Better texture, bold designs: Tile's growing ambitions on display at Cevisama
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.