Interviewee
Barbara Viero
Wall coatings line specialist, Mapei
In this interview, Barbara Viero, Wall Coatings Line Specialist at Mapei, explains how paints are redefining modern office design. Once seen as mere finishes, paints now are able to improve air quality and comfort while shaping welcoming and stylish workplaces. Mapei’s Dursilite range and Mapecoat ACT combine sustainability, washability and long-lasting performances.
How are office spaces evolving and what role are paints playing in this transformation?
In recent years, offices have evolved from purely functional spaces into authentic relational hubs. Today’s workspaces are flexible, multifunctional and increasingly focused on employee well-being. In this context, paints no longer serve merely as decorative finishes but have become key design tools that improve visual comfort, air quality and spatial perception. Our solutions, such as the Dursilite range, have been specifically developed to meet these evolving needs, offering outstanding technical performance and a wide palette of colours to create stimulating, welcoming environments. Speed of application and durability are further key aspects for professionals involved in office design and management, such as architects, surveyors and maintenance personnel. Mapei paints guarantee excellent hiding power, ease of application, washability and ease of maintenance, all aspects that have been validated through standardised testing.
What characteristics do paints need to have for use in modern workspaces?
Paints used in contemporary offices must guarantee healthiness and safety, durability and ease of maintenance. Our Dursilite water-based paints are formulated to minimise VOC emissions and are heavy metal-free and A+ rated for indoor air quality, essential characteristics for protecting the health of occupants given the amount of time spent in offices. In addition, BioBlock technology prevents mould growth, an important factor in spaces with high occupancy or poor ventilation. From a practical perspective, ease of application, quick and simple touch-ups, washability and durability are all aspects that are highly valued by facility and maintenance managers.
Aesthetics matter too. Matt, velvet, glossy and uniform finishes help create calm yet professional atmospheres, while the ColorMap tinting system can be used to create custom colours for truly personalised interiors.
Aesthetics matter too: matt, velvet, glossy and uniform finishes help create relaxing, professional spaces
Which Mapei solutions are most suitable for office spaces and why?
Alongside the Dursilite range, which includes products specially formulated for damp areas and plasterboard surfaces, we recommend Mapecoat ACT, an enamel paint ideally suited to high-traffic areas due to its durability and ease of cleaning. Mapei portfolio also includes preparation products such as fillers, levelling pastes, transparent primers, and pigmented base coats, which enable professionals to address any on-site challenge and achieve reliable results without unpleasant surprises. All Mapei products are designed to reduce application times and enhance durability, key considerations for effective office maintenance and management. Our water-based paints all have Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and contribute to earn credits towards certifications such as LEED and BREEAM for sustainable building projects. The wide range of available colours, including custom shades, makes it possible to combine functionality and aesthetics, creating spaces that foster concentration, creativity, and well-being.
