ceramiche refin presents mendini-designed FILO tiles at CERSAIE 2014

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

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

The 2016 edition of Cersaie, a prominent tile exhibition in Bologna, Italy, showcased a diverse array of innovative ceramic tiles from various manufacturers. Interior Design's deputy editor, Edie Cohen, alongside designer Joan Michaels of 2Michaels, attended the event and highlighted several notable collections. These selections offer a glimpse into the trends and advancements in ceramic tile design, catering to a range of aesthetic preferences and functional requirements for modern interior spaces. The featured manufacturers demonstrated a commitment to both traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, presenting tiles suitable for various applications, from flooring and wall coverings to decorative accents. Antiche Fornaci D’Agostino presented tiles that likely emphasized classic Italian ceramic traditions, possibly featuring intricate patterns or historical motifs, reflecting a deep heritage in tile manufacturing. Bardelli, another distinguished manufacturer, showcased designs that often combine artistic flair with high-quality ceramics, known for their unique decorative patterns and collaborations with renowned designers. Cedit Ceramiche d’Italia introduced two distinct collections: Euridice and Archeologie. Euridice might have focused on modern, elegant aesthetics with refined textures and subtle color palettes, while Archeologie could have drawn inspiration from ancient surfaces and aged materials, offering a sense of history and depth to contemporary interiors. Florim, a major player in the ceramic industry, likely presented a broad spectrum of products, including large-format slabs, technical porcelain, or innovative surface finishes that mimic natural materials like stone, wood, or concrete. Francesco Di Maio's display included a Gio Ponti edition, indicating a collection that pays homage to the iconic Italian architect and designer, possibly featuring geometric patterns, vibrant colors, or a revival of classic designs from Ponti's oeuvre. Leonardo Ceramica showcased its District collection, which could have focused on urban-inspired designs, industrial aesthetics, or versatile modular systems suitable for modern architectural projects. Savoia presented multiple tile collections, suggesting a diverse range of styles from classic to contemporary, perhaps including varied textures, colors, and sizes that cater to different design sensibilities and functional needs. Lastly, Imola Ceramica featured its Marmononmaro collection. This particular line likely highlighted sophisticated marble-effect tiles, a perennial favorite in interior design for its luxurious appearance and durability. The "non-marmo" part of the name might suggest a twist on traditional marble, possibly incorporating unique veining, color variations, or a more contemporary interpretation of natural stone. These selections collectively illustrate the breadth of creativity and technological advancements within the ceramic tile industry, offering designers and homeowners alike a wealth of options for enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of interior and exterior spaces. The Cersaie exhibition served as a critical platform for these manufacturers to unveil their latest innovations and set trends for the upcoming year in surface design. #Cersaie2016 #CeramicTile #InteriorDesign #TileTrends #ItalianCeramics #DesignExhibition #SurfaceMaterials #ArchitecturalSurfaces

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

This article details the experience of attending Cersaie 2022, a major international trade show for the tile industry held in Bologna, Italy. The event, hosted at BolognaFiere, showcased the extensive capabilities and versatility of ceramic tiles, transforming what might be considered a mundane material into a product of spectacle and innovation. The author, a self-proclaimed recreational tile enthusiast, describes the overwhelming yet thrilling atmosphere of the exhibition, which featured over 90,000 manufacturers, salespeople, and enthusiasts across a venue large enough to dwarf multiple convention centers. A central theme emerging from the exhibition was the idea of tile as an optical illusion, where advanced manufacturing and design techniques allow ceramic to convincingly mimic other materials like rough-hewn wood, patinated copper, or various types of marble. While many tiles share a similar cool, flat feel, their visual representations are incredibly diverse and realistic. This versatility positions tile as a sustainable and practical alternative to natural materials, offering benefits in cost, transport, and maintenance, especially for large-scale applications like kitchen islands or backsplashes where natural stone would be prohibitively expensive or resource-intensive. The article highlights several key trends and innovative applications of tile observed at Cersaie. One prominent trend was "wallpaper tile," where ceramic tiles are designed to resemble wallpaper patterns. While not for everyone, these tiles offer a durable, easier-to-clean, and less fussy alternative to traditional wallpaper, suitable for areas like bathrooms or even for whimsical, maximalist floral designs in showers. Another significant trend was the hyper-realistic "marble tile," with manufacturers like Versace Tile pushing the boundaries of color and pattern to create opulent, fantastical marble aesthetics that would not be found in nature. The author notes the unique tactile experience of touching a faux marble tile that feels cool and ceramic rather than like natural stone. Furthermore, the exhibition featured tiles designed to imitate wood and copper. While wood-look tiles sometimes lack the natural warmth and texture of real wood, advancements in design allow some products to replicate both the look and feel of wood grain, catering to material purists. Copper-patina tiles were also showcased, offering an appealing and cost-effective alternative for feature walls or backsplashes. Beyond surface applications, the article delves into the emerging concept of "tile furniture." While ceramic-tiled coffee tables have existed, Cersaie presented more sophisticated pieces reminiscent of minimalist, stone-like aesthetics, suggesting tile as a lighter and more versatile option compared to heavy concrete for furniture. Finally, the article emphasizes a broader trend towards embracing color and playfulness in home design, advocating for the use of vibrantly colored tiles in unexpected ways to create cheerful and chic spaces, reflecting a post-pandemic desire for more exuberant home environments. #Cersaie2022 #TileTrends #CeramicDesign #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SustainableMaterials #DecorativeTiles #MaterialInnovation #ItalianCeramics

Cersaie 2022, the world’s largest exposition for ceramic tile manufacturers, marked a significant event for the architecture and design community, showcasing the vitality and innovation within the industry. Held in Bologna, the exhibition saw a substantial 50% increase in visitors compared to the previous year, totaling 91,296 attendees. The event highlighted numerous trends and new introductions in ceramic tiles, promising future applications in various interior and exterior settings. One prominent theme at Cersaie 2022 was the vibrant use of color, particularly in glazed brick formats, with blues and greens being dominant. Paola Navone of Studio Otto introduced new shades, including a popular blush, to ABK's Poetry House collection. Ferruccio Laviani's Pigmenti system featured a 12-color palette in diverse slab shapes for both indoor and outdoor wall applications for Lea. Drip Lines by Sant’Agostino showcased linen-like and bronze textures infused with color. Cerasarda's Yacht Club collection, originating from Sardinia, stood out for its hand-painted tiles with rich glazing and depth, introducing a new 'Sughero' (cork) texture. The exhibition also emphasized biophilic patterns, drawing inspiration from the natural world. While floral motifs continued their presence, palm fronds emerged as a fresh trend. Greenery was depicted through various techniques, from monochromatic designs like Ceramica Fondovalle’s Dream to hand-painted watercolor effects at Caesar’s Deco Solutions, and bold strokes seen in Ceramica del Conca’s Studio and Jungle groups. Versace presented a maximalist approach with its tile collections, interpreting natural stone on a grand scale. The Maximus collection featured inspirations from classic statuario white marble, lapis lazuli, tiger's eye, pink and green accents, and prominent black and gold elements. Versace's Manifesto group transferred inimitable textile prints onto large ceramic slabs, while the Icons collection offered discreet logo images, including the classic Medusa medallion and a subtle 3D trompe l'oeil of the Versace name, for wall coverings. Collaborations between notable design firms and tile manufacturers also yielded innovative results. Storage Associati, a Milan-based design firm, created the Volume collection for Bardelli, offering cool neutrals, bold black and white, or vibrant fashion colors for impactful statements. HBA, a hospitality giant, partnered with Atlas Concorde for the Marvel Travertine Collection, which integrated shapes like Origami and Tesselation, and even diamond panels. Kohn Pedersen Fox and Casalgrande Padana developed the City Collection, capturing the unique energy of global cities like New York, London, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. A surprising retro influence at Cersaie 2022 was a step back to the 1970s. This era was referenced through googly patterns such as Piemme’s Honey Flower and Trend in navy and sage, Naxos Ceramica’s Chromatica Mosaico Glee, and the resurgence of ochre shades, as exemplified by La Fabbrica’s installation of its Small collection. The desire for travel and exotic destinations also inspired new tile designs. Cerdomus drew inspiration from places like Crete, Croatia, and the Bulgarian province of Iskra, featuring black-and-white marble and teal amazonite looks. Cir Manifatture Ceramiche, part of Gruppo Romani, transported visitors to Marrakech with its Tadelakt collection, named after the Moroccan plaster. This collection showcased colors like dusty rose, mint green, and cumin beige, alongside decorative panels and vibrant vignettes. Finally, the exhibition displayed a wide range of graphic artistry. Papier presented calming cloud patterns (Nuages), while faded frescoes evoked ancient palazzos. Francesco di Maio drew inspiration from the Amalfi coast and the Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, creating hand-painted majolica tiles in its Duomo Collection. The company's Cevi division introduced Melody, a jazzy, rhythmic group based on piano keys, staves, and metronomes, resulting in harmonious patterns for floors and walls. Davide Tonelli’s ultra-contemporary black and white graphic collection, Riggiole for Ceramica Fioranese, concluded the highlights with an overall sense of optimism for the industry, encapsulating the spirit of Cersaie 2022. #Cersaie #CeramicTile #InteriorDesignTrends #ArchitecturalSurfaces #TileInnovation #HomeDecoration #DesignExposition #MaterialDesign

Refin, an Italian ceramic tile manufacturer, has launched its new Design Industry collection, inspired by urban design and contemporary architectural trends. This collection was introduced during the Cersaie 2012 design event in Bologna in September. The Design Industry series is characterized by two distinct ranges: Oxyde and Raw, each offering unique aesthetic qualities. The Oxyde range is crafted to mimic the appearance of oxidized metals, featuring a glazed look that incorporates bright, dark, and rust shades. This range aims to evoke the visual depth and texture found in naturally aged metallic surfaces. The color palette and finishing techniques used in the Oxyde tiles are designed to replicate the varied patinas of rusting iron and other weathered metals, providing a sophisticated and industrial aesthetic. This approach allows for the integration of metallic finishes into interior and exterior spaces without the maintenance concerns associated with actual metal. Conversely, the Raw range draws its inspiration from the rugged and unrefined textures of raw cement and peeling plaster. These tiles are designed to reflect the chromatic and structural interpretations of these materials, offering a tactile and earthy feel. The Raw collection captures the understated elegance of industrial concrete surfaces, with variations in tone and texture that simulate the natural imperfections and wear of cement and plaster. This range is particularly suited for contemporary designs that emphasize a minimalist or industrial chic aesthetic, providing a foundation that is both robust and visually appealing. Both the Oxyde and Raw ranges are available in an extensive array of tile sizes, colors, and textures, providing designers and architects with considerable flexibility in project planning for both indoor and outdoor applications. This versatility ensures that the tiles can be adapted to various design schemes and functional requirements, from large commercial spaces to intimate residential settings. Refin has also invested in extensive research to introduce two new maxi-sizes for the Design Industry collection: 75x75 cm and 75x150 cm. The 75x75 cm slab is notable for being the largest size that can be installed by a single technician, balancing ease of handling and installation with the significant aesthetic impact inherent in large-format tiles. This size is ideal for creating expansive, seamless surfaces while streamlining the installation process. The 75x150 cm size, one of the largest available in the market, is designed to further enhance the texture and graphic effects of the tiles. Its substantial dimensions reduce the number of grout lines, contributing to a more continuous and uniform surface appearance. This larger format is suitable for a variety of applications, including indoor flooring and walls, as well as ventilated facades, and can also be subjected to different sub-cuts to meet specific design needs. Overall, the Design Industry collection by Refin offers a comprehensive solution for modern architectural and interior design, providing durable ceramic tiles that replicate the distinct looks of oxidized metals and raw cement, supported by a wide range of sizes and design options to facilitate creative and functional applications. #CeramicTiles #Refin #DesignIndustry #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalMaterials #OxydeTiles #RawTiles #LargeFormatTiles #IndustrialDesign

MUT design, a Spanish studio, has introduced a new line of ceramic tiles called 'scales' in collaboration with Harmony, a brand of Peronda. These tiles were first unveiled at the 2015 CEVISAMA trade fair in Valencia. The 'scales' ceramic tiles are designed to create unique reflections, inspired by the shimmering movement of fish skin under water. The design incorporates neon tones along the two rear sides of the otherwise smooth, white ceramic surface. These neon accents naturally project colorful sparkles onto adjacent tiles, producing a vibrant and dynamic visual effect. The tiles measure 12x12 centimeters, allowing for diverse arrangement patterns and compositions. The main body of each tile features a glazed white finish, while the two hidden sides are available in eight distinct color schemes. This variety in color options provides designers and consumers with flexibility to customize spaces and achieve different aesthetic outcomes. The manufacturing process of these tiles takes place in Spain, leveraging Peronda's extensive experience in ceramic production, which spans over half a century. MUT design, founded by Alberto Sánchez, is celebrating its fifth anniversary. Sánchez initiated the studio shortly after his participation in the designboom mart Valencia in 2010. The studio's work with 'scales' tiles demonstrates their commitment to innovative design that draws inspiration from natural phenomena, translating it into functional and aesthetically pleasing interior design elements. The product is intended for indoor use only, ensuring its application in appropriate environments. Promotional videos and detailed photography capture the essence of the 'scales' tiles, showcasing their reflective qualities and the various ways they can be installed. Images from the CEVISAMA 2015 exhibition highlight the product in a trade show context, while studio images provide insight into the creative environment of MUT design in Valencia, Spain. The development of 'scales' emphasizes a blend of artistic vision and practical application, aiming to transform ordinary surfaces into captivating visual experiences through the interplay of light and color. #MUTDesign #CeramicTiles #PerondaHarmony #CEVISAMA2015 #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #TileDesign #ArchitecturalFinishes #ProductLaunch

The 42nd edition of Cersaie, the premier exhibition for ceramic and porcelain tiles, showcased significant advancements in the industry. Over two decades, Interior Design has observed the substantial growth and impressive innovation within this sector, with the 2025 event being no exception. Digital printing has achieved such realism that wood, stone, terrazzo, cement, and metallic appearances are virtually indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. Large-format slabs have become a prominent feature, now extending to dimensions of four by nine feet. This year's Cersaie highlighted a convergence of textures, patterns, and colors, all sharing top billing. Textures, including dowels, reliefs, incisions, and 3D surfaces, offered tactile experiences. Finishes introduced layers of complexity, such as combinations of glossy and matte surfaces that enhanced depth perception in ribbed designs. Ultra-shiny, iridescent faces played with light, exemplified by Cimento’s Boton, one of several introductions by Patricia Urquiola. Innovations also included glass embedded in the production process, particularly for thin listrelli strips, and sparkling sand-like finishes that imparted a unique glow. Mirrored surfaces further contributed to these luminous effects. A novel shagreen effect, known as _galuchat_, was seen on hand-painted Sardinian ceramics from Cerasarda, which also led this year's bold color trends. Similarly, 41 Zero 42, based in Modena, featured super-saturated Yves Klein blue and liquid jade effects. A diverse palette of blues, greens, terra cottas, and sage tones were popular, especially for bricks. Faded grayed tones, such as chambray, and dusty rose offered alternatives to traditional pastels. Volumetric designs, like Marca Corona’s Arialuce and Cerasarda’s Jalousie lattices, pushed dimensionality, creating forms that functioned almost as building materials rather than mere decorative elements. Graphics and painterly techniques were masterfully executed. Riccardo Capuzzo’s Atlantis City from Gruppo Bardelli's Aquatic Creatures collection brought a whimsical touch, evoking associations with Wes Anderson’s filmography. Antiche Fornaci d’Agostino’s Capri collection, with its azure and lemon strokes, transported visitors to the Italian _isola_. Ceramica Francesco de Maio’s expanded Van Gogh collection of hand-painted majolicas offered an experience akin to visiting the master's museum. Moooi made its debut in the tile sector with 'The Nesting Room' for ABK, a collection by Marcel Wanders that created an immersive installation dedicated to wellness, meditation, and warmth. Wanders’ designs drew inspiration from real and extinct animals, featuring elements like the Hypnotic Owl, Rheki Rhea (ostrich), and Cloistered Dove. Other notable designers present included Paola Navone/Otto Studio, who contributed additions to ABK’s Poetry Stone and Poetry Net Reloaded, and Piero Lissoni, who presented the furnishings group Tratto for Atlas Concorde. The event provided a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge tile designs and their applications in interior architecture. #Cersaie2025 #TileDesign #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #InteriorDesignTrends #ArchitecturalSurfaces #DesignInnovation #TextureAndFinish #ColorPalette

Italian ceramic brand Ceramiche Refin has unveiled its latest collection of porcelain tiles, named Affrescati, drawing inspiration from the rich textures and vibrant colors of traditional frescos. The collection aims to capture the historical artistry of fresco painting, a mural technique involving the application of dry-powder pigment onto wet plaster, and translate it into a modern, durable ceramic surface. Ceramiche Refin's design team meticulously researched and replicated authentic fresco paintings in their laboratory, utilizing traditional pigments and lime to understand the intricate heritage of this art form. This extensive research allowed them to recreate the characteristics of frescos in a ceramic tile, focusing on achieving an almost three-dimensional surface appearance that mirrors the depth and detail of genuine frescos. The Affrescati collection is a testament to Ceramiche Refin's craft-based approach, combining historical artistry with advanced production expertise and state-of-the-art technologies. The result is an exclusive ceramic tile product that encapsulates the charm of a millennia-old tradition. Despite the smooth finish of porcelain, the tiles visually mimic the textured appearance of frescos, including subtle spatula marks and imperfections that define the authentic aesthetic. This innovative approach allows the tiles to be suitable for both wall and floor applications, providing a versatile solution for contemporary interiors while retaining a classic, aged look. The collection offers five distinct color options, each designed to evoke the swirling shades and nuanced tones characteristic of traditional fresco pigments. These include Ombra, a blend of grey tones reminiscent of shadows; Lapis, featuring moody shades of blue; Ocra, with various yellow and cream hues; Calce, an eclectic mix of white tones; and Terra, a warm, neutral composition of sienna and burnt earth. The design emphasizes a particular 'vintage' appearance, accentuated by signs and marks that replicate the natural attenuation of colors resulting from the interaction between lime and pigments in traditional frescos, creating a gently dilapidated yet sophisticated effect. Furthermore, the Affrescati collection introduces an embellishment option: Giotto star-shapes. These decorative elements are inspired by the comet-like stars found in the murals of the renowned Florentine painter and architect Giotto di Bondone. This allows for an added layer of historical and artistic detail, enabling designers and homeowners to further personalize their spaces with a touch of classical elegance. By bringing the allure of frescos to floors for the first time through the multifaceted qualities of stoneware, Ceramiche Refin expands the possibilities for integrating this historic aesthetic into modern design, offering a unique blend of tradition and innovation for various interior applications. #CeramicheRefin #PorcelainTiles #AffrescatiCollection #FrescoInspired #InteriorDesign #Homeware #TileDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces

The multidisciplinary studio Zaven, based in Venice, Italy, embarked on a project named "Practice Practice Practice," which explores ceramic as a medium to create three-dimensional tiles. This endeavor was inspired by the work of Italian artist Nino Caruso, whose artistic approach resonated with Zaven's creative direction. The studio's objective was to develop tiles that transcend traditional flat surfaces, aiming to inject vitality and dynamic interaction into interior spaces through their graphic and sculptural qualities. Zaven's design process utilized clay, allowing for the creation of tiles with a bold, graphic aesthetic. A key innovation in these ceramic tiles is the interplay of positive and negative space, achieved through the incorporation of both concave and convex surfaces. This design choice results in a visually engaging product that manipulates light and shadow, adding depth and texture to any installed area. The collection features three distinct modules, each designed to be versatile, enabling various installation patterns and arrangements. This modularity empowers designers and homeowners to create customized, curated looks that cater to specific aesthetic preferences and spatial requirements. The ability to mix and match these modules offers a high degree of flexibility, transforming walls and surfaces into unique artistic expressions. The "Practice Practice Practice" tile collection made its public debut at the London Design Fair, where it was presented as part of the Brompton Design District. This exhibition provided Zaven with a platform to showcase their innovative approach to ceramic design, highlighting the potential of three-dimensional tiles to enhance contemporary interiors. The tiles represent a departure from conventional flat tiling, offering a modern alternative that blends artistic expression with functional design. The project demonstrates Zaven's commitment to pushing the boundaries of material use and design principles, translating a deep appreciation for craft into a product with broad appeal. The collaboration with Stylnove for the ceramic production underscores the technical expertise involved in realizing Zaven's vision. Stylnove's craftsmanship ensured that the intricate designs and specific textural requirements of the tiles were met with precision and quality. This partnership highlights the importance of collaboration between designers and manufacturers in bringing innovative concepts to fruition, ensuring that the artistic intent is translated into a durable and aesthetically pleasing product. The focus on ceramic as a medium also points to its enduring appeal and adaptability in modern design, capable of offering both traditional charm and contemporary flair depending on its application. Ultimately, Zaven's "Practice Practice Practice" collection is a testament to how traditional materials can be reinterpreted to create modern, engaging, and dynamic interior elements. By focusing on graphic qualities, three-dimensionality, and modularity, the studio has crafted a product that encourages creative exploration in interior design, providing a new way to "animate interiors" with depth, texture, and artistic character. #CeramicTiles #3DTiles #InteriorDesign #ZavenStudio #NinoCaruso #LondonDesignFair #ArchitecturalSurfaces #ModernDesign #HomeDecor

Ceramiche Refin has launched its Riflessi collection, a new range of large-format porcelain tiles designed for both walls and floors. This collection draws inspiration from the vibrant colour palettes, intricate patterns, and traditional craft techniques prevalent in the Mediterranean region. The Riflessi tiles are available in five complementary shades: green (Verde), blue (Blu), orange (Arancio), white (Bianco), and grey (Grigio). Each colour is available in two sizes, 75 by 150 centimeters and 75 by 75 centimeters, offering flexibility for various design applications. A distinctive feature of the Riflessi collection is the incorporation of striped variations within the tiles, which are intentionally designed to mimic the appearance of hand-applied brush strokes. This artistic detail adds a tactile and handcrafted aesthetic to the porcelain surfaces. In addition to the solid colour tiles, the collection includes several geometric designs that reflect traditional Mediterranean tiling styles. These patterns contribute to the collection's rich cultural narrative, bringing elements of coastal landscapes and regional artistry into modern interior spaces. Among the standout designs is the Amalfi tile, named after the picturesque town on Italy's southwest coast. This square tile is highly decorative, featuring a complex interplay of various colours and motifs. Its intricate patterns include representations of petals, leaves, ribbons, and architectural elements, embodying the decorative heritage of the Amalfi region. Another notable design, Forme, consists of single-tone tiles that can be arranged to create a continuous, overlapping circle pattern, offering a sense of fluid movement across the surface. The Fiore tiles within the collection present a curvy motif that can be installed in a repetitive sequence or combined to form larger, expansive floral designs. This versatility allows for different levels of visual impact, from subtle accents to prominent decorative statements. The collection also features Caleidos, a mosaic design characterized by tiles of seemingly random shapes. These mosaic pieces are available in all five core colours of the Riflessi collection, as well as a multi-coloured arrangement, providing options for creating diverse and visually engaging surfaces. According to Ceramiche Refin, the Riflessi collection is the culmination of extensive research into Mediterranean atmospheres and traditions. The brand emphasizes that the tiles are designed to bring the natural elements of the region indoors, transforming light into a tangible material experience. The company suggests that the Riflessi collection enables consumers to subtly or boldly integrate Mediterranean traditions into their interiors, depending on their environment and personal decoration style. This offering aims to provide a sensory approach to interior design, allowing for the creation of spaces that resonate with the warmth and character of the Mediterranean. #CeramicheRefin #RiflessiTiles #MediterraneanDesign #PorcelainTiles #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #TileCollection #DecorativeTiles #ArchitecturalFinishes

The annual Cersaie tile show in Bologna, Italy, has revealed that statement tile is set to replace the traditional subway tile as a dominant design trend for 2022. While rectangular shapes remain popular, the focus has shifted to innovative applications and designs. Designers like Roberto Cavalli showcased glossy animal print tiles for bathroom walls, and Petracer’s updated classic herringbone patterns with gold accents, indicating a move towards more expressive and luxurious tile aesthetics. One significant trend identified is 'The Gilded Age,' which aims to transform typically utilitarian spaces like bathrooms into glamorous areas. This trend incorporates accent subway tiles, intricate gold-leaf inlays, and kintsugi-style bronze grout lines, effectively turning ordinary tile slabs into decorative elements. This approach elevates the functional aspect of tiles to an ornamental one, similar to jewelry for the walls. Another emerging trend is 'You Better Patchwork,' which involves mixing and matching different tile patterns and colors. This trend suggests a departure from solid-color tiles in favor of monochrome medleys or complementary coordinated designs, offering a new dimension for aesthetic customization in interiors. This allows for creative combinations that reflect individual style and add visual interest. 'I Can’t Believe It’s Not Wallpaper' highlights ceramic tiles that mimic the appearance of wallpaper. Showrooms featured collections with ceramic murals depicting florals, foliage, and cityscapes. These tile designs provide a more durable and permanent solution for spaces prone to humidity, such as bathrooms and kitchens, without sacrificing intricate visual appeal. The durability of ceramic combined with the aesthetic of wallpaper offers a practical yet stylish option. The 'Neat as a Pinstripe' trend introduces pinstriped tiles, drawing inspiration from sophisticated suiting. These tiles are designed to capture attention and can also create the illusion of a larger room. Some manufacturers are even employing high-pressure water carving techniques to create three-dimensional patterns, adding texture and depth to the pinstriped designs. 'Turn to Trompe l’Oeil' focuses on tiles that create optical illusions, transforming flat surfaces into artistic displays. Examples include a tiled basketball court that resembles a fabric coverlet from a distance, and designs by Paola Navone and ABK that form ceramic rugs, complete with fringe. This trend emphasizes playful and visually deceptive elements in tile design, blurring the lines between art and utility. 'Welcome to the Jungle' signals the resurgence of botanical motifs, particularly Monstera leaves, which are incorporated into tile designs through small, random patterns and large-format slabs. This trend brings a natural, vibrant element to interiors, reflecting the ongoing popularity of biophilic design. Finally, 'Chill Pills' introduces Art Deco-inspired pill-shaped tiles. These versatile tiles can be arranged to create staggered arches or serve as a modern alternative to traditional subway tiles, offering a contemporary and stylish geometric option for various applications. #TileTrends #Cersaie #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #CeramicTile #DesignInspiration #BathroomDesign #ModernTiles #LuxuryTiles

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

The 42nd edition of Cersaie, a prominent design fair focused on ceramic tile, kitchen, and bath design held in Bologna, Italy, showcased a significant emerging trend: textile-inspired tiles. This trend involves patterns, textures, and designs that transform hard tile surfaces into elements reminiscent of soft fabrics and woven materials. Manufacturers, both large and small, converged at the fair to introduce products that infuse ceramic and porcelain with qualities typically associated with textiles, such as stripes, trellis designs, herringbones, and various motifs from the loom. This shift redefines the application and aesthetic potential of tile in interior design, moving beyond traditional expectations of sleek, uniform surfaces. Key aspects of this textile-inspired tile trend include the soft side of tile, where designs draw directly from fashion and textiles. Examples include herringbone patterns akin to menswear suiting, zig-zags reminiscent of Missoni knits, and patchwork styles that evoke a quilted feel. Brands like Versace Ceramics, inspired by the stone of Palazzo Versace, have introduced porcelain collections that mimic historic stone textures and patterned rugs. This approach allows ceramic and porcelain to adopt the rhythmic and tactile qualities of fabric, resulting in surfaces that appear tailored and soft despite their inherent hardness. Another significant development is the rise of 3D extruded tiles, which introduce sculptural elements to surfaces. These tiles feature ridges, flutes, waves, and geometric reliefs that interact with light and shadow, adding depth and tactility. Brands such as Marca Corona debuted collections like Arialuce, which consists of thick, three-dimensional tiles designed to create tapestries when installed as room dividers or feature walls. These innovations demonstrate that tile is evolving from a mere surface covering into a form of low-relief sculpture or an architectural component. The interplay of glossy and matte finishes is also a prominent feature of this trend, creating contrasting textures that reveal patterns through reflection. By combining matte terracotta with high-shine elements, a simple grid can be transformed into a dynamic interplay of shadow and sheen, adding dimension and a couture-like finish. Gruppo Romani, for instance, introduced the Forever Color by Cir Manifatture Ceramiche collection, which features glossy circles within matte squares in porcelain stoneware, available in various colorways and slight three-dimensionality. Pattern play is another central theme, with designers exploring bold and adventurous compositions. Beyond traditional checkerboards, the trend showcases oversized chevrons, jagged geometrics, and trompe l’oeil illusions that create optical art effects, making walls ripple or floors appear woven. Clara von Zweigbergk’s Quadrille collection for Decoratori Bassanesi, for example, reinterprets historical tile archives with bold, geometric patterns and modular versatility. Furthermore, large-scale, story-rich surfaces, often featuring trellis designs, are gaining traction, imbuing interiors with heritage and grandeur, similar to textiles in Venetian palazzos but with the permanence of ceramic. Hand-painted undulating lines mixed with classic trellis designs from brands like Antiche Fornaci D’Agostino exemplify this. Finally, the trend emphasizes tiles as collectible objects, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in their creation. Whether through kiln-fired glazes mimicking brushstrokes, digital prints of centuries-old motifs, or geometric shapes arranged at unique angles to create stripes, each tile is considered a piece of art. Hexagonal tiles from Cottovietri, arranged at angles to create undulating stripes, illustrate how designers and artisans are treating tiles as curated compositions rather than mere backdrops. This elevates tiles from functional elements to centerpieces that layer history and experimentation, transforming floors and walls into unique artistic statements. #TileTrends #CeramicTile #TextileInspiredDesign #InteriorDesign #Cersaie #3DTiles #SurfaceDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalComponents