Bisazza: Mosaic Tile Pioneers

British designer Tom Dixon has launched a new tile collection for Italian brand Bisazza, named Cementiles. The collection features graphic and trompe-l'oeil patterns that draw inspiration from various architectural features found in London, such as bricks and pebble-dash walls. This collaboration marks the first time Bisazza has worked with Dixon's London studio, which also recently completed the nautical-themed renovation of the London Mondrian hotel. Dixon's design approach for the Cementiles collection was rooted in the colours and textures prevalent throughout London's urban landscape. He translated these elements into simplified graphic patterns, which are then applied to the surfaces of cement tiles. Dixon stated that London, his hometown, provided all the necessary inspiration for this new line of surfaces. He emphasized that the fundamental building blocks and textures of this ancient city are deeply ingrained in his design philosophy. He further elaborated that elements like red clay bricks, cracked pavements, and pebble-dash walls—which he describes as hallmarks of a perpetually evolving capital—have been reimagined in a pop-art graphic style. This artistic interpretation was also tailored to meet the inherent simplicity required by the century-old tile manufacturing process. The collection comprises a total of 12 distinct patterns, each offered in a limited selection of colour options. The square tiles are uniformly sized at 20 by 20 centimetres, while the hexagonal designs measure 20 by 23 centimetres. Specific patterns within the collection include 'Broke,' which mimics the appearance of cracked paving slabs, and 'Void' and 'Wall,' both of which evoke traditional brickwork. Other patterns like 'Skew,' 'Flip,' and 'Block' feature designs that visually represent three-dimensional building blocks. Additionally, a series of two-toned linear patterns within the collection draws inspiration from vents, ducts, and pipes, while the 'Grit' design is reminiscent of pebble-dash walls and similar aggregate surfaces. In recent times, Dixon's studio has expanded its scope of work to include a greater number of accessories projects, in addition to its established reputation for furniture and lighting design. Notable recent launches include a reflective copper coffee set, a range of home items featuring glass barware and scent diffusers, and a collection of copper stationery and containers. The Cementiles collection by Tom Dixon was specifically developed to commemorate the tenth anniversary of Bisazza's London showroom and will be part of the firm's 2016 portfolio. This portfolio also features a mosaic collection by Studio Job, known for its patterns depicting bones and animal skeletons. #TomDixon #Bisazza #TileCollection #Cementiles #LondonArchitecture #HomewareDesign #BritishDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInspiration

Bisazza, a company renowned for its glass tile mosaics, is expanding its product line by introducing new cement tile collections, following its initial debut at Cersaie last September. This week, during Salone del Mobile, Bisazza launched a new collection designed by French architect and designer India Mahdavi. Mahdavi's collaboration with Bisazza marks a significant new direction for the firm, building upon previous successful cement tile collections by designers such as Jaime Hayon, Carlo Dal Bianco, and Paola Navone, which were introduced just seven months prior. Rossella Bisazza, the brand's director of communications and daughter of its late founder Renato Bisazza, initiated the collaboration with India Mahdavi. She expressed long-standing admiration for Mahdavi's work and a desire to collaborate. Mahdavi, known for her professionalism and clear vision, quickly developed the collection within three months after expressing her interest in designing cement tiles. Rossella, who co-manages the company with her brother Piero, believes that this product diversification has strengthened the brand and attracted a new segment of customers. She describes the cement tiles as possessing a rustic yet contemporary appeal, largely due to the contributions of internationally acclaimed designers. A unique aspect of the design selection process at Bisazza is that Rossella typically selects women designers, while her brother Piero selects men, a dynamic she finds effective despite its unconventional nature. This approach has led to collaborations with distinguished female designers like Andrée Putman, Patricia Urquiola, Paola Navone, and now India Mahdavi. Mahdavi's collection features bold geometric designs that evoke '70s pop patterns, contributing to the collection's modern aesthetic. The cement tiles are handcrafted in Tunisia, a region with a rich tradition of cement tile production spanning generations. Bisazza operates its own production facility, ensuring meticulous attention to detail. Rossella highlights that Bisazza's tiles are distinguished by more refined colors and a softer texture compared to traditional versions. The handmade nature of the tiles ensures that each piece is unique, offering a distinct character unlike mass-produced ceramic tiles. This results in a product with a living quality and a silky, non-shiny texture that is appealing to the touch. Bisazza anticipates a busy year ahead, with several upcoming initiatives. These include the opening of a new showroom in New York during ICFF, the launch of a mosaic collection by British designer Tricia Guild of Designers Guild at London’s Chelsea Flower Show, and a new cement tile collection by an as-yet-unannounced British designer slated for September. These plans underscore Bisazza’s continued commitment to innovation and expansion within the design industry. #BisazzaTiles #IndiaMahdavi #CementTiles #SaloneDelMobile #InteriorDesign #ProductDiversification #DesignCollaboration #HandmadeTiles #GeometricDesigns

Bisazza, an Italian company established half a century ago in Northern Italy’s Alte Vicenza region, is recognized for its innovative production of glass mosaics. The company's recent offering, The Crystal Collection, merges classic design with contemporary decoration by incorporating Swarovski crystals into its mosaic tiles. This collection features six distinct patterns: Skulls & Crowns, Robots & Hearts, Corals & Seahorses, Flash, Stars, and Rain. The designs within The Crystal Collection are simplified into basic forms and presented on monochromatic backgrounds, available in white, blue, and black tones. Skulls & Crowns utilizes bold imagery, drawing inspiration from corsair themes with skeleton heads and royal crowns, elements that have gained popularity in fashion over recent years. In contrast, patterns such as Flash and Rain adopt a more understated aesthetic, characterized by small, shimmering circles that create a unique sense of depth. Each pattern offers a different visual experience, ranging from overtly decorative to subtly intricate. Bisazza's approach with this collection reflects a continuous effort to push the boundaries of traditional mosaic art, integrating precious materials like Swarovski crystals to enhance aesthetic appeal and perceived value. The use of crystals adds a luxurious dimension to the glass tiles, transforming them into decorative elements suitable for various interior design applications. The choice of monochromatic backgrounds for outlining the patterns ensures that the embedded crystals and the patterns themselves remain the focal point, allowing for versatile integration into different design schemes. The collection is strategically distributed through Bisazza's global network of flagship stores and select retailers, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of customers interested in high-end decorative solutions. This distribution model helps maintain the brand's premium image and allows clients to experience the quality and visual impact of the mosaics firsthand. The blend of advanced technical solutions in glass mosaic production with artistic collaborations and material innovation positions Bisazza as a key player in the luxury interior decoration market, continuously evolving its offerings to meet contemporary design demands while honoring its heritage. #Bisazza #CrystalCollection #GlassMosaics #SwarovskiCrystals #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #LuxuryTiles #ItalianDesign #WallDecor

Marazzi, an Italian ceramics company, has launched its new Crogiolo Rice collection, a line of porcelain tiles designed with an authentic, handmade aesthetic. These tiles feature hand-painted designs and subtle irregularities, such as pitting, smears, and variations in texture, which contribute to their unique character and vibrant appearance when installed. The collection is inspired by thick-glazed majolica tiles, giving them a lustrous, glossy finish. The color palette primarily consists of whites and blues, aiming to impart a lively and welcoming atmosphere to interiors. The Crogiolo Rice tiles are part of Marazzi's broader Crogiolo collection, which represents the company's commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with industrial technology. This approach allows for the creation of ceramic products that celebrate authentic, colorful, and decorated designs while benefiting from modern manufacturing processes. The brand emphasizes that the minor imperfections in each tile, including grainy surfaces or slight chipping around the edges, are intentional features that enhance the handmade feel and ensure no two pieces are identical. Rectified edges allow for minimal joint lines, further highlighting the tiles' surface qualities. The collection is available in three distinct sizes: 15 by 15 centimeters, five by 15 centimeters, and 7.5 by 20 centimeters. These varying dimensions offer flexibility for different design applications. The subtle shifts in color tone, shadowing, and minute variations in the concave-convex forms are carefully controlled to create a visually rich and dynamic effect. Marazzi's design philosophy for the Crogiolo collection draws from its rich heritage, particularly from a series of booklets developed in the 1980s called 'Il Crogiolo.' These booklets documented 112 projects, illustrating various decorative techniques and capturing insights from potters and designers. This historical resource continues to serve as a source of inspiration for Marazzi's current product development, ensuring a continuity of craft and innovation. The Crogiolo Rice collection is positioned as a testament to Marazzi's ongoing research into materials, colors, glazes, and technological advancements, all while preserving the essence of handmade artistry. The tiles are suitable for various applications, bringing a touch of traditional charm and modern sophistication to residential and commercial spaces. #Marazzi #PorcelainTiles #Ceramics #HandmadeDesign #TileCollection #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #BuildingMaterials #SurfaceDesign

This article from Dezeen Showroom highlights five distinct tile collections from the Italian manufacturer Marazzi, all listed on the platform in 2025. Marazzi, established in 1935, is known for producing a wide range of tiles for residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, aiming to preserve Italian tile-making traditions through time-honored design and manufacturing methods. The featured collections demonstrate Marazzi's versatility in aesthetics, materials, and applications. The first collection presented is Marazzi's Terramater tiles, which are designed to evoke the look of vintage ceramics. These tiles are offered in seven glazed colorways, each harmonizing with the material's inherent hue to create surfaces with rich textures. In addition to the diverse color options, the Terramater tiles provide two distinct surface patterns: the linear Ritmo and the lozenge-shaped Losanga, allowing for varied aesthetic outcomes. Next, the article introduces "The Top" by Marazzi, a product characterized by its exceptional versatility. Made from porcelain stoneware, these slabs are not limited to traditional wall and floor applications but can also be used to clad various furnishings such as cabinets and countertops. "The Top" collection features a range of marble- and stone-look patterns, catering to a wide array of interior design preferences and styles. The existing Lume tile range from Marazzi has seen an expansion with the introduction of four new colorways: Bone, Caramel, Emerald, and Ocean. This collection is distinguished by its zellige-style aesthetic, intentionally crafted to impart a handmade appearance to the tile surfaces. The expansion also includes new 3D structures, such as Rake, further enhancing the tactile and visual appeal of the Lume series. Another significant collection is the Mystone Pietra Ligure tiles, which draw inspiration from slate. These tiles are named after the slate mined in Italy's Liguria region and accurately replicate the dark grey, moody surface of natural slate. Marazzi utilizes its advanced 3D Ink technology to achieve a realistic surface texture for these tiles, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications due to their authentic appearance and durable composition. Finally, the Slow Cold tile collection is highlighted, featuring an aesthetic that combines the texture of rammed earth with cool-toned hues. Rammed earth is an ancient building technique, and these tiles aim to capture its distinctive look. When installed, the Slow Cold tiles create a mottled and textural finish across various surfaces, suitable for both interior and exterior environments. This range includes six different hues, offering diverse options for designers seeking a natural yet contemporary feel. #MarazziTiles #CeramicDesign #InteriorDesign #PorcelainStoneware #TileCollections #SurfaceMaterials #HomeDecoration #ArchitecturalSurfaces

Across centuries and diverse cultures, the creation of tiles has consistently involved the baking, coloring, and heat-bonding of clay with various coatings. This ancient craft has endured, with artisan studios today diligently preserving the traditional techniques that produce these durable and decorative claddings. The versatility and inherent qualities of tiles are often underestimated. They exhibit remarkable resilience to high temperatures, offer hygienic, wipe-clean surfaces for walls, and possess a robust ability to form protective layers that can withstand centuries of use. Unlike wood, tiles do not rot; unlike metal, they do not corrode; and they will not ignite when exposed to fire. Beyond their practical attributes, tiles serve as significant decorative elements, reflecting rich cultural heritage. Examples include the intricate geometric patterns found in Islamic architecture, the distinctive Art Nouveau murals of the Parisian metro, and the historically significant hand-painted Azulejos on Portuguese houses. While flat tiles are commonly envisioned, embossed patterns, imprints, and convex tiles designed for curved structures are also prevalent, as seen in the roofs of Chinese pagodas or the tiles adorning 18th-century Swedish stoves and Victorian pillars in British institutions. The methods for tile production have evolved since ancient times. Early techniques involved baking earth directly in the sun and in rudimentary firepits, progressing to more sophisticated kiln structures. Historical records indicate that tiles were molded from clay in Ancient Mesopotamia as early as 4000 BC. The Egyptians developed vitreous glass glazes around 2500 BC, and the Romans created intricate mosaics from thousands of small pieces. Islamic artisans, around the 9th century, enhanced glazes with metals like silver or copper to achieve additional luster. Their handmade process for creating Zellige tiles continues to be practiced today in modern Morocco, where artisanal studios use slim metal frames to shape clay tiles. These tiles are sun-dried, hand-dipped in glaze, fired in ground-dug kiln cavities, and then meticulously hand-chiselled into stars, lozenges, and other geometric forms. The subtle irregularities inherent in this artisanal process contribute significantly to the enduring charm of Zellige tiles, with UK suppliers such as Emery & Cie and Mosaic Factory offering authentic handmade ranges. Following the decline of the Roman Empire, tile production in Europe, outside of Moorish Spain, was not widespread until the Middle Ages. In Britain, medieval tile-making was primarily a rural, seasonal occupation, providing supplemental income for peasants. The process involved digging clay in winter, allowing it to weather until spring, cleaning it of debris, and then hand-pressing the reddish-brown material into wooden frame moulds to create tiles up to 3cm thick. As skills advanced and European influences grew, a white clay layer was sometimes applied over the red base and then scratched away using the sgraffito technique to create decorative effects. Patterns were also impressed into wet clay using hand-carved wooden blocks to produce raised motifs. Tube-lined tiles, popular during the Edwardian era, represent a heritage technique that Balineum preserves at its workshop in Stoke-on-Trent, featuring over 70 designs, five core shapes, and 32 glazes. By the 14th century, specialized workers and centers for tile production emerged across Britain, leading to the development of inlaid tiles. This technique involved filling imprinted patterns with a paler-colored clay slip. During firing, glazes altered the clay colors—red turning to brown and white to yellow—to create a two-toned design, a method still employed by Priory Tiles in Kent for medieval-style tiles. The thoughtful use of tile layout, as demonstrated by projects from studios like Studio Duggan, can effectively blend classic and contemporary aesthetics. #TileMaking #ArtisanCraftsmanship #AncientTechniques #ArchitecturalDecor #CeramicArt #InteriorDesign #CulturalHeritage #HomeDecoration

Bisazza, the renowned Italian design company, has collaborated with American designer David Rockwell to launch a new tile collection named 'Tonal.' This collection marks Rockwell as the first American designer to partner with Bisazza on their artistic 'Cementiles' range. The 'Tonal' collection features a suite of graphic patterns available in four distinct color families, bringing a contemporary aesthetic to Bisazza's classic Cementiles. Rockwell's long-standing admiration for Bisazza tiles, which he has used in his projects for years, motivated him to seek a unique contribution for this collaboration. His choice to work with the Cementiles was influenced by his early experiences in Mexico, where he developed an affinity for this material. Rosella Bisazza noted that Rockwell was given complete freedom in designing and selecting patterns for the collection. He also requested the addition of a new blue shade to Bisazza's palette, which has since been named 'David Rockwell Blue' in his honor. The essence of Rockwell's design philosophy for the 'Tonal' collection lies in the interplay of craftsmanship, light, and the concept of transition. He was particularly drawn to the subtle variations inherent in each Cementile tile, which he describes as slightly different. This characteristic inspired him to incorporate the notion of ombre, or gradual color transition, into his designs. Rockwell explains that the "in-between spaces" are often the most captivating, and the illusion created by colors fading into one another resonates with his work in both theatre and architecture. Within these guiding principles, Rockwell developed a series of graphic patterns, including bold chromatic stripes and a vivid end grain motif. These patterns are designed to be highly versatile, allowing for numerous combination possibilities. The four color palettes – a sepia-toned warm neutral, a charcoal cool neutral, a family of rust, and the newly introduced blues – are meticulously chosen to complement the matte finish of the tiles. These palettes contribute to a latent energy and a sense of dynamic movement when applied to larger spaces. Rockwell emphasized that the simpler patterns intentionally highlight the material's inherent quality without distracting from it. He believes that this boldness distinguishes the collection in a market often saturated with intricate details, making it stand out as a unique offering. #DavidRockwell #BisazzaTiles #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #Cementiles #GraphicPatterns #ColorPalettes #DesignCollaboration #HomeDecoration

This blog post from Wickes showcases their extensive range of tiles designed to help homeowners transform their living spaces. It emphasizes the variety of designs, materials, and applications available, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. The article highlights that tiles can be used to reflect a unique personality and style, suggesting their versatility beyond traditional kitchen and bathroom settings to include hallways, conservatories, and even bedrooms. The content is structured to guide customers through different tile categories and provide helpful advice. It begins by encouraging users to explore various tile options, from intricately patterned floor tiles to sleek, modern designs, all aligned with current trends. The post categorizes tiles by their intended use, such as Bathroom Tiles, Kitchen Tiles, Floor Tiles, Wall Tiles, Outdoor Tiles & Paving, and Wet Room Tiles, making it easier for customers to navigate and find what they need for specific projects. Additionally, it features specialized collections like Boutique Tiles and Mosaic Tiles for those seeking unique or decorative options. Beyond just showcasing products, the article provides practical guidance through a dedicated "Tiling Ideas & Advice" section. This includes a step-by-step guide on "How to tile a bathroom wall," aiming to demystify the tiling process and empower DIY enthusiasts to achieve a professional finish. Another advice piece, "Tiling ideas & advice," offers inspiration for using tiles in various rooms and highlights the aesthetic benefits of incorporating them into home makeovers. The inclusion of a "tile buying guide" further assists customers in making informed decisions by considering factors such as application, desired aesthetic, budget, and maintenance requirements. The blog post addresses frequently asked questions regarding tile installation and selection. It specifically tackles whether it's possible to drill into tiles, providing detailed instructions on the necessary tools and precautions, such as using diamond-tipped drill bits and masking tape to prevent cracking. It also clarifies the different types of tiles available, including ceramic, porcelain, and glass, and explains their respective benefits and suitable applications. For instance, it mentions porcelain and ceramic tiles for durability, contrasting polished variations (beautiful shine, less slip-resistant) with matt tiles (more slip-resistant), and distinguishing between rectified tiles (straight edges for clean lines) and pressed tiles (natural look). Finally, the article lists various tile-related accessories and services offered by Wickes, such as Tile Adhesives, Tile Grout, Tile Tools & Accessories, and Underfloor Heating. It also promotes the availability of Tile Samples, allowing customers to test options before committing to a purchase. The overall aim is to position Wickes as a comprehensive resource for tiling needs, combining product offerings with practical advice and support. #Tiles #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign #BathroomTiles #KitchenTiles #FloorTiles #WallTiles #TilingAdvice #DIYHome

Italian company Marazzi has showcased a diverse collection of tiles on Dezeen Showroom, highlighting their commitment to traditional Italian ceramic artistry and modern design. The featured tiles aim to offer versatile solutions for various interior applications, ranging from residential to commercial and hospitality settings. Among the offerings are the Lume tiles, which draw inspiration from vernacular Mediterranean ceramics. These tiles boast a richly glazed, naturally uneven finish, celebrating the handmade qualities often found in traditional Italian ceramics. Their distinctive elongated shape and straight edges facilitate flexible installation, allowing them to be arranged either vertically or horizontally with minimal gapping. The color palette for Lume tiles includes a spectrum from neutral tones to vibrant jewel shades, all characterized by deeply saturated hues and a mottled, handcrafted aesthetic. Another prominent product line is the Cementum tiles, designed to replicate the visual characteristics of cast concrete while maintaining the practicality of a tile format. These tiles are engineered with a soft-touch, anti-slip, and anti-reflective surface, making them suitable for both wall and floor applications in various environments. Marazzi also presents The Top Marble Look tiles, which emulate the elegant veined patterns of natural marble. These tiles combine the aesthetic appeal of traditional stone with advanced hygienic properties, broadening their applicability across different spaces that require both beauty and sanitation. For those seeking decorative wall solutions, the White Deco wall tiles offer an alternative to conventional wallpaper. These tiles feature intricate patterning, with details accentuated by subtle 3D protrusions, creating a tactile and visually engaging surface. Available in three distinct patterns inspired by botanical and foliage motifs, they provide a refined decorative option. Similarly, Momenti wall tiles provide patterned, wallpaper-like finishes that are suitable for all types of interiors, including moisture-prone areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. This collection offers a variety of designs, incorporating botanical prints alongside geometric patterns influenced by Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles. Marazzi, established in 1935, is an Italian company dedicated to designing and manufacturing high-quality wall coverings and flooring. The company consistently strives to produce ceramic tiles that exemplify the excellence of Italian design and manufacturing processes, catering to the evolving needs of contemporary interior design. #Marazzi #Tiles #ItalianDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #CeramicTiles #ArchitecturalFinishes #WallCoverings #FloorCoverings

Interior design is currently undergoing a shift from minimalism towards more characterful and eclectic interiors. This trend encourages homeowners to create spaces filled with meaningful, handcrafted pieces, including the resurgence of mosaic tiles. Traditionally known for their intricate opulence, mosaic tiles, which had previously faded from interior design, are now making a significant comeback in 2025. Mosaic involves arranging small pieces of stone, glass, or tile to create elaborate designs. This technique, though time-consuming, yields visually stunning results. Experts in interior design note that mosaic tiles align perfectly with current trends, offering a blend of historical elegance and modern adaptability. The look can be integrated in several ways to suit contemporary homes. One approach is to embrace the classic route. Mosaic designs have a long history, dating back thousands of years to Ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, where they were used to create luxurious floors in palaces and bathhouses. This historical context allows mosaics to bring a timeless elegance to traditional settings. Sebastian Erras, known for "Parisian Floors" on Instagram, highlights the elaborate Art Deco mosaic floors in Paris as a prime example of their enduring appeal, emphasizing details and vibrant colors. Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca’ Pietra, particularly favors marble mosaics for their timelessness and versatility, noting that intricate hexagons and scalloped fan designs can add an artisanal touch to any space. Mosaics can be incorporated into bathrooms, hallways, or as kitchen backdrops, or even in bedrooms and smaller areas to introduce color and design. A second method is to create personal and bespoke designs. The inherent flexibility of mosaic allows for unique artistic expressions, where small tiles can be arranged to form custom patterns inspired by personal illustrations or meaningful images. Louise Ashdown, Head of Design at West One Bathrooms, emphasizes that custom mosaics tell a story, offering exclusivity and craftsmanship. Each design is unique, transforming practical spaces into personal sanctuaries through hand-crafted murals, geometric patterns, or subtle ombré gradients tailored to the client’s vision. This level of detail elevates bathroom design, for example, beyond mere functionality. Furthermore, mosaics can be used to turn a surface into a statement piece. Their intricate nature imparts a sense of luxury, and despite their ancient origins, mosaics are highly versatile and complement various home styles. Once laid, they can elevate a plain surface or corner, instantly drawing the eye and adding depth to an otherwise one-dimensional space. An example is a hallway covered in colorful mosaic tiles that contrast with a subdued background, tying the room together with color and texture derived from their craftsmanship. Grazzie Wilson points out that mosaic tiles blend tradition and innovation, providing endless creative possibilities for homeowners to infuse personality and texture into any area, whether through classic herringbone, geometric layouts, or penny rounds. Finally, mixing and matching mosaic tiles with other tile types can create an even more luxurious effect. This combination generates a unique fusion of shapes and colors, making a space feel bespoke and characterful. Mosaics can highlight architectural features, such as creating a statement wall or a nook, and provide contrast when paired with other styles. Grazzie Wilson suggests using mosaics to define spaces, like a border around a bath or a tiled floor that captures attention. Combining them with larger format tiles or using them to highlight alcoves and niches can add significant detail. The article concludes that mosaic designs are an undeniable way to enhance any plain space, with their unique, artisanal quality setting them apart from other tiling options. #MosaicTiles #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeDecor #TileIdeas #EclecticInteriors #ArtisanalCraftsmanship #BathroomDesign #KitchenDesign #StatementSurfaces

The Dwell on Design show consistently highlights innovative concepts in home design and architecture. This year, despite tiles being an ancient material with a history spanning approximately 5,000 years, the exhibition showcased a plethora of fresh approaches, new materials, and advanced technologies in tile design. The convention provided extensive inspiration for various home surfaces, including floors, walls, and backsplashes. Several notable products and designs were featured. Bedrosians, a California-based importer, presented a 4-inch-wide Japanese tile named “Shinzen,” available in multiple colors and a herringbone design, retailing at $17 per square foot. Another offering from Bedrosians was the “Panache” hexagonal mosaic, a new market entry combining Chinese glass tiles with Brazilian stone, priced at $44 per square foot. Eos Surfaces showcased a non-porous, stain-resistant material made from recycled glass shards integrated into a resin base. This material boasts durability and smoothness comparable to quartz. Another variation from Eos Surfaces, also featuring glass-embedded resin, was priced between $60 and $70 per square foot, offering a favorable alternative to traditional concrete tiles with broken glass. Classic Tile & Mosaic displayed custom carved stone designs. Their bespoke mosaic pattern strikingly combined “Antique Brush” and “Fine Adze” limestone finishes, priced around $32 per square foot. They also featured volcanic basalt sourced from Indonesia or Mongolia, a more economical stone, with individual bespoke finishes costing approximately $12 per square foot. Tesselle reintroduced encaustic cement tiles, a process originating in Catalonia in the 1850s and popular in Latin America. These handmade tiles, produced near Mexico City, ranged from $15 to $18 per square foot. The cement tiles are not fired or glazed; instead, mineral pigments are hydraulically pressed into the cement surface, resulting in slight imperfections that add to their character. Their precise dimensions allow for finer grout lines. Tesselle, based in Riverside, California, offers about 30 different designs and custom work, though these tiles are best suited for mild climates as they are not resistant to freezing temperatures. Pasadena Craftsman Tile, led by artist-architect Cha-Rie Tang, presented gloriously imperfect handcrafted tiles in the Craftsman style. These unique field tiles start at $24 per square foot, with no two pieces being identical. The studio also creates custom murals, ideal for fireplace settings, ranging from $250 to $450 per square foot. Pental Quartz showcased a hexagonal porcelain tile called “Material,” featuring a 3-D mosaic design that creates an M.C. Escher effect. Available in four colors, this tile retailed at $11 per square foot. Island Stone introduced “Paragons,” a seductive stone cladding consisting of interlocking rhomboids with a deeply tapering, angled relief. This tile was expected to be available in October 2015, priced in the “high 20s” per square foot. DENY Designs, based in Denver, presented a unique approach using plywood printed with proprietary processes. The company offers over 9,000 designs, priced at $12 per square foot, and emphasizes durability. An example shown was the “Collins Ave” design by Australian artist Three of the Possessed. Overall, the Dwell on Design show highlighted a vibrant evolution in tile design, combining historical techniques with modern materials and artistic innovation to offer diverse and inspiring options for contemporary homes. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #DwellOnDesign #SurfaceMaterials #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalTrends #Bedrosians #EosSurfaces #Tesselle #PasadenaCraftsmanTile

In Gardena, California, a family-owned business called B&W Tile Co. has been manufacturing tiles since 1947. The company's vibrant purple building stands out near the freeway, attracting builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts. Inside, a team of 15 operates a showroom displaying a wide array of tiles, which are the same colors and styles the company has produced for decades. Beyond the showroom, the manufacturing process unfolds in a clay-filled environment, utilizing kilns and large machinery to create each tile from start to finish. Alex Vassaux, the head of operations, attributes the company's longevity to the passion and dedication of its employees and their commitment to preserving historical craftsmanship. The tile bisque and glazes are made from scratch, with most processes handled by personnel. Despite using machinery, the operations are not automated or computerized, relying on staff for control and operation. B&W Tile has faced significant challenges, including a factory fire last year that destroyed critical equipment, impacting production timelines. The company is actively working to recover from these setbacks, with production currently running six days a week to compensate for the damage. New kilns are expected to arrive within three months, which should help normalize production. The resilience of B&W Tile mirrors the durability of its products. The commitment to traditional tile-making by B&W Tile aligns with a broader resurgence of interest in vintage tiles. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram, have played a crucial role in fostering online communities dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of vintage tiling. An Instagram account, @vintagebathroomlove, curated by an individual without professional ties to the tile industry, exemplifies this passion. The curator's appreciation for vintage tiles began in their mid-20s, sparked by a studio apartment with original hex mosaic floor tile, a pedestal sink, and a tub. They were impressed by the enduring quality of these neglected installations. Vintage Bathroom Love considers tiles to be an accessible form of art, functional, approachable, and relatively affordable. Elaborate tiled bathrooms are viewed as museum-quality art pieces, highlighting the skill of past tile setters. The visual appeal of vintage tiles, especially colorful ones, is well-suited for platforms like Instagram, where bright, eye-catching imagery thrives. This visual emphasis has contributed to a shift in design culture, moving away from monochrome aesthetics towards more vibrant and unique elements. Evidence of this trend can be seen in mainstream advertisements from companies like Geico and Target incorporating vintage bathroom aesthetics. Nostalgia also contributes to the rising popularity of vintage tiles. Vassaux notes that classic designs are always appreciated across generations. Vintage Bathroom Love adds that people often gravitate towards familiar elements from the past during challenging times. Many individuals grew up in homes with colored tiles and retain fond memories of these designs, leading them to incorporate similar elements into their own living spaces. This cultural phenomenon reflects a desire for comfort and familiarity in home design. #VintageTiles #TileManufacturing #HistoricCraftsmanship #DesignCulture #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesignTrends #SocialMediaInfluence #ArchitecturalPreservation

Photographer Sebastian Erras, known for his captivating series of mosaic floors, continues to expand his project by documenting diverse and imaginative tiled patterns across Europe and Cuba. Erras initially focused on the intricate floors found throughout Paris, meticulously capturing their unique designs. Over time, his project broadened to include other European cities such as Barcelona and London, where he discovered equally stunning examples of floor artistry. His work is primarily showcased on his Instagram account, @parisianfloors, where he shares his downward-facing photographic finds. The article highlights several of Erras's recent captures, including two distinct perspectives of a sea-themed floor located at the restaurant Le Bon Pecheur in Paris. One image features a friendly-looking crab rendered in mosaic, while another depicts a fantastically detailed conical shell. These examples demonstrate the variety and charm of the mosaic and tile work that Erras seeks out. The photographer's dedication to this niche subject reveals the often-overlooked beauty beneath our feet, transforming everyday surfaces into works of art. His collection serves as a visual archive of these intricate designs, many of which embody historical and cultural narratives through their patterns and motifs. By presenting these floors from a unique, direct-overhead perspective, Erras invites viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal of these architectural elements, encouraging a closer look at the details that contribute to a space's character. His ongoing project underscores the importance of preserving and recognizing these traditional forms of interior design, which are often integral to the identity of the buildings they adorn. Erras's work not only documents these beautiful floors but also brings them to a wider audience, fostering an appreciation for the artistic heritage embedded in urban environments. The expansion of his project beyond Paris to other European and even Cuban locations signifies the universal appeal and presence of such decorative floorings, indicating a rich tapestry of design history waiting to be explored. #FloorArt #MosaicPhotography #TileDesign #SebastianErras #EuropeanFloors #ParisianFloors #ArchitecturalDetails #InteriorDesign #VisualCulture

Italian brand Marazzi has unveiled five distinct collections of advanced ceramic and porcelain tiles on Dezeen Showroom, catering to various aesthetic and functional preferences. These collections include antibacterial tiles that mimic wood floorboards and high-gloss stone-effect tiles, demonstrating a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. One of the featured collections is Oltre, a porcelain tile meticulously designed to replicate the appearance of oak floorboards. This collection incorporates an interlocking pattern system that convincingly emulates the natural grain of timber. Available in four colors—white, natural, sand, and caramel—Oltre tiles are versatile for both indoor and outdoor applications. They come with an ultra-matt finish, a slip-resistant coating, and an antibacterial treatment, emphasizing cleanliness and safety. The antibacterial properties make them suitable for spaces where hygiene is a priority, while their durability and aesthetic appeal broaden their applicability in diverse design schemes. Another collection suitable for indoor and outdoor use is Carácter. These porcelain tiles are noteworthy for their composition, which includes 40 percent recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The Carácter tiles present an understated stone effect, achieved through a blend of neutral-colored pebbles of varying shapes and sizes. Despite their luminous finish, these tiles are equipped with Marazzi's StepWise coating, providing an anti-slip surface. The collection is offered in six colors, all within the grey and beige spectrum, allowing for subtle yet sophisticated floor and wall treatments. The Crogiolo Rice collection is a series of handmade modular tiles characterized by a high-gloss finish and natural variations. These tiles draw inspiration from traditional majolica tiles, often adorned with plant patterns and featuring a dense glaze. Despite their intentionally irregular surfaces, the tiles possess straight edges, facilitating precise tessellated installations. Available in three sizes, Crogiolo Rice tiles can be arranged in complementary compositions or mixed to create unique designs. The color palette includes white and off-white hues, alongside three distinct designs that feature nature-inspired motifs in blue, offering a decorative element. Completing the showcase is the Crogiolo Lume range, also part of the broader Crogiolo tile collection. This range is similarly modeled after handmade majolica tiles from the Mediterranean region. These glazed tiles are primarily recommended for wall applications but can be used on floors in areas with low-level foot traffic, such as private residences. The Crogiolo Lume tiles are frostproof and resistant to abrasion, ensuring their longevity and versatility. They are available in a vibrant array of mottled colors, including green, blue, white, black, musk, and greige, providing extensive design possibilities for interior spaces. Additionally, Marazzi has updated its Grande Marble Look collection of porcelain slab tiles, engineered to mimic the luxurious appearance of Venetian terrazzo and marble. These tiles, like the other new collections, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and are skid-resistant. They exhibit striking vein and shade variations, offered in a wide range of colors such as deep green and jet black with dark brown veining, providing sophisticated options for large-format applications. Established in 1935, Marazzi is a prominent Italian ceramic tile manufacturer with a global presence in over 140 countries, offering a comprehensive selection of flooring and wall coverings for various settings, designed to emulate natural materials like wood, concrete, marble, and stone. #Marazzi #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #DezeenShowroom #InteriorDesign #FloorCoverings #WallCoverings #HomeDecor #SustainableMaterials

Nikki Chu, an interior designer with over two decades of experience, has launched her inaugural tile collection exclusively with The Tile Shop. Despite not having previously designed tiles, Chu leveraged her extensive knowledge of incorporating tiles into various rooms to create a line that reflects her signature “global modernism” aesthetic. Her collection stands out by focusing on organic, impactful patterns rendered in versatile, earthy neutral tones, a departure from the often brightly colored or overly patterned options she found lacking in the market. Chu emphasizes that while vibrant colors are readily available, finding sophisticated neutral patterns has historically been a challenge. The inspiration for Chu's tile collection, much like her previous lines of decorative pillows, bedding, and rugs, is rooted in her global travels. She specifically cites Africa, Indonesia, and Bali as primary sources, drawing from the textiles and cultural patterns observed in bazaars and markets. These elements are then simplified and refined to be palatable for a wide range of decor styles, maintaining a clean, soft, and contemporary feel without an abundance of color, aligning with her brand's established reputation for neutral textures. The collection features three distinct tile designs: Zulu, Tangier, and Luxor. The Zulu ceramic tile is praised for its modern versatility, allowing for various layout configurations—alternating horizontal and vertical patterns—to create eclectic visual texture while maintaining a peaceful, subtly colored aesthetic. Chu is installing this tile in her own home, highlighting its longevity and classic appeal. Zulu is available in Graphite, Pumice, and Cement colorways, all offering quiet, understated hues. Tangier, a porcelain pattern, showcases loose, concentric diamonds that deliver a bold impact. Its hand-drawn quality lends it a timeless simplicity, preventing it from feeling dated. Chu notes that Tangier's patterns are “flowy, easy-to-understand,” and substantial enough to make a statement without being overwhelming. She plans to use Tangier on a lanai floor for a celebrity client, bordered by Zulu tiles, to create a durable, rug-like effect. Luxor comprises ceramic subway tiles designed to complement Zulu and Tangier. These tiles, available in Winter White, Cement, and Pumice, feature an organic, handmade feel with intentional inconsistencies in texture and slight color variations. Chu’s aim with Luxor was to provide a clean yet artisanal option that enhances the collection's overall aesthetic. Her overarching design philosophy for this collection was to achieve a balance between extremes, creating patterns that are modern and contemporary without being excessively so, thus occupying a “sweet spot” that she intends to build upon in future designs. #NikkiChu #TileDesign #GlobalModernism #InteriorDesign #NeutralTones #PatternedTile #HomeDecor #TheTileShop #CeramicTile #PorcelainTile