Hershenow & Klippenstein The joke about the cobbler’s kids having no shoes can be true of any business. For some busy architecture and design firms, specifying beautiful interiors for clients doesn’t leave much time for focusing on the look
of their own workspace. This is not the case at Hershenow + Klippenstein Architects in Reno, Nevada. The award-winning firm’s
new office is a showcase of contemporary design sophistication. The interior demonstrates the partners’ commitment to creating
exciting, dynamic environments for all clients, including themselves. This A&D firm selected Armstrong™ MARMORETTE™ linoleum
as the only resilient product used throughout the new space, based on the floor’s aesthetics, durability and maintenance characteristics.
Hershenow + Klippenstein is a 14-person architecture firm formed in 1994. They provide an extensive range of services to both
public and private clients, including significant education, institutional, government, health-care and cultural projects
throughout northern Nevada. When the time came to add their own offices to their portfolio of clients, the firm carefully weighed all the construction options.
Max Hershenow, AIA, one of the partners, says that linoleum was the only resilient product considered for their new office
floor. “We wanted a bold floor covering that would give the look of a contemporary space. Linoleum was selected because of
its appearance, its sustainable nature and ease of maintenance.” Linoleum is used in the entrance lobby, through a project gallery, in the library and materials resource area, and in the break room. He explains, “Armstrong™
linoleum was chosen because the colors and patterns worked well with other floor coverings in the office.” MARMORETTE™ in neutral, rich light chocolate and black obsidian are used in a pattern of wide stripes set on a 45-degree angle. Hershenow
adds, “The floor pattern works off a large curved wall, while he floor colors relate to the other materials in the office. With these products, we were able to create a unique-looking floor in a boldly striped, graphic pattern.”
The architects also like the chemically sealed seams, which provide a different look than heat welding. The installation system,
introduced in 2004, relies on a full spread of Armstrong S-760 Linoleum Adhesive with S-761 Seam Seal Adhesive at the seams.
The system is recommended for light to medium commercial areas. The installation method is faster and more economical than
heat-welding seams with linoleum weld rods. The Invironmentalists—a nationally recognized group of contractors with proprietary
installation systems and technology—managed the flooring installation and collaborated with the firm on colors, materials
and installation method. Hershenow adds, “We also received a great deal of support from our Armstrong representative about
installation details, technical issues and product maintenance.”
Linoleum has been a preferred floor covering with Hershenow + Klippenstein for years, and for a multitude of reasons. Made
from renewable raw materials, linoleum is the natural choice for low environmental impact and sustainable design. It is resilient
and comfortable underfoot. Durable linoleum is easy to maintain. Plus, it has a very long life cycle, retaining its rich and
vivid colors and pattern for the life of the floor. The newly redesigned family of Armstrong linoleum products features a
comprehensive, color-integrated spectrum for coordinating with the line, and in the case of Hershenow + Klippenstein, with
other flooring products and interior finishes. Six patterns, ranging from classic marbling to solid colors ensure maximum
design flexibility and unparalleled performance.
Hershenow + Klippenstein believes that good architecture must ensure success on both aesthetic and operational levels. To
that end, their new office, barely a few months old, is designed to inspire and perform for the next 20 years. “Everybody
who comes into the office thinks the floor looks great. It has been very well received,” confirms Hershenow. It’s safe to
say that for this firm, the cobbler’s kids are sporting highfashion shoes that serve as a demonstration of the company’s design
expertise.