Tile International 2/2024

cersaie

Im Grunde unsichtbar Essentially invisible

Schlüter®-DILEX-F

Mit DILEX-F definiert Schlüter-Systems die Ästhetik der Bewegungsfuge von Grund auf neu. Die schmale, praktisch unsichtbare Bauform von DILEX-F schafft ein nahezu unterbrechungsfreies Fugenraster, während sie gleichzeitig die gewohnte Kompensation typischer Bewegungen im Fliesenbelag ermöglicht und obendrein noch folgende Vorteile bietet: Die Bewegungsfuge lässt sich bei Beschädigungen leicht austauschen, besitzt eine schmutzabweisende, einfach zu reinigende Oberfläche und ist in einer großen Farbvielfalt erhältlich.

DILEX-F from Schlüter-Systems redefines the aesthetics of movement joints from the ground up. The narrow, practically invisible design of DILEX-F realises an almost uninterrupted tile joint pattern while, at the same time, enabling the customary compensation of typical movements in the tiled covering as well as offering the following benefits: The movement joint is easy to replace if damaged, has a dirt-repellent surface that is easy to clean and is available in a wide range of colours.

Die neue Bodenhaftung The new ground adhesion

BEKOTEC-EN-F-PS

BEKOTEC-EN-FK-PS

Schlüter®-BEKOTEC-PS

Mit BEKOTEC-EN-F-PS und BEKOTEC-ENFK-PS bringt Schlüter-Systems ein neues Maß an Anwenderfreundlichkeit in die Verlegung des innovativen Klimabodens BEKOTEC-THERM. Die selbsthaftenden Estrichnoppenplatten, die zu 70 % aus recycelten Materialien bestehen, ermöglichen eine unkomplizierte, schnelle und äußerst saubere Installation. Die beiden haftenden Systeme erlauben nicht nur eine geringe Aufbauhöhe, sondern auch einen Einsatz auf vielfältigen Untergründen. Neben der Material- und Gewichtseinsparung ermöglicht die zügige Verlegung eine zeit- und kosteneffiziente Realisierung von Bauprojekten.

schlueter.de/bekotec-ps

BEKOTEC-EN-F-PS and BEKOTEC-ENFK-PS from Schlüter-Systems bring a new dimension of user friendliness to the laying of the innovative BEKOTEC-THERM thermal comfort floor. The self-adhesive studded screen panels, which are made from up to 70 % recycled materials, allow uncomplicated, fast and extremely clean installation. Not only do the two adhesive systems permit a low installation height, they can also be used on a variety of substrates. As well as saving materials and weight, the rapid installation enables the time and cost-effective completion of construction projects.

CERFIX® PROTEC

Profiles for balconies and terraces

THE ADVANTAGES OF CERFIX® PROTEC

Cerfi x ® Protec is the range of perimeter profiles, designed and produced by Profilpas, for protecting and finishing the external edges of balconies and terraces.

Equipped with a section that facilitates the drainage of rainwater from the floor and preserves the outside border, they provide excellent protection from weather elements, guaranteeing a longer duration over time.

Available in aluminium or stainless steel and in different finishes, Cerfix ® Protec profiles are the best solution for those who wish to protect and finish balconies and terraces, with a focus on modern design trends.

PP LEVEL DUO MAXI

MAXI IN EVERYTHING.

PP level DUO MAXI is the new range of adjustable supports for outdoor raised floors.

MAXI flexibility: thanks to the practical Fixed Head Ring, you can transform the tilting head, able to compensate for surface slopes up to 5%, into a fixed head, directly during installation.

MAXI strength: the new support guarantees excellent resistance to heavy loads and weather elements.

MAXI versatility: numerous accessories are available for any installation requirement, from extensions to aluminium joists, rubber mats and steel clips.

With PP level DUO MAXI the installation of the raised floor will be easy, fast and perfect.

PP

DUO MAXI

ceramic floors

MAXI system

decking floors

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IMAGINE HAVING MORE TIME

to take a break and prioritize your well-being.

Discover how Lunar Support simplifies your work, from design to installation.

Compasso D’oro Career Award for Blu Ponti Collection By Ceramica Francesco De Maio ECONOMICS

20 European construction: recovery expected by 2025

The Italian ceramic industry surpasses revenues of €7.5 billion

Florim: a constant commitment to sustainability

Iris Ceramica Group and Edison Next produce the first large-format ceramic panel using green hydrogen

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Kaleseramik announces new investments focused on growth Paola Giacomini

PHOTONEWS - Bardelli Group at Cersaie with “Welcome to Eden”

Noblesse Cocktail Bar, Vignola

Fresh Hotel, Athens

Studio 129, Modena

Unique design in a luxury villa complex in Jesolo

Mapei technique for Casa Do Vale Villa, Brazil

Eataly Restaurant in Seoul: the Hyundai Department Store welcomes Italian excellence

FOCUS ON CERSAIE 2024

WHAT’S NEW - Ceramic tiles & laying technologies

Advertiser’s list: pag. 9

COVER PICTURE BY: VIVES AZULEJOS Y GRES

PHOTO BY GIANCARLO PRADELLI @ CERSAIE 2023

Surfing on challenges

As the summer begins to fade away, we still have a few waves to surf. Because the outlook for the construction industry is not entirely calm. The experts of the Euroconstruct network, whose surveys cover 19 countries across Europe, are forecasting that, in the wake of the downturn of 2023 and 2024, the industry’s fortunes will pick up again in 2025 and consolidate in 2026. So we need to be patient.

Fortunately, Italy’s ceramic industry has succeeded in turning the waiting time into an opportunity, by continuing to make investments despite the negative growth. This is borne out by case studies of the companies that represent the driving force of the industry: Florim, for example (see page 26), invested 121 million euros in

Davide Miserendino

d.miserendino@kairosmediagroup.it

2023 (and over 270 million in the two-year period 2022-2023).

The main objective is to rationalise production lines, so as to maximise efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

It’s one of the countless flashes of brilliance that light up this industry, which never ceases to amaze, as you can see from the ideas on display in this issue of Tile International, which is renewing its partnership with the online portal surfacesinternational.com. These cutting-edge projects mark a direct path to Cersaie, an international showcase for the creative talents of the coverings and bathroom furnishing sector, where the innovative spirit needed to overcome yet another wave will certainly not be in short supply. ✕

ADVERTISER’S LIST

Panariagroup was once again awarded for its sustainability projects

At the fourth edition of the Sustainability Awards – the prize by LC Publishing which recognizes the best sustainability projects – Panariagroup was presented with the award for the best performance in the Infrastructure & Construction category, among over forty competitors. In the last 20 years, Panariagroup has been distinguishing in the ceramic sector for its enduring commitment to sustainability, alongside its innovative achievements and significant milestones. In 2004, the company was the first to launch ultra-thin over-sized slabs on the market. This revolutionary product cuts down on raw materials, water, and energy during production and significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with its transport. Since 2017, the group has consistently published a Sustainability Report and is the only company in its sector to have this document certified by third parties. Since 2018, Panariagroup has remained the sole company in its sector to join the United Nations Global Compact which encourages businesses to establish a financial, social, and environmental framework that promotes a healthy and sustainable global economy and ensures everyone the opportunity to share its benefits.

In the same year, the company aligned itself with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, identifying the most significant SDG goals to address in its business operations. In 2021, Panariagroup formalised its Sustainability Plan, consisting of three pillars: People, Planet, and Prosperity. Each pillar embodies the group’s ambitious vision and the strategic approach it intends to pursue in reaching its remarkable objectives.

Building on these principles, in

September 2022 the Group launched the ambitious THINk ZERO project. After maximizing the reduction of energy, water, and raw materials in the production of its ultra-thin slabs, the company now fully offsets their residual CO2 emissions, calculating them over the course of the product’s entire lifecycle, by purchasing credits that support international sustainable mobility projects, thus offering a 100% Carbon Neutral product. The THINk ZERO project is part of a massive international communications campaign aimed at raising awareness about how choosing sustainable products and innovative installation techniques is a fundamental prerequisite for promoting increasingly environmentally conscious construction practices. Today, thanks to technological advancements in the production process, ceramic has become one of the most sustainable materials available to designers and thanks to its inherent characteristics, it allows for easier disposal after a lengthy lifecycle that can reach up to 50 years.

“We’re very proud to receive this award, a further confirmation that our commitment and our business model allow us to achieve concrete and tangible results,” commented Emilio Mussini, President of Panariagroup. “Construction is one of the sectors with the highest environmental impact. As active participants and leaders in our field, we must help to drive sustainable, attentive, and rigorous development, continuing to elevate our responsibility and our contribution to this increasingly challenging context.”

Florim opens its new Flagship store in London

Present in London since 2020, Florim has moved to 56-60 St John St, Grant House Ground floor, opening a monobrand space intended to be a meeting and dialogue place for project professionals, where to schedule appointments and educational meetings and get to know the “Made in Florim” porcelain stoneware. The Flagship, conceived with the same intent as the Milan one, offers a multifunctional and collaborative environment for designers, where elegance and quality of materials directly reflect the commitment to support and promote innovation and creativity. Inside the store, visitors can take advantage of functional tables designed to facilitate sharing and collaboration on projects.

The new store in London is the latest testament to Florim’s global expansion strategy in design districts: from the first Flagship store in Milan in 2009, followed by openings in Moscow in 2014 and New York in 2015, to Singapore in 2019, Frankfurt and London in 2020, Abu Dhabi in 2021, Paris and Rome in 2022. In 2023, after the inauguration of the pop-up store in Los Angeles, Florim moved its New York Flagship to the prestigious 5th Avenue in Manhattan. In 2024, the Milan showroom underwent a complete restyling during Design Week, and the opening of a new space in Rome is expected.

Double Collection, see more @

ABK Group secures €10 million order in the USA thanks to FullVein3D technology

ABK Group has won a €10 million contract for 2024 from one of the top market players in the United States. This follows the launch of its FullVein3D technology, which will be used exclusively for the production of bathroom and kitchen countertops, cooktops, tables and furniture items.

Developed at the ABK manufacturing site in Solignano (Modena), one of the most advanced facilities in the Italian ceramic district, the second-generation FullVein3D technology flawlessly recreates the veining of natural materials both on the surface and through the

entire body of the slab. By digitally mixing different coloured raw materials, this technology creates a through-vein effect with continuous graphics between the surface and thickness on 163x323 cm ceramic surfaces with thicknesses of 12 and 20 mm.

Alongside their aesthetic value, the materials also stand out for their technical qualities including non-absorbency, strength, durability and longevity, as well as their environmental benefits and greater safety for operators during the manufacturing process compared to materials such as quartz.

“FullVein3D technology is currently one of the most advanced innovations in the ceramic sector and is set to revolutionise industry and consumer standards due to its wide range of applications and its benefits in terms of the environment and health. Our success in the United States, a market known for pioneering new trends, is a major source of pride for us,” said Alessandro Fabbri, Managing Director Sales & Marketing at ABK Group.

Iris Ceramica Group unveils “ICG RenaisScience Hub” research centre

As part of the ICG LogiPack research project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, under the Innovation Agreements (2nd Call), Iris Ceramica Group is promoting the new science and technology centre known as “ICG RenaisScience Hub”, which consolidates the company’s mission to re-engineer ceramics to improve the interaction between humans and the

environment. It is a pioneering space where science is applied to ceramic to develop unprecedented projects and solutions, with a particular emphasis on the logistics and packaging system.

The Hub will explore the new paradigms of Industry 5.0, the “collaborative industry”, representing a key step in an extensive multi-year research project, whose first focus area will be the traceability of large-format ceramic panels throughout their life cycle.

Access to the Hub is limited to a team of multidisciplinary experts from within

the company – particularly Iris Ceramica Group’s solution engineers led by Claudio Bizzaglia, Project Management & Engineering Director – and a group of researchers from Polifactory, Politecnico di Milano’s Makerspace, coordinated by Prof. Stefano Maffei, Laboratory Director and Rector’s Delegate for Social Innovation. The Hub will also receive valuable support from numerous local consulting firms, with a view to studying and developing cutting-edge technological solutions designed to accelerate the technological transition towards Industry 5.0. This multidisciplinary collaboration, which the Hub will promote and coordinate, will facilitate dissemination of the results of the innovations developed, for the benefit of the entire ceramic sector. With over 800m2 of floorspace, ICG RenaisScience Hub, whose name is a clear statement of its intent to promote a scientific renaissance of ceramic, is divided into four different research areas: Training & Workshop, 3D Printing/Digital & Electronic Design, Digital Manufacturing & Making, and Factory Testing Lab. The ICG RenaisScience Hub project – like ICG LogiPack – is built on a medium-tolong-term strategic partnership coordinated by Fondazione Politecnico di Milano, the Politecnico’s organisation for promoting the competitiveness of businesses and the local area by means of innovation projects.

SINCE 1974 INNOVATIONS FOR THE TILE SETTING PROFESSIONAL

complete program of tools for cleaning, grouting, handling and more

Since day one, back in 1974, our mission has been to fully satisfy the needs of the professional tiles installer by providing him with effective and reliable tools that increase productivity while reducing fatigue.

50 Years later our mission hasn’t changed.

Find out more at raimondispa.com or visit us at Cersaie, Bologna 23-27 September 24.

raimondispa.com

wedge & clip and screw-type levelling systems machines for cutting, mixing, floor preparation and more extensive range of large format tiles tools

VitrA presents the first almost 100% recycled ceramic washbasin

VitrA presents the first ceramic washbasin made from recycled production waste, an innovation which, according to the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)** of the products, carried out in accordance with ISO 14040:2006 and 14044:2006, reduces the global warming potential of each piece by 30% and creates valuable resources out of materials that were once thought of as scrap.

Developed on the VitrA Production Campus in Bozüyük, Turkey, this innovative product has been designed to minimise environmental impact and underscore VitrA’s commitment to sustainability by avoiding waste, conserving re-

Mohawk Industries Names Mauro Vandini President –Global Ceramic Segment

Mohawk Industries, Inc. has announced the promotion of Mauro Vandini as President of the Company’s Global Ceramic Segment, effective September 15, 2024. Vandini will also maintain his present role as President of Mohawk’s European Ceramic business with the support of his talented team.

“I have worked with Mauro since 2013, following the Marazzi acquisition, and I respect his deep knowledge of ceramic manufacturing, sales and marketing and his ability to drive improvements in all areas of the business,” said Jeff Lorberbaum, Mohawk’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Since we acquired Dal-Tile in 2002, Mohawk has become the world’s largest producer of ceramic tile, with manufacturing in eight countries on three continents and sales in approximately 140 nations. Mauro has built strong partnerships with our regional ceramic business leaders, and he will col-

sources and maximising the opportunities of the circular economy. Available in matt beige in various shapes, this washbasin is just the first item in a collection planned to include other products and colours. This sustainable approach to production saves about 5kg of raw materials per piece, an improvement of 36%, and 2.48kWh of electricity per piece, an improvement of 38%, due to the decreased reliance on raw materials. “These new washbasins benefit from VitrA Hygiene technology,” explains Özgen Özkan, CEO of Eczacıbaşı Building Products, “and we’re advancing our research and development efforts to incorporate recycled materials into the glazing process. With an eye on expanding our sustainable product portfolio, we’re exploring new designs and ap-

laborate with them to optimize their performance and bring outstanding design, quality and value to our customers.”

Vandini’s career began with Marazzi Group in 1983, and he subsequently worked as Marazzi’s technical director and Vice President of International Operations before serving as CEO of Marazzi Group. Following Mohawk’s acquisition of Marazzi, Vandini became the head of the European ceramic business. Under Vandini’s direction, European ceramic operations were modernized, complementary businesses in Italy, Bulgaria and Poland were acquired and a successful entry into the rapidly growing porcelain slab market was completed.

“I am honored to lead Mohawk’s Global Ceramic segment,” said Vandini. “I will continue working with our strong leaders across our regions to benefit our customers, associates and investors. As the world’s largest ceramic tile manufacturer, our focus will remain on industry-changing design, operational excellence and exceeding the expectations of

plications, from packaging to branding with new icons, all made from up to 100% recycled materials derived from our own production waste.”

our customers around the world.”

Chris Wellborn will assist Vandini during his transition to the Global Ceramic segment leadership role and will continue his responsibilities as Mohawk’s President and Chief Operating Officer, working with Lorberbaum to ensure that Mohawk’s strategies are maximizing the Company’s long-term results as the flooring industry recovers.

CERSAIE / BOLOGNA, ITALY HALL 16 BOOTH C22 D21

Energieker launches the new brand

Energieker renews its brand, the culmination of a path of evolution that, thanks to a substantial investment plan, has equipped its production plants with the most advanced technology for the production of large porcelain stoneware slabs. The renovation culminated during the summer with the inauguration of a prestigious new headquarters in the mountains of Pavullo. As of July 2024, the new brand name has replaced the previous one to all intents and purposes.

The understated elegance of the logotype expresses our company’s desire to continue on the repositioning path begun in 2018, with the aim of positioning itself as an international benchmark in high-end ceramic surfaces.

The EK monogram in the centre of the logo is coloured green, underlining the commitment to environmental sustainability and attention to the territory, essential conditions for ‘made in Italy’ products of absolute excellence, as underlined by the new mission payoff.

Lamosa sees recovery in first quarter of 2024

Grupo Lamosa saw a partial recovery in market demand in the first quarter of 2024, although not yet back to 2022 lev-

els. Sales fell 2% on Q1 2023 to MX$8.13 billion (around €450 million at 31/3 exchange rate) but were 4.9% up on Q4 2023. Some 59% of revenue was generated from domestic sales (MX$4.78 billion, down 4% on Q1 2023), while exports reached MX$3.35 billion (+1%).

Out of the Mexican group’s two core businesses of ceramic tiles and adhesives, the former was worst hit by the contraction in the construction sector, with the segment’s revenues down 4% against Q1 2023 to MX$5.8 billion, or 72% of total sales.

In contrast, the adhesive segment showed good resilience with a 3% increase in sales to MX$2.32 billion.

During the quarter, the Mexican group continued its investment plan, allocating MX$303 million (about €17 million) to the upgrading of production facilities. It also continued the process of integrating Baldocer, a Spanish ceramic company acquired in October 2023.

Gian Luca Sghedoni appointed new CEO of Litokol

Litokol, a global leader in the ceramic tile installation products sector based in Rubiera (Reggio Emilia), recently made a significant change in its top management with the appointment of Gian Luca Sghedoni as CEO. Sghedoni’s appointment was announced at the end of May by Chairwoman Daniela Cottafavi, majority shareholder and daughter of Litokol’s founder Luciano Cottafavi. Sghedoni has also joined the Board of Directors, where he will serve alongside Daniela Cottafavi and board member Elisa Pecchi.

Over its 55-year history, Litokol has achieved steady growth through its

commitment to high-quality technical solutions and in-depth expertise in innovative epoxy and polyurethane solutions for the building industry. Today, Litokol is an international group comprising eight companies located in Italy, Greece, China, India, Armenia, Ukraine and Russia. It employs around 650 people and generates global revenue of approximately €100 million.

Gruppo Romani presents Smart Tiles

Gruppo Romani launches the first Smart Tiles, so called because of the ability to interact with latest-generation home automation systems. The result of over four years of research and about 10 million euros of investment, the project was funded by Italy’s Ministry of Economic Development, due to its alignment with the policy of investing in sustainable research and devel-

opment, with the involvement of technical partners such as Sacmi, Iprel, CNR, Trebax and Studio-IOT. Originating from Gruppo Romani’s desire to transform large-format ceramic panels into intelligent modules, capable of monitoring themselves and the surrounding environment, the project concept relating to active ceramic tiles for monitoring buildings has generated two industrial patent applications, in Italy and Europe, and is blazing a trail for the future of design, for both curtain walls and raised flooring. These large-format ceramic panels have a specially designed cavity in the back to house a micro electronic control board with MEMS sensors (Micro Electro-Mechanical System), capable of transmitting the data they acquire into a cloud. As well as offering the technical characteristics set down in UNI EN 14411 and the aesthetic quality that is the hallmark of Gruppo Romani’s products, these sensor-equipped tiles enable integrated monitoring of the programmed parameters. When used in curtains walls, for example, they can measure temperature, humidity, dew level, impacts or deformation caused by seismic events. Another type of sensor, installed in floating flooring, can detect overloads, monitor the flow of people, trigger perimeter alarms and communicate with the lighting system so as to switch on lights in response to footfall. Smart Tiles by Gruppo Romani will be produced in size 120x120cm, on demand and to customer specifications.

Portobello Group resumes growth

The Portobello Group made significant progress in 2023 despite the macroeconomic and sectoral instability in Brazil and in the group’s main export markets. In the domestic market, the Tijucas-based ceramic tile group reported 3.4% revenue growth in 2022, sur-

passing R$1.74 billion (approximately US$358.5 million at the exchange rate on 31/12/2023). This growth outpaced the national average for the sector. According to data published by the Brazilian tile manufacturers’ association Anfacer, total tile sales in the domestic market fell by 5.7% in volume last year, forcing manufacturers to reduce plant utilisation rate to just 64% of the country’s total installed capacity. However, exports performed less well, with the Portobello Group’s export revenues falling by 12.2% compared to 2023 to reach R$450.7 million (a decrease of 8% in US dollars to US $85.4 million). This contraction was primarily due to a negative performance in the first nine months of the year. However, the fourth quarter showed a marked recovery of 22.9% compared to the same period in 2022, with no less than 67% of sales generated by large-format tiles.

Overall, Portobello Group posted consolidated revenue of R$2.2 billion in 2023 (at 31/12/2023 exchange rate, about US$453.2 million), broadly in line with the previous year’s performance (-0.3%), and an EBITDA margin of 13%. In the domestic market, which accounted for about 80% of total sales, the Group benefited from the strong performance of the Portobello Shop division, which posted revenue of R$917 million for the year. This marked a 12.7% increase compared to 2022 and accounted for 41.3% of consolidated revenue. The success of this business unit helped to counterbalance the negative results from the other divisions: Portobello at -6.5%, Pointer at -14% and Portobello America at -2.2%. In addition to launching the US plant, the year also saw the opening of 16 new Portobello Shops, increasing the total number of outlets to 158, of which 25 are owned by the group and 133 are franchised. Even excluding the contribution made by the new openings, the division’s sales grew by 5% in 2022. Furthermore, the strategy to strength-

en the group’s presence in the retail segment continued into the first quarter of 2024, with the number of company-owned shops increasing to 28 and the number of franchised shops falling to 128. About Q1 2024, Portobello Group saw a positive performance in revenue and an increase in market share, partly driven by the gradual recovery of the Brazilian ceramic tile market, which experienced a 3.8% growth in consumption compared to Q1 2023.

The group’s consolidated turnover reached R$525.5 million (approximately US$104.7 million at the exchange rates of March 31, 2024), marking a 7.7% increase compared to Q1 2023. EBITDA also showed an excellent performance, rising to R$81.4 million, a 62.8% increase, with a margin of 15.5%.

Domestic sales rose by 7.1% in value and 15.4% in volume, well above the sector average, while exports increased by 10.4% over Q1 2023, or 14.4% in US dollar terms, again outperforming the national figure, which saw Brazilian tile exports grow by 5.1% in the quarter. Regarding the breakdown of revenue across sales channels, exports contributed 19.4% to the total, while within Brazil, the retail segment (Portobello Shop) made up 40.5% of the group’s consolidated revenue.

Engineering and projects accounted for 21.1% and other retail sales 19%. In Q1 2024, the group’s investments totalled R$45.1 million (approximately US$9 million), representing a 47% decrease compared to the first quarter of 2023. These investments were primarily focused on Portobello America (50.4%), Portobello Shop (23.2%) and Portobello (23%).

COMPASSO D’ORO CAREER AWARD FOR BLU PONTI COLLECTION BY CERAMICA

FRANCESCO DE MAIO

On the 70th anniversary of the first Compasso d’Oro Award, the Blu Ponti collection, designed in 1960 by Gio Ponti and faithfully reissued over the years by the historic manufacturer Ceramica Francesco De Maio, received the prestigious Compasso d’Oro Career Award at the ceremony held in Milan on Thursday 20 June. This award, the most prestigious in the world of design, was created in 1954 based on an idea by Gio Ponti himself and has now reached its 28th edition.

The Blu Ponti collection, consisting of 33 blue and white majolica decorations designed by the great Italian architect and designer in the 1960s, remains highly current today and has now become a permanent part of the Compasso d’Oro Collection, which gathers the most significant international design pieces from the 1950s to the present day. In 2004, it was recognized by the Italian Ministry of Culture as an “asset of exceptional artistic and historical interest” and included in the national heritage.

In addition to Blu Ponti, Ceramica Francesco De Maio holds exclusive licenses for other notable collections. These include the Puntini collection designed by Alessandro Mendini in 2018, as well as a collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam for the production and distribution of a ceramics line inspired by the masterpieces of Vincent van Gogh, all meticulously hand-decorated.

EUROPEAN CONSTRUCTION: RECOVERY EXPECTED BY 2025

The total construction output in the Euroconstruct area fell by 1.4 percent in 2023, which was slightly better than expected six months ago. The negative trend will continue in 2024 with a decrease of 2.7

percent, mainly caused by significant challenges in the new residential sector in 15 of 19 Euroconstruct countries.

A positive turning point is expected in 2025, with the positive trend

The dampening factors for the current year

The economic outlook in the Euroconstruct area is rather mixed. After last year’s modest growth (+0.4 percent), with declines in economic output in a total of seven member states, progress is likely to remain moderate (+1.1 percent) in 2024. Growth in private consumption and exports will stay modest. Although the economy will pick up somewhat in 2025, the 2 percent

Source: Euroconstruct

continuing in 2026.

This according to the new forecasts for the European construction sectors published at the 97 th Euroconstruct conference in Stockholm on the 11th of June 2024.

mark remains unattainable from today’s perspective, given the numerous dampening factors (e.g., after-effects of the inflation shock). The most positive figures in overall economic activity for the 2024-2026 period are expected in Ireland and Hungary. At the other end of the scale, we find Italy and Germany. The dampening factors also include the continued rise in interest rates and high national budget deficits. Both are seen by the EUROCONSTRUCT partners as clear obsta-

97th Euroconstrut Conference – Stockholm

cles to European construction activity. The limited financial leeway of the central states, as well as regional and local authorities, can have negative consequences on possible tax relief or financial injections, the provision of funding programs, or direct construction demand from the public sector.

Access to credit towards normalization

The picture is similar for financing conditions. This influencing factor is said to have a decidedly negative effect on all main segments. The sharp rise in interest rates in a very short period has made it considerably more difficult for private households and companies to finance construction-related projects, and the situation is only slowly normalising. According to the ECB’s latest Bank Lending Survey, demand for private home loans in the eurozone has at least stabilised recently. However, corporate demand for credit weakened again until the start of the second quarter of 2024 and was still clearly in negative territory on balance. In contrast, credit requirements for house purchases by private households appear to have been handled somewhat less strictly for the first time since 2021, while banks continue to act very cautiously regarding the other forms of credit for this demand group.

The problems of recent years (e.g., interest rate turnaround, inflation, rise in construction costs) will continue to weigh on building construction, while civil engineering is expected to expand strongly in 2024. The expansion is driven by a variety of investment needs, but above all by the financial backing of governments.

FIG. 1 - GDP AND CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT IN EUROCONSTRUCT-19 AREA

Davide Miserendino

THE ITALIAN CERAMIC INDUSTRY SURPASSES

REVENUES OF €7.5 BILLION

According to figures unveiled by outgoing Chairman Giovanni Savorani at the Confindustria Ceramica members’ meeting held on 12 June, the Italian ceramic industry

performed strongly in 2023, with revenues in excess of €7.5 billion, a workforce of more than 26,000 employees and an increase in investments despite the

market contraction. At the same meeting, Augusto Ciarrocchi was elected as the association’s new Chairman for the two-year period 2024-2026.

Double-digit decline in the tile sector

More than 81% of the Italian ceramic industry’s total revenue is generated by the tile sector, which experienced a sharp contraction last year.

The 125 companies in the sector produced a total of 373.7 million sqm, a 13.3% decline from the 431 million sqm recorded in 2022 in response to a sharp drop in market demand.

Total sales fell to 369.2 million sqm (down 17.8% on 2022, a reduction of about 80 million sqm), of which 84.4 million sqm was sold on the Italian market (-9%) and 284.8 million sqm on export markets (-20.1%).

The sector’s total revenue was just under €6.2 billion (down 14.1% on the previous year’s €7.2 billion), with €5 billion generated from exports (-15.4%; an 82% share of turnover) and €1.1 billion from domestic sales.

Despite the challenging market environment, the Italian tile industry’s vitality and competitive capacity is demonstrated by its propensity for investment, which increased by 7.4% in 2023 to €474 million, representing

Augusto Ciarrocchi

The six manufacturing sectors represented by Confindustria Ceramica (ceramic tiles, ceramic sanitaryware, porcelain and tableware, refractory materials,

technical ceramics, and bricks and roof tiles) comprise a total of 252 companies operating in Italy with 26,211 direct employees and total revenues of more than €7.5 billion.

A further €1 billion is generated by factories located in Europe and North America but owned by Italian ceramic groups.

7.7% of total revenues.

As for 2024, there are signs that the decline may be slowing.

In the first quarter of the year, sales decreased by 6.7% compared to the same period in 2023, while exports to the US increased by 18.5% in volume and 12.8% in value.

Ceramic sanitaryware, exports account for 40% of total sales

The ceramic sanitaryware sector also experienced a decline in sales and consequently in production in 2023. The 29 Italian sanitaryware manufacturers operating in Italy - 26 of which are located in the Civita Casfaetano

marazzi

tellana cluster in the province of Viterbo - produced 3 million pieces (compared to 3.6 million in 2022, -15.4%) and sold 2.9 million pieces with a total value of almost €350 million (-12.2% on 2022). The domestic market continued to dominate, generating 60% of revenues. The sector’s total workforce stood at around 2,560 direct employees.

The heavy clay and refractory sectors

At the end of 2023, there were 59 Italian companies operating in the brick and roof tile sector with a total workforce of around 3,000 people. Total production was down 14% on 2022 to just under 4 million tonnes, most of which was sold on the Italian market generating a turnover of around €650 million (down 7% on 2022).

The Italian refractory materials sector consists of 30 companies with a total of 1,566 employees. Production amounted to 252,500 tonnes in 2023 (down 16% on 2022), of which 47% was sold on the Italian market and 53% abroad. Total turnover fell by 7.9% year-

Source: Confindustria Ceramica

Confindustria Ceramica

TAB. 2 - THE ITALIAN CERAMIC INDUSTRY

TAB. 3 - THE ITALIAN SANITARYWARE

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olympia

on-year to €344 million, of which €137.7 million was generated by domestic sales and €206.8 million by exports.

The tableware and porcelain sector

Tableware, the smallest segment of the Italian ceramic industry, is made up of just 9 companies employing 656 people and recording a production of 9,900 tonnes in 2023 (stable with respect to 2022). Last year, finished product sales amounted to 8,800 tonnes (down 7% on 2022) and generated a turnover of €55.9 million (-7%). Here too, the domestic market is predominant with no less than 80% of volume sales being made in Italy (equivalent to 65% of revenues). ✕

versace by gardenia orchidea

ceramica sant’agostino

atlas concorde

Milena Bernardi

FLORIM: A CONSTANT COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Florim, a benefit company and certified B Corp since 2020, recently published its 16th Sustainability Report. The economic, social and environmental results contained in the report testify to the group’s

INCREASED INVESTMENTS DESPITE DECLINE IN REVENUES

determination to achieve its goals and underscore its constant commitment to generating value for all its stakeholders.

“The past year will be remembered for the outbreak of yet another armed

The group’s economic profile for 2023 reveals consolidated revenues of €467 million, down from €584 million in 2022.

This downturn is linked to the general decline in demand for ceramic products, reversing the significant growth observed in the main reference markets dur-

conflict and ongoing geopolitical instability, both of which have had an adverse impact on the economy,” said Chairman Claudio Lucchese

“In this context, despite a general contraction in volumes compared

Claudio Lucchese

to 2022, Florim has continued to look to the future with optimism, buoyed by the outstanding results achieved in recent years. In particular, the group has continued the investment plan it initiated in 2022.”

ing 2021 and 2022. In 2023, EBITDA and EBITDA margin were impacted by both the contraction in sales and the increase in certain cost items such as energy expenditures, as well as personnel costs in the US business.

Chiara Bruzzichelli

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

However, the downturn failed to slow down investment, which reached €121 million in 2023, totalling more than €270 million over the two-year period of 2022-2023. This marks a significant increase over the previous period and is in line with the plant renewal plan launched in 2022, focused on innovation, reducing emissions and improving product quality.

Work carried out in Italian factories, amounting to about €62 million, primarily involved the Mordano site for the continued construction of new production facilities and the expansion and modernisation of existing buildings. The work also partly involved the Fiorano site, with the construction of the new Plant 3 (covering 2,800 sqm). Additionally, at the end of the year, refurbishment began on the presses, kilns and the grinding, lapping and sorting departments at Plant 1, which produces traditional-sized porcelain stoneware. The aim of this intervention is to rationalise the production lines, achieve greater efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

Abroad, the renovation project at the Florim USA factory continued, with an investment of US $55 million during the year. This included the completion of a new 40,000 sqm warehouse and facilities for producing large-size ceramic slabs.

The group has made sustainability-related investments of €64 million since 2011, including approximately €6 million in 2023 alone.

FLORIM FLAGSHIP STORE

Florim continues to open Flagship Stores in the most important international design cities.

After moving the New York Flagship store to its new location on Fifth Avenue in 2023, in 2024 the group

opened a new space in London and restyled its Milan showroom. It also plans to open a new space in Rome In Los Angeles, a new pop-up store was opened in 2023 while awaiting the opening of the new Flagship store by the end of 2024.

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES

During 2023, Florim’s commitment to the sustainability of its business model focused on all aspects of production. At the end of 2022, the company began altering its industrial process in order to reduce the thickness of all its traditional tiles from 10 mm to 9 mm, thereby significantly improving sustainability. This innovation has resulted in the use of smaller quantities of raw materials, less water, electricity and methane gas consumption in the production process, and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

Another important environmental initiative involved the construction of a large new rainwater collection tank (350 m × 6.2 m) at the Mordano plant. Together with the existing facilities, this enabled the company to recover and reuse about 7 million litres of rainwater in 2023.

Florim continues to focus on clean energy production and to date has installed 127,000 square metres of photovoltaic panels with a power output of 12.3 MWp. Over a period of 12 years, the company’s installations (photovoltaic panels and cogenerators) have enabled it to avoid the emission of 152,845 tons of CO2, including 23,457 tons in 2023 alone. Last year, self-produced electricity covered 78% of total consumption, an achievement that enabled Florim to obtain UNI EN ISO 50001 Certification for its effective energy management policy.

Another major initiative is the Carbon Neutral surfaces project launched in 2023, focused on materials that offset the CO2 emissions generated during the production process and over their entire life cycle. In 2023, Florim sent 44,168 tonnes of separated waste (including fired waste) for recycling, equivalent to 99% of the total. When the US site is included, the average recycling rate is 87%.

Florim’s commitment to sustainability also led to the adoption of 2 electric trucks and the installation of a new high-power electric truck recharging system at both the Fiorano and Mordano plants. From June to De-

cember 2023, these trucks avoided the emission of 148 tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

CORPORATE WELFARE

In 2023, Florim continued to support employee health and wellbeing through a broad package of services, including free checkup programmes, discounts for specialist consultations and tests, free summer centres for employees’ children, distribution of fuel vouchers and much more.

It provided more than 26,600 hours of technical, digital and health and safety training throughout the year. In 2023, Florim also launched its new whistleblowing portal, accessible to employees and external parties, for reporting violations, offences, conflicts of interest, legal non-compliance and breaches of the Code of Ethics and the Organisational Model to the Supervisory Board.

GOALS FOR 2024

The 16th Sustainability Report also outlines Florim’s goals for 2024. These include the renewal of B Corp certification; a 25% reduction in electricity consumption in the grinding department of Plant 1 in Fiorano; collection of 5% more rainwater than in 2023; the introduction of a new secondary raw material into the production cycle; the use of new water-based materials for digital decoration; the inclusion of new collections in the CarbonZero range; and the official adoption of agile working methods.

PRODUCING CERAMIC SLABS USING GREEN HYDROGEN

Iris Ceramica Group, a wellknown ceramic manufacturer, and Edison Next, an Edison Group company that supports customers

The production site is the H2 Factory, a new plant in Castellarano, in the Italian province of Reggio Emilia, which was completed in 2023 and is already equipped with innovative technologies and the necessary infrastructure for 100% use of green hydrogen.

The industrial process being developed in Castellarano is the first tangible result of the quest for decarbonisation that Iris Ceramica Group and Edison Next have embarked upon together. After this initial phase, the H2 Factory will be powered by higher percentages of green hydrogen produced by the bespoke, state-of-the-art plant already designed and now being built by Edison Next.

“Today we mark a major milestone,” explains Federica Minozzi, CEO of Iris Ceramica Group; “another real-world achievement that testifies to our commitment to the decarbonisation of the ceramic industry. This unique, trail-blazing and globally significant project opens up new prospects for hardto-abate manufacturing, demonstrating that it can be done.” “The test phase will enable us to finetune the production process, before moving onto the next phase, when we’ll be able to steadily increase the percentage of green hydrogen up to 50%, using the production system that Edison Next is making specifically for us. What we’re involved in is an exceptionally valuable partnership and we’re

and local authorities on their journey towards decarbonisation and ecological transition, have announced the release of the

first large-format panel made of 4D technical ceramic, using a mixture of green hydrogen – i.e. hydrogen produced using

renewable energy – and natural gas. The panel in question is 3.2m long by 1.6m wide by 12mm thick and stands out for

its four dimensions – that’s why it’s called 4D Ceramic – in which the three-dimensional nature of the material and its grain

proud that this achievement is the result of teamwork across the supply chain, which sets an admirable example of integrated sustainability. We hope that other companies will follow suit, so as to build a real system and become drivers of change both nationally and internationally.” Various preparatory activities were carried out to pave the way for the launch of this first phase, including civil works to prepare the area, the installation of the blending unit for mixing natural gas with green hydrogen, and the completion of all the necessary connections between the different machines. A 1.3 MWp photovoltaic system has also been installed, to supplement the 2.5 MWp of the existing installation.

The pilot H2 production plant, brought on-stream in May 2024 for the testing phase, comprises two temporary electrolysers with total power of 120 electrical KW, powered by renewable energy. Housed in a shipping container, the two electrolysers can produce a total of 20 cubic metres of green hydrogen per hour, thus supplying the new hydrogen-ready kiln with a blend containing up to about 7% of green hydrogen – a figure which is set to rise once the definitive plant is installed.

The aim of this first phase is to gain an in-depth understanding of how best to use ceramic slab production technology with green hydrogen, while at the same time as-

patterns, which run through the entire thickness of the slab, are complemented by a fourth dimension: sustainability.

sessing the behaviour of the material during firing. The ultimate goal is to industrialise production using green hydrogen, with complete certainty of achieving the technical, aesthetic and qualitative excellence that has always been the hallmark of Iris Ceramica Group products. 4D Ceramic, the material produced by the H2 Factory, is the Group’s flagship product, which is designed to showcase the beauty and nobility of this natural material and satisfy the demands of the high-end interior design market.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Over the next few months, while the test phase continues, Edison Next will start work on installing the definitive system, which is a green hydrogen electrolysis plant with a capacity of 1 MW capable of producing around 132 tonnes of green hydrogen per year, to supply the kiln with a blend of natural gas and up to about 50% of green hydrogen. From the outset, this blend will replace approximately 500,000 cubic metres of natural gas per year, thus avoiding the emission of approximately 900 tonnes of CO2 per year into the atmosphere*

The green hydrogen production system currently being built by Edison Next has been designed to allow a further doubling of green hydrogen production, so as to supply a new 100% hydrogen kiln that is already in development. ✕ *Certification by LEAP s.c.ar.l. Laboratorio Energia ed Ambiente Piacenza

KALESERAMIK ANNOUNCES NEW INVESTMENTS FOCUSED ON GROWTH

Kaleseramik, Turkey’s largest ceramic manufacturer and one of the global leaders in the industry, has a current production capacity of 56 million sqm/year across 57 production lines.

The company sells a wide range of

products under its various brands (Çanakkale Seramik, Kalebodur, Edilcuoghi, Kalesinterflex and T-One) and has an extensive catalogue spanning 1,900 types of floor tiles in 50 different sizes and 2,200 types of wall tiles in 60 sizes.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: The Kalesinterflex brand continues to be pivotal to your expansion programmes. Could you tell us more about your plans?

TIMUR KARAOĞLU: We have just signed an agreement with our longstanding supplier System Ceramics to modernise our existing Kalesinterflex slab production line in sizes 100x300 cm and 120x360 cm and to increase production capacity by 50% from 1.6 to 2.4 million sqm. The €15 million investment will be completed in two phases, the first by 1 May 2025 and

It launches around 200 new products onto the market every year.

Ever since its early years, Kale Group has been committed to adopting ever more innovative technologies, most of which are

the second by the end of next year. This investment will bring our total slab capacity to 5.6 million sqm/ year while also allowing us to improve the technical and aesthetic quality of the surfaces.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: You will also be completing another major investment this year.

T. KARAOĞLU: That’s right, we have purchased a production line equipped with Supera technology from Gruppo B&T for the production of large-size glossy glazed porcelain tiles. The new plant will replace an existing porcelain tile line and will allow us to produce 120x280 cm, 120x120 cm and 60x120 cm sizes

Delivery of the machinery and equipment will be completed within a few months and production is scheduled to start on 1 December. This $10 million investment will be financed with funds raised through the IPO we launched last year. We estimate that the revenues generated with products manufactured on this line will make a significant contribution to our 2025 turnover (between 10% and 15%).

TILE INTERNATIONAL: What are the most interesting product innovations you have developed in recent months?

T. KARAOĞLU: We have developed two main new products, both under the Kalesinterflex brand. The first marks a genuine revolution in the slab sector. Whereas Kalesinterflex has until now been available in a thickness of 3 mm, the latest technological advances have enabled us to begin producing ultra-thin panels with a thickness of just 2 mm. This also brings clear benefits in terms of sustainability, as the process uses 33% less raw materials and reduces energy consumption. The second new product is T-One, the new brand of kitchen countertops created from Kalesinterflex slabs, which are already gaining a foothold in the kitchen furnishing sector thanks to their durability, aesthetic quality, hygiene and scope for customisation.

At Cersaie, we will also be showcasing the new Kalesinterflex offerings, including the Earth Collection inspired by natural elements that won the iF Design Award 2024, as well as many other novelties from the

Paola Giacomini

Timur Karaoğlu

inaugurated during the celebrations held at the Çan headquarters on 27 July each year to mark the anniversary of the group’s foundation back in 1957.

On 27 July 2023, it officially started up its third line for the production

group’s other brands.

of Kalesinterflex slabs with a production capacity of 1.5 million sqm/year and an additional capability to produce a 160x320 cm size in various thicknesses.

This year, 27 July coincided with the announcement of a new technology

TILE INTERNATIONAL: Could you tell us about your international development strategy?

T. KARAOĞLU: Despite the difficulties, in 2023 we exported 28% of our output to 86 countries, including China.

In international markets, we aim to create long-term partnerships with reliable distributors and to reach end users by focusing on brand awareness. In terms of positioning, our strategy changes according to the mar-

investment plan aimed at supporting the group’s global growth.

We discussed this new plan with Kaleseramik’s General Manager Timur Karaoğlu.

kets, so in more developed regions we focus on delivering high-end products.

Chiara Bruzzichelli

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

We are now a well-established brand in many countries, most notably the USA, Canada, the UK, Germany, France, Israel, Pakistan, Iraq, Kazakhstan, TRNC (Northern Cyprus), Morocco and Bangladesh.

At the same time, we are working to expand our presence in other countries in the Middle East and Africa and are stepping up the pace of store and showroom openings. By the end of 2024 we are set to open

new stores in Iraq, Morocco and Cyprus, which will join the existing eight exclusive Kale Dealers in Iraq, seven in Pakistan, two in TRNC and a project office in Kazakhstan.

In December 2023, we opened a 400 sqm showroom in Dhaka, Bangladesh with our partner Shanta Holding, followed in March 2024 by a showroom in Cologne, Germany, which also benefits from a central warehouse to ensure rapid deliveries. Both showrooms display Çanakkale Seramik and Kalebodur brand products and of course Kalesinterflex slabs, as well as sanitaryware and bathroom furniture from Kale Banyo. Germany and Bangladesh are obviously two very different markets. In Germany we face very strong competition, whereas in Bangladesh, our third largest market in Asia after Pakistan and India, we believe that Kalesinterflex can tap into the strong interest in innovative products and win significant market shares.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: In May, you also began production in Iraq.

T. KARAOĞLU: That’s right, last December we acquired a 49% stake in Al-Sadaf Porselen, one of the largest porcelain stoneware manufacturers in Iraq, and began producing Kalebodur-branded tiles on 19 May. We believe that this investment will provide us with new growth opportunities not only in the Iraqi market but across the entire Middle East. It will also facilitate sales in Iraq of products manufactured in Kale’s factories in Turkey.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: Could you give us some examples of projects Kalesinterflex slabs have been used in?

T. KARAOĞLU: Kalesinterflex slabs have been chosen for many important international projects, such as the Barcelona Metro, Bratislava Airport, the Baku Olympic Stadium, Leeds Stadium, the United Nations Building in Senegal, the Olympic Village in Sochi, the National Children’s Hospital in Ireland and the MDIS Singapore Institute.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: Could you tell us about your R&D activities?

T. KARAOĞLU: Our R&D Centre is involved in a variety of projects to support company strategies, with a special focus on sustainability and product and process innovation. It focuses on five main themes - cost, quality, efficiency, value creation and new usage segments - and in 2023 carried out 37 projects with a total

expenditure of €5 million. The R&D Centre is equipped with a series of laboratories that perform physical, mineralogical and chemical analyses of raw materials, wastewater and finished products. In recent months, the Kaleseramik R&D Centre’s laboratory became the first and only Turkish member of the European Ceramic Society (ECerS), which means it will be open to ECerS researchers, organisations requesting laboratory services for EU-funded projects, and collaborations with European ceramic research groups.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: What are your sustainability goals?

T. KARAOĞLU: Sustainability is a global priority, so it is natural that a group like ours should be keen to contribute to a more sustainable future by making strategic investments. The Kalesinterflex production line, for example, reduces carbon emissions per unit of product by 42% compared to standard production. By 2030, we are committed to significantly reducing our carbon footprint by meeting several ambitious targets. These include cutting direct greenhouse gas emissions by 25%, increasing our usage of renewable electricity to 100%, doubling our closed-loop production rates and reducing water consumption by 25% compared to 2021 levels.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: How are you addressing the digital transformation?

T. KARAOĞLU: Digitalisation of our production processes is a very important part of our technology investments. We began working on this in 2017 and have invested around €15 million over the past six years. Our Digital Transformation Roadmap aims to make the company more agile, efficient and competitive through more effective use of collected data.

TILE INTERNATIONAL: After a challenging 2023 for the world economy, what are your expectations for 2024?

T. KARAOĞLU: Projections for the global economy point to a growth trajectory, driven mainly by China, India and the United States. The development and diffusion of new technologies will also have a positive impact on the digital economy. Despite inflation and declining purchasing power, the Turkish economy continued to grow in 2023. In 2024, the measures adopted are expected to lead to a drop in inflation from the second half of the year, reviving investment and making the market less unpredictable. ✕

Colorama

Onde Eden

BARDELLI GROUP AT CERSAIE WITH “WELCOME TO EDEN”

“Welcome to Eden” is the show-installation designed by Bardelli Group for the presentation of its latest products at Cersaie 2024. Based on a hexagonal shape that references the “Eden” collection by Appiani, it offers visitors an emotive tour of the company’s latest developments. With its palette of 18 gloss and 18 matt colours, “Eden” promotes the idea of modularity and customisation: the mosaic pieces can be mixed to create original designs to suit any type of environment.

The stand thus offers a sensory stroll through the array of shapes and colours that make up this voyage of discovery of the company’s latest highlights:

“Colorama” by Ceramica Bardelli, which includes three diversified collections of products, called Color Stick and Decor (in the Circles and Flowers versions, created in collaboration with the designer Robert Dawson, Brush and Precious) for creating an ecosystem of colour, embracing a wide range of solutions, with various large formats, textures and patterns; “Wind” by Ceramica Vogue, which draws inspiration from the power of the wind and comes in two patterns: Onde and Dune. Onde replicates the ripples caused by wind blowing over waves in the sea, while Dune evokes the geometric shapes sculpted by the wind as it blows over sand dunes. Onde and Dune porcelain listellos are made with a low-relief texture created by means of press dies and painstakingly developed, coloured glazes that give these tiles the effects typically associated with hand-crafted ceramic.

• The new “Clayborn Millerighe” variant, which is an evolution of Clayborn by Ceramica Bardelli, a collection of floor tiles whose pattern is created using “generative models” of artificial intelligence.

• “Mix & Match”, a project created to help the professional combine small and large formats in environments where ceramic colours, formats and materials dialogue harmoniously in the sign of design. ✕

Mix&Match, Fili

NOBLESSE COCKTAIL BAR, VIGNOLA

Pop-style interiors and playful juxtapositions of ceramic coverings embrace a contemporary concept of mixology and set the tone for an eclectic venue steeped in character.

The historic centre of Vignola, a small town in the Modena area, famed for its cherry orchards, provides the backdrop for the Noblesse cocktail bar, where creativity joins forces with research to create a unique range of bespoke drinks.

In line with the original interpretation of mixology, the venue’s bold but welcoming interior design is brimming with character and cosmopolitan allure, underpinned by its mix&match surfaces. Enticingly sophisticated colours, designer details and vaulted, antique brick ceilings are paired with ceramic floor and wall coverings made with a mix of different Marazzi collections, to convey the unique spirit of the venue.

Interpretations of marble, wood and slate shape the

space, to create an environment whose stylistic signature is built around contrasts. The venue’s most distinctive features are its flooring and the tiling of the bar, which involve an unusual mix of Allmarble Calacatta Extra - a mainly light-coloured marble-effect porcelain tile shot through with bold streaks of grey - and Treverklife wood-effect porcelain tile, which draws inspiration from the warmth of oak and is used here in the colour Cherry.

To showcase the contrast between the elegance of marble and the warmth of wood, while maintaining the harmony and coherence of the design, both collections were supplied in custom sizes of 12.5x75cm and then laid in a herringbone pattern on both the floor and the wall. The result is an environment with a

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Chiara Bruzzichelli

PH. VANNI BORGHI

strong, dynamic, contemporary personality. The tables were made with Allmarble, in the tasteful Elegant Black variant with contrasting light-coloured vein patterns.

To emphasise the volumes, the steps of the venue –which is laid out on several levels – were made with Mystone Ardesia stone-effect porcelain tile, in the textured Cenere version in size 75x150cm, which provides

an ideal combination of contemporary design and technical performance.

As a final touch, a band of Sage-coloured Colorplay tiles installed on the walls breaks up the vertical surfaces with the discreet geometric volumes of 3D Cabochon, which draws inspiration from the facets of diamonds..

FRESH HOTEL, ATHENS

The remodelling of a hotel in a contemporary Mediterranean style

Azure, blue and turquoise are the colours of the Mediterranean, the Cyclades Islands, the sea and the ancient architecture of those places, which have always been a source of inspiration for Paola Navone. Alongside Gianpaolo Venier and Cristina Pettenuzzo of OTTO Studio, the Milanese designer has redesigned the interior of the Fresh Hotel in Athens, using coverings from the Poetry House collection of porcelain tiles created in collaboration with ABK.

The renovation project involves harmonious pairings of ancient and modern features in spaces designed to foster a relaxing, welcoming atmosphere.

The Fresh Hotel’s new look underpins a concept that celebrates its dual spirit, which is simultaneously trail-blazing and classical, in tune with the Greek capital itself, which is undoubtedly a city of contrasts.

The original modernist style of the building, characterised by concrete and glass, has been softened by the recent renovation, thanks in part to the choice of other materials, such as porcelain tile, which offers greater visual plasticity. The delicate approach to design that is the hallmark of OTTO Studio has yielded a range of spaces with an eclectic, dynamic and exceptionally contemporary Mediterranean atmosphere. The colours inspired

gives a starring role to porcelain tiles designed by OTTO Studio - Paola Navone for ABK.

by air and water, the natural finishes of the coverings and the materials and craftsmanship of the decorations that reflect local traditions, are not just details but vital components that form an integral part of the overall picture.

The flooring of the glamorous, vintage bathrooms is finished with Poetry Decor Stamp by ABK and Paola Navone - OTTO Studio, an original, plaster-effect porcelain tile decorated with white glaze patterns with a hand-crafted appearance, which add a further retro touch to the environment.

The terrace also features an ABK floor covering from the extensive Poetry House collection. This time it’s the Poetry Stone outdoor series in size

120x120cm, with the Carpet Paint Ash decorative motif, whose colours and styling are in full harmony with the rest of the design. The veined-stone effect is embellished with hand-drafted patterns by the designer, which stand out for their deliberately imperfect and creative feel. In the rationale embraced by OTTO

Studio - Paola Navone, the decorations, which can be used on walls and floors alike, reassert the primacy of uniqueness and instinctive gestures as an aesthetic value, without taking themselves too seriously.

The hotel’s makeover is complemented by delicate touches such as colourful ceramic plates

on the walls, curious fish-shaped handles and iconic French lamps, not to mention the enchanting swimming pool and the terrace with a view over the Acropolis – all the right ingredients, in fact, for guests to enjoy a memorable stay with a contemporary, original and exclusive feel.

STUDIO 129, MODENA

Aimed at creating an overall sense of aesthetics, functionality and sensitive regeneration, the remodelling of a photographic studio achieved complete success by combining the technology of new materials with the iconography of historic local crafts.

The building where Studio 129 is based is part of a historic jute factory to the south of Modena, surrounded by the railway and a group of old tobacco factories.

The interior, which was recently renovated to modernise it and bring it into line with the latest design standards, is a large open-plan space featuring surfaces that derive their character from the materials they are made with.

These have been showcased by exposing the brickwork of the walls and the natural grain patterns of the wooden doors through which goods used to pass.

The premises are on two levels, with large columns that support and connect two different mezzanines, delimiting the office space and the bathroom area.

The spaces are linked by a uniform and contemporary new floor, laid with adhesive over the existing flooring, which is still firmly anchored to the sub-floor.

For the new floor covering, the designers opted for large-format, slim-gauge, edge-ground porcelain panels measuring 120x120, which have the evocative appeal of old industrial-style concrete floors.

To achieve a result in line with the client’s expectations, it was essential to use high-quality products to prepare the subfloor and install the ceramic coverings. So the obvious choice was LATICRETE®, , a manufacturer of versatile, eco-friendly, high-performance solutions for the application of screeds and coverings.

TOP-QUALITY RE-TILING

The first step was to clean the existing flooring with STONETECH®, STONE & TILE

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Chiara Bruzzichelli

CLEANER, a pH-neutral aqueous detergent. The contractors then applied an adhesion primer, to maximise the adherence of the cementitious adhesive to the glazed surface of the old tiles, which are a particularly challenging substrate for cementitious adhesive. In this case, the choice fell to PRIMER SUPERIOR, a liquid primer that can be applied with a roller and is highly effective for preparing the floor for adhesive application in just three hours.

The new large-format panels were then installed using 335 SUPER FLEX, a C2S1 adhesive that delivers first-class adhesion, while also creating the necessary

thickness underneath the tiles to compensate for unevenness in the previous floor covering.

Adhesive was applied to both the sub-floor and the back of the tiles, to ensure solid bed fixing. Levellers were also used, to prevent height differences between tiles and to ensure a perfect, even surface.

Twenty-four hours after installation, the joints were grouted with PERMACOLOR®, SELECT FINE, a quick-setting cement grout that can be coloured with water-soluble pigments.

Only in the entrance area was it necessary to remove the existing tiles, because they were poorly fixed and seriously uneven. The solution involved screeding the floor with 2261 SCREED, a ready-to-use compound of hydraulic binders pre-mixed with aggregates, which is quick-setting, making it possible to lay ceramic tiles just 24 hours after the screed has been cast. The thickness of the screed, from four to eight centimetres, ensured a uniform result without compromising the speed of execution. Once the tiles were installed, the joints were simply grouted as necessary. Thanks to the careful installation of the new coverings, the flooring looks impeccably finished and is safe, strong and capable of standing up to the daily wear and tear associated with high-footfall environmen ts. ✕

A LUXURY VILLA COMPLEX IN JESOLO (ITALY)

A residential complex comprising four private villas has recently been completed in Jesolo, in the province of Venice, on the Adriatic coast.

An ideal location for family-oriented tourism, Jesolo is one of Italy’s best-known and most widely acclaimed resorts because of the services it offers and its natural setting, complete with 15km of beach and a series of characteristic piers jutting out into the sea, just half an hour from Venice.

This complex of unique buildings is a perfect fit for the elegantly innovative character of the area, and features environmentally-friendly design that combines green spaces, relaxation areas and a swimming pool.

The outdoor areas of this luxurious residential complex were completed using “Grid Raised Floor System”, a raised-flooring support system that combines elegance and original design with simplicity and uniqueness

The real stand-out feature of this garden is the aesthetically impeccable juxtaposition of ceramic slabs and synthetic grass. With a surface area of 200m2, this raised floor, complete with steps and concealed drainage channels, is built on “Pedestal Prime PR2” supports.

This system is designed for the installation of raised flooring on a network of PP grids interconnected by means of dovetail fittings around their perimeters, to create a substructure capable of supporting a wide range of different floor coverings.

The system, produced by Eterno Ivica, is completed by installing the grids on pedestals from the “Pedestal System” line, whose heads snap into the slots in the corners, centre and sides of the panels.

For a more robust substructure, the manufacturer recommends installing a pedestal in the centre of the grid and along the four sides.

This premium solution can be used with the following pedestals: “Pedestal Prime®”, “Reversus®”, “Eterno SE”, “New Maxi” and “Basic SB”.

The use of the vertical perimeter profile in this project plays a key role in the aesthetic

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Chiara Bruzzichelli

impact of the finished work, by providing a harmonious means of creating the steps that lead to the swimming pool.

This system offers maximum design freedom because it can be used with any type of covering material, from synthetic grass to porcelain tile, natural stone and decking… enabling designers to create gardens, terraces and green spaces adorned with beauty of ceramic. ✕

MAPEI TECHNIQUE FOR CASA DO VALE VILLA , BRAZIL

Situated in a panoramic position in the lush, wooded vegetated hills, the villa is located in the Vale do Vinhedos, an area inhabited by a large number of people of Italian origin. Apart from the ceramic tiles, the waterproofing and installation solutions were also of Italian origin, supplied by Mapei through its subsidiary Mapei Brasil. Before installing the tiles, the substrates in the swimming pool and bathrooms were waterproofed with MAPELASTIC SMART two-component high-flexibility cementitious mortar with high crack-bridging capacity. The large ceramic tiles (measuring 1.6x3.2 m) were installed on the façades using ULTRALITE S2 (available on the international market as ULTRALITE S2 FLEX), a one-component, highly deformable, lightweight adhesive. This product was chosen for installing large format tiles (1,6x3,2 m) on the façades due to its great deformability and to avoid any risk related to the installation on vertical surfaces MAPESIL LM was chosen to seal the joints, a neutral, mould-resistant silicone sealant, whose chemical nature deters surface bleeding or the migration of plasticising agents which would otherwise stain the stone surface.

Solutions for the interiors

Inside the villa, MAPEGUARD UM 35 anti-fracture, uncoupling and waterproofing mem-

brane was applied over the screed made from TOPCEM hydraulic binder. This membrane was chosen because it enables ceramic and stone tiles to be installed without having to copy the layout of control joints and expansion joints of the substrate. This also helped improving the overall heating performance of the floor. Inside the villa, the floor and wall tiles were installed using ULTRALITE S1 deformable, lightweight adhesive (now available in Brasil and in the international market as ULTRALITE S1 FLEX ZERO* with fully offset CO2 emissions). Tile joints were grouted with ULTRACOLOR PLUS cementitious mortar, which is also part of the ZERO* line, as for both interior and exterior surfaces. The expansion joints of the ceramic coverings were sealed with MAPESIL AC silicone sealant. PURTOP EASY polyurethane membrane was chosen to waterproof the roof. The product is highly elastic, versatile, and easy to apply. It was chosen due to its durability, mechanical resistance, and resistance to light foot traffic, since some areas of the roof were left exposed while others were covered with a green garden.

* CO2 emissions measured throughout the life cycle of products from the Zero line in 2024 using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, verified and certified with EPDs, have been offset through the acquisition of certified carbon credits in support of forestry protection projects.

©Ezequiele Panizzi

Large format Italian ceramic tiles cover the façades of Casa do Vale, a recently constructed villa in Bento Gonçalves in the Rio Grande do Sul state, in the southern part of Brazil.

PROJECT INFORMATION

• Period of construction: 2020-2023

• Year of Mapei intervention: 2021

• Intervention by Mapei: supplying products to waterproof substrates and install ceramic tiles on façades, swimming pools and interior walls and floors

• Owner: Lando Design

• Designers: Marlon Tondo Lando, Carolina Onzi Giovanella and Ângela Paludo

• Works direction: Carolina Onzi Giovanella

• Ceramic tile installation company: Tio Chico

• Mapei coordinators: Marcelo Saad, Rafael Mras and Rodrigo Lopes (Mapei Brasil)

©Ezequiele Panizzi

EATALY RESTAURANT IN SEOUL: THE HYUNDAI DEPARTMENT STORE WELCOMES ITALIAN EXCELLENCE

“Alchemy” metallic-effect coverings by Ceramiche Caesar adorn the new Eataly Restaurant, recently opened in the Hyundai Department Store in Seoul, by the famous chain that promotes the cream of Italian gastronomic products worldwide.

Marked by a modern, cosmopolitan design that combines international style with exquisitely oriental simplicity of form, the mall is a perfect showcase for these ceramic surfaces, whose appeal is enhanced by chrome, oxidation and a time-worn, authentically crafted appearance, which is even more striking in the copper colour chosen for the restaurant’s interior.

“Alchemy Copper”, used here in size 80x80cm with a matt finish, catches the eye with its intense colours and richly nuanced variegations, which evoke the warm, aged effect and patinas that occur when metal oxidises, while at the same time offering the durability and practicality that are essential requirements in high-footfall environments.

CERSAIE 2024

New Ceramic Trends On Show

AS EVERY YEAR, CERSAIE CONFIRMS ITSELF AS THE MAIN EVENT FOR THE CERAMIC SECTOR WITH A GLOBAL RESONANCE DUE TO THE QUALITY AND INNOVATION OF THE PRODUCTS ON SHOW, THE VARIETY OF ITS CULTURAL AND EDUCATIONAL INITIATIVES, AND THE INVALUABLE NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES.

Five days of the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings, in which 560 brands - including manufacturers of ceramic tiles and slabs, installation systems and materials, furnishings, sanitaryware and bathroom accessories, as well as ceramic glaze and colour producers and providers of showroom services - will provide an overview of upcoming ceramic trends with novelties and innovations.

344 are the Italian and 216 the foreign companies from over 20 countries, with the biggest contingent from Spain with 138 companies and brands.

The 41st edition of Cersaie also offers a packed programme of cultural and educational initiatives. This includes the new exhibit in the Quadriportico area, now renamed “The Square”, which will serve as the central hub of Cersaie hosting the meetings in the “building, dwelling, thinking” programme. Curated by Dario Curatolo, the exhibit represents a journey inspired by last year’s Route 40 experience exploring

four decades of innovation in ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings presented at Cersaie. It reimagines the concept of a Bologna piazza as a space for interaction, networking and socialisation.

Due to the strong architectural connotation of the fair, there will certainly be no shortage of appointments with the big names in the international design scene.

2024 Pritzker prize Laureate RIKEN YAMAMOTO for Keynote Lecture

Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto, winner of the 2024 Pritzker Architecture Prize, delivers this year’s Keynote Lecture organised as part of Cersaie’s “Building, Dwelling, Thinking” cultural programme.

The lecture will take place on Thursday 26 September at 11:00 a.m. in the Sala Europa of the Palazzo dei Con-

gressi at BolognaFiere.

The previous twelve Pritzker Laureates to give the lecture were Renzo Piano, Toyo Ito, Shigeru Ban, Kazuyo Sejima, Francis Kéré, Richard Rogers, Norman Foster, Thom Mayne, Shelley McNamara, Rafael Moneo, Glenn Murcutt and Eduardo Souto De Moura.

picture: ©sekiguchitaketo

DAVID VAN SEVEREN from the studio Office and RUDY RICCIOTTI

amongst guest speakers

Cersaie will host also the conferences given by Belgian architect David Van Severen on Wednesday 25 September at 3 p.m. and French architect Rudy Ricciotti on Thursday 26 September at 3 p.m. David Van Severen was born in 1978 in Ghent. He studied at the University of Ghent and at the ETSA in Madrid, Spain. In 2002 he founded the Brussels-based studio OFFICE in partnership with Kersten Geers. OFFICE has received numerous honours and awards, including the Belgian Prize for Architecture, the Silver Lion at the 12th Venice Architecture Biennale and the Aga Khan Award for Architecture. Rudy Ricciotti has been described by French designer Philippe Stark as “a clairvoyant, untamable

wild animal”, a compliment intended by Stark as the highest form of praise. Born in Algiers in 1952, Ricciotti is a French architect of Italian origin with a studio overlooking the Mediterranean in the town of Bandol on the Côte d’Azur. He has received numerous awards, including the Grand Prix National d’Architecture, the Médaille d’Or de l’Académie d’Architecture, the Auguste-Perret Prize from the International Union of Architects (UIA), Commandeur de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres and Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur.

He is one of the most representative of a generation of architects who combine the power of creation with a deep understanding of the culture of construction.

David Van Severen

Rudy Ricciotti

The tenth anniversary of ADI CERAMIC&BATHROOM DESIGN AWARD

Back at the fair is also the ADI Ceramic&Bathroom Design Award, the competition organised by ADI in collaboration with the Bologna show, that honours outstanding ceramic tile and bathroom furnishing design projects. An expert jury will judge products displayed at the show based on criteria including innovation, technology, producibility, sustainability, durability and usability. These criteria reflect design quality standards in their broadest and most modern sense and are the

same as those adopted for the ADI Design Index, a two-yearly selection of the finest Italian design products which are automatically submitted to the industry’s most prestigious award, the Compasso d’Oro. Moreover, the ADI Booth Design Award has been organised since 2019 with the aim of recognising the best booths installed at Cersaie and celebrating the efforts of companies to enhance their visibility among industry professionals and the general public.

ADVERTISING

TILING TOWN at Cersaie 2024

On the occasion of the fair, the traditional appointment with the Tiling Town is not missing.

Hosted in a more than 400 square metre area in Hall 32 at Cersaie, the 12th edition of this space stages ceramic tile installation showcases led by Assoposa’s master tile layers.

The concept behind this year’s event is the relationship between humans and technology and the way they can collaborate to generate value and create a more sustainable, safe and inclusive working environment. Tiling Town focuses in particular on the evolving role of tile layers while placing the safety and well-being of industry professionals at the centre of the production and installation process.

The central part of the area is divided into three sections.

The first demonstrates how experimental exoskeletons can be used to reduce the physical fatigue experienced by tile installers, to help them regain mobility after accidents, and to improve their working conditions and the quality of their work.

The second area features high-precision cutting machines which combine compact dimensions with ease of use, quiet operation and excellent manoeuvrability to facilitate the tile layer’s work.

Finally, digital projectors are used to demonstrate how products can be adapted to available spaces, to enhance the purchasing experience and facilitate the choice of materials and installation layouts at the point of sale.

A large space in Tiling Town is occupied by the Italian ceramic tile layers and retailers’ association Assoposa, which interacts continuously with professionals and promotes Tile Layer Certification in accordance with Standard UNI 11493-2. A special area is also devoted to the Assoposa Academy training courses and features an exhibition of tiled spaces and furnishings created using ceramic products of all sizes. The conference area hosts technical seminars on large ceramic slab installation aimed at architects and designers.

LA FENICE

The “Antique Aurea” collection of porcelain tile draws inspiration from the timeless elegance of the marbles that wrote the history of architecture, and reinterprets them from a contemporary angle. Thanks to the advanced surface graphics, these marbles evoke profound effects of chiaroscuro and express them in five timelessly elegant shades: Bianco Navona, Oro Venezia, Greige di Trevi, Grigio di Spagna and Nero Trastevere. Featuring a Soft Touch surface finish, the collection is available in numerous edge-ground, modular formats that open up an infinite range of installation patterns.

SCHLÜTER-SYSTEMS

On Cersaie stand A18-B17 in Hall 32, Schlüter-Systems presents energy and material-saving system solutions for straightforward, sustainable construction, such as a new version of the “Schlüter-BEKOTEC-THERM” water-based floor heating system, which features integrated heat and sound insulation. This trusted and particularly thin-layered system exploits the outstanding thermal conductivity and storage capacity of tiles and excels with its minimal materials requirement during installation and high energy efficiency in use. On display are also new, self-adhesive studded screed panels that make the installation of the floor heating system even faster and more economically on materials. A new solution for bonded uncoupling that promises to save time and material during installation also has its premiere at Cersaie. New heights for the popular “Schlüter-TREP-E” will extend the stair profile portfolio offered by the market-leader from Iserlohn. With “DILEX-F”, Schlüter-Systems has developed the first movement joint profile that does not require embedding in the joint. Despite its very narrow design – the visible surface is just some 3.5 millimetres – the profile reliably compensates for the movements that commonly occur in tile coverings and allows technically necessary joints to be designed unobtrusively for applications such as apartments, offices, car showrooms and sales spaces that are not subject to forklift or shopping cart traffic. DILEX-F is on display at the Schlüter stand in Bologna, along with the “BARA-RTC” balcony edge profile, first presented in 2024. This profile is ideally suited as a surround for constructions with 20-mm thickness tiles.

Schlüter-BEKOTEC-THERM

Schlüter-BEKOTEC-THERM

DILEX-F

ANATOLIA

The new Sintered Stone Slab Collection “Aeterna” presented by Anatolia focuses on surfaces meticulously crafted to embody both the elegance of natural stone and the sophistication of contemporary design trough advanced technology. Each slab epitomizes unparalleled elegance and durability, seamlessy blending aesthetic appeal with authentic designs and exceptional performance. Utilizing advanced digital printing and patented scanning technologies, these Sintered Stone Slabs are designed to enhance modern living spaces providing elegance, sophistication, and ease of maintenance, while bringing a touch of nature indoors.

Featuring 60 colors and a variety of alluring surface finishes, Anatolia’s Sintered Stone Slab Collection caters to diverse design needs. These 160x320cm slabs not only serve as wall coverings but also play a significant role in the design of furniture, counter tops, intricate details, exteriors, and interior floors. This is made possible through the production of highly adaptable formats, sizes, and thicknesses including 6mm, 12mm, and 20mm.

Anatolia prioritizes sustainability, starting from the production of the slabs in its manufacturing facility in Izmir, Turkiye: a stateof-the-art facility which features one of the world’s largest solar panel systems, spanning 2,267,450 sq. ft / 210,653 m2, alongside advanced wastewater recycling and rainwater collection systems.

RUBI GROUP

In addition to its most emblematic products, TX and the TZ cutting machines, RUBI presents the new TK monoguide cutter, a cutter that maximises cutting visibility and provides unsurpassed power and precision. This development represents a significant advance in terms of ergonomics and efficiency, offering the professional an unrivalled cutting experience.

Moreover, the company presents the DC-250 SMART ADVANCE, unique tile saw that automatically adapts its performance to the needed job, designed to facilitate the work of the professional and optimise time and precision in each project.

Likewise, the entire range of RUBI manual cutters is renewed with the incorporation of the new patented SECURE LOCK SYSTEM to take cutting precision to the next level.

These product developments reflect RUBI’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, always seeking to offer professionals solutions that not only exceed their expectations, but also significantly improve their user experience.

The origin of RUBI Group dates back to 1951 with the invention of the first manual hydraulic mosaic tile cutter in history and, since then, RUBI has worked with a firm objective: to facilitate and to improve the results of ceramic tile installation professionals. For this reason, RUBI guarantees high product quality, excellence, and innovation, which is reflected in the continuous improvement and launch of new products, always providing differential solutions to the new trends in the ceramic sector with more than 1,000 product references that cover the 5 phases of the tile installation process: preparation, cutting, installation, grouting and cleaning.

RAK CERAMICS

RAK Ceramics is proud to present various new tiles and bathroom furnishing products and solutions for small and large-scale projects, aimed at providing creative inspiration for international interior designers.

The world leading lifestyle solution provider has released 16 new gres porcelain floor and wall coverings and countertop solutions, for both the Rak Ceramics standard sized collections and the Maximus mega slab product range. Out of the 16 novelties, Flake Stone and Sapien Wood incorporate significant technical innovations into a mix-and-match concept that juxtaposes different materials within the same project.

The flakes in Flake Stone run through the full thickness of the slab, thanks to the new Flake Set technology, while Sapien Wood features the digital Sync Effect texture, both of which were developed by Rak Ceramics’ Innotech laboratories.

The 162x324 unrectified format with a thickness of 12mm is also new. Sapien Wood is also available in 120x280 with a thickness of 6mm; 30x180, 20x120 and 60x120, with a thickness of 8.5mm; and 30x120 and 60x120 with a thickness of 20mm for outdoor applications. Available in 3 plain and décor colors. All continuous surfaces are designed for every type of application and offer creative flexibility and high technical and aesthetic performance.

As part of Rak Ceramics collaborations, the ELIE SAAB collection, designed to bring aesthetic balance to surface and bathroom design, has been expanded with an array of new designs and finishes.

Striking and sophisticated finishes, elegant classic-marble patterns and contemporary colour combinations embellish the finest raw materials and latest technology. The Wellness range includes coloured countertop and freestanding washbasins, taps in a new gunmetal finish and new collections of large-format tiles forming part of the Elie Saab Surface project.

RAIMONDI

The company presents two different new products designed to improve comfort and efficiency in tile cutting operations.

Raizor MTC (Modular Tile Cutter) is the new rail cutter optimized for cutting “regular size tiles” as well as large format slabs. It is made up of 4 modules. Each module is designed to cut tiles up to 66 cm in length. By connecting more modules, you can cut slabs up to 327 cm. 1 module = cutting length 66 cm; 2 modules = 153 cm; 3 modules = 240 cm; 4 modules = 327 cm.

Each module includes two suction cups for optimal grip of the guide on the tile. Modules design ensures to use the highest number of suction cups on the most common tile formats.

Raizor MTC is equipped with a new and high-performance cutting pliers specifically designed for tiles up to 15 mm thick. The special design of the cutting unit (die-cast aluminum) combined with the titanium scoring wheel with integrated bearing provides perfect scoring on any material. Raizor MTC is supplied with a padded transport bag with storage pockets.

Bigfoot is the new line of tables for large format tiles. Thanks to innovative technical solutions and dedicated investments, they are characterized by excellent stability, adjustable height, wide top. Two versions are available: Bigfoot XL and Bigfoot XXL. Bigfoot XL has a (fixed) width of 125 cm. It is also equipped with a side extension to support slabs up to 160 cm wide. Bigfoot XXL has a variable width table from 100 to 150 cm.

For both models, the height is adjustable from 75 to 81 cm, the length is 170 cm and by combining two tables you get a 340 cm long top. Equipped as standard with wheels and rail cutter holder brackets.

Raizor MTC

Raizor MTC

Bigfoot

Bigfoot

HITIT SERAMIK

By definition, Terrazzo is a composite material used in flooring and wall coverings, cast-in-place or precast. It consists of marble, quartz, granite, glass or other suitable material pieces. The term also refers to any pattern resembling original terrazzo floors. Hitit Seramik now caters to admirers of this style with its collection of terrazzo patterns on tiles.

The terrazzo series is produced in porcelain, available in a variety of sizes such as 60x60 cm and 19.7x19.7 cm, with thicknesses of 8 mm or 20 mm, and surface options of flat or relief. Therefore, the products can be used both indoors and outdoors.

The essential pieces of these series are Terazzo, Majestic and Hummer for 60x60 cm sized; and Confetti and Russell for 19.7x19.7 cm. The series features natural colors or a blend of colors.

It is possible to see different terrazzo patterns that are suitable to be used in a terrace, a balcony, a café, or a restaurant decoration in Hitit Seramik range.

IMPERTEK

Lunar Support is a range of pedestals designed to deliver high performance and maximum versatility in the construction of raised outdoor flooring.

Lunar Support covers a wide variety of heights, from 25 to 420mm. Its innovative square base cuts construction time, optimises space and simplifies installation.

Thanks to the double adjustment, lateral or from the top using a key, you can fine-tune the height of the pedestal both during installation and after completion of the work, making future maintenance quick and easy.

Lunar Support is a range of fixed-head pedestals that can be converted into self-levelling units with the aid of a balance ring. The 20 and 80mm extensions further facilitate installation, while allowing efficient storage management and a clutter-free work environment.

The patented EasyOn system maximises the range of coverings with which the head is compatible, from ceramic tiles to stone slabs and decking laid on Impertek joists. The product is also available with a decking head for laying wood flooring.

The new range is ideal for installation on terraces in residential buildings, pool surrounds, pedestrian walkways on roofs, gardens, squares and urban spaces. Its multiple applications and ease of use make it suitable for both professionals and DIY installers.

SERENISSIMA

The classic and refined elegance of three fine Italian travertines comes to life in the new GRANDE IN FALDA collection by Serenissima, available in large-size porcelain stoneware tiles. A poetic rendering of the typical shades and fascinating cloudy textures of marble blocks cut into the layer, which, thanks to the warm and enveloping colours selected by Serenissima, translates into surfaces of timeless beauty for projects in line with the latest trends in contemporary design.

Perlato di Sicilia is the shade that is named after the Sicilian marble by the same name. It is characterized by a light ivory colour, with arabesque nuances in shades of brown, on which lighter, nearly white spots stand out, reminiscent of the mother-of-pearl colours found inside shells. The inspiration behind Travertino Navona comes from the Roman quarries, a classic with timeless charm that encap-

sulates the history of Italian architecture in its texture. The characteristic ivory white shade fits with nonchalant elegance into any project, be it classic or modern.

The Marmo Primavera colour translates the characteristic Lombard marble, also known as Breccia Primavera, into porcelain stoneware tiles. The delicate pink nuance of the surface, combined with the characteristic cloudy texture, makes this offering by Serenissima truly unique and fine.

GRANDE IN FALDA clothes the surfaces of residential and commercial interiors and exteriors, offering timeless atmospheres, suitable for building renovations and a source of inspiration also in the pairing of colours and materials typical of contemporary design. Continuity between indoor and outdoor areas is guaranteed thanks to sizes featuring the R11 surface, also with a thickness of 20 mm, for the most demanding of design challenges.

PROGRESS PROFILES

Progress Profiles launches new innovative solutions for the installation of floors and coverings, to enhance comfort, efficiency and durability of indoor and outdoor spaces.

Only 5.5 mm thick, the new PRODESO® HEAT GRIP 5 STICK SYSTEM is easy to install and its performance has never been better. The tile’s resistance to tearing has been doubled, offering unparalleled safety for all types of floorings, but that’s not all. Thanks to a 50% increase in compression resistance, the system guarantees stability of the supports that defies time and wear.

The innovation also lies in the choice of polyethylene, which eliminates the memory effect: an annoying phenomenon typical of polypropylene, which makes it necessary to use weights or mechanical fixings at the ends of the membrane to prevent it from curling up during installation. This solution is completed with PRODESO® HEAT GRIP 5 CABLE and PRODESO® HEAT GRIP 5 THERMOSTAT KIT: the latest generation of cables, with resistances in parallel circuit, have been designed so that even if damaged, they do not interrupt the entire system’s heat transmission. The digital thermostat connects directly to Android or Apple devices via WiFi, allowing the system to be conveniently controlled from a smartphone or tablet, to heat rooms even remotely. Technological advances, combined with the use of high quality materials, have led to the development of an extremely thin membrane, PRODESO® DRAIN 4, just 4 mm thick, which exceeds the performance of its predecessors and offers significant advantages: installation is even easier and more accurate, and laying times are shortened. The new membrane also gives indoor floors an unprecedented lifespan, eliminating the need for costly maintenance over time. It consists of a cyan-coloured high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sheet with 4 mm high square reliefs. A polypropylene spunbond is bonded to the underside of the sheet. This ensures that the membrane is bonded to the substrate.

PRODESO® DRAIN 4 is the perfect solution even in the case of overlaps or problematic substrates, such as wood and cracked screeds, thanks to its ability to uncouple and its high capacity for correct vapour drainage. In fact, the membrane neutralises the differential movements that can occur between the substrate and the floor covering, thus preventing damage to the tiles, and it does not bind the joints of the substrate, if any. The adhesive used to lay the flooring dries quickly and evenly thanks to the cavities created between the polypropylene drainage fabric and the polyethylene sheet: these promote micro-ventilation, drastically reducing the rise of triacetates present in the adhesives and the appearance of efflorescence in the joints.

Finally, in the case of underfloor heating, this “air chamber” allows better heat distribution and a reduction in thermal inertia.

In the PRODESO® DRAIN 8 SYSTEM version for outdoors, with a minimum thickness of 8 mm, the membrane is completed with an elastic polyethylene and polypropylene strip and a two-component waterproof adhesive, which ensures a good waterproofing of exterior coverings and reduces resin migration on the surface. Finally, both the indoor and outdoor versions are practical and quick to install, making it easy for installers to carry out even the most complicated renovations.

PRODESO® DRAIN 8 SYSTEM can be combined with PROTERRACE DOUBLE DRIP to protect the outside corners of balconies and terraces and to finish off the edges of floor, which, thanks to its two drainage holes, allows water to drain off properly if the seal between the edge of the tile and the profile becomes detached, preventing water from penetrating the screed. Available in various embossed or semi-gloss colours, from white to grey, beige to dark brown or corten, it can be elegantly combined with any type of façade. The new Stone Line finishes, which reproduce the material effect of stone for a natural finish, have recently been launched.

KALESERAMIK

Kalesinterflex, Turkey’s first and largest porcelain slab from Kale, features a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics. Inspired by nature, this seamless and durable material adds elegance and sophistication to any space, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use with its exceptional hygiene, durability and visual appeal.

With Kalesinterflex, it’s easy to mix and match surfaces to create stylish and elegant spaces. Combining innovation with design, it meets the highest standards in ceramics and décor. Despite its large size, Kalesinterflex is highly durable and offers unique design possibilities that redefine architecture. Its heat, impact and scratch resistant features, along

with a variety of patterns and textures, make it an excellent choice. Winner of the 2024 IF Design Award, Kalesinterflex’s Earth Collection features vein-cut and cross-cut travertine patterns that capture the true look of natural stone and blend effortlessly with any colour or texture.

At Cersaie, Kale presents the most exceptional series of the Kalesinterflex collection, which masterfully balances functionality and aesthetics, drawing inspiration from nature. Under the concept of ‘Natural Balances’, the new Kalesinterflex collection emphasises the creation of peaceful yet striking spaces that connect with nature, while highlighting the material’s durability and timeless beauty.

Pedestal Prime®

In 2021, we were the rst to introduce Pedestal Prime, the innovative support with a patented shaped base and integrated extension, for outdoor raised oors.This masterpiece of engineering is easy to use, durable and beautifully designed. It integrates all the necessary elements for quick and easy installation, and with just a few products you can cover all . Compatible with all accessories from the Pedestal, Woodeck and GRF System lines. Beware of imitations.

installation,

heights from 15 to 420 mm

Beware

Discover Pedestal Prime® at Cersaie

We look forward to seeing you in Bologna from 23 to 27 September at HALL 31 A55 - B56.

BREVETTI MONTOLIT

Masterpiuma P 5 is Brevetti Montolit’s range-topping tile-cutter, designed in response to the latest developments in the formats produced by ceramic manufacturers.

This new line of machines is designed according to the “All in One” principle, aimed at providing operators with a tool that is ready for use in every situation: everything has been redesigned – in close collaboration with the Polytechnic University of Milan – around the latest and most innovative ceramic materials (new formats of ever-tougher porcelain tile, as well as exceptionally delicate vitrified tiles), with a view to improving overall performance.

The technical highlights of the new project are as follows: The lightweight alloy frames are suitably sized and structured at the points of highest stress with ribs and reinforcement plates that optimise the performance of the machine when cutting high-thickness tiles or through-body porcelain tiles. Robust die-cast aluminium support arms are built into the frames to provide progressive support for large tiles and so that tiles do not protrude beyond the profile of the machine even when positioned for diagonal cutting.

• The measuring square is also oversized, almost symmetrical and capable of rotating +/-45°, so that you can make precise cuts, at any angle, in quick succession, with the aid of the flip-up tile-stop. The measuring square – with clearly legible laser-engraved numbering – can be folded away into the machine, so that you don’t need to remove it when handling and transporting the tile-cutter.

• The ergonomic scoring-wheel handle has a wealth of features, one of which enables operators to control scoring pressure and splitting power with the aid of indicators that provide guidance on different types of material.

• The double splitting-head system, made of scratch-resistant polymer, is designed in a single component and can be used in the closed position for standard cuts (without having to pull the handle back at all after scoring) and in the open position for diagonal cuts from the corner of the tile or for cutting mosaics. The splitting-head is also equipped with a patented sight that gives you a clear view

of the cutting line at all times.

• The built-in lubricator is operated by pressing gently on the dispenser.

• The titanium-coated tungsten carbide scoring wheel is mounted rigidly and directly on the aluminium body and is optimised with double sharpening to ensure the best performance on both vitrified glazes and corrugated or three-dimensional tiles. Guaranteed for a total scoring distance of 5,000 metres, it is quick and easy to replace when necessary.

Masterpiuma Power 5 is also supplied (optional) with two important accessories:

“Carapax”, an all-new, futuristic-looking protective shell made of high-density polypropylene, is lightweight and outstandingly effective at absorbing shocks. Designed to protect the Masterpiuma tile-cutter’s “vital organs”, such as the scoring-wheel carriage and the measuring square, it shields them against accidental knocks and unintentional loads. “Carapax” is covered by a patent for its unique technical features and trailblazing design.

• “Atlas”, a universal elastic support for adjusting compression force: choose a firmer setting to support large or extra-thick tiles or a softer setting for slim-gauge large-format panels or delicate ceramic tiles. “Atlas” ensures that the tile is correctly supported on the scoring table even if it is overhanging the machine or positioned diagonally and off-centre, without jeopardising the effectiveness of the cut or forcing the operator work in awkward, unergonomic positions. It acts as a progressive shock absorber, which can be set according to your needs. As well as ensuring correct positioning of the tile during scoring, it gives the cut part the support it needs as it falls after splitting, for a perfect result every time. “Atlas” can be used on all the leading professional machines currently on the market. Made of fully recyclable ABS, it is impact-resistant to the point of being almost indestructible, and extremely weather-resistant.

Masterpiuma P 5

Carapax

Atlas

35 YEARS OF EXEMPLARY GROWTH 1988 to 2023

1 PLANT TO 12 PLANTS Increasing customer accessibility

1 MILLION TO 108 MILLION SQ. METER Rapid growth in annual sales volume

4” X 8” INCH TO 4’ X 8’ FT. Constantly innovating tile sizes

100 TO 1840

Strong Channel Partners

250 TO 4400

Robust team of winners

KEROVIT, KAJARIA PLY & GRESBOND

Diverse portfolio, Bathware, Plywood and Adhesives

ITALGRANITI

Dorset is Italgraniti’s new collection of ceramic inspired by a rare and elegant variety of limestone whose appeal originates from thousands of years of history.

This new interpretation represents two spirits that complement each other perfectly – Cross and Vein Cut – and correspond to the two directions in which quarry blocks are cut. The Cross Cut look reproduces the cloudy aesthetic that derives from cutting the stone along the direction of its component layers. Visually, it reflects the colour variations and soft contrasts that arise from the sedimentation process, creating a balanced appearance. The Vein Cut version reveals delicate, longitudinally veined surfaces, which are showcased to best effect in rectangular formats.

Dorset is available in four colours with a natural finish, in line with the current trend for matt, textured materials. The result is a collection that is easy to interpret, because it is colour-neutral, and can be paired with a wide range of materials, such as the pigmented concrete of the Nuances collection, which revolves around the expressive power of colour.

As well as the natural finish, there’s also the Ribbed version, which replicates the machining process used to create the strongest natural stone products. The distinctly three-dimensional appearance of this surface structure emphasises the strong mineral appeal of the collection and generates a simple, refined decorative motif based on an exquisitely textural point of view. Rilievo 3D is a decoration designed by the architects and art director Andrea Parisio and Giuseppe Pez-

zano, inspired by the plasticity of the stone coverings that characterise the architecture of Italian buildings. The decoration combines a listello laid planar to another listello whose longer side is laid overlapping. This creates a module with an original three-dimensional effect. The listello can be laid overlapping because of the incision in the back of it, which generates a 3D effect once installed.

Dorset is based on the use of two innovative technologies developed by Italgraniti Group, called RealUp and StrideUp. With RealUp, graphics and three-dimensional effects achieve an unprecedented synergy: the overall design of the ceramic surface assumes a unique level of depth and detail. Colour and structure coincide with no margin of error, giving the ceramic surface an outstandingly rich texture. StrideUp extends the versatility and functionality of porcelain stoneware to create a new type of covering that has high slip-resistance, while remaining soft to the touch and easy to clean. This combination is made possible by nanotechnology, involving nanoparticles of the raw materials of which the surface is made.

In addition to the formats with a thickness of 9mm, there is also the slim-gauge Mega large-format panel measuring 120x280x0.6cm, and the OPEN version for outdoor applications, both of which are available in the Cross Cut version. The series is complemented by mosaics in various geometries, available in thicknesses of both 9 and 6mm, making them ideal for covering curved surfaces.

Dal 1821 al vostro fianco

La soddisfazione del cliente è la nostra priorità.

Attraverso le soluzioni innovative dei nostri designer, le sapienti mani dei nostri artigiani, l’utilizzo di materie prime di qualità, attrezzature all’avanguardia e tecnologie sofisticate trasformiamo le idee in realtà.

Vi aspettiamo al Cersaie

allo stand B2-C1 - Padiglione 28

Since 1821 by your side

Customer satisfaction is our top priority.

Through innovative solutions of our designers, skilled hands of our craftsmen, the use of high quality materials, cutting-edge equipment and sophisticated technologies, we turn ideas into reality.

We wait for you at Cersaie

Booth B2-C1 - Pav. 28

PROFILPAS

Raised outdoor flooring is the ideal solution for both newbuild and renovation projects. PP level DUO MAXI is the Profilpas range of adjustable pedestals for raised outdoor flooring. It’s a comprehensive line designed to meet a full range of installation requirements, thanks to the availability of three different types of head designed specifically for ceramic flooring installed directly, decking installed on joists and ceramic flooring installed on joists.

PP level DUO MAXI is ideal for anyone looking for MAXI flexibility, MAXI durability and MAXI versatility in a single solution:

• MAXI flexibility, because you can opt for either the fixed head or self-levelling head at the time of installation;

• MAXI durability, because the pedestals provide outstanding load strength and weather resistance;

• MAXI versatility, because the wide range of accessories makes the pedestals adaptable to all installation needs.

The system also enables you to choose between the self-levelling head, which compensates for gradients of up to 5%, or the fixed head, at the time of installation. To obtain the fixed head, simply insert the handy Fixed Head Ring, already integrated into the base, between the head and the screw. Consisting of four extendible pedestals and an extension, the line stands out for the wide range of heights it offers, giving it the ability to compensate for all kinds of height differences. It’s also supplied with a special adjuster key, which enables you to make height adjustments even when the flooring has already been laid.

Head for ceramic floors

Head for joists for decking

Head for joists for single and multi-format ceramic planks

RICCHETTI

“Salentina” is a porcelain stoneware collection inspired by the beauty of traditional stones from the Italian Mediterranean. The nuances and rectified edges, enriched by chiseling and irregular gaps, give the collection an incredible realism, amplified by T2D technology, which embellishes the surface with three-dimensional glossy-matt reflections. Also available with Cross finish, which allows it to be used both indoors and outdoors. The four shades of the “Pearls” collection instead take inspiration from the nuances of the sky and the light that shapes it in various contexts. The lapped matt surface, called Honed, delicately welcomes graphic shapes and transparencies, evoking ethereal spaces that remind Magritte. The large 120x120 cm format, combined with perfectly rectified edges, gives the collection all the potential to be contextualized both in intimate spaces as well as in large-scale projects.

FLAVIKER

Art Walls is a collection of artistically decorated surfaces designed to complement the brand’s existing range of floors and walls. The collection is suitable for many different design contexts, including residential applications – where the ceramic surfaces bring a touch of originality to both bathrooms and living rooms – and communal spaces such as

hospitality, wellness and outdoor areas. In keeping with the latest style trends, the collection is being expanded with the addition of four new designs: Drape, Tapis, Metal and Frost. Art Walls comes in a 120x280 cm size and natural, soft and lux finishes, while the five versions Beyond, Dripping, Glass, Fresco and Shadow are also available in a 60x120 cm size.

SHAPES THAT INSPIRE

LEAF-PLAT is the new laying system made in Italprofili for raised floors for exteriors. Easy and quick to install, it guarantees resistance over time and allows a better distribution of the loads. It is ideal for the construction of terraces, pool edges and outdoors.

LEAF-PLAT is designed for maximum freedom of installation, in fact it allows to create unique designs combining finishes of different formats and materials.

FIND OUT ALL THE ADVANTAGES OF THE NEW LEAF-PLAT

- Great freedom of design

- Quick and simple installation

- Increased stability even on high floors

- Resistance and durability over time

- Protection in the event of tile breakage

- Improved load distribution

SYNTHETIC GRASS

TILES

ITALPROFILI

Leaf-Plat is the latest innovation from Italprofili for raised outdoor flooring. This versatile installation system, which is compatible with fixed pedestals and the Special, Special Evolve, Special Light and Rise-Up pedestals, makes it possible to combine different materials and sizes with each other, to provide aesthetic and functional solutions for terraces, pool surrounds and patios. Leaf-Plat is durable and easy to install, while also improving load distribution. With Leaf-Plat, Italprofili provides the ultimate solution for safe, elegant, long-lasting outdoor flooring.

ECO DESIGN

Today a showroom offers a wide range of different products as small tile-decors, mosaic, concrete-tiles, wood tiles, very big slabs inspired by marble or stone, plus other materials as wood floors, sanitaryware and bathroom complements; every product needs its own efficient and impressive presentation but with a central theme, spaces in the showroom can be separated in branded-corners but always coordinated and offering an immersive experience. Thanks to its team of architects, designers, and technicians, ECO DESIGN can guarantee a functional and impressive presentation for shops, showrooms, and exhibitions. From single display-units to turn-key services and complete installations, the company satisfies any request making its expertise available to the customers.

All the products are conceived and manufactured in the company’s factory in Italy, and exported all over the world, combining deep knowledge, long-term experience, latest technology, and skilled craftsmanship.

These pictures show some of the last showrooms and stands/booths designed and built.

7C TOOLS

7C Tools, which specialises in the research and development of innovative solutions for the installation of ceramic tiles, will be unveiling various new products at Cersaie, including the latest addition to its 4Level wedge-type levelling system Due for release this year, this new variant is made entirely from recycled materials, testifying to the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. 7C Tools will also be displaying its new levelling system, designed in close collaboration with industry professionals, which offers superior performance and enhanced ease of use, for faster, more effective installation of floor and wall coverings. Another major new development on display is “REPLACE”, an emergency system designed to solve the problems that arise when levelling clips break during tile installation. This product, which has a patent pending, enables you to replace broken clips without having to re-do the whole job, thus saving time, cutting costs and reducing the risk of material damage. “REPLACE” was developed on the basis of exhaustive field studies analysing the needs and problems faced by professional tile-setters. It integrates perfectly with 7C Tools’ other levelling solutions, to create a comprehensive and versatile ecosystem for all kinds of needs. Its effectiveness and ease of use make it a musthave tiling tool that minimises unforeseen problems and delivers perfect results every time.

ENERGIEKER

Nereidi is an elegant stone-look collection that adds great visual depth to spaces.

This new ceramic proposal captures the authentic essence of natural stone, faithfully reproducing the nuances and veins that define this material.

The collection’s surfaces envelop spaces with understated elegance, enhancing floors and walls

with authentic details and refined color variations. Available in four shades, ranging from lighter to more intense tones, Nereidi seamlessly adapts to various interior styles. The collection stands out for its versatility, offering innovative solutions for both indoor and outdoor settings, with flexible formats and cutting-edge 3D structure.

THE MAGFACE SYSTEM BY BASSI GROUP

THE MAGNETIC DRY LAYING SYSTEM

■ What is MagFace?

The MagFace system is an innovative magnetic dry installation solution for floor, wall and surface coverings. Designed to eliminate the use of adhesive, grout and mortar, it makes installation quick, clean and easy, in a thickness of just 1 millimetre. Thanks to four different installation bases, all made of special ferrous microparticles, MagFace adapts to various types of substrates and materials, including ceramic, porcelain tile, wood, glass, marble, natural stone and synthetic materials. The four bases are:

Andrea Bassi, CEO and inventor of the patent

1. MagFace system is the only system in the world with a magnetic patent for dry laying of floors, walls and surfaces.

2. As of 2018, the MagFace system is licensed exclusively to manufacturers of surfaces such as: ceramic, stoneware, marble, stone, quartz, wood, synthetic materials, resilient materials.

3. The technical characteristics, environmental certifications, and mechanical certifications guarantee safety, sustainability, and ease of installation.

The idea evolved into a patented system in 2015, and was granted a worldwide industrial patent in 2017 for its uniqueness and technological innovation. MagFace has no direct competitors and has revolutionised the industry by offering manufacturers of floor and wall coverings an exclusive, facilitated installation system that is only available under licence.

■ What are the benefits of MagFace?

MagFace brings many advantages to the coverings installation sector, and stands out for its versatility and sustainability.

It eliminates the need for adhesive, grout and mortar, ensuring quick, clean installation, with no joints, thanks to the precision and stability of its magnetic technology. This system adapts to

different materials, and is ideal for floor, wall and surface coverings in both residential and light commercial environments, such as offices, showrooms and hotels. MagFace delivers first-class mechanical performance: it supports vertical loads of up to 110kg per m², it resists impacts in accordance with ISO EN 10545-5, and is certified for heavy loads on the basis of the Robinson Test under ASTM C62-10. It is also self-extinguishing in accordance with ISO EN13501 and UL 94. Its international certifications confirm its ecological and safety credentials, by attesting to the absence of significant magnetic fields (just 0.2 mT – lower than the safety limit for pacemaker users) and certifying it as VOC-free and free from toxic substances, biocides, carcinogens, heavy metals and formaldehyde.

■ Why is the MagFace system planetfriendly?

MagFace is a sustainable, eco-friendly solution, designed to minimise environmental impact. Its magnetic dry technology eliminates the use of harmful chemical-based products, such as acetic and polyurethane sealants, glues, adhesives, mortars and grouts. Its

installation bases can be applied directly to existing surfaces, thus reducing demolition waste. This system complies with 12 of the main goals of UN Agenda 2030, promoting reuse and the circular economy. These features make it a planet-friendly system that is ideal for anyone looking for responsible and sustainable floor and wall covering solutions. MagFace is designed to be long-lasting, while facilitating frequent renovation and remodelling by reducing the need to demolish existing floor and wall coverings.

■ How does the MagFace system facilitate modern design and architecture?

MagFace is a valuable ally for modern design and architecture because it is versatile, technologically innovative and easy to install. Compatible with a wide range of materials, it opens up countless aesthetic and functional possibilities for floor, wall and surface coverings.

The magnetic dry technology makes it possible to install coverings quickly and cleanly, with no need for adhesives or mortars, and can be applied directly to existing surfaces, making it perfect for

quick renovations. MagFace eliminates the need for joints because of the high precision of the system, but also offers the option of using MagFiller, a nontoxic, odourless hybrid grout, available in 28 different colours, which absorbs shocks, resists dirt and moisture and is easy to remove. MagFace is suitable for all types of environment, including ISEGA-certified food-preparation and hospital environments. MagFace’s environmental certifications testify to its safety and sustainability, while its high technical performance, such as heavy load resistance, vertical slip resistance up to 110kg/m2, impact resistance and moisture resistance, make it suitable for a wide range of applications, including high-traffic environments, car showrooms, airports terminals and raised technical floors. Covered by international patents, the MagFace system brings real innovation to the installation of coverings, giving designers, architects, specifiers and general contractors a state-of-the-art magnetic dry system for floor, wall and surface coverings that combines aesthetics, functionality and sustainability.

THE MAGNETIC LAYING SYSTEM

THE NEW “OCEANIA VISTA” LUXURY CRUISE SHIP

Attention to detail, profound knowledge of materials and a sartorial approach are the values shared once

again in the collaboration between Marine Interiors, a worldwide leader in the design, construction and

This shared vision has brought the expertise of these two companies on board the new Oceania Vista, the latest ship of Oceania Cruises, the world’s largest company in the world of luxury cruise ships and part of the Norwegian Cruise Line corporation. A part of Gruppo Fincantieri specialized in the production of turnkey interior design projects for the most important operators in the sector, Marine Interiors has provided all its skills to create the various areas of this ship, based on the project by Studio DADO, the design principal.

A cruise ship organized to welcome 1200 passengers and 800 crew members, aimed at sophisticated and demanding travelers in search of a new approach to luxury based on painstaking attention

to detail, from the use of carefully selected materials to the creation of custom furnishings and the choice of the finest complements. The ample size and functional quality of every space offer guests a truly memorable on-board experience.

Chiara Bruzzichelli

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

A complex, refined project which Marine Interiors has been able to bring to life thanks to the combination of the finest craftsmanship with the use of the most advanced technologies. Every space, marked by its own style and inspirations, is a world in itself: from the extraordinary Atrium of marine imagery that welcomes visitors, to the elegant “Red Ginger” fusion restaurant, to the Martini bar in Deco style, all the way to the floral outburst of the Grand Dining Room.

delivery of turnkey solutions in the sector of nautical décor, and the well-known Miami-based design firm Studio DADO.

the Atrium

Based on the organic lines of the chambered nautilus, the Atrium of Oceania Vista welcomes guests on board, introducing a sense of calm and spatial quality through an expansive and orderly layout. The spiral staircase leads downward, and the design of the walls and flooring follows its form, suggesting an ideal interior of a seashell surrounding the guests.

The protagonist of the space is a spectacular central chandelier that seems to reference a whirlpool of water, or a school of fish swimming towards the ceiling of the atrium.

The herringbone tiles with golden accents replicate the iridescence of the inside of a seashell, while the reception area features slabs of natural stone.

The “Red Ginger” fusion restaurant

The Red Ginger fusion restaurant combines French glamour with the charm of Asian theater, through sophisticated textures and period pieces: from traditional Chinese pottery to pagoda-shaped lamps, to decorations in French colonial style.

A space of 658 sqm that reflects the image of a traditional house in Hong Kong or Shanghai, with a courtyard at ground level surrounded by a two-story dining room.

the “Grand Dining Room”

Created to offer an exclusive culinary experience, the Grand Dining Room is the main food area on board. In a space of over 1000 square meters, it stands out for its

“Our concept of luxury is understated, a quiet elegance based on the selection of fine materials and fabrics, attention to detail, the choice of sophisticated artworks but also, and above all, design that puts the accent on how the spaces will be enjoyed by guests. True luxury implies enabling visitors to have the best on-board experience possible.”

Greg

Walton, co-founder of Studio DADO

floral motifs and textures, evoking the botanical world while immersing visitors in a refined winter garden. The custom parquet floors and handpainted coverings convey the sensation of being seated below the branches of a tree. The carefully selected lamps highlight the architectural details.

the Martini bar

With its Art Deco style, the Martini Bar on the bridge suggests the glamour and elegance of the Roaring Twenties. Refined materials, from glass to marble, a color palette that plays with black&white contrasts alongside accents of green and violet, and a reflecting wall create a chic, sophisticated atmosphere. The lighting and furnishings made to measure, surrounded by selected works of art, complete the space. ✕

THEATRE NEXT DOOR, MALTA

The result of a project to renovate and re-purpose a rural farm, Theatre Next Door is a new performing arts venue in the village of Magħtab in Malta. The Theatre is owned and operated by FM Theatre

Productions, a well-known production company behind a string of successful shows and musicals, including my Fair Lady, Mamma Mia! and We Will Rock You.

Designed by DAAA Haus, a Maltese firm of architects, the building comprises a black-box theatre, a backstage area with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, a café that is open to the public during events, and three rehearsal rooms available for hire. The space merges the old limestone structures with newly built concrete and metal elements, to create

an evocative melting pot of styles, which stands as a monument to “imperfect perfection”, where repairing does not mean concealing previous iterations. This co-existence of materials with different textures is the pivotal point of the theatre’s design, by virtue of a balanced relationship between authenticity and innovation.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Photos: DNA Creative Studio

The interior

The Theatre Next Door is distributed over four floors. On the ground floor, a bright, visually striking foyer welcomes visitors in. The heart of the room is a large block of hard natural stone, sourced from the village itself, with a wood insert that looks like it is slicing through the stone and forms the reception desk. At the front, a bench clad with the same type of wood doubles up as a planter for a semi-artificial olive tree, which recalls the rural origins of the building. The foyer leads to the cafeteria and recreation area, which retain their traditional features, first and foremost the imposing limestone walls that interact with the newly designed structural supports made of concrete and raw cor-ten steel sheet. These areas are adorned with original theatrical artworks, memorabilia and a mystical Flos “fantasma” luminaire that is reminiscent of historic opera

house chandeliers. At the back of the ground floor is the first of the building’s three multi-purpose studios. The stylistic approach here is simple and minimalist, and leans towards industrial design.

The first floor consists of light-filled administrative offices, the high-tech black-box theatre and the dressing rooms. The second and third floors, where the other two multi-purpose studios are located, are connected by a linkage that crosses the vertical axis of the volume to join the front and back of the building. All the landings are fitted with skylights designed to let natural light flood into the interior. Lastly, a large spiral staircase, which is fire-resistant and made of metal, connects the various levels at the rear of the building. This too emphasises the contrast between materials, which is the leitmotif of the design, while pairing effectively with the limestone façade.

DAAA Haus is a multi-disciplinary architecture and design practice with offices in Malta, Milan and Ragusa, founded in 2009 by Keith Pillow, the firm’s creative director. It is staffed by over 30 skilled, talented and passionate young professionals of multiple nationalities, including Maltese, Italian, Serbian, Irish, Indian, Polish and Tunisian, and this cultural diversity has undoubtedly helped DAAA Haus succeed in carving out a niche for itself on the international stage. The practice’s design language stems from a taste for exploring different tools, materials, technologies, techniques and strategies, culminating in functional, cutting-edge design with strong green credentials.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

CALLINGTON MILL DISTILLERY, TASMANIA

The architecture firm Cumulus, which has offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and Launceston, created a design project that resonates with the surrounding sandstone buildings, responding to the need to house a working distillery while offering visitors an immersive experience in the history of local whisky production.

The two gable structures have a contemporary impact while blending seamlessly with the historical and cultural heritage of the context.

The new distillery has the minimalist adornment-free appearance of traditional Georgian architecture, while the floor-to-ceiling glass walls highlighting the entryway give it a distinctly contemporary feel.

The materials were also chosen to ensure that the distillery would be both functional and expressive: new, yet sensitive to tradition. Brick, glass and timber also echo the warm tones of whisky.

The authentic flavour of brick from Sant’Anselmo

The material selection was heavily influenced by the local heritage code requirements for masonry.

The predominant brick, Tumbled Virginia from Fornace Sant’Anselmo, has a soft and chalky patina that references the sandstone of the surrounding buildings whilst the simple gabled forms echo the town’s rooftops in height and aesthetic.

Located in the rural township of Oatlands, Callington Mill Distillery stands alongside the iconic 1830s flour mill within one of Australia’s oldest Georgian settlements.

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Chiara Bruzzichelli

ph. Adam Gibson

These tumbled bricks can be totally reclaimed and upcycled or subjected to specific ageing processes to achieve a vintage result that is indistinguishable from authentically reclaimed brick.

Sant’Anselmo tumbled brick is the ideal solution for anyone in search of a facing material with an authentic and antique flavour, which is achieved through the unique raw material working process. Rustic brick cladding is ideal for creating spaces with a traditional atmosphere or a modern, industrial style. Made from certified clay, Tumbled Virginia is healthy, durable, natural and inimitable, as well as being relatively inexpensive.

The production process allows the aesthetic qualities of the finished bricks to be customised with different degrees of ageing and diversified colour blends.

They are available in 18 colours and 5 different sizes, complete with brick slips and corner pieces of various thicknesses. ✕

c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

Chiara Bruzzichelli

BRUTAL BURRITO MADRID

The interior design of a contemporary fast-food restaurant makes use of stainless steel, coloured

A casual street-food stall, a temporary kiosk where people meet over a drink and a snack, or a lively food truck that transiently catches the eye and whets the appetite of passers-by: Brutal Burrito, a Madrid-based restaurant, draws inspiration from fast-food formulas, embracing their spontaneity and reversibility, in line with a gastronomic concept involving a simple menu based on the best-known dishes from Mexican tradition. The venue’s philosophy is underscored by an edgy and intermittently brutalist (the clue is in the name) interior design by the architecture firm BURR, which has treated the space like a body to be dressed, establishing a clear distinction between clothed and naked areas.

It is the existing structural features that remain fixed,

plastic sheet and bare flooring to create a playful, street-feel atmosphere.

visible and unchanged, expressing a rough aesthetic with imperfectly plastered surfaces and floors that reflect the materiality of the surrounding pavements. Meanwhile, a system of plastic drapes has been put in place to divide and mark out the various areas of the restaurant. This styling device takes its cue from the way market-traders use fabric awnings to separate spaces and protect their stalls from rain and sun. To balance the street-inspired flavour of this solution with flexible sheets, the architects chose to give them a more classic appearance by creating gentle, arched shapes which, when viewed from outside, look rhythmically disconnected from the progression of the large windows in the façade. This unusual feature is deliberately designed to create a playful, irreverent atmosphere.

Ph. Maru Serrano

Chiara Bruzzichelli

The kitchen area has a functional and technical appearance, thanks to extensive use of stainless steel as a hygienic surface on which to prepare and serve food. Steel is also used for the ceiling covering, which extends beyond the perimeter of the cooking area and imbues the entire space with its metallic reflectivity. The highlight of the kitchen area is undoubtedly the comal, an adaptation of the traditional pre-Columbian utensil used mainly in Mexico for cooking tortillas, which takes on a central position here, both physically and symbolically, by playing a key role in all the cooking operations carried out at Brutal Burrito. It is a polished stainless steel cylinder divided into two halves, a grille and an extractor hood, connected by nothing more than smoke and flames. Another hallmark of the environment is the tortilladora, an appliance specifically designed for making tortil-

las, which is rarely found outside Latin America and is enclosed here in a protective glass case.

The furniture designed for Brutal Burrito is based on the technique of bending aluminium tube, which is mainly used to make outdoor furniture for small bars and restaurants. A simple system of tubes with double bends thus provides legs for both the tables and stools. The table-tops and seats are made from slabs of high-density polyethylene, the material commonly used to make chopping boards for food preparation.

The finishing touch for the interior is a graphic design in the form of LED screens scattered around the restaurant to accentuate the transient funfair atmosphere and display messages and promotions relating to the products on sale.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

MARRAKECH DESIGN LAUNCHES ITS FIRST COLLECTION WITH WINGÅRDH ARKITEKTKONTOR

Marrakech Design’s first collection together with Wingårdh Arkitektkontor is called Pop + Paper cuts and is designed by Maja Gödicke and Leila Atlassi, designers and interior architects at Wingårdhs.

The collection consists of five different patterns: Pop, Plus, Sol, Porto and Bibbla, manufactured in a variety of color combinations.

The handmade cement tiles are produced by using a traditional pressing technique that makes the tiles very durable overtime.

“Pop & Plus” are based on simple geometric shapes - the square, the circle and the line. The result is individual simple squares that, on a large surface, contain ingenious variation.

“Sol, Porto & Bibbla” is a play with positive and negative shapes and the manually cut. They arose in the intersection between Leila’s fragmentary memories from her childhood in Casablanca and Maja’s exploring of analogical methods, color and the art of finding the perfect imprecise form. The collection is held together through neighboring colors with an ounce of both coolness and calm.

MATERIAL DESIGN FOR ARCHITECTURE

PURE LINES | OMNIDECOR

The new patterns designed by Lidia Covello for OmniDecor’s Pure Lines collection feature simple and understated designs, distinguished by slim, square and rectangular lines. The decorations that gently emerge create a bewitching threedimensional effect, which is embellished by the interaction with light, imbuing the surrounding setting with a sense of balance.

The collection supplements the DecorFlou Design family of glass and includes nine separate patterns, each one developed in a transparent version and in a more block coloured satin finish, thereby expanding the usage possibilities in interior design projects and items of interior décor.

MEDULUM | ARCATE

Like the eponymous family of furniture to which it belongs, the Arcate semainier, or seven-drawer dresser, by Medulum – designed by the Accardi Buccheri firm of architects and designers, who are also the company’s artistic directors – draws inspiration from the brand’s Venetian origins. In fact, Arcate pays homage to the arch – one of the key elements of architecture – in the form typically found in the Romanesque buildings on some of the smaller islands of the Venice lagoon. Arcate also showcases a unique geometry, defined by the rhythmic succession of arches made of solid American black walnut. Expertly milled to the highest standards of craftsmanship, these elements create a system of grooves and handles that give the front of the dresser a unique appearance, while remaining apparently invisible. The distinctly original design of the handles emphasises the sculptural nature and exceptional personality of the dresser, while also underscoring the practicality of the large drawers it contains.

DRAGA & AUREL | ZEN COLLECTION

The multidisciplinary practice Draga & Aurel continues its journey of experimentation into materials and transparency with the new ZEN collection of tables and coffee tables.

Characterized by dizzying contours and a bold geometry of intersecting planes, intensified by a surface treatment producing a frosted satin effect, these tables look like ice sculptures, crystallized in time and space. Thanks to an original color treatment, the pastel hues and fluo details appear trapped inside the shapes, producing playful refractions that give each object a sophisticated, ethereal look.

Part of the Transparency Matters collection, the Zen tables are made entirely from Lucite. This acrylic resin is sculpted and handcrafted by Draga & Aurel with the support of master craftspeople operating in Como, Italy.

SPACCO | MONITILLO 1980

Designed by Emmanuel Gallina for Monitillo 1980, Spacco is a marble wall covering consisting of four different modules that can be assembled in different ways to create unexpected interactions between lines. This mineral-inspired pattern is reminiscent of the wrinkles and undulations that commonly occur in rocky landscapes.

The nuances of colour, combined with the irregular lines, give rise to an image resembling a relief map.

The engraved curves, with their semi-polished finish, strike a contrast with the surface of the marble, highlighting its warm, velvety appearance.

FEELINGS | RADICI

Randomness and emotions guide the aesthetics of the printed carpet Feelings by Radici. The features of the works of the surrealist painter Miró, to which the pattern is inspired, are decorations that forget realism and follow irrational sensations to create a universal language. With pinkish and soft colors, Feelings is a surface with an entangled design, yet, at the same time, delicate and harmonious, suitable for covering elegant and sophisticated spaces.

PH. Serena Eller Vainicher

OCEAN COLLECTION | QUARTZFORMS ®

The hypnotic motion of the sea is the inspiration behind the Ocean collection by Quartzforms®, a Scapin Group brand specialising in the manufacture of mineral surfaces. The four bright, expressive, delicately textured large-format panels feature a balanced, contemporary colour palette. Midnight uses fathomless and impenetrable shades of black to evoke the lure and mystery of the deep.

Arctic expresses the undulating movement of the ocean, while Lagoon is characterised by an impalpable interweaving of light grey-green vein patterns on a white background. Lastly, subtle, dark red streaks alternate with other, more elusive vein patterns in the Reef variant. Made of throughbody technical mineral, the Ocean line stands out for the vein patterns that run though its full thickness; its resistance to abrasion, scratches, aggressive chemicals and heat; and its non-toxic formula and non-porous structure. Available with a polished or matt finish, in size 320 x 155cm, and thicknesses of 2 or 3cm.

INTARSIA | BETTISATTI

A collection of marble inlays and mosaics designed by Donata Mariasole Betti and Valentina Satti of bettisatti brand, completely customizable in size, materials and compositional project.

Each solution seeks to reinterpret marble, a finished and historically established material, in a contemporary key.

The vast collection is characterized by compositional projects ranging from serial sequences with a geometric character, up to eclectic surfaces inspired by a dream dimension and the world of nature.

GIANFRANCO FERRÉ HOME

The new home collection of the Maison focuses on material contrasts, exploring the harmony between seemingly opposing concepts.

The metropolitan aesthetic typical of the brand can be found in industrial lines with metal elements, combined with organic shapes and soft fabrics to add depth and a sense of hospitality. Within the collection, the creative use of glass introduces the theme of presence and absence, further enhancing the balance between rigour and softness that characterizes the entire proposal.

Exemplary in this sense are the Havnen small tables, characterized by an opaque glass top and cylindrical base with leather upholstery, and the Veil small tables, composed of vertical glass plates joined together by the presence of metal buttons.

MAREPINETA RESORT, LUXURY AND BEAUTY

MarePineta Resort in Milano Marittima (Italy) sends out a distinctly contemporary vibe by effectively turning its spaces into art galleries.

Guests are greeted by the sight of authentic, iconic design pieces, and the atmosphere of the lounge is exalted by the presence of an international selection of contemporary art installations.

In this context, the vertical surfaces by Wall&Decò become part and parcel of the communication and hospitality system and add an extra dimension to the resort’s architecture.

In particular:

• “Sound of Silence”, a wallpaper designed by Lorenzo de Grandis for the 2024 Contemporary Wallpaper Collection, provides a natural framework within which to present the works.

• The glass monolith designed by Studio Lissoni mirrors the sculptural monolith adorned with “Ashi” wallpaper, designed by Studiopepe for the Essential Wallpaper Collection, whose 3D patterns evoke the textures of bark.

• The passage-way to the outdoor area – characterised by its vaulted structure dating back to the early 1900s – is punctuated by elegant niches that convey a Mediterranean flavour through the warm tones of the “Naiadi” wallpaper designed by Studio Salaris for the 2024 Contemporary Wallpaper Collection.

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