak trees, or the quercus suber, along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. These everlasting trees must reach at least 25 years of age before the bark can be harvested. After the first harvest, the process can be repeated every nine years throughout their 200 year lifespans. Some cork trees have been reported to live 500 years! Their sponge-like bark is first cut into wine corks, then the remaining is ground up and baked into flooring and other products. 

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Efficiency in Design

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Once it hits the floor, cork continues to benefit the environment. The material is a great thermal insulator. This reduces the energy required to heat or cool a building. Cork also does not negatively affect indoor air quality. It is naturally anti-microbial and resistant to mildew, mold, and termites. Finally, cork flooring is long lasting. A honeycomb-like cell structure gives it the muscle memory to bounce back for decades of use. 

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If your client wants unique and sustainable flooring, cork is a beautiful solution. You will find timeless and innovative style options in Siena’s new Ecology I and Ecology II cork collections! This eco-friendly material is better for our world, one floor and bottle of wine at a time. 

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