For many decades we have been supplying linoleum to Dutch train operator, Nederlandse Spoorwegen. In 2012, we began supplying them with Marmoleum Striato FR linoleum. Keeping staff and passenger satisfaction in mind, the rail provider has followed Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs for its fleet refurbishment project, where safety, ease of cleaning & maintenance and durability have been essential. The average lifespan of Nederlandse Spoorwegen’s trains is 30 years and the company make routine modernization and refurbishments halfway through so a floor covering with a 15 year lifespan was also an important criteria.

Of equal importance to safety and durability was the atmosphere and ambiance of the train carriages for passengers and staff alike. “We looked to create ‘satisfiers’ that make travelling with Nederlandse Spoorwegen enjoyable for passengers and staff” said Brigitte Matheussen at the start of the project, “Choice of floor coverings form the basis of your entire design scheme. Marmoleum Striato FR is completely different from traditional linoleum and fits precisely into the new concept that we devised for the modernization programme.” Senior Engineer on the project, Rombout Mastenbroek added “NS actively use colour theory when selecting the colour for flooring. We also use other lighting theories to create the best possible environment for our customers.”

Nederlandse Spoorwegen are working with industrial design agency Puur|Ruimte on the modernisation of 250 trains – a colossal refurbishment project. “Where the flooring is concerned, quality and long lasting performance are critical.  It’s relatively lasting performance are critical. It’s relatively easy to replace the upholstery of a chair or table, but if something turned out to be wrong with the floor, we would have to redesign and refit the entire interior of train… an enormously expensive undertaking” said Marion Rovers, owner of Puur|Ruimte.

Marmoleum Striato FR was carefully chosen to create a modern and inviting environment for Nederlandse Spoorwegen passengers, but its environmental properties were not overlooked. Our linoleum ranges are made from natural raw materials and have a high recycled content. We strive even further to make Marmoleum FR the most environmentally floor covering in rail by using green manufacturing processes – our linoleum factory is powered by 100% renewable electricity.

We continue to work closely with Nederlandse Spoorwegen and supply them with Marmoleum Striato FR to complete their modernization project. “We’re really proud to be able to supply a locally made floor covering, made in Assendelft, to the national train operator for The Netherlands.” says Jacco Vlaar, Head of Key Account Management for Transportation at Forbo Flooring Systems.

If you would like to know more about this project, get in touch.