David Rockwell designs a graphic and vibrant new tile range for Bisazza

Bisazza Mosaico, an Italian company established in 1956, stands as a pioneer in the mosaic tile industry, distinguished by its innovative fusion of traditional Venetian glass design techniques with contemporary technologies. The company is poised to open the Bisazza Foundation on June 8, 2012, a private, non-profit institution located in Vicenza, Italy. This foundation will be dedicated to design and contemporary architecture, serving as a venue for showcasing mosaic works, installations, and exhibitions created by renowned international designers and artists specifically for Bisazza. The inaugural exhibition at the foundation will feature the work of British designer John Pawson. The article highlights a curated selection of 20 distinctive mosaic designs from Bisazza, encompassing both classic and innovative styles. Among these is the 'Chester' design, which mimics tufted buttoned upholstery, offered in white and a vibrant pink. For a more understated aesthetic, the 'Oro 20 Blends' present 3/4-inch by 3/4-inch tiles in a simple, random mosaic available in various colors. The 'Shading Blends 20' collection offers a gradient effect, featuring eight color variations that transition from light to dark within the same tile size. The 'Kilt' mosaic tile introduces a bold and colorful option suitable for floors, bathrooms, or kitchens. Carlo Dal Bianco's 'Labirinto' design features glossy and opaque 3/4-inch by 3/4-inch tiles arranged in a geometric pattern, available in three color schemes. Marco Braga's 'Pois' collection reinterprets polka dots with large iridescent white gold or alabaster white dots. 'Mimetico,' designed by Fabrio Novembre, offers a unique take on camouflage with three color variations. Marco Braga also designed 'Twill,' a mesmerizing pattern of diagonal lines in contrasting colors, available in three combinations. 'Giza,' another creation by Carlo Dal Bianco, showcases strong, metallic-quality geometric patterns in four color combinations, including white gold and yellow gold. The 'Liaisons' design provides a classic, overlapping pattern, offered in white gold and yellow gold, with three additional variations. 'Righe' features a white-on-white pattern that contrasts glossy and opaque tiles and is available in seven color variations, with 'Vienna' also mentioned for flooring applications. The 'Suite' design presents an interwoven hexagon pattern with an almost 3D effect, available in three color stories, for those seeking a bold statement. The 'Diagonale' pattern offers a simple yet dramatic look in black with white gold or white with white gold. Bisazza also offers animal print tile patterns, including 'Crocodile,' 'Python,' 'Leopard,' 'Giraffa,' and 'Zebra.' The 'Bamboo' mosaics, designed by Rene Gonzalez, emulate a bamboo forest and come in white or black with two pattern variations. The 'Velvet' design, available in four color variations, creates a classic raised pattern with depth. From the Crystal Collection, 'Flash' integrates Swarovski crystals into glass mosaic circles, offered in black, blue, and white. The 2012 collection introduces new designs such as 'Vesper Minor' by Edward Van Vliet, a geometric, star-like pattern with black or white backgrounds. Van Vliet's 'Andromeda' features overlapping circles in two color palettes. The Bisazza Design Studio contributes 'Clouds,' depicting white clouds in a blue sky, available in two pattern variations. Lastly, Carlo Dal Bianco's 'Rayures' offers a timeless striped pattern in black/white and brown combinations, ensuring a design that remains perpetually stylish. #BisazzaMosaico #MosaicTile #ItalianDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #GlassTile #ArchitecturalTiles #DesignFoundation

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

Italian brand Ceramiche Refin has introduced its new Wide collection of porcelain tiles, designed to mimic the appearance and texture of natural slate. This collection includes innovative versions adorned with patterns of lines and grids that give the impression of having been hand-drawn in chalk. The Wide collection is characterized by subtle surface smudges, marks, and imprints, contributing to its authentic slate-like character. It is available in five distinct color options: a chalky white, black carbon, olive green, and two shades of grey, steel and lead, offering a versatile palette for various design schemes. A notable addition to the Wide range is the Sketch series, which features chalky lines and grid patterns superimposed on the slate-like surfaces. These Sketch tiles are specifically designed to serve as accent pieces and create visual interventions within expansive spaces, adding a unique artistic touch. The collection offers a variety of sizes to accommodate different project scales and applications. Smaller tile formats are available for residential projects, while larger formats, such as 240 by 120 centimeters, 120 by 120 centimeters, and 120 by 60 centimeters, are intended for significant commercial areas and retail spaces where a reduction in grout lines is often desired to achieve a more harmonious and seamless aesthetic. Beyond the standard smooth finish, Ceramiche Refin also provides textured options for the Wide collection. Both smooth and textured tiles maintain a thickness between nine and 9.5 millimeters, ensuring durability and consistent quality. For outdoor applications, a specialized 20-millimeter-thick version is available in the carbon and steel shades. These thicker outdoor tiles are suitable for various installation methods, including traditional adhesive application and raised installations. Raised installation is particularly beneficial for temporary spaces, uneven ground, or areas where easy access to the sub-surface for inspection or maintenance is required. The durability and practical benefits of Ceramiche Refin porcelain tiles are significant. They are renowned for their strength, resistance to abrasion, frost, and various chemicals, making them a robust choice for both indoor and outdoor environments. Porcelain tiles are also low-maintenance, requiring only simple cleaning without the need for harsh chemicals, sealing, or special surface treatments. Their vitrified nature makes them an ideal choice for use in conjunction with underfloor heating systems, efficiently distributing warmth. Ceramiche Refin, with over 50 years of manufacturing experience, operates a state-of-the-art factory and a showroom in Milan, employing a dedicated research team and in-house technical laboratory to continuously innovate and advance tile technology. The Wide collection, including its Sketch variations, exemplifies Ceramiche Refin's commitment to combining aesthetic appeal with high performance. The thoughtful design, which mimics natural slate while incorporating contemporary graphic elements, positions these tiles as a versatile solution for a wide array of architectural and interior design projects. The ability to choose from multiple sizes, finishes, and specific designs like Sketch allows designers and homeowners to create customized and impactful spaces, whether for intimate residential settings or large-scale commercial developments. This collection highlights the ongoing evolution of porcelain tile technology, offering sophisticated and practical surfacing solutions. #CeramicheRefin #TileCollection #PorcelainTiles #SlateEffect #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HomeDecoration #CommercialDesign #SketchTiles

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

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

Designers are increasingly moving away from traditional, subdued tiling options, embracing bold colors, unique patterns, and varied textures to create distinctive interior spaces. This shift challenges the conventional use of standard subway tiles in kitchens and bathrooms, encouraging homeowners to infuse their personal style and vibrant hues into their living environments, even on floors. Katie Deedy of Grow House Grow, known for her narrative-inspired wallpapers, has successfully transitioned into designing cement tiles. Her Cuban heritage influenced her desire to create tiles reminiscent of those seen in family photos, but with a contemporary twist. While initially aiming for wallpaper-matching tiles, she adapted her designs to the tile format, exemplified by her cephalopod-inspired Captain Smith tile, which mirrors her best-selling wallpaper. The brand continues to prioritize nature-inspired themes, as seen in their three new tiles and the popular Otomi collection, featuring animal and floral folk art. These tiles are predominantly used on floors but are also gaining traction for backsplashes and walls, creating cohesive, patterned nooks in bathrooms. Artistic Tile, in collaboration with Michael Aram, also presents nature-inspired designs. Their Orchid Dimensional collection, a 2017 Interior Design magazine award winner for Best Wall Covering, combines innovation with natural stone. This collection showcases crystalline white Thassos marble flowers emerging from polished Bianco Carrara marble, offering a sophisticated and seductive aesthetic. Color is a significant trend, with Artistic Tile embracing vibrant palettes and mixed materials in their designs. Rachel Adler, a representative for the brand, highlights their new Fan Club mosaic glass design, which features a captivating blue ombre colorway. This design is suggested for adding a touch of elegance to wet bars or as a striking feature wall. Popham Design’s ceramic tile collection also emphasizes rich colors and playful patterns. Design editors, including Tori Mellott of Traditional Home Magazine, recommend these graphic tiles for entryways, noting their ability to set the mood and convey the homeowner's personality—whether formal, playful, artsy, or busy. Encaustic tiles, in particular, are praised for their individuality in entryways. Elle Decor editor-in-chief Whitney Robinson is particularly fond of India Mahdavi’s pink-driven collection for Bisazza, suggesting it for creating a personalized and cheerful washroom. Robinson argues that while bathrooms are utilitarian, they are also frequently visited spaces that should evoke happiness. Pink tiles, she notes, also have the added benefit of making skin appear radiant. Customization is another growing trend, allowing homeowners to create truly unique tile designs. Sarah Watson, founder of Balineum in England, specializes in small-batch custom orders. Her Hanley collection offers ceramic tiles in a dozen hand-mixed solid-color glazes, and clients can request custom glaze colors to match specific Pantone references, fabrics, or wallpapers. Watson highlights the passion customers have for finding the perfect hue, citing an instance where two brothers requested slightly different shades of blue for their shared bathroom. She suggests arranging custom tiles in graphic patterns like chevron to enhance their uniqueness. For those seeking texture and dimension, Granada Tile’s new Relief collection, launched after extensive development, masterfully combines color with unexpected tactile elements. Melanie Stephens, director of design and marketing, explains that these tiles achieve a tone-on-tone effect by contrasting a highly polished top surface with the matte finish of indented areas. Each pattern is available in four colors from Granada’s 40-color palette, with certain designs, like Tangalle, lending themselves to specific earth and rock tones. Textured tiles are also used to create futuristic and dynamic wall statements. The Tile Shop’s Yara Metal hex ceramic wall tile series, available in metallic black, silver, or white with a 3D geometric pattern, adds a reflective and conversational element. Pittsburgh designer Lauren Levant champions sculptural wavy tiles from Porcelanosa, emphasizing how textured tiles, made from materials like natural stone, porcelain, wood, metal, and glass, can introduce depth and allow light to interact beautifully with the surface. Even the classic subway tile receives a modern update. San Francisco designer Jon de la Cruz, known for the 2017 House Beautiful Kitchen of the Year, recommends Fireclay Tile’s handmade glazed thin brick. These recycled brick tiles offer texture and rich, saturated colors that suit both traditional and modern aesthetics, making them ideal for kitchen backsplashes and fireplace surrounds, adding a subtle patina while maintaining a clean and fresh look. The abundance of colorful and textural tile options makes decorating exciting, with the primary challenge being deciding where to begin. #TileDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #CementTiles #NatureInspiredDesign #ColorPalette #CustomTiles #TexturedTiles #ModernTiling

The online tile retailer clé has unveiled its new Artist Cement Collection, a series of handmade encaustic cement tiles. This collection is a collaborative effort, featuring designs from eleven artist studios spanning Europe, South America, and the United States. The curated group of artists, architects, designers, and sculptors includes ALT for Living, Boris Aldridge, Coletivo Muda, Deborah Osburn, Erica Tanov, Gachot Studios, John Whitmarsh, Michelle Weinberg, Ruan Hoffmann, Sarah & Ruby, and Smink Things. The Artist Cement Collection showcases a diverse range of aesthetic styles, moving from bold, graphic geometric patterns to motifs inspired by nature, and even incorporating typography. Each tile is available in 8-inch by 8-inch square and hexagonal formats, offering flexibility in design application. A key feature of these tiles is their pre-polished and pre-sealed finish, which enhances their durability and versatility. This treatment makes them suitable for a wide array of applications, both indoors and outdoors, and for installation on either walls or floors, expanding their potential use in various architectural and interior design projects. Among the featured designs, Coletivo Muda contributes the 'Lagoa' tile, which appears multiple times in the illustrations, highlighting its distinct appeal. Michelle Weinberg's contributions include 'Pattern 1' and 'Pattern 2,' demonstrating a varied artistic approach. Smink Things presents several designs that bear its studio name, indicating a unique and recognizable style. Ruan Hoffmann offers a selection of patterns, including 'Amsterdam Express,' 'Arrow Dynamic,' and 'Bio Circuit,' each bringing a different visual narrative to the collection. Deborah Osburn's 'Manuscript Letters' introduces a textual element, adding another dimension to the tile offerings. Boris Aldridge provides 'Pattern 4' and 'Pattern 5,' showcasing his design philosophy. Gachot Studios also features 'Pattern 4,' suggesting a potentially different interpretation or variation from Aldridge's similarly named pattern. Erica Tanov presents 'Baccio' and 'Jacobson,' contributing unique artistic expressions. Finally, Sarah and Ruby's 'Pattern 5' completes the selection of artists and their designs, ensuring a rich and diverse collection for consumers and designers. The collection emphasizes both artistic expression and practical application. The use of cement as a medium for these artistic designs provides a tactile and durable surface, while the handcrafted nature of the tiles ensures uniqueness in each piece. The curated selection of artists from various global locations brings a wide spectrum of cultural and artistic influences to the collection, allowing for a broad appeal across different design preferences and styles. The collection aims to provide distinctive and high-quality options for residential and commercial spaces, allowing for personalization and artistic flair in surface design. #CementTiles #ArtistDesigned #EncausticTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TileCollection #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #GlobalArtists

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

The Cersaie 2019 exhibition highlighted a significant resurgence in the use of decorative ceramic tiles as a versatile and expressive cladding material. This trend showcases ceramics' ability to emulate natural materials such as wood, stone, marble, and concrete, while also establishing its unique aesthetic identity through innovative decorative applications. Manufacturers presented a wide array of formats, colors, and designs, transforming surfaces into opportunities for artistic and formal experimentation, with a particular focus on covering large areas using maxi slabs and extra-large tiles to ensure graphic continuity. Del Conca, celebrating its 40th anniversary, introduced the 'Timeline Seventy-Nine' collection, characterized by soft tones and sweeping surfaces. The decorative motifs in this collection draw inspiration from imperfection, featuring textile textures with interrupted designs that evoke the elegance of aged tapestries or rugs, adding a sense of dilapidated sophistication to walls. Ragno's new 'Maiora_Concrete Effect Botanical' line combines large, thin slabs with intricate natural and floral graphics. This collection, including three extra-large models (120x278 cm), can be used individually or in bold wall compositions. The designs uniquely contrast concrete-effect backgrounds with vintage botanical decorations, pushing the boundaries of ceramic surface application. 41zero42 unveiled 'Louis,' a new family of decorated tiles with floral inspirations, as part of their 'Paper41 Lux' collection. This line utilizes photographic hyper-realism and advanced digital printing, incorporating a resin into the ceramic mix to achieve particularly brilliant, resistant surfaces with vivid reflections and chromatic intensity. Florim, in collaboration with Rubelli, presented 'i Filati di Rex,' a collection that meticulously translates motifs from prized textiles onto ceramic surfaces. This innovative stylistic approach enhances the material's expressive potential, creating visually detailed surfaces that resemble fabric wallpapers, with nine decorative motifs inspired by nature and art spread across large tiles. Devon&Devon;'s 'Décor Slabs' collection uses pure gold as its foundation, offering large-format ceramic slabs that interpret Art Deco motifs through advanced digital inkjet printing. The extra-large sizes minimize seams, ensuring a clean and perfect aesthetic. The collection features two themes: 'Acanthus,' inspired by acanthus leaves and available in six colors, and 'Peacock,' a stylized reinterpretation of peacock plumage on white or sage backgrounds. Fap Ceramiche introduced 'Bloom,' a collection of large 80x160 cm tiles designed to create a wallpaper effect with remarkable materialistic and graphic qualities. These lightweight tiles are easy to install, with maxi decorations ranging from floral themes to warm, faded colors and sparkling metallic inserts. Mutina's ceramic decorations emphasize the versatility of clay, a moldable mineral compound used for tactile and chromatic experimentation. Their display at Cersaie 2019, an 'Alphabet' stand, showcased over ten years of production, highlighting their consistent exploration of whites, blacks, and neutral tones. Ceramiche Refin's 'Vetri' collection focuses on brightness and transparency, utilizing advanced production technologies to give porcelain stoneware the expressive qualities of crystal. Delicate shades at tile borders create depth, while a glossy finish reflects light. The collection features an evanescent color range and natural glass tones, with geometric decors like 'Piet' inspired by Mondrian. Marca Corona's 'Victoria' collection, exhibited at Cersaie 2019, features geometries and reliefs inspired by classic English aesthetics. These ceramic surfaces create exclusive environments with soft tones like aqua green, silver grey, and beige vanilla. Ornamental tiles include three-dimensional textures and molded panels with a boiserie effect, reimagining Victorian-era bathrooms. Another collection from Marca Corona, 'Overclay,' presents decorative porcelain stoneware with sandy shades inspired by desert tones, evoking Moroccan souks through faded and dilapidated effects, creating relaxing atmospheres with Rose and Cotto accents. Finally, Ceramica Sant’Agostino’s 'Spring' collection utilizes glazed double-firing to enhance vibrant colors and decorative textures, expressed through 3D reliefs or fantastical graphics that mimic wallpaper effects. Ceramica Francesco De Maio reissued Gio Ponti's 'Blu Ponti' collection, featuring 33 decorated majolica tiles in white and blue, showcasing hand-printed designs that pay tribute to Italian ceramic heritage and design mastery. #DecorativeTiles #CeramicCladding #Cersaie2019 #InteriorDesignTrends #ArchitecturalSurfaces #MaterialInnovation #HomeDecoration #SurfaceDesign #TileTrends

Natural stone company Ca' Pietra has unveiled a new tile collection that draws inspiration from hand-crafted Italian pottery. This collection is designed to instantly transform any room, featuring authentic and eclectic designs with strong shading and tone variations, reminiscent of artisan work. The range offers five distinct styles, each capable of creating a striking aesthetic in a home. The available colors include the vibrant Ocean Blue, the earthy Kale Green, the subtle Khaki Smoke, and the calming Oatmeal and Natural Cotton. These versatile tiles are suitable for both interior walls and floors, as well as exterior wall applications. They come in rectangular and brick formats, providing flexibility in arrangement to suit various design preferences. For those looking to make a bold statement, the 'Ocean Blue' option is recommended, while 'Natural Cotton' is ideal for a softer, more subdued look. Hamish Smith, Creative Director at Ca' Pietra, highlights the unique characteristic of this collection: its inherent irregularities when laid. He encourages embracing these imperfections, as they contribute to a distinctive character and impart a rustic, lived-in feel to spaces. Smith notes that the inspiration for this porcelain tile collection came from a beautiful pottery range discovered in Italy, making it suitable for a wide array of indoor and outdoor wall applications. The five tile designs are currently available for purchase online. To assist customers in making their selection and visualizing how the tiles will appear in their homes, Ca' Pietra offers sample swatches starting from £1. This new collection offers homeowners an opportunity to infuse their living spaces with a touch of hand-crafted elegance and unique charm. #TileCollection #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #CaPietra #PotteryInspired #WallTiles #FloorTiles #RusticVibe #ItalianInfluence

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

Dwell and Concrete Collaborative have launched a new multipurpose line of handcrafted tiles, the Strands Collection, drawing inspiration from California surf culture and shared design ideals. The partnership brings together two women-founded companies, leveraging Concrete Collaborative's extensive knowledge in concrete and Dwell's design focus. These tiles, designed by architect Chris Deam, are characterized by bold midcentury colors and are created using an encaustic process, where pigmented clay is inlaid into each concrete tile rather than glazed on top. This traditional method ensures a durable finish suitable for various applications, including bathroom floors, kitchen backsplashes, and courtyards. The collaboration builds on Concrete Collaborative's existing Strands Collection and reflects their strategy of partnering with the architecture and design community to foster innovative designs. Kate Balsis, a founding partner at Concrete Collaborative, highlighted the synergy between the two companies and the shared goal of inspiring customers. The manufacturing process involves creating tiles in small batches, where the color is an integral part of the form, fused under high pressure from a cement mixture pressed into metal molds. This results in a product specifically engineered for use in wet areas and high-traffic spaces, possessing an organic, handmade feel while offering a long-wearing, commercial-grade finish. The concrete solution features a high-density, low-porosity formula for sophistication and durability, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Architect Chris Deam, husband of Dwell founder Lara Deam, conceived the tile designs. His inspiration stemmed from a long-standing fascination with pattern-making, particularly the repeating designs of William Morris, and his recent immersion in surfboard design during the COVID-19 lockdown. Deam, an avid surfer, translated various surfboard tail shapes into tile designs after studying how different boards affect the experience of riding a wave. He emphasizes that his approach to tile design considers not only visual presentation but also how the geometry of repeating structures relates to the surrounding architecture. The collection features five distinct styles, which can be purchased individually or as a mixed box for diverse combinations. These styles include the Squash, Swallow, Pin, Wave, and Stringer designs. The Squash, Swallow, and Pin designs offer numerous possibilities for mixing and matching, available in five standard colors: ochre, navy, olive, taupe, and a cool blue. The Wave tile boasts clean lines and a distinctive pinstripe detail, providing additional options for graphic wall or floor installations. The Stringer tile, a hexagonal form with subtle tick marks, reinforces geometric aesthetics. Deam intends for these tiles to be smart, fresh, functional, and versatile, serving as a starting point for individuals to express their own design vision, aligning with Dwell's foundational principles. The Concrete Collaborative website provides further information and sample ordering for the Dwell collection. #TileDesign #ConcreteCollaborative #DwellCollaboration #SurfCultureInspired #EncausticTiles #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalTiles #HomeDecor #ModernTiles

Michael Bublé and Luisana Lopilato's open-plan living room showcases a modern aesthetic, primarily in black and white, with one notable exception: an exposed brick wall. This feature introduces a tactile element that challenges traditional smooth accent walls. Designer Shanade McAllister-Fisher notes that exposed brickwork creates strong focal points and a naturally warm atmosphere, making it suitable for bedrooms or living spaces aiming for coziness. The growing popularity of exposed brick is attributed to its sensorial and organic nature, offering a calming contrast in a technology-driven world. This trend is expected to gain momentum in 2025, with interior designers focusing on sensorial design to reconnect people with their surroundings. Wallsauce's 2025 design trends report highlights a shift towards organic styles with futuristic elements, emphasizing the importance of human connection. Integrating an exposed brick wall, like the one in the Bublé-Lopilato residence, serves as a significant step in this direction. Amy Stansfield from Wallsauce explains that sensorial design will prioritize tactile experiences through various fabrics such as wool and linen, alongside textured walls and ceilings. While installing a genuine exposed brick wall can be complex and costly, more accessible alternatives are available. Faux texture murals, mimicking brick, stone, marble, and concrete, offer a cost-effective way to achieve the desired aesthetic without extensive renovations. Beyond the exposed brick, the article highlights Michael Bublé and Luisana Lopilato's 'deconstructed gallery wall,' positioned in front of the brick feature. This element is presented as an equally effective yet simpler way to incorporate trending design. The concept allows for easy replication using readily available items. The piece concludes by suggesting that the exposed brick wall, combined with elements like the deconstructed gallery, exemplifies a trending design approach that balances modern aesthetics with tactile, organic textures, setting a precedent for interior design in the coming years. This blend of sleek modernity and natural textures offers homeowners diverse options for updating their living spaces. #MichaelBuble #LuisanaLopilato #ExposedBrickWall #SensorialDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #AccentWalls #TactileDecor #ModernAesthetic #HomeDecor

Susan Alexandra, known for its vibrant and beaded accessories, has opened a new store in New York City's Lower East Side, offering a colorful and whimsical retail experience. The store's design, spearheaded by founder Susan Korn in collaboration with Lula Galeano of Studio Galeon and Levi Shaw-Faber of Wiggle Room, transforms the space into a 'pigmented oasis' that draws inspiration from playful, retro aesthetics like '80s roller rinks, watermelons, and bananas. This design ethos extends beyond a mere shopping destination, providing a source of innovative and bold home decor inspiration that can be adapted for various personal styles. The store's exterior immediately captures attention with its bright yellow facade, setting the tone for the interior's vibrant color palette and unique architectural elements. One notable feature is the beaded banana door handle, a whimsical detail that exemplifies the brand's playful approach. Inside, the design incorporates several distinct elements that can be translated into residential settings. For instance, colored-glass bricks are used to create custom archways, room partitions, and corner tables, introducing a burst of color and a disco-like ambiance while minimizing the need for traditional wall hangings. This approach suggests an alternative to conventional wall decor, using structural elements to infuse color and light into a space. Another design technique highlighted in the store is color-blocking the ceiling and the top quarter of the walls, a concept referred to as 'Accent Wall 2.0.' This method creates a dynamic feel in any room and can be further enhanced by painting accent shelves and cubby spaces to match, integrating storage with the overall color scheme. The use of mosaics, described as a supersized version of Susan Alexandra's beaded bags, is prevalent throughout the store. Multicolored tiles in various shapes and sizes are employed to craft custom images and patterns, effectively embedding visuals directly into the walls, offering a creative alternative to wallpaper or paint for personalization. Lighting also plays a significant role in the store's design, featuring bespoke elements such as giant fruit sconces and intricate beaded chandeliers. While these are custom creations, the article suggests that antique and modern lighting fixtures can serve a similar purpose in residential interiors, introducing interesting colors and silhouettes that act as bold decorative choices. An example provided is the Matin wall sconce from Hay, illustrating how specific lighting pieces can contribute to a space's overall aesthetic. These design choices collectively offer a blueprint for homeowners looking to incorporate vivid colors, unique textures, and playful elements into their living spaces, moving away from neutral palettes toward more expressive and personalized interiors. #StoreDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #ColorBlocking #MosaicTiles #LightingDesign #RetailSpace #SusanAlexandra #NewYorkCity

Studio GdB, founded by Gilles de Brock and Jaap Giesen in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands, has revolutionized ceramic tile production through the development of a custom-built digital printer. This innovative machine allows for the computer-controlled application of liquid glazes onto ceramic tiles in their biscuit state, resulting in unique and highly customizable designs. The studio's process addresses a previous limitation in finding suitable finishes for their design vision, prompting them to engineer their own solution. This bespoke technology enables them to create a diverse range of patterns and vibrant color schemes, offering endless possibilities for aesthetic expression in tile design. The tiles produced by Studio GdB are characterized by their bold colors and visually complex, almost psychedelic patterns, which evoke a handmade quality despite being digitally fabricated. This blend of precision engineering and artistic flair allows for a broad spectrum of design choices, from subtle and understated to highly intricate and elaborate, catering to various design preferences. The custom printer's capability to accurately apply liquid glazes directly onto the ceramic surface ensures a high level of detail and consistency in each tile, surpassing the limitations of conventional manufacturing methods. The development of this specialized machinery highlights a creative approach to overcoming technical challenges in the design and production of ceramic tiles. By taking control of the manufacturing process, Studio GdB has opened up new avenues for customization and artistic experimentation within the realm of interior design materials. The studio's commitment to innovation has enabled them to achieve desired finishes that were previously unavailable, offering designers and consumers access to truly distinct and personalized tile options for various applications, from staircases to coffee tables and backsplashes. The resulting product line from Studio GdB provides an opportunity for integrating unique and visually striking elements into interior spaces, allowing for highly personalized and dynamic environments. The ability to create seemingly infinite patterns and color combinations means that each project can feature a bespoke tile installation, reflecting individual tastes and design concepts. This innovative method bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern technology, creating ceramic tiles that are both a functional building material and a work of art. The tiles are suitable for diverse settings, adding a distinctive touch to both residential and commercial projects. #CeramicTiles #DigitalPrinting #CustomDesign #InteriorDesign #StudioGdB #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalSurfaces #GlazeApplication #InnovativeManufacturing