Boasting the world’s largest collection of motorcycles, the National Motorcycle Museum displays early examples through to the golden years of the 1930s-1960s, when British motorcycles ruled the world.It was only fitting then that the British carpet manufacturer, Wilton Carpets, be selected to design and manufacture new carpet for the hospitality suites at the museum.
Wiltshire-based Wilton Carpets Commercial provided 1400sqm of axminster carpet for the large Trafalgar and Imperial hospitality suites. The new carpet design could not be too different from the previous carpet but, with Wilton’s usual attention to detail, the art deco design was transformed into an impressive 3-dimensional effect design.
Lorna Coombs, group interior designer, headed up the project: “I have worked with Wilton before so had no problems in turning to them for the National Motorcycle Museum. The bespoke design needed to bring a breath of fresh air to the suites, however it couldn’t move too far from the designs that were in place for years before. We wanted to feature eight large ribbon motifs reflective of the surroundings, namely the columns and statement lighting found above. We also took inspiration from rain droplets and used shadow to further play on these, in vibrant pink, charcoal and cream colour ways.”
The previous carpet had used a 2D art deco design but with Wilton’s usual attention to detail, a 3D effect was opted for this time around, putting a fresh and modern twist on the design that pays homage to the original carpets it replaced.
With cherry pickers being wheeled in to fix lighting and a temporary dance floor being introduced to the Trafalgar suite on occasion, it was also important the carpet’s capabilities went beyond look and underfoot comfort. To ensure a floor capable of withstanding intensive use, a bespoke 10-row woven axminster in an 80% wool 20% nylon blend was selected, bringing the combination of tailored aesthetic and hardwearing longevity that is so sought after in venues such as these.
Installed by flooring contractor Alan Burford, this carpet in both suites took seven days to install with all seams hand sewn on site using a traditional fit over combination felt underlay.
“The museum relies on return business,” Lorna explains, “so the thoughts of our customers on the new flooring were very important to us. Thankfully, the reaction to the new design has been nothing but positive and we would have no hesitations in working with Wilton again.”
For further information contact Wilton Carpets Commercial on 01722 746000 or sales@wiltoncarpets.com
