I attended the Tile and Stone Design show in Chicago this last weekend. Although American manufacturers were barely represented, I got a good feeling where the European manufacturers are taking things. Here is my trend report.
1. VERTICAL.
Tiles of all shapes and sizes are being turned to create a more vertical orientation. If tiles are being turned then varying tile shapes or colors are being introduced into designs to highlight architectural features in a vertical way.
2. SHIMMER AND BLING.
Metallics which have been taking over the fashion industry for the last few years have officially moved into tile. Crystals are being set into tiles. Washes of iridescence or shimmering top coats were very common. My favorite was glitter grout, not yet available in U.S., but being made by Mapei in Italy-
3. TEXTURE and SHAPE.
Thank goodness tile manufacturers are listening to us say we are bored with 4x4. Shape options have gone nuts! From curves, to HUGE, to narrow and long. In addition, three dimensional tiles that actually extend from the wall and create texture are becoming more available.
5. PRINTS.
Large format photos are being morphed and printed on tiles to create some interesting options that can include multiple colors are be rather simple and elegant in black and white.
Tile away! The design options are endless. As always, it's an exciting time to be in design.
