About
In the evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and interior design, material selection for high-performance environments requires a balance of aesthetic versatility, dimensional stability, and environmental stewardship. For professionals operating within the unique climatic demands of the Pacific, Bamboo Flooring Hawaii (also known as Hawaiian Style Flooring) has established itself as a premier resource for specification-ready materials. Founded in 1999 by Mark Elwell, the company leverages over three decades of import expertise to provide flooring systems that are specifically acclimated to tropical humidity and high-traffic demands. This article explores the technical nuances and design applications of their primary collections, providing architects, interior designers, and facility managers with the data necessary for informed project specification.
The mission of Bamboo Flooring Hawaii is rooted in the delivery of high-quality, renewable alternatives to traditional tropical hardwoods. By focusing on Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), a species that reaches structural maturity in just five to six years, the brand offers a product that supports LEED certification goals and biophilic design principles. Unlike slower-growing hardwoods, Moso bamboo possesses a dense cell structure that, when processed through modern engineering techniques, results in a surface that outperforms many traditional timber species in both hardness and resilience. For the specification professional, this translates to a lower lifecycle cost and a reduced environmental footprint without compromising the visual warmth of natural wood.
One of the most technically advanced offerings in the catalog is the Strand Woven EBOO Collection. The acronym "EBOO" refers to "Engineered Bamboo on OSB," a hybrid construction method designed to solve the challenges of moisture-related expansion and contraction. In tropical environments like Hawaii, dimensional stability is paramount to preventing gapping, cupping, or buckling. The EBOO collection features a thick wear layer of strand-woven bamboo bonded to a high-density engineered core. This cross-laminated structure provides a counter-balance that restricts the natural movement of the fibers. The strand-weaving process itself involves shredding the bamboo into long strips and compressing them under extreme pressure with eco-friendly resins. This results in a Janka hardness rating that often exceeds 3,000 lbf, making it twice as hard as domestic Red Oak and ideal for commercial applications, hospitality lobbies, and high-use residential corridors.
For interior designers prioritizing tactile quality and visual depth, the Strand Woven Wire Scraped Collection offers a sophisticated solution. This collection undergoes a mechanical brushing process that removes the softer springwood fibers, leaving behind the denser, textured grain. This serves two primary functions: first, it creates a matte, multi-dimensional surface that diffuses light and minimizes the appearance of topical scratches or debris; second, it provides an increased coefficient of friction, which can be a vital consideration for facility managers overseeing public spaces. The aesthetic is contemporary yet grounded, fitting seamlessly into "Modern Tropical" or "Industrial Chic" design palettes.
While strand-woven products focus on extreme hardness, the Traditional Bamboo collection emphasizes the botanical heritage of the material. Available in both Vertical and Horizontal cuts, this range allows designers to specify the exact linear or organic pattern required for their project. The Vertical cut offers a clean, contemporary grain consisting of thin, uniform lines, making it a favorite for minimalist or mid-century modern interiors. The Horizontal cut, conversely, displays the characteristic "knuckles" or growth nodes of the bamboo stalk, providing an unmistakable organic signature. These products are available in 6-foot lengths, providing a classic plank aesthetic that supports biophilic design by connecting occupants to natural forms and rhythms.
Specification-ready flooring must meet rigorous standards for durability and indoor air quality. Bamboo Flooring Hawaii products are designed with these professional requirements in mind. The finishing process is particularly noteworthy, utilizing a sophisticated seven-layer system:
The versatility of the Bamboo Flooring Hawaii catalog makes it applicable across diverse sectors:
One of the most critical value propositions for architects and contractors is the brand's commitment to local warehousing. All Bamboo Flooring Hawaii products are stored in their Honolulu facility, allowing the material to reach an equilibrium moisture content that is consistent with the local environment. For the specifier, this minimizes the risk of post-installation movement, a common failure point when using materials shipped directly from temperate mainland climates to the tropics. This localized approach ensures that the performance characteristics detailed in the technical data sheets hold true once the product is installed on-site.
Bamboo Flooring Hawaii offers a compelling synergy of performance-driven engineering and design-forward aesthetics. For architects, designers, and facility managers, the brand provides more than just a surface; it provides a specification-ready system designed to withstand the rigors of island life. From the high-density stability of the EBOO collection to the artisanal texture of the Wire Scraped series, these sustainable flooring solutions represent a sophisticated choice for modern built environments. To ensure the highest level of performance for your next project, professionals are encouraged to review detailed technical specifications, request physical samples for color and texture verification, and consult with the Honolulu-based technical team for installation best practices.
To integrate these sustainable materials into your next specification, visit the Bamboo Flooring Hawaii showroom in Downtown Honolulu to experience the collections firsthand. Professional samples, technical data sheets, and comprehensive installation guidelines are available upon request to assist in the documentation and bidding process. Contact a specification representative today to discuss your project's unique requirements.
