Haptic Effects in Interior Surfaces
Mar-07-2013 | Comments: 2 | Posted In: | Posted By: Bill Esler, Wood Products Magazine
Firms involved in panel and veneer production have seen rising interest in textured surfaces.
The trend is rooted in several areas. The textured wood surface harkens to more natural lumber qualities, with intentional imperfections and saw blade effects remaining on rough-hewn panels and solid woods. Consumers seeking a natural look, such as earth-friendly reclaimed wood, prize what might have been scorned in years past as unrefined.
The tactile aspect of textured surfaces adds another level of sensory engagement for the end user.
The textured surface also adds visual dimension, both to wood products and laminates, with features of reflectance and shadow built into the surface quality with embossed patterns. Textured surfaces can impart retro patterns to contemporary color schemes – for real mixed design messages that are look forward and backward at once.
(Coincidentally, designers are identifying a move to glossy as well as neutral matte, seamless surfaces for cabinet faces – a European look is catching on. Design trends always move in multiple directions.)
Another source for textured preference may be coming from U.S. consumers who are using more electronic devices with “haptic effects” - smart phone apps, video game consoles, recliner chairs with home theater sound and vibration – that reach beyond sight and sound to include the sense of touch: called the “haptic effect.”