Tile Today Issue 111 | December 2021

111

FULLY ENDORSED BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL

CERSAIE 2021: FOUR TILE SHOWS IN ONE

WORKING TOGETHER IN WATERPROOFING POOL SEASON TILES

TRENDS

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F E AT U R E D P R O D U C T S

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TRADE FAIRS

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INDUSTRY NEWS

111 CONTENTS

WATERPROOFING 6

A call for more collaboration from Paul Evans, president of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing.

PROFILE: CUSTOMED TILES 14 Andrew Lester is doing great business as a specialist in

pool coping.

PLUNGE POOLS 20 Smaller style plunge pools are becoming more popular

which presents opportunities for tilers.

AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL 27 Roy Wells from Natural Tile heads up the Queensland

branch of the council and believes in giving back.

ONLINE COMMUNITY 28 Tiling professionals have found Facebook group Tile

Geeks a safe place to express themselves, thanks to its administrator Vvo Middleton.

INTERVIEW 36 Tile Today international correspondent, Joe Simpson

spoke to Rino Bedogni, head of marketing & communications at Ceramiche Refin.

SHOW REPORT: CERSAIE 38 There were four tile shows in one at this year’s event,

reports international correspondent, Joe Simpson

LOGISTICS 50 Shipping and supply chain issues have dominated the

tile industry more than ever. Bryan Vadas provides his perspective.

Find Tile Today on social media @tiletodaymagazine @tiletodaymagazine tile-today-magazine

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GNS 1CERAMICS EXCLUSIVELY WHOLESALE

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FO REWO R D

TILE TODAY

In 2022, Tile Today will be leaning more into being a digital-first publication with more content-driven e-newsletters and a revamped home page. This will provide more opportunities to engage with our readers and advertisers.

In this issue, we look at pool tiles and speak to Andrew Lester from Customed Tiles, specialists in pool coping, and which serves a growing market from Burleigh Heads, Queensland. Andrew recently made a major investment in a new Ferrari & Cigarini machine that will help meet the increased demand.

We met Iain “Vvo” Middleton over Zoom to talk about his work as the administrator of the Tile Geeks group on Facebook. He has extensive experience in the tile industry, specifically in mosaics, and is currently senior tiling/construction lecturer at South Metro TAFE in Western Australia.

Queensland branch president of the Australian Tile Council, Roy Wells from Natural Tile explained the benefits of being an active member of the industry association.

Our European-based correspondent, Joe Simpson, has also been busy. In addition to his report on this year’s Cersaie event, he interviewed Rino Bedogni, head of marketing & communications at Ceramiche Refin.

Other specialist contributors for this edition include Paul Evans, current president of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing and Bryan Vadas who writes about the current shipping challenges.

There is a lot of content in this issue as we close out 2021. We wish everyone safe and happy holidays, and much success in the new year.

To remain informed about the tile industry, just click the link below to subscribe or go to the ad at the bottom of this page: https://bit.ly/3dJ5EBc

Proudly produced and printed in Australia ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD ABN: 27 006 876 419 PO BOX 800, Templestowe, Victoria, Australia 3106 Ph: + 61 3 9890 0815 Fax: + 61 3 9890 0087 Email: info@elitepublishing.com.au Website: www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au www.elitepublishing.com.au PUBLISHER Vicky Cammiade vicky.cammiade@elitepublishing.com.au EDITOR Betty Tanddo betty.tanddo@elitepublishing.com.au INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT Joe Simpson joe.simpson@elitepublishing.com.au TECHNICAL SPECIALIST Tim Christopher info@consultile.com.au GENERAL MANAGER Georgia Gilmour Georgia.Gilmour@elitepublishing.com.au CIRCULATION For circulation enquiries please email: info@elitepublishing.com.au GRAPHIC DESIGN Plum Publishing Pty Ltd dave@plumpublishing.com.au

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111

FULLY ENDORSED BY THE AUSTRALIAN TILE COUNCIL

Betty Tanddo Editor

CERSAIE 2021: FOUR TILE SHOWS IN ONE

PRODUCTION For artwork and production enquiries please email: dave@plumpublishing.com.au ELITE PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD PUBLISHERS OF: Flooring Magazine, Discovering Stone Magazine, Finishes & Surfaces Magazine, TileToday Magazine, Supplier Magazine and FB Magazine.

FRONT COVER IMAGE Designed for outdoor use, the Risseu line

by Ceramiche Refin is inspired by the pebbles that can be found in Liguria, a region in northwest Italy. They are often found in urban gardens and churchyards.

The collection expands the company’s OUT 2.0 range.

WORKING TOGETHER IN WATERPROOFING POOL SEASON TILES

Leading the Industry

Endorsed by Australian Tile Council www.australiantilecouncil.com.au TRENDS

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WATERPROOFING

FEATURE

Waterproofing for better project outcomes Paul Evans, president of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing, highlights the key waterproofing issues faced by tilers. He emphasises planning, training and more collaboration.

D

uring my many years working as a commercial and domestic builder (unlimited) and specialist waterproofing contractor (predominantly remediation) as well as experience as president of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing (AIW), I have observed how tilers, tiles, tile adhesives and waterproofing are interconnected.

The AIW is a voluntary group of contractors and manufacturers offering their own time to be a voice for waterproofers and better the industry in general across Australia.

The AIW receive many inquiries from the public not only about

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waterproofing issues, but questions involving a range of tiling problems as well. These waterproofing/tiling inquiries include projects across the building industry: currently under construction, recently completed new construction, and existing buildings for both residential and commercial purposes.

Collaboration for success An issue I frequently encounter as a registered builder, is simply a lack of communication between the two trades: waterproofers and tilers. The skills, products and materials used by both these types of tradespeople affect each other directly and are responsible

for a project’s successful outcome, or not.

It is surprising that there is not more collaboration. Please note this is unfortunately common amongst many trades, particularly as the industry relies heavily on subcontractors and sole contractors who operate independently. The construction industry allows minimal time for collaboration. Time and costs that are the deciding factors in the way we operate.

For example, it is critical that the installed waterproof membrane system is compatible with the chosen tile adhesive. How often is this cross-checked? The consequences of incompatibility can occur immediately, or several years later. The devasting effects of water leaks can be avoided by a simple fix — making sure products used by tilers and waterproofers are compatible.

There is no doubt it is convenient for tilers to provide both trades: applying waterproofing as well as tile installation. Tilers are already on-site, so this eliminates extra organising and saves on time. For the primary building contractor, using one trade for two skillsets is an easy and timely option amongst the many hundreds of decisions within a build. Time constraints and organising trades people to complete projects on time and on budget makes the “one stop shop” attractive, even if experience has shown that this may increase the likelihood of

water leaks. It is a question of short-term gain for long term pain.

If this is the case, tilers need and should have waterproof training. And if waterproofers are performing tiling work, they should be trained as well. Unfortunately, untrained practices can and do result in suboptimal outcomes.

In the first instance water leaks, and in the second instance an unprofessional tiling job.

Accountability The building contractor’s responsibility is to deliver the completed project to relevant standards and the building code.

If water leaks, is it the fault of the tiler, is it building design, the membrane, application, is it incompatible products, or a combination of some or all of this?

Complex and conflicting questions arise: the waterproofer

is confident they installed a good membrane; the builder is confident there was no damage inflicted to the membrane prior to tiling; and the tiler is confident there was no damage inflicted during the tile laying process. All attest to using appropriate products/materials for the project. Who is responsible and who is going to fix it?

I have often been witness to site meetings in a bathroom, surveying water leaks where the conversation goes around in circles as no one wants to take responsibility. Also, very often it isn’t clear whose fault or responsibility it is. The source of water leaks may not be obvious, it may involve multiple variables across several trades and/or various products. Added to this is, all involved are aware water ingress rectification costs are far more than original installation.

So, we all shuffle around, the head contractor says, “So what are we going to do about this?”

Eventually a resolution of sorts is a compromise to spread the responsibility: the builder pulls apart the defect; waterproofer re-waterproofs; and the tiler relays tiles.

So the laborious and costly remediation works begin. Tiles are pulled up which in turn destroys the membrane, as they are bonded together (or should be). Evidence shows the tell-tail signs of water ingress: rotting and/or water-stained timbers in the near vicinity under, behind or nearby. However, this does not confirm the exact root cause of the water damage. Tiling or waterproofing? Building design?

Drainage?

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HIGH PERFORMANCE WATERPROOFING MEMBRANES

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WHY PEEL & STICK WATERPROOFING MEMBRANES Many of you as waterproofers would have been accustomed to peel and stick membranes over the years and traditionally they’ve been bitumen peel and sticks. In 2019, Gripset launched a non-bituminous system, the Gripset BRW range, overcoming the shortcomings of traditional sheet based and bituminous systems whilst expanding the waterproofing capabilities and performance.

Peel and stick membranes have a range of benefits, including: • Giving you the ability to use a sheet system and gain the speed.

• High quality and uniform film thickness without the need to torch, weld and use heating products.

• Beneficial for surfaces that are very dense or sealed.

• No bleed, enabling enhanced long term adhesion of tiling systems over it.

Time efficient Peel and stick applications allow you to complete your waterproofing projects in a much more efficient way. If you have a quality product, you peel the release paper off, put the membrane in place, and then continue with

your overlap joints and detailing as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Bitumen free The big thing about the Gripset BRW range is that we don’t use bitumen. No carcinogenic, no flammables and no dangerous fumes, because with our system, we can use all our basic primers. The Gripset GP, the Gripset OP, the Gripset SP, the Xpress H20 Plus, the Gripset E60, the Gripset P10, you name it, we’ve got it as part of our system to be as simple as you need on the surfaces that you’re going onto.

This allows the Gripset BRW range to be applied to surfaces that traditionally you couldn’t use with bitumen.

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Integration Another important factor is the way that we terminate the membrane point, because it integrates other trades very easily. There’s no bleed, there’s no softening, there’s no going hard in the cold, and we can guarantee that the BRW sticks.

Gripset offers the GAPP training course to the waterproofing trade covering:

Any surface The Gripset BRW range is suitable for a range of substrates. We have a system that works with the primers and we ensure there is a preparation method, process and our Technical Data Sheets for more information, but you’re not limited to only using it on a surface such as concrete or masonry, or a sealed surface.

•Connected to the manufacturer

We can also go over porous surfaces with the Gripset BRW range, using the correct primer which we can guide you on.

For more information contact the Gripset Technical team at 1800 650 435, or speak with your local Gripset contact.

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WATERPROOFING

FEATURE

Many factors contribute to the root cause of poor water management. Long term successful waterproofing can be compromised due to building design i.e., insufficient falls built into the floor, large gaps, poor supervision for wet area wall lining installation, incorrect joint preparation on plasterboard or cement sheet to name a few. Poor joint preparation is particularly difficult to determine, as the evidence is hidden underneath the membrane.

Waterproofing membranes may be poor quality and/or installed not in accordance with manufacturers’ specifications. i.e., too thin, surface area incorrectly prepared. At project completion, all this is covered by tiles and very difficult to ascertain.

For some reason that escapes me, for a critical component of a build that if it fails, has catastrophic consequences, waterproofing seems not thought about until the last minute.

Severe lack of waterproof planning prior to construction is common.

Construction drawings often do not even nominate waterproofing. And if so, waterproofing specifications are of the “cut & paste” variety. The generic “refer to manufacturers’ specifications” works as the out clause for many architects, designers, etc.

Rarely do waterproofing specifications direct to use the product/s “best” for specific projects: internal, external, rooftop, balcony, below ground etc. Manufacturers’ specifications are accepted as is, which invariably include very general statements about their products. However, failure is blamed on the installers, tilers and waterproofers.

Manufacturers can be reluctant to take responsibility for their products. Training for product knowledge, methodology and skills is imperative, yet in reality, sadly lacking.

It is obvious waterproofing, and tiling are intricately 10 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

connected. A tiling issue I often come across is a tile field with insufficient expansion joints or expansions joints too small (too narrow). This results in tiles being “blown off” walls or in the case of floor tiles, “humping”. These defects occur as tiles expand or “grow”.

I have been involved in countless projects where this has occurred. A perfectly good waterproofing system will be destroyed due to “humping” of tiles. Most membranes will not stretch enough to withstand the pulling caused by tiles humping.

Obviously, the chance of membrane failure is high which leads to water ingress.

With high temperatures, cheaper tiles on the market tend to expand particularly more than others, and without

adequate expansion joints, these tiles will pop up/out causing membrane failure.

Aesthetics sometimes dominate as the client or architect desire a harmonious design that does not have “visible joints”. It is unfortunate that contractors comply to these designs, knowing this is not adhere to Australian Standards. It is a difficult position to be in, however insufficient expansion joints create a real possibility of water ingress down the track.

There is another issue of laying tiles over a polyurethane membrane which can be fraught with danger as bonding to polyurethane is at best problematic. However, this is a topic too big to go into here.

Re-emulsification of tile

adhesives on new projects is often mistaken as effervescence.

Re-emulsification comes to the surface of tiled areas via the grout lines, particularly on balconies. It is a milky substance and when dried can look like effervescence (salt residual that normally comes from the sand in under tile cement screeds or grouts).

Sometimes re-emulsification can be caused by inadequate falls. Water travels under the tiles (but over the membrane) taking a long time to get to the drain point/s and can cause adhesives to re-emulsify. Re-emulsification also may cause the tile/s to debond (come loose). Fortunately, this may not damage the waterproof membrane as the adhesive becomes soft and mush. I personally like adhesives

ADDITIONAL LINKS To find out more about Findlay-Evans Waterproofing, go to the website: www.waterproofingfew.com.au or email: info@waterproofingfew.com.au It has an active Facebook page too: https://www.facebook.com/waterproofingmelbourne/ Paul’s expertise in waterproofing extends to three other businesses that he owns and manages.

These include: Building Services Australia https://www.buildingservicesaustralia.com.au/ Liquid Rubber Melbourne www.liquidrubbermelb.com.au DIY Waterproofing https://www.diywaterproofing.com.au/

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WATERPROOFING

FEATURE

that are designed for swimming pools for this reason.

Another problem is tiles affixed without a proper notched trowel terchnique, where application is merely by blobs of adhesive on the back of tile which is then pushed down into the surface. This creates voids behind the tiles and causes a “drummy” or hollow sound when tapped. There is a possibility of tiles breaking as the entire back of tile is not supported.

About the author: Paul Evans is president of the Australian Institute of Waterproofing. He is also managing director, FindlayEvans Waterproofing, a Registered Victorian Building Practitioner (RBP) – Building Practitioners Board License (Commercial Builder Unlimited) CBU-4077 and (Domestic Builder Unlimited) DBU-7983, and a Master Builders Association Victoria specialist contractor – License 094507.

Thought, knowledge, and experience should be applied to both the tiling and waterproofing process from start to finish. These two trades require collaboration, correct application, quality products and supervision at each stage. Office based building contractors who do not visit their sites frequently, many times do not provide the onsite direction required for good supervision.

A little care goes a long way to preventing future problems.

Waterproofing has become a major problem for construction companies, developers, homeowners, landlords and property managers. Serious damage is brought on by water leaks, both structurally and aesthetically. It is simply not good enough to have our buildings leaking. The resultant damage leads to lengthy legal battles, expensive and extensive remediation works and emotional turmoil for owners. n

AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF WATERPROOFING The Australian Institute of Waterproofing represents the interests of the industry by working to raise the standard of waterproofing in Australia and becoming the "central source" of knowledge. It has been established to provide assistance. “We have a strong team of very qualified and dedicated members who care about the industry. We have a motto at the AIW: ‘Leave your egos and self-interests at the door and take a seat so you can help the industry’, said president Paul Evans.

AIW welcomes tilers to become members and help the two trades work together. The AIW has representation in most states and members across Australia.

Contact AIW at info@waterproof.org.au or check the website: https://waterproof.org.au

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, RLA s complete waterproofing system for pools

Epoxy Grout

Moisture Seal RLA Moisture Seal is a high performance, 2-part water-based epoxy waterproofing system — designed as a water and vapour proof coating under water proofing systems, coatings, tiles, resilient and timber flooring. It is designed for floor and wall applications where durability, water and chemical resistance are required.

Made in Australia, it has low VOC and a convenient mixing ratio 1:1. It withstands a head of water pressure up to 25 metres or can withstand up to 250Kpa of hydrostatic pressure. It complies with AS 4020:2005 “Products in contact with drinking water” and ASTM E96 Water vapour transmission. n

A two-part anti-acid epoxy mortar. Part A consists of a mixture of epoxy resin, selected fine-grain inert aggregates, pigments and specific organic additives. Part B consists of an innovative organic catalyst. Once mixed together, the two parts form a creamy mixture with excellent smoothness, which is also suitable for vertical no-slip application. Once hardened, the product is high performing in terms of mechanical and chemical resistance. This product has been expressly formulated to meet the requirements of Part 5 of the IMO FTP Code 2010 as “finishing material for bulkheads and ceilings” for the naval sector. n

UniGrip UniGrip is a premium grade polymer modified, highly flexible, white cement-based tile adhesive. It is non-slip/ non slump and ideal for large format tiles, and is a C2S2ET adhesive.

1Kompönent 1Kompönent is a one component, flexible fibre reinforced waterproof membrane.

With a specially formulated cementitious base incorporating graded aggregates and polymers, it produces a highly flexible waterproof membrane — capable of withstanding significant flexural strain. It is suitable for both positive and negative pressure — up to 25 metres (2.5 bars).

1Kompönent is easy to apply by brush/roller or spray and can be used on damp surfaces.

It has high adhesion strength and a versatile mixing ratio, and good crack bridging.

Suitable for exposure to UV rays and light foot traffic. RLA 1Kompönent is a class one membrane as per AS/NZS 4858. n

It is designed for bonding all types of ceramic, stone and mosaic tiles onto a variety of substrates like concrete, render, brickwork, blockwork, Gyprock, plasterboard and fibre cement.

UniGrip can be used for fixing porcelain and vitrified tiles, and to fix tiles over existing tiles as long as the existing tiles have been coated with RLA Universal Primer. It can be used for fixing tiles in fully immersed situations like swimming pools and spas.

UniGrip can also be used to fix tiles over most waterproofing membranes.

However, it is advisable to contact the manufacturer prior to commencing. This product is suitable for tile installations over screeds or green screeds, and can be used over some acoustic mats. Contact RLA for more information. n

POOL TILES

CUT TO FIT: CUSTOMED TILES ARE POOL SPECIALISTS POSITIONED FOR GROWTH Pools and outdoor areas will benefit as people continue to channel their money into their homes. In Queensland, Customed Tiles and its owner Andrew Lester is well placed to take advantage of this direction in consumer spending.

M

uch of our experience with any waterway — the sea, a river or a lake — is defined by the littoral: the place where land and water intersect. The same is true of swimming pools. A surprising amount of the time we spend around pools is all about getting in and out, as well as hanging onto the edge (especially for beginning swimmers). Visually, it's also that edge region that defines the aesthetic impact of the pool — its sweep and shape, how it fits into the landscape and surrounding decking around the pool.

It's not surprising, given this, that there is a lot of attention paid to tile coping for pool edges. For example, those edges can come in a wide range of shapes, including bullnose, square, pencil and round edges.

This area of the pool also needs to have surprisingly high performance, if it is to work practically as well as aesthetically.

You need to be concerned about its slip rating, and there is a lot of concern over its expansion/ contraction properties, as this surface will constantly get superheated by the sun, then rapidly cooled by splashing water.

Producing pool coping is also one of those areas where artisanal tile laying meets up with batch manufacturing. Tilers could spend a lot of time individually shaping tiles to suit a particular coping situation, but it's pretty evident that is not going to work from a productivity, aesthetic and quality perspective.

What you need is some kind of 14 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

milling machine that can produce perfect coping to fine tolerances.

CUSTOMED TILES Customed Tiles, located in Burleigh Heads, Queensland is one of those companies that offers a wide range of custom tile forming, including coping for swimming pools. The business's owner, Andrew Lester, has the benefit of experience in the building trades that goes beyond tiles.

He began his career doing a carpentry apprenticeship in Melbourne, and worked for a period in a joinery. From there, he became a project manager for a range of building industry businesses in Queensland, including Australasian Retail Projects and the HPP Group.

He took over Customed Tiles in early 2018. Today, its services include precision tile cutting in large or small quantities and tile profiling to create pool copings and stair treads.

The company itself has a history reaching back over 20 years. The original founder was a Hungarian artisan who made mosaic tiles and mosaic murals.

As Andrew told us, the business was not in the best shape when he took over, as it had not managed to adapt to some market changes. He said, “It was pretty rundown and the owner was probably about 76 by then.”

Andrew moved swiftly to switch the focus of Customed Tiles away from mosaics to focus on cutting tiles and manufacturing.

“We've moved away from the mosaics now. There's not much call for it and people don't want to pay for it,” he explains. He re-arranged the Customed Tiles factory and made his first purchase of the machines he needed to get started.

Fast forward three years to late 2021, and Andrew was set to start the second phase of the business. At the heart of this development is a new machine from Italian manufacturers Ferrari & Cigarini, the MPM/8 (which he had customised for his needs).

According to Ferrari & Cigarini, the MPM/8 has eight motor spindles to work with eight different grinding wheels, helping to reduce working times. The motorised conveyor belt improves working quality and allows the continuous production of pieces. A guide positioned on motor side and the pressor bar provides stability and a high level of finishing. All adjustments are facilitated by the use of handwheels and the machine does not require the use of tools. A lateral roller allows for large tile sizes.

One of the difficulties in finding right machine was the need to work with materials that were 10mm thick. As Andrew explains, "Most of the machinery on the market is generally made for stonemasons for 20mm thick material. Most of our stuff we deal with is 10mm thick and most machines can't handle that."

Not surprisingly, it took a lot of online research by Andrew before he connected with a representative

from Ferrari & Cigarini. “Through them, I was able to source [the machine]. It's pretty hard in Australia to source the kind of machinery I have. I think we're the only ones in the country that have the machinery I have,” he explains.

Despite international supply chains being disrupted by COVID-19, the machine was only delayed by a few weeks.

He now has two staff working for him currently, and is looking for a third to help the business meet growing demand. The previous owner operated with no staff and just had a tradie to help him out occasionally.

A GROWING BUSINESS The demand has, indeed, “gone through the roof”, according to Andrew. He sees the current spike in demand coming from two sources: the COVID-19 pandemic and an evolution in attitudes towards pools in Queensland.

He said: "Due to COVID, people can't travel, so homeowners are spending their money on their own backyards. Also, I used to say to everyone, airconditioning used to be a luxury but now everyone's got airconditioning. Pools used to be a luxury, now it's becoming like almost every house has a pool — in Queensland, anyway. "

In particular, Andrew sees some of the major home builders, such as Metricon, adding pool options to their standard builds, making it more likely homeowners will select this as an option.

Customed Tiles does business with a number of the larger builders, though that is sometimes through an indirect route, he explains: "Often the bigger builders will go through the tile shops so they don't deal with us directly. So National Tiles will deal with a lot of the big builders, [but] we're doing the job."

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POOL TILES

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EXPLORE. DISCOVER. ENJOY. Tile Today is the leading publication for Australia’s tile industry.

For tile installers, we provide a mix of indepth technical articles, product guides, the latest trends in design and business, as well as inspiring coverage of Australian and international tile shows and events.

For retailers, we cover all the latest industry news, interview the movers and shakers, and keep you up-to-date on industry statistics and forecasts.

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But what we offer to every reader, is a publication that shares your interest and inspiration.

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POOL TILES

18 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

POOL TILES

PLUNGE POOL POSSIBILITIES Going small can bring big benefits. As outdoor space for new homes shrinks, small "plunge" pools have gained in popularity. It's an opportunity for tilers to show off their skills with mosaics.

A

ustralians have something of an affinity to water. Perhaps it's just that sense of the vast arid land mass looming within 600km or so of most capital cities, and the careful way the population is spread along its coastal regions.

Every major city (with the artificial exception of Canberra) is a harbour city. Where many North Americans and Europeans grow up inland, few Australians even remember the first time they saw the ocean. It's always been there,

and it's an unthinking part of their lives, it seems.

So it's no surprise that swimming pools enjoy strong — and growing — popularity. A Roy Morgan survey conducted in 2018 suggests that 20% of homes in regional Queensland, for instance, have pools, and for Sydney, Brisbane and Perth, the number is over 15%, while Melbourne and Adelaide still manage a respectable 9%. For Australia overall, 13% of homes are pool-equipped.

The total number of pools in Australia is estimated at over 1.2 million. Royal Lifesaving states there are close to 1100 public aquatic facilities, and that Australians visit one of these an average of 4.4 times a year. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in 2012 — the most recent available — show that for boys swimming was the second highest sport for participation, after soccer (16.5% and 21.7% respectively), and the highest for

A pool setting featuring the Cupira Hueso range from from Ceramica Mayor. It uses the Marengo and Multi colours and features mosaics in a square format of 18 x 18cm.

20 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

girls, followed by netball (18.9% and 16.2% respectively).

It's likely that the next survey made will show at least a percentage point growth in pool ownership, largely due to the effects of the COVID-19 lockdowns during 2020 and 2021. However, public pool visits will be reduced considerably, due to their closure during the health crisis.

LESS OUTDOOR SPACE The recent pandemic lockdowns, as most of us can confirm from painful, direct experience, made many Australians reconsider their backyards, and just how much could be done with them. That trend, however, ran up against a competing trend, which is that the size of the Australian backyard has been shrinking for at least the past decade. That's due to two impacts: a decrease in the overall size of landholdings per dwelling, and an increase in the percentage of land taken up by dwellings.

That trend is perhaps more pronounced than many Australians realise. ABS statistics comparing FY2005/06 to FY2019/20 show the non-house (outdoor) area of new houses in the greater statistical area of Sydney fell by 27.4%, by 26.3% in Melbourne, while Brisbane saw a decline of 25.6%. The figures for Perth and Adelaide were 22.1% and 18.6% respectively.

Given these statistics, it's pretty evident that one of the constraints on adding pools to existing houses (and even new houses) comes down to how much of a declining backyard area homeowners are willing to take up with a pool. It's no wonder, then, that one of the emerging trends in recent years has been to give up on the idea of a complete pool, and opt instead for what we now call a "plunge pool".

Though this is a little bit of a misnomer. The original plunge pools were really, well, pools for plunging — while they were quite small in surface area, they were frequently around 1.8m in depth.

Modern plunge pools are not really for plunging. Their average dimensions are something like 2.5m to 3.0m wide, and 3.2m

to 4.5m long, with a depth of between 1.2m and 1.5m.

From a tiler's perspective, the great thing about these modern plunge pools is that they are no longer utilitarian, and instead form part of an often complex landscaping plan in upper-scale houses on smaller blocks of land.

The difference from a plunge pool looking like a compromised add-on, and it instead being an outstanding feature of the outdoor environment, comes down to sophisticated design and, well, really great tiling. Tiling which frequently involves not only the coping for the pool, but the entire pool itself, as well as the surrounding outdoor area.

The designs vary from spalike, protected retreats, to more luxurious spaces where

homeowners and guests can lounge through hot summer evenings, sipping mojitos, and taking an occasional, refreshing dip in the pool. They are more of a focal point of leisure, in other words, than part of a more athletic experience.

That move to high design means that glass mosaic pool tiles are in high demand from homeowners involved in these projects. One really important element that tilers will need to consult with designers and landscape architects regarding these installations is how the colour of the tiles will affect the perceived colour of the water in the pool. Frequently this needs to be harmonious with the overall look of the outdoor area. There is 22 www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #111 | 21

POOL TILES a trend towards pools which seem a darker shade of blue, verging on dark grey.

Oe of the best resources for working this out is available on the Perini website on mosaic tiles. https://www.perini.com.au/aguide-to-selecting-the-rightcolour-for-your-swimming-pool/

INSPIRATION If you are new to these kinds of designs, there are plenty of resources available online to provide you with inspiration. The well-known design/style website Houzz has a particularly good collection — just search for "plunge pool", and you'll see a wide selection. One of the advantages

22 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

is that Houzz is heavily oriented towards people seeking to emulate the styles on display, so the pictures tend to show more detail, and frequently provide helpful sequences, showing how particular features work in situ.

Instagram is another good source of design ideas, but this tends to be a little more hit-andmiss. The photography is a good deal more amateur, and details are often missing. However, there are many more "standard" installations, which is useful if the task is to provide high style on a limited budget.

Finally, of course, there is Pinterest. Experiences may vary, but looking for ideas on Pinterest

can seem a little like shopping in a $2 shop: you either find nothing, or happen on just the thing you were hoping to find. The best way to use Pinterest is to explore the "boards" that others have already created around pools and tiling, then filter those down to your own boards.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Homeowners seeking a full-size pool will often go directly to pool installers. However, in the case of plunge pools most customers will seek out the services of a landscaper as a starting point.

That's because the smaller pools are very much a landscape feature.

As a result, if this seems like a tile installation project type you would

like to explore, forming business relationships with landscaping firms would be a good angle to pursue, especially if you already have installations you can use as a reference.

Of course, it hardly needs to be said that even with these smaller projects, tile installers need to treat issues such as waterproofing and the correct installation of tiles to allow for expansion and other

issues with the same attention as on larger pool installations.

If something does need to be rectified later on, it's unlikely to be as major as a larger pool installation, but it can be every bit as aggravating to the customer, and just as expensive for the tile installer.

Another factor to consider is that plunge pools may serve as a good way of promoting a tiling

business. The pool can be a very central element for entertaining, and is often designed to evoke comment. Where other tiled areas, such as bathrooms, vary according to personal taste to a great extent, this is a more public type of work, and it is also a great opportunity to off both technical ability and tasteful, artful design in a setting that shows details to their best advantage. n

POOL TILES

Vitreo 122 is made with solid light blue glass and can be used for interior or exterior applications. It is suitable for installations such as flooring or building facades as well as wet and submerged areas, such as showers, spas and swimming pools.

Vitreo 160 is made with solid white glass and can be used for interior or exterior applications. It is suitable for installations such as flooring or building facades as well as wet and submerged areas, such as showers, spas and swimming pools.

Brillante 239 is a dark blue semi-transparent glass mosaic infused with precious enamels and shimmery 'Aventurina', a man made semi-precious stone which is fused and blended into the moulded glass.

Brillante 245 – 40x40 is a mid-blue semitransparent glass mosaic in the larger 40x40x4mm size. It is infused with precious enamels and shimmery 'Aventurina', a man made semi-precious stone which is fused and blended into the moulded glass.

info-au@trend-group.com (02) 8817 5500

Wahoo Mix is a smooth blend of the Brillante and iridescent Shining mosaic ranges, ideal to catch the sun’s reflection and create glow and pearly light effects. Trend is the only manufacturer in Australia able to customise any mix within three weeks.

Azzurro Mediterraneo Mix is made with the Brillante, Shining and Vitreo mosaic ranges. A balanced combination of blue tonalities that are able to give an ideal degree of shine and brightness to any swimming pool. Trend is the only manufacturer in Australia able to customise any mix within three weeks.

Brillante 2452018 is a clear mid-blue glass mosaic blended with glittery 'Aventurina', a man made semi-precious stone which is fused and blended in the moulded glass.

Wavy Mix is made with the Brillante and iridescent Shining mosaic ranges and is particularly suitable for intricate applications, where brightness and transparency have key roles, especially when enhanced by special lighting effects. Trend is the only manufacturer in Australia able to customise any mix within three weeks.

info-au@trend-group.com (02) 8817 5500

Australian Tile Council Supporting the tile industry

Become a member today

Member benefits: - Industry support from the Australian Tile Council (ATC)

- Member Benefits programme with exclusive offers

- Technical and Industry related information and support

- Tiling literature, brochures and notices

- Free access to the Tile and Tiling Guide

- Professional recognition as a member of the only recognised national body industry

- Free access to the Tile Reference Manual

For further information visit australiantilecouncil.com.au

ATC

Gratitude leads to giving back as a member of the Tile Council Roy Wells from Natural Tile in Maroochydore (QLD) believes in the responsibility of giving back to the industry as a member of the Australian Tile Council.

A

s president of the Queensland branch of the ATC for the past four years and a member for nine years, Roy Wells has been doing his part to contribute to an industry that has provided his livelihood for the last three decades. He believes the main benefit to membership is having access to all the product and installation updates that is a hallmark of the tile industry. “It's constantly changing because it's very fashion oriented. So there’s always newer materials, different thicknesses and different finishes, different colours. Everything changes year on year with different trends from large format to tiny little mosaics,” he said.

Being part of the Tile Council ensures members are kept updated so the level of work can be maintained to a high standard. Roy added: “You are kept up to speed because the products change on a six to 12 monthly basis. The actual the products that we fix to change as well … and the methods from waterproofing right down through to sealing and silicone.”

For members in Queensland, Roy

Roy Wells trying be incognito outside the entrance to Cersaie

is providing a printed, colour manual using the latest information from the ATC’s recently formed technical committee. He said, “It goes out to all of our dealers as well, because it's been proven that they like it by the counter. Quite often it gets misquoted, and it's easy to refer back to the 'Bible'…

“And if there is something that you can’t find in there then you can always come back to one of the

committee members, and they will do the research and find out the answers for you. So you're never left in the dark and that’s been of real value to members.”

Roy is also looking forward to having in-person social events for members as COVID-19 restrictions lift in Queensland. “Next year we will go back to what I was doing two years ago, which was getting technical speakers to come to every quarterly meeting and do a talk on their products,” he said. It is another way for members who attend to be kept up to date in a social setting.

In addition to Roy’s activities as an ATC member, his business Natural Tile has seen close to “boom time” sales as a result of its European made products that have never been as popular as they are today.

This probably also speaks to Roy’s business savvy and enthusiasm for the industry. He said: “We've been very, very lucky. The sales have been ‘crazy’, imports are ‘crazy’.

We import mainly from Europe and most of our products are really well received, and we just can't get get them in quick enough.” n

An exterior view of Natural Tile in Maroochydore (QLD)

www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #111 | 27

O N LI NE C OMMUN ITY

TILE GEEKS, A DIGITAL COMMUNITY FOR TILE PROFESSIONALS FACEBOOK REMAINS THE SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM OF CHOICE WHEN IT COMES TO GROUPS WITH SPECIAL INTERESTS. TILE GEEKS ON FACEBOOK LETS TILING PROS EXCHANGE INFORMATION, POST JOBS AND SHOW OFF THEIR WORK. TILE TODAY SPOKE TO ONE OF ITS FOUNDERS, IAIN “VVO” MIDDLETON.

O

n a zoom call with Vvo — who prefers to go by his nickname — he tells the story of Tile Geeks which began in the US within the online tile community. We spoke while he was onsite in his current role as senior tiling/construction lecturer at South Metro TAFE in Western Australia. He explains: “I started Tile Geeks with 11 other people … in the USA. I knew them online … and we decided to do one here because the content in Australia is very different than America which is all governed by the TCA (Tile Council of America). A lot of it is more regulated [than we are here] …”

At the time, Vvo had

reached out to people with similar interests in tiling on social media around 2008.

He came across an online group called “Tiling Glass Mosaics in Swimming Pools” and through Vimeo and Facebook, he met Doug Johnson of Artistic Visual Studios and Water TV in Texas.

An invitation to visit the US led to Vvo spending about six weeks travelling through California producing and presenting videos on mosaic pool projects. He documented his experiences on Australian Tile Geeks and ran a blog.

The group started with a dozen people and now there are around 6,500 members.

Steve Rennie is the owner of

Australian Tile Geeks while Vvo is its administrator.

What works well in Tile Geeks is that members are very active and engaged in posting about their experiences working on tile projects. There are new posts and information every day, and the content is well administered by Vvo and Facebook itself because there is no hate speech, bad language or bullying on the page.

Vvo said he helped start Tile Geeks in Australia with the collective intention of educating people on techniques and the Australian Standards. “I have access to all the standards around

The space at South Metro TAFE will be expanded for the students as a result of the popularity of the course

28 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

the world. I still get phone calls and messages every day asking, ‘How do we do this?’

Or ‘What does the standard say about that?’ And the group just grew from there,” he said.

The administrators of Tile Geeks also made the conscious decision to not include advertising on its page so the content has a distinctive tone of authenticity, remains focused on the issues that tiling professionals deal with all the time. As Vvo explains: “The Tile Geeks started off with trying to instil some sort of responsibility and accountability to what they're doing.”

It works best as an online forum where tilers and tile businesses have candid conversations about their work. When asked if the original goal of Tile Geeks has stayed the same or changed

US-based Water TV was a production company that aimed to make videos that elevated industrial construction to more stylish imagery

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over time, Vvo said: “I think we've stayed the same with the educational ethic but it has changed. One of my missions was to try and educate the client so they know what they were buying. So it has attracted a lot of clients who often post [obvious] questions ... but I think that's a good thing in a way.

“I see a wider audience and people respect that we're trying to be upfront and honest.”

Education is something that comes up a lot in Tile Today’s conversation with Vvo. He describes his role at South Metro TAFE in the following way: “I teach tiling principles to 15 year olds and up to advanced adults. I have also spent considerable time with autistic and learning challenged students as well as high risk prisoners in one of our super-maximum correction facilities here in WA.” From speaking to Vvo for this story, it becomes obvious that he is a gifted communicator in many ways with a lot of patience for his students who come from very diverse backgrounds.

He believes he can help the missing gaps of knowledge for tilers. He said: “…If I asked 10 tilers how to do something, I'll get 10 different answers … because we've only got [a low percentage] of tilers that are actually [formally] educated … They don't read the standards [partly] because they're quite expensive. Today we're looking at about $800 to buy a waterproofing and tiling standard. It's a lot of money compared to carpentry which is free. So I can share

Vvo presented a video of a luxury pool project in California, USA when he travelled as part of the Water TV crew

some knowledge [on the standards]…”

GROUP DEMOGRAPHICS 0ased on the membership of Tile Geeks, there are many overseas born tilers and lot of people working as sole traders. As Vvo explains: “Most tilers are one man and his ute. We have some fabulous overseas guys here now. I've worked with many of them

from Korea, Afghanistan and Vietnam. We've got a lot of followers from these countries, and there doesn't seem to be any sort of racism on the site.”

Vvo manages the pages with many “teachable moments” and members learn from each other’s experiences.

It speaks to the universality of the type of work the tilers do, and they are comfortable 32

In addition to being the administrator for Tile Geeks, Iain “Vvo” Middleton currently works as senior tiling/construction lecturer at South Metro TAFE in Western Australia

30 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

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to share their challenges and rewards. As a result, it has attracted many diverse, young people at a time when many of them have may have migrated to Instagram, another Facebook owned social media platform. He said: “In terms of age group, there's a lot of new people that have come into the group, in their early 20s and early 30s, and right to 65 and over.

A common theme is, ‘I've been doing things this way’.

We suggest to them that the materials have changed, the tiles have changed, and the manufacturing processes have changed. We ask them to think about things different, and that approach has worked really well, so we’ve received a lot of respect back.

“And we get a lot of females. I've got about 65 apprentices that I'm managing at the moment, and I've got about eight female students

“

Most tilers are one man and his ute. We have some fabulous overseas guys here now.

I've worked with many of them from Korea, Afghanistan and Vietnam. We've got a lot of followers from these countries, and there doesn't seem to be any sort of racism on the site.

”

who are doing great work.

It's definitely a female friendly trade.”

ABOUT VVO Vvo describes himself as a geek — no surprise! He is the type of person that prefers to read the manual before starting up a computer.

He said: “I love things like technical briefings or the Australian Standards. Once I get my teeth into something like that, I love it. So I like

to clarfiy [the standards] for what it actually says otherwise you can get these ‘Chinese whispers’ that are not based on facts.”

Vvo has been in his current role at South Metro TAFE for eight years but identifies as a tiler, first and foremost. As he explains, “I was, and still am, a mosaic tiler. I started in '91 when I came to Australia [from the UK]. And I laboured for a brick paving company and it paid for me to go through

Proleveling System from Metro Tiles Pre-pandemic, Metro Tiles regularly attended international tile fairs to discover the latest innovations in not just tiles, but also tiling tools and accessories. Specifically, in terms of a tile levelling system, the company was looking to source a product that solved tiler’s requirements to eliminate tile lippage in a superior way to what was available in Australia.

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• The Proleveling cross and tee clips level up to four tile corners simultaneously saving up to 3 clips per intersection, reducing installation time and cost.

• The rotational design enables precise control during the installation, as well as the ability to unscrew the pommel cap and reposition tile without breaking any clips.

32 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

university. I studied psychology, specialising in drug and other addictions, later to specialise in counselling. I finished university and realised that I actually enjoyed tiling and didn't necessarily like dealing with ‘broken’ people. I wanted to deal with passionate people.

“At this point, I decided to attend a Bisazza master class in Sydney and my world changed. I was then invited, fully paid, to attend Bisazza headquarters in Italy for a similar educational course.”

This experience was followed by another Italian company, Mosaicopui or Mosaico +, that sent him back to Italy to do more. He also started doing short videos of tile processes with music in the background. It was during this time that he was in the US creating videos of pool installations. He said: “It was just a fantastic experience.

Vvo has also been part of Gripset’s “Sealed for Good” YouTube channel with Phil Scardigno

From doing travertine and floors, I started to specialise in glass and swimming pools, in hard to deal with situations. At the time, Laticrete helped me enormously, Mapei in America and the UK as well.”

He has also been part of a number of video interviews

with Gripset and “Ask the Masters” amongst others, and has been a contributor to Tile Today in the past.

Vvo’s father was a tiler and he was exposed early on to chemistry and used to sit around the dinner table 34

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to talk about polymers and monomers. He said: “I was very lucky at 14, 15 to get an understanding of what goes into a glue, for example.”

As a result, he considers himself a second-generation tiler even though he didn’t do a traditional apprenticeship.

Vvo explains: “To qualify in Australia, I had to what they call an RPL or ‘recognition of prior learning’. And working for TAFE, you get professional development every year. So I've been taking advantage ... You've got to keep going.

There's no one person in the world that knows all about tiling … [Tiling] is that big, and most people know that little slice of it.”

At TAFE, Vvo gets the students involved in projects that makes them enthusiastic.

He said: “I motivate them, and I want them to go away with a sense of achievement. That, in itself, instils them wanting to do more. And we try and learn now through online content.

If you can learn by someone else's mistake, bingo! I will show how one person does it, and then another person does it, and the students develop their own technique.”

Vvo considers himself more of a facilitator than a teacher. He explains, “I put the tiles in front, and show them what to do. It’s hands on. I also have the ability to create and destroy because we can waterproof something then I'll rip up the tile to see how it works. You don't always get that opportunity so it's a continual learning process...”

His success in his teaching role has been recognised

by Metro TAFE which has provided the tiling students with more space to do their work. “We are so popular as a course that the TAFE have given us a two-acre block to develop. There's a word in French called atelier, a workshop or a studio for training or a meeting. That's what I'm trying to do here,” he said.

34 | TILE TODAY #110 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Cutting Glass Mosaic Part 1" video can be viewed on YouTube

Vvo fronted a video on mosaics from the Cactus Tile & Stone showroom in Scottsdale, Arizona for Water TV

Vvo’s skills as a communicator will be put to good use in the future as he continues to develop digital content on YouTube and other social media platforms.

“My plan going forward is to develop an online presence to

assist the industry.,” he said.

“I would like to use my TAFE teaching qualifications and my knowledge to help educate tilers by providing video content about some of the standards especially assisting over-seas born tilers.” n

T I L E PRO JE C T

Commercial tile project award Cairns-based business, Touchstone Tiling Services was recognised for its efforts on the Art Work Spaces building located in Abbott Street, Cairns City (QLD). It took out commercial trade contractor of the year at the 2021 Master Builders Queensland Housing and Construction Awards.

Far North Queensland firm Vis Constructions won the commercial building from $5m to $50m award for this building at the awards. Project manager Grant Mulkearns told The Cairns Post: “The main challenges of the Art Work Spaces project involved working around an existing old two-storey structure and trying to marry into the new three-storey development.

“Site access was a major issue with two facades built to boundary and the front façade awning built over boundary, coordinating

deliveries, crane and concrete pump operations was an ever-evolving exercise in problem solving.

“Detailing and coordinating the ‘show piece’ aluminium curtain was quite exciting. There were 300 individual panels of different sizes and patterns that had to go up in a specific sequence of offsets. It was a great relief when it all worked perfectly.”

A real-life green wall is located on the first floor and penetrating up through to the second floor.

“The 5m-high green wall was a new element for us. Situated above highly appointed office spaces, the green wall was definitely a highrisk element which demanded proper attention was given to the waterproofing and structural detailing to hold several tons of water and plants,” he added.

n

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P ROF ILE

Flawless imperfection: Ceramiche Refin’s marketing makeover Rino Bedogni, the recently-appointed head of marketing & communications at Ceramiche Refin takes time out from the Cersaie event to speak to Tile Today’s international correspondent, Joe Simpson

F

or the past decade or more, the Refin stand has been one of the major trend hubs at Cersaie. The company became known for its bold marketing approach led by its then head of marketing, Paolo Cesana.

Refin began to be seen as a brand that consistently delivered designled innovation in ceramic surfacing.

Now there is a new man at the helm: Rino Bedogni. The company’s new head of marketing & communication spent 15 years at Cellularline and brings a refreshing approach to the job. Bedogni’s philosophy is to differentiate the brand by explaining and reinforcing Refin’s creative soul and cultural context.

What is Refin's approach to Cersaie 2021?

This important edition of the flagship professional trade show marks the relaunch of the entire surface design sector. At Ceramiche Refin, we decided to draw inspiration from the flawless imperfection of nature and art, rediscovering the value of Italy's historical and artistic tradition, of the exclusive luxury of

craftsmanship, and of nature in all its power.

The result of this research are new collections that were designed to suffuse every architectural and interior design project with emotion. The spotlight will be on the Affrescati, Cortina, and River collections. Places brought to life by creative expressions, collective memories, and lived experiences.

Gestures and testimonies that shape and narrate the past, give a voice to the present, and become a promise for the future. An artistic journey through age-old techniques, intrinsically linked to Italian art, telling tales of history and beauty.

Does the Affrescati range have a clear USP (unique selling point)?

Affrescati offers an evocative and eclectic interpretation of the history and beauty of wall frescoes, a heritage asset deeply intertwined with Italian culture. This tradition has been projected into the contemporary world by means of intensely textured surfaces featuring subtle undulations, trowel marks, and an original chromatic layering,

The Cortina collection is a wood-effect porcelain stoneware range that combines Refin’s artisanal soul with the beauty of the mountain landscape

36 | TILE TODAY #111 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

Rino Bedogni is Ceramiche Refin’s new head of marketing & communication

with a sophisticated identity creating refined backdrops.

The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua and the frescoes of the ancient dwellings of Pompeii are just some of the works of art that can be seen in the markings and colours of the collection. This is not only a truly beautiful new tile design, but also an important collection that conveys a clear sense of the road ahead for Refin.

What distinguishes Cortina from other wood-effect ranges?

Only after exploring the most beautiful mountains in the Dolomites, did we create the Cortina collection. This wood-effect porcelain stoneware range is the result of many natural sources of inspiration.

It combines Refin’s artisanal soul with the beauty of the mountain landscape, where aesthetics are enhanced by touch.

In the Cortina collection, ancestral wisdom and craftsmanship are reinterpreted to emphasise authenticity and exclusivity. It features different types of wood with various degrees of ageing, and is the result of meticulous research aimed at discovering and choosing the most particular staves to offer a completely exclusive product. It is ideal to create warm and welcoming

interiors, reproducing the typical charm of mountain chalets, with a design that is both contemporary and sophisticated.

How does River play into the Wabi Sabi interior trend?

It is true to say that the River collection stemmed from intense observation of natural phenomena and, in particular, of the erosive action of water on river stones.

Where the stone emerges, the effect is textured and structured. However, when it is submerged, the surface appears to be smoothed by water, with softer contrasts. The surface of the River range replicate this effect, offering an enticing interplay of environment and perception, nature and emotion.”

The River collection stems from intense observation of natural phenomena and, in particular, of the erosive action of water on river stones

How do these ranges reflect Refin’s corporate ethos?

These three new collections confirm our deep bond with craftsmanship, research, and the huge Italian cultural heritage, key drivers that find their maximum stylistic expression in Made in Italy of which Ceramiche Refin is a proud ambassador.

Is there one key quality that runs across these new ranges?

Yes. Attention to detail. To create authentic new designs — ones with real design depth and aesthetic soul — takes time, maybe six months or more. This comes through in the 30 different faces of the Cortina range, the hundreds of photographic images that we analysed and assimilated for River to deliver the subtle colours and textures, or the spatulated surfaces of Affrescati. I am truly proud of the design team’s dedication to perfection. It shines through in all three collections.

The Affrescati range comes in an Ombra colour

Would you highlight any other ranges?

Fornace springs to mind. This is a timeless collection, perfect for designs that make a strong contemporary impact. Available in Avorio, Tortora, Terra, Zafferano, and Rosato, the large format tiles can be given an even more sophisticated look with the Amalfi decorative motif.

I should also mention Foil. This range is typical of Refin’s belief that new ideas create new surfaces. Our Foil range is the result of a complex

Affrescati offers an evocative and eclectic interpretation of the history and beauty of wall frescoes

The River range is offered in a Natural hue

creative process. By studying metal and its characteristics, we have created porcelain stoneware tiles with fine and delicate details.

The Aluminium, Titanium, and Burnish varieties pay homage to

the unpredictable nature of handcrafting metal, while the Corten and Verdigris varieties reveal the intense side of Foil, inspired by the industrial surface of oxidized metals. n www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #110 | 37

TRANSFORMATIONAL TRENDS SEEN AT

CERSAIE 2021

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CERAMIC TILES ARE ENJOYING A PERIOD OF UNPRECEDENTED CREATIVITY, WHERE THE PROVED TECHNICAL BENEFITS OF CERAMIC AND PORCELAIN TILES ARE NOW MARRIED TO A RICH AND VARIED PORTFOLIO OF MESMERISING DESIGNS. SEISMIC CHANGES IN TILE PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY, ALLIED TO A CYCLICAL REALIGNMENT OF DESIGN TRENDS, MEAN THAT THE VERY NATURE OF THE WORLD’S TOP TILE SHOW HAS CHANGED SIGNIFICANTLY IN THE PAST FEW YEARS. AT CERSAIE 2021, PERHAPS EMPHASISED BY THE YEAR GAP, THIS WAS VERY EVIDENT. INTERNATIONAL CORRESPONDENT, JOE SIMPSON REPORTS.

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t is fair to say that, back in the 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s Bologna was primarily a floor tile show, with wall tiles playing second fiddle. This year’s show was something completely different: four tile shows in one.

Bologna remains the premier catwalk for the latest floor tile fashions. Given Italy’s aesthetic lead in this market segment, that is hardly surprising.

But now, with the renaissance of interest in small formats, glaze heritage, pattern, shape, and relief, Cersaie was also a hotbed of exciting and exuberant wall tile designs. Utilising the latest moulds, geometric formats, reactive

glazes, and inkjet decoration techniques — all spurred on by the adoption of 3D printing — wall tiles have undergone a dramatic reappraisal.

This year, Cersaie shone the spotlight on creative uses including feature walls, wet rooms, hotel bars, bedroom headboards, fireplace surrounds, hygienesensitive installations, sustainable architecture, community art projects, and more. Many of the latest designs draw inspiration for ceramic tiles’ European heritage, seeking genuine authenticity with faithful riffs on artisanal tiles from Italy, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and beyond.

But Cersaie is now so much more than a tile show. It now devotes a great deal of exhibition space to exterior tiling; 20mm or 30mm thick pieces that offer creative approaches to landscaping schemes. They offer up new commercial opportunities through potential partnerships with garden centres, local authorities, and landscape contractors and, of course, a whole new set of likely consumers.

Cersaie 2021 also provided a catch-up on the fast-developing slab market. Already making waves as worktops and furniture facings, 40

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CERSAIE SHOW REPORT these XXL pieces, starting at 1,000 by 3,000mm and growing ever larger, were displayed in Bologna as ceramic wallpaper, multi-tile feature walls, tunnel lining and murals.

Factor in technical applications, such as air-purifying and selfcleaning tiles, raised access floors, and ventilated and non-ventilated ceramic façades — maybe a fifth sub-sector in its own right — and you begin to appreciate the true complexity and diversity of Cersaie 2021. All this before you experience the other aspects of the show such as bathroom furniture, timber flooring, and sanitaryware that share the newly-expanded exhibition space.

However, this report will only look at wall and floor tile trends. It will show that most current floor tile trends are refinements or variations on established design directions such as mixed motif melanges, marbles, sandstone, terrazzo, concrete, wood, and hydrauliceffect patterns. If there were any real novelties, then they are the first generation of multi-material melanges, such as wood with concrete, or marble with resin.

Arcana’s new Les Bijoux d’Arcana range features powerful marble-effects with a highly polished finish. The range comes in two rectified formats: 790 by 790mm and 593 by 1,193mm. Saphir-R (pictured) was inspired by the blue colour of sapphire jewellery and has an intense polished finish.

ABK and Studio OTTO – Paola Navone have collaborated to create Poetry House, a project that initially features two ceramic surfaces inspired by two different materials: wood and stone.

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Poetry Wood from ABK and Studio OTTO – Paola Navone has a natural-looking surface with an elegant patina that imitates the passage of time. Available in four soft colours, the range comes in classic plank formats complemented by a 200 by 200mm modular element. The artisanal-style decorations include a hand-painted plaster look that enhances the wood texture, and an iridescent metallic effect.

ON THE FLOOR The main take away, regarding floor tiles, is that little has really changed.

But even in this “steady as she goes” mode, there were still some floor tile surprises. Firstly, the cement-encaustic inspired hydraulic patterned tiles, including multi-design melanges, monotone mixes, and stronger three- and four-colour creations, are still very much centre stage. Less predictably, the terrazzo trend is still strong, and evolving. Cersaie saw examples of everything from monochrome micro-mix terrazzo effects, only one step removed from the salt and pepper tiles of yesteryear, through to brash and beautiful multicolour stracciatella looks with huge inclusions of semi-precious stones, jewel-like mica flourishes, and bold single-colour base tones.

These new wave terrazzo-effects were seen on floors, as well as bedroom headboards, feature walls, and splashbacks. They were also paired with less dramatic field tiles that picked up the dominant base colours of the terrazzo.

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Onici by Casalgrande Padana was one of the eye-catching new ranges at Cersaie that saw the beauty of onyx meet the technical features of porcelain. Onici gives a new twist to onyx, a translucent natural stone like marble and granite that stands out for its radiant patterns. It comes in grey, orange, and pearl shades. The tiles feature a background in shades of grey of varying intensity with luminous pearl, orange, and light grey bands. The sizes range from 600 by 1,200 and 1,200 by 1,200mm up 1,200 by 2,780mm, and all 6.5 mm thick. Onici is available in either a Naturale or Lucida finish.

During Cersaie 2021, Serenissima introduced Materica, an unusual interpretation of natural stone alongside new textures for the Showall collection of decorative tiling, and Travertini Due, travertine-effect porcelain tiles with an antique charm.

One of the most ambitious launches at the show, Vives’ Stravaganza Series is a vast array of ceramic stage sets. The Stravaganza wall tile series acts as the connecting link for this collection. It stands out for its subtle surface movement that generates a relaxing and serene feel. It is available in three formats, 250 by 750, 320 by 990, and 450 by 1,200mm and four tones, white, beige, gray and taupe.

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CERSAIE SHOW REPORT Clearly, this is still a design direction worth following.

Wood-effect tiles is another design that has found a new lease of life. Cersaie saw many hexagonal timber tiles, alongside the more predictable chevrons, herringbone strips, and large plank formats. Surface structure, such as simulated timber decking, routed wave forms, scrollwork decors, and routed detail, is bringing new depth of detail to wood-effect tiles, something emphasised by the latest matte finishes.

PANDEMIC INFLUENCE Coronavirus has had a clear impact on design trends. Some are very predictable such as the surge in

At Cersaie 2021 Del Conca launched Dinamika. This new surface is said to be the first to reproduce natural materials to such an accurate degree. A graphic depth makes it possible, for the first time, to create a single stage surface that also includes graphic design. Del Conca presented the Dinamika Stone Edition collection in four different textures: Pietra Pece; Travertino; Breccia Grey; and Pietra di Borgogna. Each of these versions included a decoration, called Stories, with a chiselled surface. Dinamika Stone Edition is available in 1,200 by 2,600 and 1,200 by 1,200mm large sizes, and 600 by 1,200, 600 by 600, and 300 by 600mm medium sizes.

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interest in anti-bacterial and selfcleaning tiles. The global pandemic has rebalanced the cost-benefit analysis of these products, making them seem more commercially attractive.

Unlike past global events, such as 9/11 or the 2008 global financial crisis, the Coronavirus pandemic has not sparked a design retreat back to minimalism, neutral palettes, and “safe’ interior styling. In fact, the opposite seems to be true. The maximalism trend, already making waves prior to the outbreak of COVID-19, is now hugely influential.

At the same time, another macro trend — the thirst for authenticity — has manifested itself in the tile arena in a resurgence of interest in small

format tiles, bold colours, artisanal glaze effects, geometric shapes, 3D forms, and textured finishes. Digital inkjet printing is now being used in concert with sinking inks, reactive glazes, and 3D printing to push the boundaries of what is possible in tile design. And the results are spectacular and beautiful.

As a result, from cosy autumnal tones and soothing blue-green shades to the playful spirit of confetti-effect tiles and bold Art Deco patterns, 2022 tile design trends are all about tapping into emotions, and inspiring optimism.

Autumn is historically a season of transition, characterised by leaves starting to change colour.

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The Oxide collection from Gardenia Orchidea embraces a textural, oxidised metal aesthetic, an emerging trend in architecture. The iridescent colours and glossy-matte sheen create surfaces with an almost three-dimensional look. The collection comes in five different colours, each variant recreating the look of oxidised metallic sheets. The wide range of sizes, from 800 by 800mm up to 1,200 by 2,800mm, allows for multiple installation solutions. An outdoor version is also available in a 9/20 mm thickness and with an R11 surface.

Sevilla by Elios is a range that evokes the appeal of cement tiles in a set of warm and lively colours. Gloss relief effects enhance decors that resemble traditional cement tiles. Available in a mix of contemporary colours, or as individual objects to enrich spaces with unique patterns.

Perhaps the most beautiful tile at the show is Micronesia by Tonalite. In this stunning wall tile, the blue of the islands of French Polynesia are mixed with the green of uncontaminated nature in a single 100 by 400mm format. There are six colour options. Because of the deep, reactive, glaze, the different shades come together in unexpected combinations while the gloss finish gives the range reflective energy.

Cir Manifatture Ceramiche’s Fuoritono is a range of small sizes, original colourways, and glossy and matt surface finishes, that can be combined in an almost infinite number of installation layouts.

Cir offered a sneak preview of Chromagic, a ceramic wallpaper collection that combines floor-to-ceiling decoration with trendy colours on a resin-effect surface finish.

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CERSAIE SHOW REPORT Many of the leading European tile manufacturers have taken a fresh look at the aesthetic impact of autumn, with patterns and colours that conjure the feeling of a crisp autumnal day. Organic hues including earthy browns, golden yellows, and burgundy reds are typical of the latest wave of autumnal shades, often seen alongside tiles with a natural vibe, like wood or stone in a warm palette.

In contrast, Art Deco remains a timeless, classic, and popular trend.

Characterised by bold geometric shapes and decadent details, today’s deco-inspired tiles often have chevron patterns, arches of contrasting marble, and scallop shapes full of colour.

Traditional deco style leans toward striking contrasts, juxtaposing dark and light. Others offer bold geometric shapes in monochrome palettes to create a powerful yet subdued statement.

Seen in curved “fish-scale” hoops, and glitzy metallics, Jazz Age tiles are back with some panache.

Gloss tiles have also made a comeback, allowing floors and walls to pop with perfectly smooth surfaces and a beautiful shine.

Gloss finishes are great for areas that need to be cleaned often, from splashbacks to lobby walls. In some collections, light and reflection are the main features, allowing designers to accentuate architectural features and construct chic environments full of drama. However, most tile lines offer a variety of finishes, ranging from dead matte to high gloss, which can be used side-by-side to create

Oros Stone by Ergon has the presence of micro-crystals typical of quartzite, and is suitable for different types of environments because of the variety of sizes and versions for floors and walls. In addition to the rectified cut, a 3D version with a split effect is also available. Other formats include 600 by 1,200, 600 by 600, and 300 by 600mm, plus 900 by 900mm in greige, grey, and anthracite.

Supreme, Flaviker’s extensive range of marble-effect surfaces, has been expanded with the addition of Treasure, a collection of new varieties with predominantly white backgrounds characterised by different types of veining and sophisticated colour accents.

The Oros Stone collection by Ergon was inspired by a special type of quartzite from Greece. Available in six colours – White, Sand, Greige, Grey, Sky Blue, and Anthracite – Oros Stone’s surfaces are textured, variegated, and characterised by a distinctive grain.

Technology has led to a design in which structure, patterning, and surface finish interact in Emilceramica’s Mimesis.

Inspired by natural brushed oak, it comes in four colours: Avorio, Ecru, Miele, and Tabacco. The formats are 265 by 1,600, 200 by 1,200, and 400 by 1,200mm plus a 110 by 540mm chevron.

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a perception of depth and eyecatching texture.

With blue and green dominating the colour arena this year — emerald is one of the go-to colours for today’s designers and classic blue was recently Pantone’s colour of the year — it was no surprise that this tertiary colour stands proud in many new tile ranges. At Cersaie it was outnumbered by greens, on everything from exuberant tropical leaf designs, through to dramatic rich marbles.

Colour trends reflect the overall emotions and mood of society and, according to colour theorists, bluegreen combines the tranquil effects of blue with the optimistic feeling of green which seem appropriate these uncertain times.

ENDURING STYLES Concrete, that ubiquitous building material that has facilitated creative

Treasure, part of Flaviker’s Supreme range, comes in six different versions: Greylac Platinum, Corchia Gold, Luminous Everose, Calacatta Emerald, Lasa Sapphire and Cristallo Amber.

Supreme Treasure comes in large 1,200 by 2,800mm slabs, as well as a variety of complementary sizes for use on floors and walls. It is available in three surface finishes: lux, natural, and soft.

Silken by Ibero Casainfinita is a new ceramic combination. This creative process combines different textures: a spatulated cementitious base fused with textile weaves and hand-made finishes.

architectural expression since ancient times, has been one of the main ceramic tile trends of the past decade. Long admired for its strength and beauty, concrete continues to serve as a muse for architects, as well as tile manufacturers. From the industrial look of Bréton brut, right through to the timeless charm of encaustic cement, concrete-effect tile collections can be used for all types of surface application, both indoors and out.

Most recently, there have been fresh takes on the concrete-effect tile, from timber/concrete hybrids that reveal the impression of timber shuttering, to chalky effects closer to plaster, right through to luxurious polished plaster simulations.

Overall, as seen in various spatulated looks, the results are more feminine, and more artisanal.

With the Wabi Sabi aesthetic leading to a growing preference for toned-down looks, tile options that offer a softer and more natural

appearance have been heavily promoted.

If one trend really caught the eye at this year’s Cersaie it was the continuing evolution of the bolder marble effects. This was seen in richer colouration, gold and other metallic highlights and, in particular, in dramatic large-scale veining. Marble-look designs have clearly evolved. Some are showing fewer river-like veins with flowing movement and clean edges; while others sported more angular, frenetic looks.

Alongside the return to small format tiles, particularly wall tiles, at the other end of the spectrum, extra-large ceramic tiles are still increasing in popularity. This trend enables countless applications and design possibilities, with largeformat tiles in sizes up to 1,600 by 3,200mm, and thicknesses from 3.5mm to 20mm. The bookmatched marbles are now available 46

The textured surfaces Keraben’s Verse collection add strong tactile appeal in an on-trend design.

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CERSAIE SHOW REPORT in multi-tile patterns, allowing complete walls to be created with continuous veining, or large repeat wallpaper effects. They are simply stunning.

Non-rectangular tile styles, specifically hexagons, have grown to monumental sizes, with 600mm diameter pieces, for instance, adding tons of drama to a space.

The influence of mid-century modern is also prevalent, in everything from concrete-look tiles with playful patterns, through to matte tiles in strong but muted tones that create soothing and relaxing spaces. Key colours include Olive Green, Dusky Pink, Cherry Red, Leather Brown, Charcoal Grey, Burnt Orange, Old Gold, and Cotton White. Throw in some enticing bluegreen highlights, and season with a dash of opulent metallic glaze … and you’re pretty much there.

One of the easiest ways of changing the aesthetic appearance of any space is to add volumetric surfaces. Of course 3D tiles are not new in the tile industry, but many leading manufacturers — notably in Italy, Spain, and Portugal — have come up with ever more eclectic products. They include sinuous waves and lines to deconstructed shapes and graphic representations of flora and fauna to satisfy the market’s demand for novelty.

Thanks to their great versatility, the exciting new ceramic forms can be used to create all kinds of eye-catching reliefs from a classic bevelled small format to large-scale geometrics.

The prominence of pattern among the portfolios of many leading European tile manufacturers is somewhat of a surprise after so many years dominated by minimalism. European producers are adept at creating tile collections that allow for a variety of laying arrangements which facilitates innovative designs. Different effects can be achieved with multiple colours or just two or three. A pattern can fill an entire wall or just part of it. Some of the most successful combinations of tiles use a “less is more” approach, mixing decors with plain field tiles, thus providing an intriguing focal point without being overwhelming.

Ragno’s new Incanto range introduces 13 multicoloured marble varieties in porcelain stoneware in a wide range of sizes. The naturally changeable veining and colours means that interiors created with Incanto are unique, with finely balanced textures and a luminosity that reworks marble’s natural aesthetic in a striking style.

Cementum by Marazzi is a collection that reproduces the appearance and properties of cast concrete using BodyPlus production technology. Hints of colour enhance the depth and richness of the collection, while the application of anti-reflective glazes — with special body mixes for each shade — make the softtouch, anti-slip surface realistic through the integration of StepWise technology.

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MAJESTIC MARBLES Featuring shade variation and stunning detail, marble-effect tiles can be the ultimate surface covering delivering visual impact for walls and floors with maximum wow factor, or they can blend into the background.

Art Deco has already been identified as a strong look for tiles

The new Ibla range by Ceramiche Piemme delivers the tactile appeal of Ragusa Pietra Pece asphalt stone, combined with 3D decors that evoke the patterns and reliefs of traditional lace, in a collection that bears the name of the UNESCO world heritage site. Piemme has developed distressed, tarry colours and surfaces that alternate matte and surprisingly glossy finishes, using Synchro Digit technology.

It comes in four plain tile colour variants — Nera, Linfa, Colofonia, Resina — and Tombolo wall tiles, Zagara floral decors and Ragusa and Opus mosaics (in two surface finishes, natural and honed). The format options are 600 by 600, 600 by 1,195, 300 by 1,195, 100 by 600, and 100 by 530mm.

In Pastorelli’s Colorful, Venetian terrazzo meets concrete and colour in a collection that aims to be one step beyond established trends. From classic to more contemporary interiors, Colorful can satisfy different personalities and styles. Placed horizontally, the Modernist mosaic made with 600mm thin rods laid vertically, is ideal for splashbacks and shower

and interiors, and has grandeur and opulence with geometrics, pattern and contrasting colour schemes, Bold marble-effects fit perfectly within the Art Deco trend. Strong marble-effects and directional veining is amplified through highly polished finishes and traditional black and white colour schemes.

While the Art Deco trend is in favour, there will always be demand for tile designs in monochrome colour palettes with dramatic marbling.

What makes modern marbleeffects so attractive is that they offer a sense of real luxury, providing a perfect setting for high end bathroom designs and living spaces, but at a fraction of the cost of the real material.

But softer limestone-effects are also in demand. The Japandi trend has seen homeowners and designers turn to calming limestoneeffects to create a relaxing, tranquil environment. These demure limestone-effects have discreet veining and modern neutral colour schemes that blend well with natural materials for a homely, lived-in design scheme. Pale greys, warm beige, and off whites are all given visual interest through soft, gentle textures for surface coverings that feel familiar and inviting.

These softer limestone-effects work well from floor to ceiling for a continuous look. Surfaces are kept uncluttered with hardware and accessories pared back to create open spaces without clutter.

Unique Travertine by Provenza offers a blend of classic materials and contemporary design. Unique Travertine is an evocative and versatile series produced in four elegant tones: White, Cream, Silver, and Chocolate.

Structured tiles remain popular for creating feature walls and zoning areas within a room, and often have soft marble or limestone-effects.

Structured, raised surfaces are ideal for adding texture and interest to a room. The structure needs to be the stand-out feature, not the actual printed effect, which is why designs have neutral colour palettes and gentle marbling to allow the structure to do the talking.

Matte surfaces are stronger sellers, but we’ve also seen Calacatta marble-effects with highly polished finishes become popular in highend, luxury designs.

OTHER TRENDS SERENISSIMA GAMBLE Amazing Green Serenissima previewed exclusive Gamble coloured marbles (pictured) and Roveri, a modern interpretation of slatted timber at Cersaie.

Parkside, a specialist distributor for the specification sector, has identified two key themes for 2022 in Nature’s Purity and Retro Pop. Nature’s Purity explores the positivity of nature’s influence on interiors. As we seek a deeper connection to the natural

world, it looks towards colours, surfaces and patterns that respond to this. Warmer, earthy ones are paired with natural materials that evoke a sense of purity and perfection.

Retro Pop sees a return to nostalgia, with the bold, geometric patterns of the 70s resurging, this time with a sunnier palette rooted in citrus yellow. Sweet pastels add energy and help to build playful spaces that encourage wellness, collaboration, connection and socialisation. Bringing fun and joy to workplaces and retail, Retro Pop sees ceramics, satin finishes and terrazzo clash for fun combinations that retain a feeling of positivity.

The inside-out living trend has also taken off, turbo-charged by soft new slip-resistant finishes that allowed the exact same tiles to be used internally and externally. For some tile companies, exterior grade tiles now represent up to a third of sales. n www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #111 | 47

LOGISTICS

Planning is key to managing shipping challenges As the tile industry continues to operate under a regime of increasing freight rates and uncertainty around space on vessels and available containers, taking time to plan is perhaps more crucial than ever. Bryan Vadas explains.

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tock and logistics management needs to be proactive rather than reactionary. Stock will be king, and ensuring you have stock available to meet the timing and needs of your market will be more important than price. The key is to plan, to ship early, and to manage inventory better than ever before. With supply chains in a state of volatility, the only certainties are the stocks you have under your roof.

Where we are now Prices are going up with every tick of the clock, empty containers are becoming impossible to find, and space on vessels is a rare commodity.

Compounding the issue is the fact that many overseas manufacturers are now drowning in stock due to having produced product which cannot be shipped, leaving them short of space, capital, and the incentive to make more product before the decks are cleared of current stock. Many manufacturers are now scaling back production, meaning longer lead times, and even agreeing to produce only when a shipping order is secured and firm.

Unfortunately, there is no “quick

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fix”, and even when “normality” is once again achieved, there may be a new norm, with pricing eventually set to stabilise at a rate much higher than that which we were used to just twelve months earlier.

How we got here It seems the only industry having a good time of it at the moment is the shipping industry. If we rewind to just three years ago, lines like Maersk were reporting annual losses in the tens of millions (though Maersk improved its results for 2019 through a process of transformation).

As a result, no new ships were being built, and some of the existing fleets were being slowed or sitting idle. With the onset of Covid, there was a short pause as shipping lines surveyed the landscape and manufacturers sat uncertain as to how global demand would pan out for their products. However, with the US government introducing trillions of USD of support and stimulus measures, demand in America alone increased by a significant extent. The laws of Supply and Demand kicked in, and the shipping lines saw it as a great opportunity to increase pricing.

Shipping lines typically do not own their ships. The vessels themselves are primarily Europeanowned. The shipping lines formerly rented them on an annual basis at a rate of around $10,000 per day.

With the rapid increase in demand, and the vessel owners recognising the short supply of the shipping fleet, rental rates for vessels were changed to three-year contracts at around $50,000 a day. Shipping lines used this as a trigger to increase their pricing. Maersk reflects the experience of shipping lines over this time, having quickly gone from losing $44 million in 2019, to reporting a profit of $3.7 billion in Q2 2021 alone.

(Though much of that loss was due to discontinued operations.)

Whilst demand in Europe and other trade routes (like the Transpacific routes) did not increase to the same levels as experienced in the USA, demand did increase universally. Given there is only a limited supply of vessels, shipping lines wanted to recoup years of losses and maximise profits on all trade routes, and prices started to increase.

As a result of demand not cooling, and now with a backlog of cargo to

ship, the shipping lines have taken the liberty to continue increasing prices every couple of weeks.

There are many industries that might have been tempted to use air freight as an alternative. Whilst sending tile products by air is only an option in rare circumstances, manufacturers of light-weight products may well have turned to air freight, however that option seemed to have dried up, and this has further caused an increase in demand for sea freight. Covid saw the rapid and severe contraction of international passenger flights. With passenger flights being the main carriers of air freight, the decrease in international passenger travel saw air freight all but disappear as an option for international freight.

Australia, the ugly duckling If it seems like it is getting more difficult to obtain bookings to bring your stock in from overseas, you are right. Shipping lines are focusing their profit on customers who pay the most and who return the greatest profits. US companies generally pay two to three times more than Australia does for shipping a 20-foot container. So given a 9,000-container capacity vessel carrying containers which each represent $8,000 more profit than it would if coming to Australia, a shipping line stands to make $72 million more per voyage sending their vessel to the USA than to Australia. A number of shipping lines have made clear that they only really continue shipping to Australia to maintain customer relations, future-proofing themselves for when the tables turn and the USA trade routes are no longer as profitable.

According to an ABC News article: “Over the year to May 2021, the median cost of shipping a 20 foot export container from Australia to China increased by almost 40 per cent to nearly $1,479, according to figures provided by Shipping Australia and Mizzen Group.

Although, Shipping Australia points out that at the beginning of the pandemic, Australia to China rates were $1,370 per container. The cost of importing goods from China — the world's factory — has surged much more.”

So much product, not enough containers To be able to ship products internationally, there needs to be empty shipping containers. If we look back a couple of years when shipping lines were struggling to make a profit, they were ordering fewer vessels to be built. The number of vessels being built has a direct effect on the number of containers being built, as typically when a new ship was ordered, they would order three times their capacity in containers, so a new vessel with the capacity of 10,000 containers would usually trigger the creation of 30,000 new containers. But with the squeeze on profits, this multiplier was scaled back to two times capacity, so each new vessel was accompanied by an addition to the container pool which was 10,000 fewer was previously the case.

Many will suggest that more containers need to be made. Whilst they are correct, the solution is not quite that easy, in that there are only a few manufacturers of containers, and all of them are pressed to capacity at present to meet the demands of their orders.

Due to the highly profitable options on offer to shipping lines, many carriers are opting to skip the less profitable routes altogether and take empty containers back from “consumer ports” to “producer ports”. For example, rather than picking up container loads of exports from Sydney and be paid a minimal return, the shipping lines are picking up empties and racing them back to major Chinese ports where they can

be filled and provide the shippers once again with more profitable cargo. This not only imposes a delay on containers while they sail back to be filled, it creates a whole new issue for smaller exporting nations that are struggling to find vessels willing to take full containers on less profitable routes.

Where’s the exit?

We are not at the worst of this as yet, and it could be some time until we start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. With Chinese New Year on February 1, 2022 many factories will close in early January, so there will be a shipping lull for a couple of months, after which it is said that rates will come off the boil a little. But this will be back to a “new normal” and nowhere near the rates we enjoyed before the inflationary practices commenced.

Ship builders are enjoying an increase in orders, but ships take 2-3 years to build. The forecast is for a 5-6% increase in capacity when the new vessels arrive in 2023. Whilst most of these new vessels will be deployed to the more profitable trade routes of Europe and the USA, Australia could benefit as international shipping capacity is increased. It is difficult to say if the increase in global demand will be sustained until then, but 2023 and the arrival of new vessels may just see a greater equilibrium between supply and demand. This should be reflected in freight rates. n

About the author: Bryan Vadas is from the Tile Agencies Group www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #111 | 49

I N DU ST R Y R OUN DUP

The paver reminiscent of Rome The Rome range of large format stone emulation tiles, exclusive to Beaumont Tiles, is soft-textured yet hard-wearing and draws inspiration from the iconic flooring styles of its namesake.

It features rustic concretelook tones with pops of delicate aggregate, and is available in grey and graphite shade variations.

It can be an ideal hard-wearing canvas for Mediterranean, Farmhouse and Urban Industrial style projects.

The Rome tile has a durable 20mm porcelain body and can be uniquely used with KEKSIA pedestal flooring to create a fully removable floating floor. Suitable for renovators looking to build over pipework and still need access, or renters looking to develop a removable outdoor living space.

The Rome range can complement patios, poolside cabanas or a driveway.

Importantly, it is non-fading, easy to clean, and stain resistant.

Christie Wood, Beaumont Tiles design specialist, said: “The Rome range comes into its own

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as poolside coping, as these variants have custom thicknesses to accommodate specific pool materials like concrete and fibreglass. They are expertly crafted to create a Roman bath vibe in your backyard.

“Spring-summer 2021 trends are deeply focused on Mediterranean and natural styles, with olive and moss greens, tactile

terracotta and deep mustard shades continuing to rise in popularity – Rome is the perfect complement to this look.

“What makes Rome particularly interesting is its ability to create the illusion of movement, its micro flecks that are trance-like to watch as they glisten with even the smallest of movements. It’s the Aegean at home.” n

Lapitec veined tones for bathrooms Part of the Musa Collection by Lapitec, the three shades with full body veining can be used for coverings, shower trays, bathtubs or bathroom furniture.

Bianco Elettra, Bianco Vittoria and Bianco Giulia are the three tonal variations of the Musa Collection which enhances the technical properties of sintered stone with fine contrasting veining.

The elegant threading is present throughout the slabs (hence being defined as “full body”) and is combined with the high-performance qualities of a material developed and produced in Italy, by the company of the same name, using a production process covered by 25 patents.

Lapitec is a unique material on an international scale, the result of a mixture of 100% natural minerals — free from resins, inks, or other petroleum products — which are

baked at high temperatures to create slabs with the same composition throughout. Slabs are also available in large formats of 3365 x 1500mm, and are identical on the interior and exterior, without the use of polishes or digital printing on the surface.

This revolutionary feature allows the sintered stone to be worked with across its full thickness with a consistent appearance and performance, while the surface can be further enhanced using satin and smooth finishes or different material textures.

In addition, the absence of pores on the surface makes Lapitec hygienic and non-absorbent, making it ideal for bathroom and outdoor environments including coverings and shower trays, floors, bathtubs or swimming pools. Lapitec also resists changes in temperature, UV rays, shocks and scratches, as well as

extreme temperatures and the acids and chemical products normally used in cleaning processes. n

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Kitchen colour trends revealed Since this time last year, searches for “What colour to paint my kitchen” have increased by 55% according to Google Trends data.

Keen to explore the current trends in home redesign, UK-based website Uswitch.com compiled a list of 50 popular kitchen colours from an array of sources, and used SEMRush’s keyword search

Rank

Kitchen colour

to discover the average monthly worldwide search volumes for each colour. This allowed Uswitch. com to rank the most, and least, popular colours to paint a kitchen in 2021.

The top 10 popular colours to paint a kitchen are displayed in the table.

Average monthly worldwide search volume

1 White

84,700

2 Green

57,800

3 Black

49,300

4 Blue

40,500

5 Grey

39,300

6 Plum

16,500

7 Saffron

13,400

8 Yellow

13,000

9 Pink

12,700

10 Red

12,200

Uswitch.com discovered the most popular colour to paint a kitchen in 2021 is white. The phrase “white kitchen” receives on average 84,700 searches worldwide per month.

In second place is green, with an average global search volume of 57,800 per month. Last year, Architectural Digest revealed that 50 Shades actor Dakota Johnson has a much loved green kitchen in

her mid-century LA home.

Ranking in third place is a black kitchen, which hails a worldwide average of 49,300 searches a month.

Psychologist and founder of Psychreg.org Dennis Relojo-Howell explained the results. “Looking at the list of top colours, one of them stands out straight away: red. Red is something you have probably seen a lot in advertising,

White is the number one colour for kitchens in 2021.

Photo credit: Sidekix Media.

52 | TILE TODAY #110 | www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au

and there is a good reason why. It is the colour of fire, which conveys intensity and passion. Red is also the colour that exudes exuberant energy, so you can also expect it to stimulate a frantic atmosphere in a kitchen. Not only that, red has been known to promote appetite, so it's not just for the kitchen, but also for the dining room.

“Blue has been known to promote soothing qualities that can transform busy spaces like the kitchen into a space with a more relaxed ambience. You can also opt for pastel colours by combining white to most colours. This dualtone palette can also give off a refreshing vibe.

“Along with colours and the rich aroma from your recipe, features and decorative accessories can also promote a warm-hearted feeling that can make the kitchen even more unique from other spaces in your home.”

Uswitch.com can also reveal the least popular colours of those analysed to paint your kitchen.

The 10 least popular colours to paint a kitchen are highlighted in the link below.

This study revealed that warm colours, like red and yellow, are more popular than cooler colours such as blue and green.

For the full study and comments from a psychologist about the findings, please see the Uswitch.com blog post: https://www.uswitch.com/ mortgages/guides/kitchen-trends/

Bright colours can be a popular option for a kitchen.

Photo credit: Pexels Houzlook.

Terrazzo floors used in HeidelbergCement HQ The new company headquarters of German multinational building materials company HeidelbergCement in Heidelberg, Germany is a statement highlighting the versatility of concrete as a building material.

The wide range of applications are evident in the form of the curved façade, the three-storey foyer, and the accompanying tree-shaped supports and filigree building components. In particular, the ceilings, walls and floors of the up to six-storey building structure have lightness, durability and sustainability thanks to the lightcoloured exposed concrete.

From the start of the project, it was clear both to the client and to the architectural firm of the Frankfurt/Main-based AS+P Albert Speer + Partner GmbH that the property would not only radiate a high-quality appearance, but also stand out because of its environment-friendly and climatefriendly design.

Korodur’s Granidur Bianco delivers an elegant appearance and functional advantages such as high load-bearing capacity and durability.

Granidur’s benefits are ready-touse, coloured dry building materials for the production of polished, decorative screeds in a layer thickness of 15mm or more. The total area covers around 3,600sqm, approximately 800sqm of this is used in the foyer and 2,800sqm in corridors on four floors.

Korodur has been working closely with flooring company Estrich Schlag for many years – including this project. Both companies exchange ideas in advance, about materials, mixing processes and machining of the building materials.

When installing the Granidur Bianco terrazzo flooring, the material had to be pumped over around 100 metres to the construction site and to the upper floors. Due to the high temperatures — which also increased in the dark tube during the transportation process — retarding agents had to be added to prevent the compound from setting prematurely.

Both the precisely coordinated

The Granidur Bianco terrazzo floor was installed between July and October 2019. Several grinding and polishing processes gave it a special, elegant look. Copyright: Thilo Ross.

A heating screed made of Korodur’s FSCem fast-setting cement formed the basis of the terrazzo floor. After the drying process, the bonding compound (Korodur HB 5) was applied. Immediately afterwards, the terrazzo flooring was able to be applied. Copyright: Thilo Ross.

mixture of cement, sand and retarding agent and the use of a Bremat mixing and pump truck ensured that the screed could be placed and processed in the shortest possible time.

The basis of the Granidur Bianco surface is a fast-setting floor screed in the form of a heating screed containing the Korodur FSCem binder. This is a low-shrinkage (shrinkage class SW1 as defined by DIN 18560-1), fast-setting screed binder designed for the production of a screed that is ready for laying

after a very short time. The screed being, in this case, produced at an average thickness of 65-85mm.

The terrazzo flooring was applied directly to the Korodur HB 5 bonding compound, which was specially tinted for white floors.

When applying the Granidur Bianco decorative screed, the utmost precision was required especially with regard to connections to the stairs, pillars and walls. The aim was to create the perfect impression of a “tone-in-tone” design in relation to all the concrete elements. n www.tiletodaymagazine.com.au | TILE TODAY #111 | 53

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RAK Ceramics, Elie Saab collaborate for new range RAK Ceramics has worked with fashion designer Elie Saab to launch new bathroom and surface collections that combine luxury design with ceramic expertise.

The Elie Saab Bathroom and Surface Collections marks the fashion designer’s first foray into the world of ceramics. Five collections are brought to life and are named: Glamour, Liquid Metal, Royal, Soft Lux and Travertinum.

Elaborating on these collections, a spokesman for RAK Ceramics said: “With its stunning and sophisticated onyx, palissandro and dark marble finishes, the Glamour collection makes a fashion statement in any room, while Liquid Metal in striking gold with concrete finishes, adds a unique and contemporary touch to interiors.

“With uncompromising attention to detail, the Royal collection adds a commanding elegance to contemporary living spaces. Soft Lux adds a luxurious decadence to the range with its gleaming qualities and marble textures. Finally, the organic textures and timeless golden accents of Travertinum add a natural charm to living spaces.”

Abdallah Massaad, group CEO, RAK Ceramics, said: “We are proud to have collaborated with Elie Saab and his team to create a truly remarkable tiles and bathroom collection which raises the bar

in terms of ceramic design and manufacturing.

“RAK Ceramics and Elie Saab share a vision of exquisite design, impeccable craftsmanship, and uncompromising ceramics excellence…”

As one of the largest ceramics brands in the world, RAK Ceramics has the capacity to produce 123 million sqm of tiles, five million pieces of sanitary ware, 24 million pieces of porcelain tableware and one million pieces of faucets per year at its 22 state-of-the-art plants across the UAE, India and Bangladesh. n

From Gulf Construction

EXPLORE. DISCOVER. ENJOY. Tile Today is the leading publication for Australia’s tile industry.

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