Frequently Asked Questions

Our Products

What is SoftSurface™?

Less than 15% of polystyrene (PS) waste is currently recycled. Among this waste are refrigerator parts, yogurt pots, hangers, food trays, as well as WEEE (waste electrical and electronic equipment such as keyboards, TV casings, internet boxes, etc.). This is where SoftSurface™ was born — a material made from up to 100% recycled plastic waste, with no added resin.

It is a material that is both safe (A+ rating for VOC emissions and REACH-compliant), local (produced in our factory in Burgundy), recycled, and durable (high technical performance for long-term use).

Applications:
SoftSurface™ stands out for its wide range of uses. Interior design, wall cladding, flooring, countertops, furniture, objects — there’s no limit to creativity.

Where does the recycled plastic in the panels come from?

The recycled plastic comes from France and Europe. We use two types of waste to manufacture our panels:

  • PIR (Post-Industrial Plastic), for example, material scraps used in cosmetics.
  • PCR (Post-Consumer Plastic), for example bottle caps, yogurt pots, refrigerator doors, etc.
Where are our materials manufactured?

Since summer 2026, following a wider reorganisation of our company, production has been based at our facility in Swansea, Wales.
For the fabrication of our eco-designed materials (cutting, assembly, thermoforming, grooving, welding, etc.), we work with a trusted network of committed partners who have developed strong expertise in working with our materials over the years. To be put in touch with the right partner, please contact our sales team.

If you would like to visit our production facility, please contact us here. We regularly organise Le Pavé® breakfast events including a site visit.

What ranges and colors are available?

SoftSurface™ is available in 2 ranges and 6 colorways:

  • The Originals Range:
    • Soft White 001: Refrigerator doors, transparent industrial production grinds (e.g., petri dishes).
    • Soft Black 002: Electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE: printers, televisions, appliances), white scraps from industrial production, and our own production scraps.
    • Soft White & Black 003: Refrigerator doors, WEEE grinds (black) and transparent industrial production grinds (e.g., petri dishes).
    • Soft White & Multicolor 004: Refrigerator doors, mandrel grinds (mainly red and purple), and transparent industrial production grinds (e.g., petri dishes).
  • The Collection Range:
    • Quartz Blanc 021: White base sprinkled with chips that can be visually compared to quartz. Obviously, this is not real quartz, but rather polystyrene from recycled food trays.
    • Quartz Noir 022: Similar to Quartz Blanc, but with a black base.
Can I customize my order?

Customizing an order is only possible for very large-scale projects. To see if your project fits within this scope, please contact us here.

How can I get some samples?

By clicking here. Delivery is possible in France and worldwide. NB: the cost of the sample kit will be deducted from your first order, regardless of the amount.

Can the color of the materials vary?

SoftSurface™ is made from waste materials, which means each batch of raw material is unique due to its variability. This is what makes our product so special. As a result, you may observe slight color variations between panels from different production runs. For example, white bases can range from slightly bluish or grayish to off-white or light beige.

We are committed to providing uniformly colored panels within the same batch.

The color of the panels remains stable over time.
*If extensively exposed to outdoor UV rays, slight fading may occur.

Characteristics

What are the sizes of your materials?

Le Pavé® materials are available in panel format, in one standard size: 3000 × 1200 mm.

How much does a panel weigh?

Depending on the SoftSurface™ selected and its thickness, panel weight may vary.
The density of a polystyrene panel is approximately 1.05 g/cm³.
For example, at a thickness of 15 mm, a SoftSurface™ Originals panel measuring 3000 × 1200 mm weighs approximately 58.6 kg.

Does SoftSurface™ get scratched?
Our materials age over time and form a patina. However, if surface irregularities appear through use, the materials are easily repairable. As these are solid materials, sanding the surface will make them look as good as new.
Can SoftSurface™ withstand heat?

SoftSurface™ can withstand temperatures up to 120°C. Applying varnish can enhance heat resistance. We therefore advise that you do not place very hot dishes directly onto it.

Is SoftSurface™ fire-resistant?

On request. Please contact our team at projet@le-pave.com

Can the materials be used outdoors?

Some SoftSurface™ colors are not suitable for intensive outdoor use as they may slightly fade over time. However, the product will not deteriorate mechanically.

Is SoftSurface™ prone to staining?

SoftSurface™ is highly resistant to stains and chemical agents. Mainly acetone and other abrasive products should be avoided as they may damage the surface. Polishing the material or applying varnish can increase its stain resistance.

Care instructions
Standard cleaning products such as white vinegar or dish soap to clean SoftSurface™ are recommended. Use a microfiber cloth for best results.
What are the sanitary guarantees for the materials?

SoftSurface™ is A+ certified for VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) emissions and complies with REACH regulations. It has been designed to limit the spread of micro-particles in our bodies and the environment. For more information, feel free to contact us here. 

Implementation

How is SoftSurface™ manipulated?

This material can be manipulated using standard fitting techniques and tools. SoftSurface™ panels can be cut, machined, glued, drilled, thermoformed, varnished, etc. Like for Plexiglas®, SolidSurface® or Corian, all you need to do is follow the settings and additional product references (blades, sandpapers, etc.).

You can contact the technical team at projet@le-pave.com.

What are the possible uses?

SoftSurface™ can be used in many different ways: for furniture, countertops, wall coverings, objects, etc. Its high density makes it suitable for both vertical and horizontal applications: shelves, bookcases, table tops, flooring, etc.

Find all our SoftSurface™ projects on our Portfolio page.

For SoftSurface™ Flex, the applications include:

  • Decorative wall coverings in dry rooms (full-height wall panels, headboards, decorative elements, etc.)

  • Decorative wall coverings in wet rooms (backsplashes, full-height wall panels, Geberit frame cladding, etc.)

  • Backlit wall coverings and installations

  • Furniture cladding such as sideboards, reception counters, kitchen fronts, etc.

  • Objects such as light fixtures, trays, baskets, etc.

Feel free to contact us to discuss your project.

How should panels be stored?
Panels should be stored flat in a place where there are minimal temperature fluctuations.
Can SoftSurface™ be glued?

Yes, SoftSurface™ can be easily glued using standard mastic-adhesives such as MS polymers or SolidSurface adhesives.

 

Can the material be shaped differently?

Le Pavé® materials behave like thermoplastics, allowing them to be thermoformed into curved shapes when heated.

How do I create a joint between two panels?

Le Pavé® materials can be joined using standard fitting tools like mechanical joints (grooves, dominos, clamex, etc.) or glued joints with adhesives, as specified in the SoftSurface™ technical manual avaible in “L’Espace Pro”. If you have any doubts, you can also contact the technical service at projet@le-pave.com

Payment and Delivery

Is there a minimum order?

The minimum order is one pallet, equivalent to 20 to 40 panels depending on the thicknesses chosen. Retail orders are possible through our distributors (only in France and neighboring countries). 

How can individuals procure SoftSurface™?

Individuals cannot directly place an order. However, you can ask your tradesperson (or one of our approved tradespersons) to source directly from us or through our distributors.

Where can I find SoftSurface™?

SoftSurface™ is distributed all over France and in neighboring countriesby Artepy and Richardson. 

What are the pricing policies?

Prices vary based on parameters like thickness, size, quantity, color, etc. For a quote, please contact us, and we will get back to you within 2 business days.

How can I pay for my order?
We accept SEPA bank transfers and credit card payments.
What are the delivery lead times?

Delivery lead times from our production sites range from 4 to 6 weeks. You will receive email notifications for each stage of the process. If they are in stock at the distributors, the panels will be available immediately.

What are the delivery methods?

Panels are delivered on pallets. Delivery is available throughout France and internationally, with shipping costs based on the weight and size of your order. The price will be indicated on your quote. Ask for a quote. 

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Got a project or a question?

Feel free to fill out this contact form, and we will respond as soon as possible.
You can also call us at +33 6 75 00 87 93.