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Keep to date with the latest in flooring development and innovation at Atkinson & Kirby.

Why Atkinson & Kirby Wood Floors Are a Smart Investment

Hardwood flooring remains one of the most popular and practical choices for UK homeowners. At Atkinson & Kirby, we believe wood floors offer more than style - they deliver comfort, durability and lasting value. Here’s why they’re a smart investment: Built to Last Our premium engineered and solid wood floors – including bestsellers like  Sandur Oak and Burton Oak  - are built for everyday life. With proper care, they’ll last for decades and can be refinished to refresh their look and enhance their patina over time. A More Sustainable ChoiceAll our wood is sourced from responsibly managed forests, reflecting our commitment to sustainability. Choosing wood reduces dependence on synthetic materials with higher Environmental costs.  Healthier LivingNaturally hypoallergenic and non-toxic, wood flooring helps improve indoor air quality by reducing allergens and dust - ideal for allergy sufferers or anyone seeking a healthier home. Adds Value to Your HomeWood floors don’t just look good - they’re a real asset. They enhance your property’s appeal to buyers, boost resale value, and offer long-term return. Timeless Style, Endless VersatilityWood flooring brings natural warmth and character to any space. From the clean lines of Japandi to the charm of cottagecore, its unique grain and subtle variation suit every interior. Explore the full collection and find the perfect floor for your home  Download our brochure

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From White to Warm: The Minimalism Trend in 2025

Minimalism is evolving. In 2025, we’re seeing a fresh take on this timeless trend, moving away from stark white spaces and embracing a warmer, more grounded aesthetic; think soft, earthy tones, tactile textures and natural materials that bring comfort as well as clarity. Warmer Palettes for Calmer Space The all-white interiors of past minimalist trends are being replaced with hues inspired by nature. Tones such as stone, oatmeal, beige and warm browns are taking centre stage, offering a softer, more welcoming alternative to crisp whites, creating a calming atmosphere while still keeping the defined feel that characterises minimalist design. The Role of Wood Flooring in Modern Minimalism Flooring plays a foundational role in any space and even more so in minimal interiors, where every design choice matters. Choosing the right wood flooring can set the tone for a space, bringing character to a space without overpowering the simplicity of the design. Our Lewis Oak, with its natural grain and matte lacquered finish, offers the perfect balance of softness and structure. It brings a subtle warmth to minimalist interiors, keeping things fresh and modern while adding that all-important organic touch. For spaces that need a bit more character without compromising on clean lines, our Nanzen Oak is a natural choice. Its rich tones and textured surface introduce depth and visual interest, proving that minimal doesn’t have to mean plain. Embracing Natural Texture In this new wave of minimalism, texture takes the spotlight. Smooth, high-shine surfaces are making way for more tactile finishes. Think linen over lacquer, matte over gloss and wood over synthetic materials. Real, rustic wood flooring not only feels better underfoot, but it also brings authenticity and warmth to your space. By layering textured elements like wool rugs, woven blinds or handcrafted coffee tables, you can add dimension and interest without straying from the minimalist ethos. Minimalism with Personality Minimalism in 2025 is about more than just what you remove; it’s about what you choose to keep. A curated space with earthy tones, organic materials and thoughtful textures creates an atmosphere that’s both serene and soulful. Warm wood flooring, soft lighting and a restrained colour palette can help turn a minimalist interior into a space that feels lived-in, not lifeless. Discover our full range of flooring here

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Introducing Our New 20mm Heritage Parquet Collection

At Atkinson & Kirby, we're always looking for ways to elevate classic wood flooring and our brand new 20mm Heritage Parquet Collection does just that.  Created for homeowners and designers alike, this range combines traditional craftsmanship with 1st to the UK market cutting-edge technology, to deliver a statement floor full of warmth, style, and character, and allowing residents carefree enjoyment for longer. Crafted for Excellence Our 20mm herringbone engineered wood collection is precision-crafted and hand-selected in 10 unique colours, giving you the option to suit any design scheme.  Designs include much-loved favourites like Mayfair Oak, which showcases hints of burgundy in its richer darker tones, Somersby Oak with its subtle liming, and Honeystreet Oak with its beautiful golden grain, complemented by a scattering of knots and intricate detail. For added design flexibility, four of the collection are also available (made to order) in a matching 45-degree Chevron format - ideal for creative layouts in everything from contemporary new builds to period properties. A Revolutionary Fusion Hybrid® Finish What sets this collection apart is our new Fusion Hybrid® finish, the first of its kind in the UK.  This unique technology combines the durability of lacquer with the natural, matte look and feel of oil-wax, giving you the best of both worlds and setting a new standard for longevity and style. Super-matt finish that enhances the wood's natural beauty Fourteen times more wear resistance (compared to regular oil-wax), so your floor stands up to everyday life Six times more coating for exceptional protection Solvent-free and eco-friendly, safe for families, pets, and allergy sufferers Why Wood Flooring Still Wins Our 20mm Heritage Parquet Collection delivers modern innovation, whilst also holding on to the reasons people fall in love with authentic real wood floors: Timless Aesthetics: Each plank is unique original, with natural variations that develop character over time.  Wood floors complement any interior style, from sleek Japandi designs to cosy cottage core charm. Built to Last a Lifetime: With a 6mm wear layer and tongue-and-groove profile, these floors are engineered to last and can be refinished multiple times as your home evolves Versatile & Made to Match: The additional Chevron options allow for creative layouts and bespoke designs, ensuring your floor feels truly personal. Easy Care: Thanks to the Fusion Hybrid® finish, maintenance is simple.  Our new WOCA care products, including cleaners and master care kits, are eco-friendly and designed to keep your wood floors looking pristine for years.  Full Care & Maintenance Advice Download the Brochure or Request a Sample

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Archwood Group’s Journey Through ISO Certifications

At Archwood Group, our commitment to quality, sustainability and the well-being of our people has always been at the heart of everything we do. For more than 30 years, we’ve continually evolved to meet the highest standards across our operations, and we’re proud to share the latest milestone in our journey - accreditation to the internationally recognised ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety Management System. This achievement marks a significant moment in our long-standing history of excellence. Our journey began in 1991 when we first achieved ISO 9001, the globally recognised standard for quality management systems. That same year, Richard Burbidge Ltd was also a founding member of the WWF 1995 Club, showcasing our early commitment to sustainability. In 2000, we built on this foundation by achieving ISO 14001, the benchmark for effective environmental management. Over the past 25 years, this certification has reflected our dedication to reducing environmental impact, conserving resources and driving sustainable operations. Now, with the addition of ISO 45001:2018, we are proud to be formally recognised for our robust approach to occupational health and safety. This globally recognised certification demonstrates the ongoing commitment of Archwood Group’s senior management to providing a safe, healthy and supportive working environment. By systematically identifying and managing workplace risks, we are ensuring that every member of our team is protected and empowered. Here at Archwood Group, this milestone is more than a certification it is a testament to the great work already being done across our brands. It reflects the collective efforts of our workforce and leadership in maintaining the highest standards and continually striving to do better. Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and best practice is one of our core values and this latest achievement strengthens an already impressive portfolio of certifications. We believe that certifications aren’t just about meeting standards, they’re about setting them. As we look ahead to the future, we remain committed to driving progress in every area of our business, from sustainability and quality to the safety and well-being of our people. Together, we’re building not just better products but a better future. Download our ISO45001:2018 certificate here

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Why Wood Flooring Never Goes Out of Style

Wood flooring is a timeless design choice that continues to captivate.  Its natural warmth, lasting durability, and understated elegance create a foundation that stands the test of time.  Whether your style is modern, rustic, or somewhere in between, wood flooring always feels right at home. Aesthetic Appeal Wood flooring adds style, texture, and character to your home.  Lighter tones like Sandur Oak create a bright, airy atmosphere, perfect for contemporary spaces that embrace natural light.  For those seeking a richer, more dramatic look, Noma Smoked Oak offers deep, smoky hues that add depth and sophistication.  If you prefer a soft, neutral fnish, Katsura Oak delivers a timeless elegance that works effortlessly across a wide range of interiors. A Lifetime Investment A well-chosen wood floor isn't just a design decision - it's an investment.  Wood's durability means it can withstand the demands of daily life while maintaining its natural beauty and character over time.  With minimal maintenance and the option to refinish when needed, wood flooring remains a feature that becomes even more charming as the years pass. Healthier and Sustainable Living Wood flooring offers more than aesthetic appeal; it also benefits your home's environment.  Naturally hypoallergenic and non-toxic, wood helps to create healthier living spaces by reducing dust, pet dander, and other allergens.  It's also a sustainable choice when sourced responsibly, like our range of engineered and solid wood flooring, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials. Improved Comfort and Acoustic Quality Wood flooring enhances the overall atmosphere of a space.  Its natural acoustic properties help soften sounds, making rooms quieter and more comfortable.  Whether paired with bold colours, soft textiles, or minimalist furniture, wood's versatility ensures it complements any style with ease. Explore our full collection of flooring here.

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Archwood Group Secures Planet Mark Year 4 Certification, Strengthening its Commitment to Sustainable Manufacturing

Archwood Group, the North Wales-based, Kings Award winning, timber manufacturer behind the Richard Burbidge and Atkinson & Kirby brands, has achieved Year 4 Certification from Planet Mark - the internationally recognised sustainability certification that verifies carbon reporting and recognises year-on-year progress. This marks the fourth consecutive year of independent carbon footprint measurement for the Group, reinforcing its commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2050. Since first partnering with Planet Mark in 2021, Archwood has delivered a 73% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions versus its baseline year. As part of its Year 4 certification, Archwood has reported a further reduction in operational emissions, cutting Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 18.3% compared to the previous year. These reductions have been driven by continued investment in on-site solar power, renewable energy supply, energy efficiency projects and new machinery across its Chirk and Livingston sites. The Group continues to lead on sustainable manufacturing through a series of targeted initiatives, including: A 1MW solar PV installation, now supplying over 40% of the company’s electricity; A long-term Power Purchase Agreement for 100% renewable energy from UK sources; Upgrading 95% of its forklift truck fleet to zero-emission electric vehicles; Improvements to energy efficiency across machinery and site infrastructure. In addition to operational emissions, Archwood is actively addressing its Scope 3 footprint, which accounts for 95% of total carbon emissions. A recent reassessment showed a 46.8% reduction in Scope 3 emissions over two reporting periods. The business continues to work closely with key timber and logistics suppliers to support them in developing formal carbon reduction plans. Currently, 98% of timber used is FSC and/or PEFC certified, with a target of reaching 100% by 2027. Josh Burbidge, Managing Director of Archwood Group, commented: “Securing our Year 4 Planet Mark certification reflects the real, measurable progress we’re making. We know that sustainability is now a business-critical priority — for our customers, our suppliers, and ourselves. We’re committed to leading by example through verified action, not just ambition.” “Planet Mark doesn’t just validate our carbon reductions — it connects us to meaningful environmental partnerships. Through our certification, we’re proud to support Cool Earth, a charity that works with rainforest communities to halt deforestation, and the Eden Project, which educates and inspires people to work towards a more sustainable future.” With four consecutive certifications now achieved, Archwood continues to set a benchmark in the timber manufacturing sector - combining environmental leadership with operational efficiency, supply chain collaboration, and long-term commercial resilience. Find out more about our Sustainability Journey here

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Floors that define your space

At Atkinson & Kirby, we understand the need for an intelligently selected range of wood flooring styles, providing you with a variety of options to suit every project.

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