Cersaie 2016 was recently held in Bologna, Italy, and 94 Tile of Spain companies showcased their latest ceramic tile innovations and collections. Tile companies are inspired by the latest decorating and design trends, including exotics, fragmented designs, brick patterns, chevrons, lines, art objects, textile inspiration, grays, aquatic life, and large-format tile.

Exotics

Tropical styles are once again gaining ground in the design world. An almost basic white tile is combined with an exuberance of color and the freshness of a detailed mural, complete with illustrations of exotic plants and birds with colorful plumage. Fresh styles from companies such as Mainzu give spaces an air of happiness and tranquility.

Fragments

Toying with the idea of modules, Tile of Spain companies have designed patterns that come together by pairing differently shaped ceramic tile. The combination of geometric forms creates a lived-in effect and kaleidoscope layout, such as in the Firle Gris collection by Vives Ceramica.

Brick Patterns

This year, brick-style ceramics were a favorite at Cersaie. From micro to macro, glossy to rustic, or the reinvention of classic mortar and brick walls, these styles imitating a natural brick look were popular among companies like Geotiles.

Chevrons 

Inspired by an old tradition brought back by trend hunters, ceramic floor and wall tile are installed in a zig-zag pattern in homes for a modern twist. Set in a monochromatic way or contrasting in a herringbone pattern, companies such as Roca Ceramica use various finishes and formats to create an original pattern without being overpowering.

Lines

In 2016, the most basic of decorating elements—lines—came back in endless variations. Vertical or horizontal, continuous or interrupted, and flat or relief, line designs are back; patterns like the Saloni Integra series showcase lines in all of their splendor. This design is ideal to add depth or flow to walls where tile is the main attraction.

Art Objects

This trend transforms ceramic tile into unique pieces to turn spaces into works of art. This design integrates architectural pieces, resulting in sophisticated spaces without excessive décor. These contemporary pieces, such as Harmony by Peronda, are the perfect complement for a one-of-a-kind design.

Soft Touch

The versatile mix of textile effects available in Spanish tile can achieve ambiance that renders warmth to any space. Collections such as Brickbold by Gayafores are excellent at recalling romantic artisan embroidery, seersucker, velvet, patchwork, tweed, brocades, and other fabric-inspired looks to achieve a soft harmony.

Grayscale

While the use of color in decorative trends has increased, grays have always been a designer’s best friend. The newest designs from Tile of Spain span the spectrum of tones—starting with cooler grays, like the Bluestone Series by Porcelanosa, and go from slate tones to softer grays and beiges. By adding texture and superimposed tones, these tile have an organic feel, proof that color is not always necessary to convey style.

Aquatic Life

The marine palette of blues and greens is a perfect way to add a touch of color. Tile of Spain companies such as Keros Ceramica exhibit a cooler color spectrum reminiscent of the sea and aquatic life.

Large-Format Tile

Ceramic tile continue to grow year after year, offering new possibilities for design. Thin but very large ceramic tile like those found in Levantina can be used to cover large surfaces and achieve continuity when installed in a unidirectional manner. 

For more information, visit www.tilesofspainusa.com or www.cersaie.it/en.