Ceramiche Keope adds two stone-effect finishes to Omnia tile collection

Ceramiche Refin has unveiled its latest collection of porcelain tiles, named Blended, which intricately merges the diverse textures and aesthetics of natural geological elements. This new range is designed to replicate and combine the tactile grain of quartzite, the distinctive veining of French limestone, and the warm, earthy tones found in the sandstone formations of the Wadi Rum desert. The Blended collection forms a harmonious hybrid material, creating a visual and tactile experience that evokes the natural world. The inspiration for the Blended tiles stems from Earth's multi-faceted geology, aiming to encapsulate the authentic markings and shadings found in various natural stones and sands. The brand emphasizes that the collection achieves a sustained yet balanced rhythm by blending these different textures, some more pronounced than others, to create a surface that mirrors a real slab of earth. This approach allows for a sophisticated design that celebrates the organic beauty of natural materials while leveraging the durability and versatility of porcelain. Blended tiles are offered in five distinct colors, reflecting a palette that spans from cool to warm tones. These include grey, natural, white, beige, and dark, with Natural specifically described as an orangey neutral shade. This variety in color ensures that the tiles can complement a wide array of interior and exterior design schemes, offering flexibility for different aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Each tile within the collection features a unique pattern, preventing repetition and contributing to the overall natural and organic appearance of the installed surface. Functionality is a key aspect of the Blended collection, as the tiles are engineered for use on both floors and walls, and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. This versatility enables designers and homeowners to create seamless transitions between different architectural features and spaces. The ability to extend the same tiling from an indoor living area to an outdoor patio, for instance, helps to blur the boundaries between internal and external environments, fostering a sense of continuity and openness. This characteristic makes the Blended range particularly well-suited for interiors that draw inspiration from nature, seeking to integrate and contaminate the outdoors within the living space. The introduction of the Blended collection follows Ceramiche Refin's previous release, Riflessi tiles, which incorporated Mediterranean colors, patterns, and traditional craft techniques. Both collections demonstrate Ceramiche Refin's commitment to exploring diverse natural and cultural inspirations to create innovative and aesthetically rich tiling solutions. The Blended collection, with its focus on geological hybridity and seamless indoor-outdoor application, represents a sophisticated offering for contemporary design projects aiming to connect with nature. #CeramicheRefin #PorcelainTiles #NaturalStone #HomeInteriors #OutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #MaterialInnovation #InteriorDesign #SurfaceMaterials

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

Italian tile brand Ceramiche Keope has showcased a diverse range of tiles on Dezeen Showroom, drawing inspiration from natural elements and various design aesthetics. Among the featured products is the Onice tile, crafted from light-reflecting onyx. This tile is available in three distinct color options: Pearl, a cool gray shade; Honey, a warm, light-colored tone reminiscent of sunlight; and Multicolour, a blend of sea-like greens and yellows. Onice tiles are suitable for both floors and walls, and their reflective surfaces are designed to add depth to any setting. Another collection, Ubik, emulates the veined surface of natural slate. These tiles are offered in five neutral colors and are versatile enough for interior spaces, including living rooms and bathrooms, as well as outdoor areas like walkways, courtyards, and rooftops, due to their resistance to harsh weather conditions. The 9Cento tile collection, made from a combination of marble and porcelain stoneware, draws inspiration from art deco design. This collection features various styles, such as Alba Oro, a gold tile with caramel flecks, and Ombra Mocha, a coffee-brown tile with terracotta streaks. For those seeking an urban aesthetic, the Ikon tiles are designed to mimic the appearance of concrete. These tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and are available in multiple sizes, thicknesses, and colors. Completing the showcased range is the Omnia tile, which is designed to resemble ancient stone. This collection is suitable for both home and commercial applications, featuring a non-slip surface capable of withstanding high levels of foot traffic. Omnia tiles can be used on both walls and floors. Ceramiche Keope, an Italian ceramic company established in 1955 as part of the Concorde Group, specializes in producing porcelain stoneware for interior and exterior floor and wall coverings. The brand's design philosophy is deeply rooted in natural stone, which continues to be a primary source of inspiration. In recent collections, Ceramiche Keope has also incorporated influences from other materials, such as concrete, wood, and marble, to create innovative tile designs. #CeramicheKeope #TileDesign #InteriorDesign #ExteriorDesign #NaturalStone #ArtDeco #PorcelainStoneware #OnyxTiles #SlateEffect

This article highlights seven new products recently featured on Dezeen Showroom, encompassing a range of interior design elements from tiles and wallpaper to furniture, lighting, and textiles. The collection includes the Geo tile range by Italian brand Ceramiche Keope, characterized by six nature-inspired colors and delicate patterns that evoke raw earth. These versatile tiles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, providing a silky and tactile surface underfoot. Another featured product is a series of wallpapers from the German brand Wallpaper from the 70s. These designs integrate authentic 1970s patterns with contemporary materials, offering options such as a minimalist geometric herringbone, a bold graphic hexagonal motif, and various colorful floral designs. These wallpapers aim to blend retro aesthetics with modern durability and application. The Sova Lounge chair, designed by French designer Patrick Norguet for the Bosnian furniture company Zanat, is also presented. This lounge chair features a curved foam backrest for enhanced comfort and a solid wood frame available in maple, walnut, or oak. The seat and backrest can be customized with a selection of fabric or leather upholstery, emphasizing both ergonomic design and material choice. Ambientec, a Japanese brand, introduces the Xtal lighting series, designed by Ryuichi Kozeki. These portable table lamps are crafted from hand-cut crystal glass, producing a refracted glow reminiscent of candlelight. Their water-resistant properties make them suitable for diverse environments, including outdoor settings and bathrooms. Ceramiche Keope expands its offerings with the Elements Lux tile collection, featuring two new marble-like veining colors: Calacatta Verde, with green veins of varying weights, and Calacatta Statuarietto, characterized by fine grey and gold veining. These tiles provide luxurious aesthetic options for surfaces. From Danish brand Ca'lyah, the Versus tapestries by designer Margrethe Odgaard are highlighted. This collection of bright wall hangings draws inspiration from the colors of Kathmandu, Nepal. The tapestries are meticulously handwoven by Himalayan craftspeople using the traditional Tibetan Knot technique, utilizing wool and silk fibers to create rich textures and vibrant designs. Finally, the Cloe rug collection by Italian brand Sit-in is featured. These rugs, available in circular and rectangular shapes, boast a soft, thick pile designed to complement various living spaces. The collection offers six color options, including peach, rope, stone, teal, terracotta, and vandyke, allowing for diverse interior coordination. #DezeenShowroom #InteriorDesign #Tiles #Wallpaper #Furniture #Lighting #Tapestries #Rugs #HomeDecor

The annual ceramic-tile and natural-stone conference, Coverings 2023, held in Orlando, Florida, showcased a significant trend towards graphic-driven designs in tile and stone. The event highlighted innovative and visually compelling products from various manufacturers, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and advancements in material science and sustainability. The selections from the exhibition demonstrate a move towards bolder patterns, sophisticated textures, and environmentally conscious production methods. Anthology Tile presented its Matisse Moonstone ceramic tile, which features a distinctive design inspired by artistic aesthetics. Emilceramica, through its Ergon brand, introduced Pigmento Amaranto indoor/outdoor porcelain wall/floor tiles and large slim-line slabs. These products draw inspiration from the appearance of hand-troweled cement resin, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern durability suitable for various applications. Ceramica Bardelli featured Storagemilano’s Volume white-body porous single-fired wall tiles, distinguished by their extra-glossy finish, adding a luxurious and refined touch to interior spaces. Vidrepur showcased its Belgirate recycled-glass mosaic tile, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and innovative material use. This mosaic tile offers an eco-friendly option without compromising on design quality. Sicis contributed with its Ragtime ceramic mosaic tile, which presents intricate patterns and a classic aesthetic. Lea Ceramiche highlighted Ferruccio Laviani’s Pigmenti, a collection of carbon-neutral, ultra-thin, laminated porcelain stoneware slabs. This product line is notable for its environmental responsibility and its advanced manufacturing techniques that allow for slim profiles and vibrant pigmentation. Ceramica Fioranese’s Riggiole Nero Mix porcelain tiles combine traditional influences with contemporary design. These tiles offer a rich visual texture and are suitable for diverse design schemes. Lastly, Ascot introduced the Joyce Decor Optical porcelain stoneware tiles, which feature dynamic optical patterns. These tiles contribute to creating visually stimulating environments, leveraging geometric and abstract designs to enhance interior aesthetics. Collectively, these highlights from Coverings 2023 indicate a strong emphasis on innovative design, material diversity, and a growing consciousness towards sustainable practices within the tile and stone industry. #Coverings #TileDesign #StoneDesigns #CeramicTile #PorcelainStoneware #InteriorDesign #ProductShowcase #SustainableMaterials

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

Ceramiche Refin, an Italian tile manufacturer established in 1962, has introduced its latest porcelain tile collection named Craft. This new range draws inspiration from the aesthetic of hand-applied cement surfaces, aiming to replicate the unique marks, strokes, and shadows typically found on architectural finishes created manually. The design philosophy behind Craft is to imbue industrial products with an artisanal feel, moving away from a uniformly manufactured appearance to one that suggests handmade origin. The in-house design team at Ceramiche Refin conducted extensive research into traditional craft techniques and the inherent characteristics of cement materials from various sources. This investigative process informed the development of surface patterns that faithfully reproduce the visual effects of hand-troweled cement. The resulting ceramic tiles exhibit a non-uniform aesthetic, characterized by a range of tonal differences, from light to dark shades, and visible brush strokes and tool marks, all of which are hallmarks of materials applied by hand. Craft tiles are engineered from grés porcelain, a material known for its durability and resilience. The manufacturing process involves vitrification, where clay is compacted under hydraulic pressure and then fired in a kiln. This process significantly reduces the material's porosity, rendering the tiles highly resistant to common issues such as stains, scratches, frost, and chemical damage. These robust properties make the Craft collection suitable for a wide array of applications, including both indoor and outdoor installations. To cater to diverse design requirements and spatial dimensions, the Craft collection is available in several sizes. Larger formats, including 120 by 240 centimeters and 120 by 120 centimeters, are specifically designed for more expansive areas such as public spaces and building facades. For smaller areas and residential projects, the collection offers more compact sizes, including 60 by 120 centimeters, 60 by 60 centimeters, and 30 by 60 centimeters. This variety in sizing provides flexibility for architects and designers to integrate the tiles into different scales of projects. Color options for the Craft range are thoughtfully selected to enhance the cement-inspired aesthetic. The collection offers four distinct colors: Rice, Tan, Cloud, and Fog, which span a spectrum from lighter to darker tones. These color choices, combined with the textured patterns, allow for the creation of various moods and atmospheres, from bright and airy to more subdued and earthy environments. Ceramiche Refin leverages state-of-the-art manufacturing processes that integrate advanced surface texture techniques with digital printing. This technological sophistication enables the company to produce contemporary tile collections that are versatile enough for a broad range of design applications. The Craft collection stands as an example of how modern industrial production can be utilized to mimic and celebrate traditional artisanal craftsmanship. Prior to the Craft collection, Ceramiche Refin has launched other innovative tile series, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to design and material exploration. These include a collection inspired by fabric textures, known as Arte Pura, developed in collaboration with Daniela Dallavalle, and a range called Wide, which features patterns of lines and grids that simulate hand-drawn chalk designs. These previous collections, much like Craft, aim to bring unique visual and tactile experiences to ceramic tile surfaces. The Craft collection is positioned as a sophisticated option for those seeking the raw, authentic look of hand-applied cement with the superior performance and versatility of porcelain tiles. #CeramicheRefin #CraftTiles #PorcelainTiles #CementSurfaces #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalFinishes #TileDesign #MaterialInnovation #HomeDecoration

The article explores the evolving landscape of decorative ceramic tiles, drawing inspiration from historical designs, contemporary graphics, and multi-color patterns, as showcased at Cersaie 2022. It highlights how these tiles are transitioning from invisible coverings to central elements of home décor, capable of defining spaces and enriching surfaces. The ease of installation, particularly with classic 20x20 cm tiles, facilitates their versatile application. Several brands are leading this design revolution. Ceramica Vietrese, for instance, introduced its 'Melody' collection of hand-decorated double-fired tiles. This line features a wide array of geometric patterns inspired by musical rhythms and the vibrant colors of the Amalfi coast, reinterpreted through precise graphics. Ceramica Francesco De Maio presented the 'Il Duomo' collection, meticulously hand-painted with geometric motifs reminiscent of the Amalfi Cathedral. This collection fuses traditions, cultures, and architectural styles, translating historical elements from Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque influences into stylized forms. Additionally, the brand collaborated with Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva to create the 'Carpet' collection, which emulates the visual effect of rugs on floors, incorporating Mediterranean color palettes and a distinctive fringed pattern. Marca Corona's 'Terracreta' collection transforms raw material into a creative medium, offering diverse formats and vibrant surface treatments. Primarily designed for domestic environments, it combines the tactile qualities of clay with artisanal decorative techniques on porcelain stoneware. This approach results in realistic handmade effects and ornamental motifs that alternate between glossy, matte, and three-dimensional finishes, enlivening walls and floors with dynamic patterns. The Terracreta series offers four neutral backgrounds complemented by three decoration types—'Incisione,' 'Inclusione,' and 'Dipinto'—allowing for flexible pairing and expressive material potential. Ceramica Sant’Agostino expanded its 'Insideart' collection with 'Insideart Color,' introducing five new vibrant shades: Mint, Sunset, Aloe, Aqua, and Forest. This line also features 'Paint,' a mini-collection of 20x20 cm tiles with geometric designs that create dynamic textures through serial repetition, blending a resin effect with graphic artistry. CIR-Manifatture Ceramiche’s 'Tadelakt' collection draws inspiration from the ancient Moroccan lime technique, featuring rich colors and shades. This collection offers a synthesis of craftsmanship and design, interpreting contemporary wall coverings with a historical touch. It builds an organic design concept around bold color palettes, integrating floors, walls, mosaics, and wallpaper decorations. Paola Navone’s 'Poetry Decor' collection for ABK reinterprets decorated tiles by drawing on global inspirations. This collection boldly mixes materialistic effects with ornamental patterns, creating unique combinations that evoke worn plaster, oxidized sheet metal, and original graphic textures with a handmade feel. Finally, the 'Riggiole' collection by Fioranese, a collaboration with Davide Tonelli, modernizes traditional Neapolitan decorative ceramic tiles. It employs a striking black and white contrast and incorporates intentionally imperfect handmade marks and worn surface effects. The collection also features an unusual 90x90 cm format that reproduces ornamental motifs in a macro version, alongside classic 20x20 cm tiles that can be freely mixed and matched from 30 available graphics, thus blending historical references with contemporary appeal. #CeramicTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #Cersaie2022 #ArchitecturalSurfaces #HandmadeTiles #PorcelainStoneware #DecorativePatterns

The article discusses the significant advancements in ceramic tile technology, which have led to the creation of hyper-realistic tiles that convincingly mimic expensive and sensitive natural materials. Historically, material-look ceramic tiles were often associated with poor quality and obvious artificiality, particularly for finishes like marble. However, modern porcelain technology has revolutionized this, offering uniquely beautiful and genuine recreations of various materials. These advanced ceramic tiles provide an affordable and low-maintenance alternative to their natural counterparts, enabling homeowners to incorporate luxurious looks without the practical challenges. The range of materials mimicked has expanded beyond traditional white marble to include a variety of on-trend options, making sophisticated designs more accessible and manageable. One intriguing example highlighted is cork-look ceramic tiles. These tiles capture the distinctive textural and visual appeal of natural cork without its inherent maintenance issues. Florim's team notes that these cork-inspired surfaces introduce an unexpected tactile and visual component, featuring a balanced texture and tone that creates a warmer, more sophisticated aesthetic. This ceramic reinterpretation preserves cork's charm while offering resistance, waterproofing, and durability, retaining the material's natural warmth. Travertine-effect tiles are another material gaining popularity. Travertine, known for its sandy tones and distinctive lined surface, has become a favorite among designers due to the rising trend of earthy color palettes and natural materials in interior design. Abbas Youssefi from Porcelain Superstore predicts that travertine-effect tiles, mimicking natural limestone, will be a significant trend. These tiles allow for the elegant look of travertine with increased durability and ease of care. Onyx-look tiles offer a unique and enchanting aesthetic. Natural onyx stone, typically found in deep black with white ribbons or other colors, possesses a sheer, ethereal quality. Lighter shades of onyx exhibit translucence, often enhanced with backlighting. However, natural onyx is a soft stone prone to scratches and wear, and it can be quite costly. Onyx-effect tiles provide an identical visual impact at a considerably lower price point, eliminating the maintenance stress associated with the natural stone. Finally, metal-look tiles are presented as a solution for achieving a cool, industrial design. While real high-shine metal surfaces are difficult to maintain, metallic-look ceramic tiles offer a practical alternative. CP Hart's Reflet collection, for example, represents an innovation in porcelain technology with a metal-effect surface that provides illuminating qualities, creating the illusion of brighter, more open spaces. This makes them ideal for smaller bathrooms. These tiles are robust rectified porcelain, 9mm thick, designed for wall applications, offering a sleek, contemporary edge without the maintenance challenges of real metal. The article concludes by emphasizing the remarkable accuracy of modern porcelain printing technology, making these copy-cat tiles almost indistinguishable from genuine materials, while still acknowledging the enduring appeal of classic options like zellige tiles. #TileFinishes #CeramicTiles #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesignTrends #MaterialRecreations #CorkLookTiles #TravertineEffect #OnyxLookTiles #MetalLookTiles

This article explores the diverse world of tiles and identifies key suppliers in the market, both local and international, offering various types of tiles to meet different consumer and project needs. The market presents a wide array of tile types, including ceramic, porcelain, vitrified, glazed, elevation, quartz stone, quarry, mosaic, pebble, Islamic, and glass tiles, catering to a broad spectrum of aesthetic and functional requirements. Several reputable tile suppliers are highlighted, each bringing unique offerings and strengths to the construction and interior design sectors. Ideal Ceramics, a prominent Kenyan supplier with over 30 years of experience, specializes in ceramic and porcelain tiles. Ceramic tiles are favored for their affordability, ease of installation, and variety of designs, making them popular among homeowners and affordable-housing developers. Porcelain tiles, known for their high quality, durability, and low water absorption rates, are suited for heavy-duty applications and offer a lifetime guarantee. Al Khaleej Ceramics Co. LLC, operating since 1996 under the brand name Grannitto, is a pioneer in manufacturing ceramic and porcelain tiles. They are recognized for their commitment to quality, utilizing advanced technology in their Dubai facility to ensure products meet BN, ES, ISO, and SASO standards, with a global production capacity of approximately 50,000 m2 per day. CTM Kenya, with over 15 years of experience in the African market, manufactures its signature 'Kilimanjaro tiles' designed for high-traffic areas, available in both matt and anti-slip finishes suitable for indoor and outdoor use. They also stock specialty anti-slip tiles for bathrooms and laundry areas. Cristol Ceramics, with 15 years of market presence, is known for its popular ceramic floor and wall tiles, valued for their availability, affordability, and diverse color options that seamlessly integrate with various project color schemes. Their focus on creativity and customer understanding has enabled them to serve a wide range of clients including prisons, banks, hotels, churches, schools, factories, and residential apartments across Kenya. PERGAS GROUP, although new to Kenya, brings over 20 years of international experience with a head office in the Middle East. They offer advanced technologies and high-quality construction materials, including wooden and glazed porcelain tiles, catering to evolving client preferences. Saj Ceramics, a leading East African supplier for two decades, manufactures all its products locally in Athi River, Nairobi, using Italian technology. They specialize in custom-made ceramic and porcelain tiles with digital printing options, available in various sizes, styles, and colors to suit different room dimensions, themes, utilities, and budgets. Azuvi, through continuous development in formats and designs, provides ceramic solutions for architectural applications, including facades, flooring, cladding, countertops, and furniture. Their product range features timeless shades and pleasant textures, offering versatile materials for unique combinations, with a strong emphasis on elegant and avant-garde ceramic decors like Peak, Stria, Dexa, and Montana. The article also provides essential guiding principles for consumers when selecting tiles. These factors include the intended use of the tile, such as durable options for heavy-traffic areas and anti-slip finishes for wet environments; the size of the space, where larger tiles are recommended for bigger areas to minimize joints and cutting; budget considerations, balancing cost with durability, as ceramic tiles are generally more affordable than porcelain; the importance of high quality for long-term value; and the availability of tiles for large projects and future maintenance or repairs. #TileSuppliers #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #BuildingMaterials #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ConstructionIndustry #FlooringSolutions #KenyanMarket

The Ceramics of Italy, an organization representing Italian tile brands, has released its 2019 trend report, highlighting key developments and aesthetic styles expected to influence architectural surfaces over the next year. This report acknowledges the rapid evolution within the tile industry, driven by advancements in cutting and digital printing technologies, and aims to provide guidance on emerging trends. The organization has identified seven prominent trends, offering examples of tile collections that embody these qualities. One significant trend is the emergence of "Neu surfaces," which focuses on innovative surface designs that go beyond traditional patterns and sizes. These surfaces are characterized by a wide array of new finishes and textures, engineered for both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. Examples include Ceramica Sant'Agostino Lakewood, which mimics oiled wood planks with a hand-planed texture, and Vallelunga Cava, featuring a marble design and satin finish reminiscent of ancient European church floors. Another trend, "Systems," indicates a broader approach by Italian tile manufacturers to offer comprehensive surfacing solutions. Initially, this involved diverse colors, finishes, sizes, and complementary decors. Now, with ongoing investments in production equipment, companies are expanding their range of thicknesses, with tiles varying from 3 to 30 millimeters. A notable addition is a new 12-millimeter-thick porcelain tile specifically designed for applications like kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, tables, and outdoor kitchens. "Tile play" emphasizes the growing demand for playful and unique tile designs. This trend includes three-dimensional tiles resembling giant Lego bricks, as seen in Marca Corona Bold, and tiles adorned with popular cartoon characters, like Del Conca Felix the Cat. Manufacturers are actively experimenting with color, size, and patterns to provide distinctive surfacing options for architects and designers. Custom solutions are also available, such as Ornamenta's capability to print large porcelain slabs in any Pantone color. "Lunar marble" represents a shift from common marble varieties to more obscure and characterful stones. Italian tile producers are exploring quarries globally for unique marbles or digitally manipulating natural stone aesthetics to create novel, otherworldly looks. Sicis' Vetrite collection, for instance, incorporates 13 gemstones amplified between glass sheets for its Gem Glass line, producing lunar-like landscapes. Similarly, Refin Stardust combines the nebulous veining of alabaster with metallic surface effects, drawing inspiration from the night sky. "The blues" highlights blue as a leading color in tile design for the year. This trend encompasses a spectrum of blues, from soft to electric, intended to introduce a revitalizing burst of color into various interiors. Cedit's Rilievi sculptural ceramic wallcoverings showcase intense blues reminiscent of contemporary artists, while Refin Creos and Provenza Vulcanika evoke the serene, shallow teal waters of the Mediterranean Sea. "Big patterns" leverage Italy's rich artistic heritage by rendering elaborate designs on large porcelain slabs with minimal grout lines. This creates an effect similar to wallpaper but with the technical advantages of ceramic. Some companies are marketing these products as "ceramic wallpaper," offering extensive catalogs of digitally printed patterns on tiles up to 5.25 by 10 feet. ABK's Dark Edition, inspired by the Gothic side of nature, and Fuoriformato's vibrant patterns on large ceramic surfaces that double as furnishing elements are examples of this trend. Finally, "Tradition" demonstrates how Italian tile manufacturers are reinterpreting historical forms, 18th-century patterns, and designs inspired by timeless places to create contemporary appeal. Collections like 14oraitaliana's Folk and Ceramica Sant'Agostino's Vita feature mixed and matched patterns that evoke Italian territories. Fioranese's Liquida slabs draw inspiration from 1950s-style wallpaper, and Provenza's Terraquea collection, with its earthy tones and textured surfaces, recalls traditional terracotta. These collections seamlessly blend historical aesthetics and cultural depth with modern technological innovations. #TileTrends #CeramicsOfItaly #ArchitecturalSurfaces #InteriorDesign #MaterialInnovation #ColorTrends #SurfaceDesign #ItalianTiles

The Melange Tile Collection, by Spanish brand WOW Design, introduces a line of ceramic tiles designed to create artistic ombré effects. This collection represents a shift in tile design, moving beyond traditional high-gloss finishes to embrace more subtle and nuanced aesthetics, drawing inspiration from textiles. The designers aimed to replicate the essence of tapestries, with their varied yarns and dyes that blend hues in gentle progressions, transferring this concept to interior surfaces. Employing a fusion of art and technology, Melange tiles are crafted from white body ceramic, a material choice that enhances the vibrancy of lighter glazes. This durability also makes them suitable for commercial interiors, offering resistance to stains and UV light. The collection addresses the growing demand from specifiers for versatile tiling options that allow for diverse applications and sequences. Melange features rectangular wall tiles measuring 4.2 by 21.3 inches, presented with a matte finish. This size is intentionally chosen to minimize the number of pieces required for tiling a standard room, which contributes to reduced waste and potentially lower project costs. The unique color transitions offered by the tiles can visually alter spaces, making rooms appear taller, narrower, or wider depending on their arrangement. The vertical orientation of these tiles mirrors the natural flow of drapery or wall hangings, providing a dynamic visual interest that contrasts with conventional horizontal layouts. This approach, combined with a palette of powdery tints, offers a refined update to ceramic tiling. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these tonal Melange tiles are practical for defining architectural features such as window frames or doorways. In retail environments, they can be utilized to highlight specific niches without overwhelming displays with overly complex patterns. The subtle depth achieved through light layers of color in each tile eliminates the need for busy motifs that might otherwise conflict with merchandise. WOW Design is recognized for its seasonal introduction of sophisticated hues, and the Melange collection continues this tradition by offering coordinating color groupings instead of isolated trendy shades. The curated colors are designed to evoke emotion and memory, akin to the impact of a scent or taste. The collection comprises 15 distinct tiles, organized into three sets of five. These include solid colors like Earth, Lake, and Cream, which can form clean, monochromatic backdrops. Additionally, two-tone combinations such as Talc-Rose or Sea-Cloud provide pastel chalk shadings, allowing clients to personalize their spaces and achieve unique interior designs. The Melange tile collection is set to become available in the United States in the upcoming fall season. #TileCollection #OmbreEffects #CeramicTiles #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #WOWDesign #TextileInspired #CommercialInteriors #ArchitecturalFeatures

Ariostea, an Italian ceramic tile manufacturer, has launched a new collection of tiles named Ultra Onici, which draws inspiration from the unique beauty and iridescent qualities of precious onyx stones. The collection was developed to merge the aesthetic appeal of natural onyx with the advanced technical performance and versatility offered by porcelain ceramics. Although onyx is traditionally recognized for its darker varieties, the Ultra Onici tiles are specifically inspired by the lighter forms of onyx, featuring a range of muted shades including grey, brown, and green. The design aims to replicate the intricate and deep transparent veining characteristic of natural onyx, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of this ancient stone. Ultra Onici tiles are presented as having an "almost magical appeal" and are available in eight distinct variations. These variations encompass a broad color palette, from shimmering greens and greys to warmer tones of beige, ivory, and peach. The collection includes two main styles: Onyx Vein Cut, which emphasizes a rich display of veins in diverse color combinations, and Onice, offering a more subdued and minimalist aesthetic. To further enhance their visual and tactile properties, these eight versions are offered in three different finishes: Lucidato Shiny, Levigato Silk, and Soft. Each finish is designed to interact uniquely with light, thereby creating a subtle and unprecedented ambiance in any space. This new Ultra Onici range represents an expansion and complement to Ariostea's existing collection. Ariostea has been an integral part of the Iris Ceramica Group since 1988, consistently focusing on leveraging technology to create innovative materials. An example of their past innovations includes a ceramic "wood" range introduced in 2007, which successfully mimicked natural wood without necessitating deforestation. The Ultra Onici tiles maintain this commitment to innovation. Remarkably thin at only six millimeters thick, the Ariostea Ultra tiles demonstrate high versatility, making them suitable for application on both floors and walls. Their adaptability extends to being applied to various objects and furnishing accessories, such as cabinets and tables, offering broad design possibilities. The thinness of the material is a key feature, allowing light to permeate the Onice Ultra slabs, creating a unique backlighting effect that highlights the material's inherent translucency. This characteristic transforms the tiles from mere surface coverings into elements capable of influencing the light and atmosphere of a room. Iris Ceramica highlights the exceptional combination of luxury and lightness in the Ultra Onici collection. The large format tiles, coupled with their minimal thickness, are engineered to achieve excellence in covering surfaces of both significant and modest dimensions. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these high-performance materials are designed for practicality and durability. They are waterproof, hygienic, and resistant to abrasion, scratches, and various chemical products, making them suitable for a wide array of residential and commercial applications. Further details on the Ultra Onici collection are accessible via Ariostea's official website. #Ariostea #CeramicTiles #UltraOnici #OnyxInspired #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #InnovativeMaterials #Porcelain #ProductDesign

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

Tiles are traditionally associated with bathrooms and kitchens, but interior designers are increasingly incorporating them into unexpected areas of the home and public spaces. This article explores innovative applications of tiles, moving beyond their conventional use to add rhythm, color, pattern, and scale to various interiors. In bedrooms, tiles, particularly those with warm hues like terracotta, are being used to introduce tactility and color. For example, Arles hotel L’Arlatan features handmade mosaic tiling throughout its bedrooms, creating a kaleidoscopic effect with 6,000 square meters of different colored and shaped tiles. While tiled flooring is practical in hot climates, in colder regions, tiles are being creatively applied to other surfaces. Fiandre Architectural Surfaces' Roc Ancien line demonstrates this by forming a patterned, wall-sized headboard. Casa Ceramica further exemplifies maximalist design by combining large, patterned floor tiles with textured wall paneling. Living rooms, typically characterized by softer elements, are also benefiting from the versatility of tiles. Italian brand Ceramiche Refin’s Affrescati range offers porcelain tiles that mimic painted surfaces, suitable for both floors and walls. In a Puglia villa, a neutral color palette is complemented by a stone mosaic floor that seamlessly connects the living space to the rest of the property. Another example is a converted London pie and mash shop, where original Victorian green-and-white wall tiles and clay-colored floor tiles wrap the ground floor, softened for domestic use with built-in cabinetry and glossy ceilings that evoke a lattice framework. Dining rooms and restaurant interiors showcase particularly bold uses of tiles. Bing Ting Cafe in Hull, a former butcher’s shop, integrates new tile expanses that echo its heritage-listed ornate wall and floor tiles, paired with brightly colored furniture and neon lighting. Oversized tiles at Palma hotel Concepció by Nobis create a striking contrast with stone arches. In Chandigarh, India, Renesā Architecture’s Tin Tin restaurant features a 'mosaic matrix' of hand-laid stone and terrazzo that covers counters, dining nooks, and floors, forming an intricate collage of grids. Madrid pastry store Cara Mela uses tiles to delineate spaces, with crisp white tiles in the counter area transitioning into a sea-green tiled dining space, illustrating a 'zonal' styling approach applicable to domestic settings. Beyond fixed surfaces, tiles are also being integrated into furniture. Designer Max Lamb’s Working Tile series, in collaboration with Japanese brand TAJIMI, features tiled seating. The Masquespacio-designed restaurant in Valencia extends its maximalist tiled walls to cover furniture, such as tables with a checkerboard pattern. Other furniture items like plinths, side tables, armchairs, and alcoves are also candidates for ceramic coverings. These examples highlight the growing trend of using tiles in diverse and imaginative ways to enhance interior aesthetics and functionality. #InteriorDesign #TileTrends #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #HomeDecoration #ArchitecturalSurfaces #MaximalistDesign #FurnitureDesign

Fireclay Tile, a West Coast tile specialist, has announced the launch of a new product category named Fireclay Bath, set to be available in November. This new line features customizable American-made bath fittings, developed in collaboration with a domestic foundry. The collection is designed to offer a wide range of aesthetic and functional choices for bathroom interiors. The Fireclay Bath line is comprehensive, encompassing various components from faucets and showers to ceramic knobs. The fittings include sculpted metal faucets and shower fixtures, which are produced with an emphasis on craftsmanship and design. A unique aspect of the collection is its ceramic knobs, which are molded from a wheel-thrown form, highlighting the brand's expertise in ceramic artistry and traditional manufacturing techniques. This approach ensures that each knob possesses a distinct, handcrafted quality. Customers will have extensive customization options, as the Fireclay Bath line is structured into four distinct series. Within these series, there are nine different spout designs available, allowing for varied aesthetic preferences and functional requirements. Additionally, the line offers 10 handle styles, providing further personalization for faucets and other fixtures. The metal components are available in 16 different finishes, ranging from classic to contemporary, enabling seamless integration with diverse bathroom design schemes. True to Fireclay Tile's core competency in tile glazing, the colors featured in the bath fittings collection are rich and deeply layered. This expertise is particularly evident in the ceramic knobs, which are presented in a vibrant palette. Examples of these colors include Thistle, Kalamata, Chaparral, Sweet Pea, Garnet, and Tiger’s Eye. These colors are chosen to offer both subtlety and striking contrast, allowing designers and homeowners to create visually appealing and harmonious bathroom environments. The emphasis on color and finish reflects a holistic approach to bathroom design, where every element contributes to the overall aesthetic and tactile experience. The collaboration with a domestic foundry for the production of metal fittings underscores Fireclay Tile's commitment to local manufacturing and quality control. This partnership ensures that the metal components meet high standards of durability and finish, complementing the handcrafted ceramic elements. The overall offering aims to provide a sophisticated and highly customizable solution for modern bathroom design, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design flexibility. #FireclayTile #BathFittings #CustomizableDesign #CeramicKnobs #MetalFinishes #AmericanMade #InteriorDesign #BathroomRemodel