With record attendance of more than 90,000 attendees and 1,125 exhibitors, the five-day Cevisama 2005 meeting in Spain earlier this year showcased a number of trends shaping the tile segment. Among the notable elements is the continued proliferation of metallic finishes and accent pieces. At the same time, stainless steel, iron, and weathered iron, and all other types of metal continue to gain popularity, in particular the weathered steel look commonly known as Corten. Examples include Apavisa's new line, Metal Tech, Diago's Metal, and Tau's popular Corten, which added a new color, beige, to the series. Tau also debuted an eye catching new metallic series, Titanio, which remarkably simulates a highly polished chrome finish through a unique new metallic glaze.

Also noticeable this year is the growing number of ceramic lines designed to imitate hardwood flooring. Using advances in technology that allow for greater depth of color and texture, these tiles are seen as a viable alternative to wood. The show saw an array of ceramic tile with finishes imitating every imaginable variety of hardwood. Rustic finishes that simulate distressed wood, were especially popular this year. Some manufacturers opted for postmodern designs such as highly colored woods and exaggerated textures. Among those drawing interest this year were Wood Tech from Apavisa, Forest by Azuvi, Alpina by Colorker, and Diago's Natura and Vita collections.

Continuing a well established trend, ceramic tiles that imitate the look and feel of natural stone were also in evidence. In addition to the ubiquitous marble and limestone designs, there were more complex varieties, such as granite, travertine and rapolano. Regional specialties such as Borriol are also gaining in popularity. The show saw a number of new stone looks such as Stone Tech by Apavisa, featuring a realistic slate texture. Also Diago debuted Petra and Alaska, two new stone look series; Ceracasa, debuted Milos, which features a realistic slate look and Luxe, a glazed porcelain line with a convincing marble texture.

Also noticeable at Cevisama 2005 was the continued expansion of growth of glass tile and mosaic lines. These ancient tile materials now feature bold, modern colors and unusual shapes and design elements. The result is product lines that range from classical to outrageous fashion statements.

In the same vein, color palettes continue to grow more diverse, from the ever-present pastels and shades of beige and gray, to minimalist black and white designs, to retro colors such as lime green, gold, rust, and everything in between. More than ever before, exhibitors made the case that any look desired by a client or designer can be achieved with ceramic tile.