Tile International 3/2020

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ISSN2039-8301

economy

n e ws interviews

trends

www.progressprofiles.com

Maximum flexibility, protection, safety, indoors and outdoors.

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PRODESO® MEMBRANE SYSTEM PRODESO® MEMBRANE SYSTEM is an uncoupling and waterproofing system for problematic substrates, balconies, terraces and horizontal surfaces of any dimension.

Thanks PRODESO® MEMBRANE SYSTEM is possible not to make fractional/expansion joints in the screed before the laying of tiles and natural stones, if the screed has already been cut it is possible to lay the tiles on the existing joints. There are many advantages to use the system of Progress Profiles, which gives the utmost laying flexibility, floor protection and long-time guarantee indoors and outdoors.

Time saving: installation time are drastically reduced. Membrane, tile installation and grouting can be completed in the same day.

Versatile: it can be used on any supports, both indoor and outdoor.

Waterproofing: it guarantees the laying of any floor and the waterproofing of the substrate in overlapping too, or for cracked and not perfectly cured supports with possible vapour pressure.

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Exterior finishing details.

It protects and enhances.

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PROTERRACE SYSTEM PROTERRACE SYSTEM is an innovative system for terraces and balconies projected by Progress Profiles to protect the edges of the tiles, the screed from water infiltrations and to allow a correct outflow of water. A complete and articulated range of multi-functional perimeter profiles, in powder varnished aluminium, in the shades white, gray, anthracite gray, dark brown, corten (on request beige) and stainless steel, which replace the ceramic “L corner pieces� and the thresholds in marble. The profiles are equipped with a punched flange, which guarantees a perfect grip with the adhesive, a vertical side that protects the screed from water infiltration and covers the edge of the flooring. The Drain version is completed with an innovative drip-guard and holes that allow the outflow of infiltered water between profile and tiles. A system of excellence to enhance and protect exterior environments and restore full liveability, in ideal continuity with the interiors.

EMBOSSED COLOURS White RAL 9010

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Der Keramik-Klimaboden Ceramic thermal comfort floor

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Schlüter-BEKOTEC-THERM ist die innovative Lösung zum Aufbau von beheizten und/oder gekühlten Fußböden. Unsere Belagskonstruktionstechnik besteht aus wenigen, einfachen Komponenten, die in der Regel mit einem konventionellen Estrich verbaut werden können. Unsere langjährig bewährten Noppenplatten ermöglichen eine schnelle Weiterverarbeitung ohne teure, spezielle Bauchemie – die Verlegung von keramischen Oberbelägen ist so meist schon am Tag nach der Estrichverlegung möglich.

Schlüter-BEKOTEC-THERM is an innovative solution for building heated and/or cooled floors. Our covering assembly technology comprises a small number of simple components that can generally be installed with a conventional screed. Our proven studded panels enable quick installation without costly, special construction materials – ceramic tile coverings can typically be installed just one day after installing the screed.

Schlüter-Systems KG · Schmölestraße 7 · D-58640 Iserlohn · Tel.: +49 2371 971-0 · Fax: +49 2371 971-111 · www.schlueter-systems.com

Terrazzo www.seramiksan.com

60x120 / 60x60

ABOUT US

THE ANSWER IS YES! Over the past few months, we’ve been working hard to build a new

PUBLISHER: Tile Edizioni S.r.l.

Capitale Sociale: Euro 51.400,00 R.E.A. 329775 Periodico bimestrale registrato presso il Tribunale di Modena al n. 22/17 in data 10/08/2017 Iscrizione al ROC n. 9673

cross-media product called “Surfaces International”.

This new magazine, published in both printed and electronic format, embraces a full range

EDITOR AND PUBLISHING COORDINATION: GIAN PAOLO CRASTA - g.crasta@tiledizioni.it © 1989 Tile Italia

parati, è assolta dall’Editore ai sensi dell’art 74 primo comma lettera C del DPR 26.10.72 N. 633 e successive modificazioni.

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Sara Falsetti Paola Giacomini Sabino Menduni Chiara Poggi Sabrina Tassini SECRETARIAT: info@tiledizioni.it GRAPHIC LAYOUT: Sara Falsetti EACH COPY: Euro 4 SUBSCRIPTION: www.tiledizioni.it/subscription • Italy, 1 year: Euro 50 • Abroad, 1 year: Euro 70 • Italy, 2 years: Euro 70 • Abroad, 2 years: Euro 90 L’abbonamento decorre dal mese di distribuzione. Tariffe speciali per gli abbonamenti collettivi sono disponibili su richiesta Conto Corrente Postale 20026415 intestato a Tile Edizioni srl. Spedizione in abbonamento postale presso la Filiale di Modena. L’IVA sugli abbonamenti, nonché sulla vendita dei fascicoli se-

ADVERTISING: Tile Edizioni Tel. +39 059 512 103 Fax +39 059 512 157 • Paola Giacomini p.giacomini@tiledizioni.it · +39 335 186 4257 • Silvia Lepore s.lepore@tiledizioni.it · +39 392 572 0288 • Alberto Tolomelli a.tolomelli@tiledizioni.it · +39 335 594 8681 • Elisa Verzelloni e.verzelloni@tiledizioni.it · +39 338 536 1966 PHOTOLIPHIE: Vaccari Zincografica Srl Via E. Salgari, 61 41126 Modena Italy PRINT: Faenza Printing Industries SpA Via Vittime Civili di Guerra 35 48018 Faenza (RA) Italy

http://www. .com Tutti i diritti di riproduzione e traduzione degli articoli pubblicati sono riservati. E’ vietata la riproduzione anche parziale senza l’autorizzazione dell’Editore. Manoscritti, disegni, fotografie e altro materiale inviato in redazione, anche se non pubblicato, non verrà restituito. L’Editore non accetta alcuna pubblicità in sede redazionale. I nomi, le aziende e i prezzi eventualmente pubblicati sono citati senza responsabilità a puro titolo informativo per rendere un servizio ai lettori. La Direzione non assume responsabilità per opinioni espresse dagli autori dei testi redazionali e pubblicitari.

Entire contents Copyright Tile Edizioni srl All right reserved.

Opinions expressed by writers are not necessarily those held by the publisher who is not held responsible.

• YET ANOTHER MAGAZINE? •

of architectural materials, and OFFICE: Tile Edizioni S.r.l.

Via Fossa Buracchione 84 41126 Baggiovara (Modena) - Italy Tel. +39 059 512 103 - Fax +39 059 512 157 info@tiledizioni.it - www.MaterialiCasa.com

therefore shows the flip-side of the world of coverings that we’ve traditionally focused on, thus completing and complementing it.

This is also why we’ve decided to pair it up with Tile International.

By simply rotating the magazine through 180°, readers of the print edition can read the new content, and gain a whole NEW magazine with a simple physical act.

UPSIDEDOWN

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TERRACES AND BALCONIES PROTECTED WITH STYLE Protecting and finishing the outside concrete borders of terraces and balconies have never been so easy, effective and reliable.

Thanks to Protec CPGV, practical edge profiles in colourcoated aluminium with sloping section and drainage holes, rainwater drains away completely and there are less risks of seepages, efflorescence and detachments related to frost and thaw.

Profilpas Spa Via Einstein 38, 35010 Cadoneghe (PD) Italy - Tel. +39 049 8878412 - Fax. +39 049 706692 - info@profilpas.com - www.profilpas.com

CONTENTS EDITORIAL

7

Let it slnow

8

TILENEWS

Gian Paolo Crasta

ECONOMICS:

12 16 20

USA: tile sales slow while construction booms

Paola Giacomini

Mohawk Industries sees strong third quarter recovery

Milena Bernardi

22

PHOTONEWS - No more cold feet on the road with Schlüter-Systems

24

IN THE SPOTLIGHT - ABK loves shopping

PROJECTS:

28

The Attico: the newly refurbished rooftop space at Iris Ceramica and FMG’s headquarters

32

The Jewel Changi Singapore Airport

36

WHAT ’S NEW: ceramic tiles and laying technologies

90 EUROCONSTRUCT th

Paola Giacomini

COVER PICTURE BY: Marazzi • www.marazzi.it Photographer: Giancarlo Pradelli @ Cersaie 2019 • ADVERTISER’S LIST: pag. 11

COVER PICTURE: Café Got, Barcelona • Design: El Equipo Creativo Photography: One Represent Agency • Full article on: https://www.materialicasa.com/mc-en/projects/cafe-got-barcelona/

28

PHOTONEWS - Kebony wood completes luxury eco-hotel on Cornish coastline MATERIC DESIGN - 5 Materic Design novelties for indoor and outdoor living Lapitec for the loft winner of the “Silver Interiors Award 2020”

4 8 14 18 22 26

PROJECTS:

EDITORIAL - Let it slnow

3

WHAT ’S NEW - Material Mix TreeHugger by MoDus Architects The tallest skyscraper in Downtown Miami Casa Nemini Teneri: a cork-clad residence in Sicily Gian Paolo Crasta

5 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

SINCE 1974 INNOVATIONS FOR THE TILE SETTING PROFESSIONAL

HANDLING

SCORE CUTTING

WET AND DRY 90° AND 45° BEVEL CUT

WET AND DRY 45° BEVEL CUT

VIBRATION (AIR REMOVAL)

“SCREW” LEVELING SYSTEM

“CLIP/WEDGE” LEVELING SYSTEM THE MOST COMPLETE RANGE OF TOOLS FOR LARGE FORMAT TILES FIND OUT MORE raimondispa.com CIRCULAR CUTS

CREATE TABLES

CREATE STAIRS AND COUNTERTOPS

CORNERS PROTECTION

✗ L et it slnow Gian Paolo Crasta g.crasta@tiledizioni.it

“There was always more in the world than men could see, walked they ever so slowly; they will see it no better for going fast” wrote John Ruskin, an English intellectual, in the late 1800s.

The words seem particularly prescient at the end of this grimly unprecedented year, which has profoundly changed our habits, while at the same time prompting us to rediscover certain aspects of life that we had neglected amidst the relentless haste and intensity of the recent past.

So this issue features an analysis of the US market, based on the latest data provided by the TCNA and an exclusive interview with Jeffrey Lorberbaun, Chairman and CEO of Mohawk Industries, followed by an overview of the performance of the European construction industry, based on data provided by Euroconstruct.

It’s now widely known that the figures for 2020 are unpromising, but let’s not forget the positives, such as the courage and entrepreneurial determination of ABK Group, which has been making some major acquisitions – as explained in an interview with the Group’s Chairman, Roberto Fabbri – and the forward-looking vision of Iris Ceramica, who talk us through the complete restyling of their new rooftop space, known as “The Attico”, at their historic headquarters in Fiorano Modenese.

We also take a look at the new Singapore airport, an immense architectural work in which the Italian company Mapei played UPSIDEDOWN a leading role in the supply of state-of-the-art materials.



We’ve all felt the effects of being deprived of the social interaction, meetings and appointments that once punctuated our private and professional lives. We’ve missed the euphoria that wells up as we wait for the turnstiles to open at our favourite trade shows, we’ve missed the tactile sensation of caressing newly unveiled surfaces with our hands, and we’ve missed the rich textures and decorative effects that fill our vision at these events, which bring us together and are so important for us all.

But we’ve also discovered new rhythms, routines and ways of working, and new ways of meeting and socialising that we’ll no doubt carry with us into the future and that will enrich our daily lives.

!

And we’ve reviewed our priorities, reopened and cleared out old closets (real and mental) and rediscovered old habits, including the habit of spending time reading and finding out about what’s going on around us.

So we wish you happy reading and hope you will enjoy flicking through or digitally viewing the pages that follow from the comfort of a relaxing armchair during this holiday period.

Let it snow! ✕

That’s why we’ve put so much effort into making further improvements to our media and intend to carry on doing so, with a special focus on international

7 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

EDITORIAL

professionals involved in the design and distribution of coverings.

NEWS

Italcer Group acquires historic ceramic manufacturer Cedir Italcer Group, which comprises a range of high-end Italian ceramic and bathroom furnishing brands, has 530 employees and generates consolidated revenues of over 200 million euros, has struck a deal to acquire 100% of the historic company Cedir, based in Castel Bolognese.

Established in 1968, the company, with headquarters in the province of Ravenna, has been designing and manufacturing porcelain ceramic floor and wall coverings for over 50 years, by combining traditional ceramic craftsmanship with the most innovative design.

With production capacity of three million square metres, Cedir has 60 employees, all of whom will be absorbed into the staff of Italcer, thus keeping their jobs and remaining at their normal place of work.

The acquisition is a perfect fit for the strategy and vision of the Group, which is currently the sixth-largest player in the Italian ceramic industry. Having built itself up step by step over the course of three years, the Group now operates through high-profile brands and historic manufacturers, which produce

top-quality products for interior and exterior applications, with a special focus on high-end residential and non-residential ceramic tiles and luxury bathroom furnishings.

“The acquisition of the historic company Cedir,” explains Graziano Verdi, CEO of Italcer Group, “will help underpin the Group’s growth, by extending its access to 100% Italian quality and creativity, through a company that pays close attention to the needs of the various markets. The main goal of our integrated business model,” continues Verdi, “is to create a cluster of top-end ceramic floor and wall covering brands, and we are channelling all our efforts in this direction.”

The hub created in 2017 by top manager Graziano Verdi, in partnership with Alberto Forchielli and Lorenzo Stanca of Mandarin Capital Partners, also has its sights set on international expansion. In addition to Europe, and particularly Spain, it is focusing on the American market, where Italian brands are thriving. More specifically, it is targeting the state of Tennessee, where several substantial operations are already up and running, with a view to setting up an Industry 4.0 facility for large-format panels.

Salone del Mobile.Milano 2021 will be held in September Salone del Mobile.Milano has announced that the sixtieth edition of the fair will be held in 2021, not in April as is traditional, but from 5 th to 10th September.

President of the Salone del Mobile, Claudio Luti, said: “Being able to hold the Salone next year is an absolute priority for all those of us whose lives revolve around design. We have tried very hard over the last few weeks not to make proclamations or announce-

8 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

ments that might subsequently have to be denied or revised in view of the evolving situation. Moving the dates of the Salone del Mobile is not just a matter of rejigging the calendar, it also has to consider the many days needed to set up and dismantle the various pavilions, which in turn have to fit in with the demands of many other fairs held in the Fiera Milano spaces.

Now that we have achieved the best possible all-round solution, thanks to the collaboration of Fiera Milano, we are in a position to confirm the new date. We also believe that moving the fair to September will leave enough time for the ongoing acute phase of the pandemic to subside and that this will provide a real chance to kickstart design at global level. We all need the Salone in Milan. Over the last few months, clients and designers from all over the world, and the press that follows us at international level, have been asking us constantly to confirm the dates for this edition. We’ll be there, and we’ll be even more attractive and more motivated, just as motivated as the companies working to design and manufacture the best possible products.

After such a lengthy period of physical and social distancing in every sphere, we would like to be able to see the Salone as an opportunity for actual meeting and discussion, and a chance for us all to share our excitement with a city buzzing with new ideas.”

The 60th edition will bring together for the first time all the product categories, representing a very important moment for the whole industry.

2020 winners of “Ceramics of Italy Tile Competition” The Ceramics of Italy Tile Competition, which singles out the best architectural developments in North America involving the use of Italian ceramics, reached its 27th edition this year.

The award spans three categories of architecture – Commercial, Residential and Institutional. The winner of the Residential category was “M+B Residence Club de Golf La Herradura” in Mexico.

Designed by Mario Bolivar (Bolivar Arquitectos), using Florim Ceramiche and Provenza tiles, the development interacts with nature, without imitating it.

The winner of the Commercial category was “Garden City Shopping Centre” in Canada, designed by Ruscio Studio, using tiles by Alfalux and Casalgrande Padana. Ruscio Studio made outstandingly effective use of the compositional language that Italian ceramic speaks so fluently when used in extensive areas, to generate a unique atmosphere free from any sense of bland standardisation. The winner of the Institutional category was the “NYC Healthcare Clinic” in New York, designed by Brooke Horan of the renowned New York firm Perkins and Will, which saw the use of ceramics by Laminam and Saime. The first-class compositional quality of this health facility generates a sense of serene expectation.

SIMAS reinforces its presence in Russia During the 3 days event VITRINA FAIR, held from the 24th to the 26th of November in Saint Petersburg, SIMAS, Italian bathroom furniture company, inaugurated a new permanent space, a “shop-in-shop” inside the AQUARIUS, renowned showroom of the important Russian city.

Aquarius is the result of the architectural restoration of an old paper factory from 1897, transformed to a suggestive loft divided in two floors, where SIMAS has an important space with a great exposure, with two shop windows on the street side. On show, the newest design collections, as WAVE, AGILE, SHARP, FRAME, VIGNONI and some classical evergreen as LANTE. All the collections rigorously 100% made in Italy, granted by the trademark Ceramics of Italy.

A reference point for many designers, architects and privates, Aquarius is animated during the year by many presentations, seminaries and trainings, thanks to the dynamism of its owner Vladimir Moshalenko.

Russia represents for Simas an ideal commercial partner, as a market of huge expansion with incredible potentialities, long and medium term, which in respect is necessary to look at with strategical and forward-looking vision.

“Our products arrive in the Russian market through some distributors – tells Marco Giuliani, Simas General Manager – and we felt the necessity to show directly our collections to the architects and designers, to the Russian end-users, thanks to a devoted space and with a researched design which could represent at the best our idea for the bathroom. In a location where may will be possible to organize events and promotional launches with the assistance of our agent and promoter Olga Tungengold who lives in Saint Petersburg, fascinating city with a rare beauty which, together with Moscow,

9 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

is the pulsating heart of Russia. Next step will be the opening of showroom in Moscow and then who knows, if we will find the suitable conditions we may arrive to the most important cities of the different regions. Russia is a country with a huge territory, there are important cities even in most distant areas from Moscow”.

from left: Sergey Televnoy, Olga Tugengold, Vladimir Moskalenko

NEWS

New dates announced for Coverings 2021 Coverings, the largest international tile and stone exhibition and conference in North America, announced Coverings 2021 will now take place July 7-9, 2021, in the North Hall of the Orange County Convention Center, in Orlando, Florida.

Coverings made the decision to reschedule the event, which was originally planned for April 13-16, 2021, after feedback from the Coverings community included overwhelming, positive sentiment that rescheduling the event would yield the best possible platform for everyone involved and minimize risk to event participants.

“We are excited with the new date for Coverings 2021 as rescheduling reaffirms Coverings’ commitment to produce a safe, in-person event to unite the tile and stone industry,” said Jennifer Hoff, president of Taffy Event Strategies LLC, the event management firm for Coverings.

“The show management team and Coverings’ owners are working diligently to have a safe and successful Coverings 2021 event, and we are available to answer questions.”

Coverings, its vendor partners, and the Orange County Convention Center are closely monitoring policy updates

from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local government, state, and federal mandates.

Registration to attend Coverings 2021 and reservations for official Coverings hotels will be open and available at coverings.com in mid-January 2021.

A comprehensive, onsite education program is being planned to further the business goals of Coverings 2021 attendees. Selected educational content and access to exhibitors will be available online for those who prefer to attend virtually.

10 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

The 35th CeramBath & Online CeramBath 2020 (Phase 3): Show Report From 18th - 21st October in Foshan, Guangdong Province (China), the 35th CeramBath themed with New Waves integrated OTO platform that simultaneously held with Online CeramBath (Phase 3), creating a new exhibition model and bring exhibitors and buyers four-dimensional experience of Digital Wave, Trend Wave, Original Wave and Channel Wave.

The fair set up 6 exhibition areas, including Slab Area, Original Products Area, International Brands Area, Featured Products Area, Auxiliary Materials Area and PDA Area. There were over 800 exhibitors who specialized in building ceramic wall & floor tiles, slabs, stones, ceramic machinery, raw materials, mosaics, sanitary ware, baths, taps and fittings, home furnishing and so on, and there were more than 20,000 exhibits displayed.

According to the data analysis of the products from the participating brands, slabs occupy an important part in this exhibition, and thick bricks and large continuous pattern slabs are also relatively increased. At the same time, traditional marble tiles, full glazed tiles, rustic tiles, ceramic chips, terrazzos, etc. have decreased a lot, while new materials, ceramic accessories, slab furnitures, featured tiles and stones have increased.

During the 4 days, 59147 visitors has attended the 35th CeramBath, up 1.1% over the last session. The visitors were mainly from over 290+ cities of 38 provinces, municipalities, autonomous regions and Hongkong, Macao and Taiwan regions.

During Oct.10-25, Online CeramBath (Phase 3) has attracted over 1,080,000 PV with 15+ liveshow activities and 480,000 Visits of Live Studio (120,000 in CeramBath Liveshow Festival + 360,000 in other fair avtivities’ liveshows).

From the business nature, distributors are still the largest group among visitors, accounting for 59.54%, an increase of 6.54% compared with the 34th session. Meanwhile, the proportion of smaller distributors has increased, while whole decoration&home decoration companies and designers occupy 24.59%. Trading companies covers 13.14%, and real estate is 2.7%. Through the comparative analysis of the past two sessions, whole decoration&home decoration companies is basically equal, which will become the main marketing channel for ceramics and sanitary ware enterprises to explore the market in the future.

From the area distribution of visitors, the top 10 provinces are Guangdong, Fujian, Zhejiang, Hunan, Shandong, Jiangxi, Guangxi, Henan, Jiangsu and Hebei.

Compared with the 34th session, the number of visitors in Fujian, Hunan, Zhejiang and Hebei increased significantly,

while those from Beijing and Jiangsu provinces decreased slightly.

From the area distribution of visitors, the top 15 cities are Foshan, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Quanzhou, Dongguan, Beijing, Zhaoqing, Jiangmen, Zhongshan, Zibo, Shanghai, Fuzhou, Zhanjiang, Hangzhou and Changsha.

In the future, CeramBath will continue to shoulder the important task of leading the industrial development and guiding enterprises’ reforms, will strive to consolidate internal strength and innovate to forge ahead, will base on Foshan and serve the whole ceramic industry. With the help of the government, associations, enterprises and other forces under the great changes, we will empower the industry, enterprises, and purchasers for a higher and newer stage, and create a new future for the ceramic industry! Next session, the 36th CeramBath, will be held as schedule on April 18-21, 2021.

ADVERTISER’S LIST TILE INTERNATIONAL: Brevetti Montolit.............................................................................39 Colmef................................................................ two-sided-insert Ferrari e Cigarini..............................................................................45 Flaviker...............................................................inside front cover Impertek............................................................................................... 19 Progress Profiles..................................................................... cover Profilpas....................................................................................................4 Raimondi..................................................................................................6 Seramiksan............................................................................................2 Schlüter-Systems..............................................................................1 Tecna Next.........................................................................................43 Top Cer....................................................................................................41 Tile Edizioni........................................................................................48

Surfaces INTL (Upsidedown!): Cerambath..............................................................................................1 DOM - Victoria PLC.................................. inside back cover Fustecma..............................................................................................21 Kajaria.................................................................. two-sided-insert NG Kütahya................................................................................. 12-13

ERRATA CORRIGE We republish the photograph of Simone Gentili, General and Sales Manager of Ascot Group and Ceramiche Serra - published on Tile International 2/2020 pag. 41 -, erroneously attributed to Andrea Bordignon, CEO of Ascot Group and Ceramiche Serra.

www.surfacesinternational.com COMING SOON!

Search Tile Edizioni and MaterialiCasa

11 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

USA: TILE SALES SLOW WHILE CONSTRUCTION BOOMS Paola Giacomini - p.giacomini@tiledizioni.it

Sales of ceramic tile in the United States have been badly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to the Tile Council

of North America (TCNA), consumption dropped 11.6% in the first nine months of 2020 compared to the same period in 2019 to reach

US shipments to the end of September totalled 63 million sqm, of which 2.2 million sqm was exported (+4.4%), mainly to Canada and Mexico. Total US consumption amounted to 60.8 million sqm, just 1.5% down on the first nine months of 2019, although average selling price dropped from $16.6 to $16 per sqm. US tile consequently regained its share of the domestic market, accounting for 32.1% of total consumption in volume and 40.8% in value.

lowing China’s exit from the market.

Spain maintained its 2019 growth trend with a further 9.6% increase in imports (26.5 million sqm to the end of September), bringing its share of total imports to 20.7% and gaining the top spot formerly held by China. Next came Mexico, which saw a further contraction (22.6 million sqm, -15.5% on 2019), and Italy (22 million sqm, -4.5%). As in 2019, both Turkey (+55.4%) and Brazil (+10.4%) made strong gains to become respectively the 4th and 5th largest exporters to the US. However, Italy remains the biggest tile exporter to the US in terms of value, with 9-month sales of $458 million (including CIF&Duty), corresponding to 32.3% of total imports in value terms, and an average price of $20.77/sqm.

Imports fell by 15.8% in the first nine months of the year to a total volume of 128.4 million sqm, 67.9% of US consumption compared to 70.6% a year earlier. The breakdown of the major exporter countries to the US market has changed completely compared to a year ago folECONOMICS

189.2 million sqm.

Imports accounted for the bulk of these losses while the US tile industry remained stable.

TAB. 1 - U.S. CERAMIC TILE SHIPMENTS, SALES AND CONSUMPTION (SQ.M) YEAR

U.S. SHIPMENTS

IMPORTS

EXPORTS

U.S. CONSUMPTION

% VAR. IN CONSUMPTION

Jan-Sept 2020

63.0

128.4

2.2

189.2

-11.6%

2019

83.2

193.0

3.0

273.2

-5.4%

2018

87.4

204.1

2.8

288.7

1.5%

2017

92.1

195.0

2.6

284.4

5.7%

2016

87.8

184.7

3.4

269.1

5.8%

2015

83,4

174,8

3,8

254,4

9.9%

2014

75,8

159.1

3.4

231.5

0.5%

2013

73.8

160.2

3.7

230.2

12.9%

2012

69.5

138.6

4.2

203.9

5.4%

2011

66.7

131.1

4.2

193.6

4.0%

2010

60.3

129.6

3.9

186.0

7.7%

2009

53.1

123.9

4.2

172.8

-18.1%

2008

58.9

156.6

4.7

210.9

-15.2%

4.4

248.7

-19.3%

2007

50.6

202.4

2006

58.5

253.8

4.2

308.1

1.8%

2005

61.1

245.1

3.4

302.8

3.5%

Values in million sq.m. Shipments include exports. Consumption = Shipments - Exports + Imports.

Source: U.S. Dept. of Commerce & Tile Council of North America (TCNA)

12 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

This compares with the $12.37/sqm of Spain, the second largest exporter by value.

TAB. 2 - US CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS BY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, IN VOLUME Country

Following the sharp contraction during the first few months of the pandemic, construction activity in the US began to rebound in May and June, returning to pre-Covid levels and

% change 2019/2018

% change 2020/19

Chiara Bruzzichelli

% share on total c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it imports 2020

26,533.612

9.6

20.7

26,698.179

-2.2

22,567.879

-15.5

17.6

23,126.239

-10.5

22,074.701

-4.5

17.2

Turkey

10,840.741

19.3

16,846.614

55.4

13.1

Brazil

14,079.810

32.3

15,542.754

10.4

12.1

152,389.730

-1.7

128,363.743

-15.8

100.0

Mexico Italy

All Countries

24,217.951

Jan-Sept 2020 (m2)

9.3

Spain

RECOVERY IN THE BUILDING SECTOR

Jan-Sept 2019 (m2)

Source: U.S. Dept. of commerce / TCNA TAB. 3 - US CERAMIC TILE IMPORTS

BY COUNTRY OF ORIGIN, IN VALUE

Jan-Sept 2019 (USD)

% change 2019/2018

Jan-Sept 2020 (USD)

% change 2020/19

% share on total imports 2020

Italy

496,414.143

-9.6%

457,640.278

-7.8%

32.3

Spain

323,473.951

16.8%

326,988.147

1.1%

23.1

Mexico

178,240.085

-0.4%

161,266.282

-9.5%

11.4

Turkey

84,980.438

1.3%

136,020.557

60.1%

9.6

Brazil

91,288.645

24.3%

108,749.717

19.1%

7.7

1,739,176.360

-0.1%

1,415,438.656

-18.6%

100.0

Country

All Countries

Imports values include duty, freight and insurance - Source: U.S. Dept. of commerce / TCNA TAB. 4 - AVERAGE VALUE OF IMPORTED TILES ($/sq.m ) 2019 value ($/sq.m)

2020 value ($/sq.m)

Italy

21.41

20.77

Spain

Country

2020/2019 % Change EXPORTS -3.0 21.5%

13.34

12.37

Turkey

7.85

8.07

2.7

Mexico

6.67

7.10

6.5

Brazil

6.46

6.67

3.3

All Countries

11.41

10.98

-3.8

Imports values include duty, freight and insurance - Source: U.S. Dept. of commerce / TCNA

13 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

-7.3

three months were decidedly sluggish, followed by a gradual recovery from June onwards.

This trend was further consolidated during the period July to September, which closed at 1.4 million housing starts.

surpassing 2019 figures. In greater detail, the monthly trend in the number of housing starts shows that 2020 had got off to a good start with a sharp increase in January and February compared to the 1.29 million housing units reached at the end of 2019 (Fig. 2). The next

ECONOMICS

FIG. 1 - % SHARE OF IMPORTS BY COUNTRY (BY VOLUME)

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

FIG. 2 - USA: NEW HOUSING STARTS

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

14 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

New single family home sales saw strong growth and from May onwards outperformed the already record levels of 2019 (683,000 units), with peaks in July and August (Fig. 3).

The good health of the US construction industry is al-

so demonstrated by the figures for total US construction spending (Fig. 4), which even in May – the month of the biggest decline – was still above 2019 levels and rose to $1,414 billion in September.

✕

FIG. 3 - USA: NEW SINGLE FAMILY HOME SALES

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

FIG. 4 - TOTAL U.S. CONSTRUCTION SPENDING (IN BILLIONS OF $ U.S.)

Source: U.S. Census Bureau

15 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

M O H AWK I N D U ST R I E S S E E S STRONG THIRD QUARTER RECOVERY Milena Bernardi - m.bernardi@tiledizioni.it

ECONOMICS

After a highly unstable first half of 2020 dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the US flooring giant Mohawk Industries posted stronger than expected growth in the third

quarter of the year.

The company had announced a fairly substantial decline in net sales in the first six months of 2020 (-14%, or $4.3 billion compared to

After a highly unstable first half of 2020 dominated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the US flooring giant Mohawk Industries posted stronger than expected growth in the third quarter of the year.

The company had announced a fairly substantial decline in net sales in the first six months of 2020 (-14%, or $4.3 billion compared to the $5 billion of the Jeff Lorberbaum same period in 2019), but business picked up again in the third quarter of the year, generating net sales of $2.6 billion (up 2% on the $2.5 billion of 2019) and offsetting the previous months’ losses.

Net earnings increased from $156 million in the third quarter of 2019 to $205 million in the same period in 2020.

the $5 billion of the same period in 2019), but business picked up again in the third quarter of the year, generating net sales of $2.6 billion (up 2% on the $2.5 billion of 2019)

For the 2020 nine-month period, net sales were $6.9 billion, a decrease of 8% from the $7.5 billion of the same period in 2019 (or -7% on a constant currency and days basis).

Net earnings totalled $267 million compared to the $480 million to September 2019.

Again commenting on the third-quarter performance, Lorberbaum entered into greater detail: “All of our businesses and geographies were stronger due to higher demand and customers increasing inventory in our distribution channels.

Flooring Rest of the World delivered the strongest results in the quarter as our northern European, Russian and Australian businesses were less impacted by the pandemic. Our Global Ceramic and Flooring North America segments also improved substantially while being more affected by COVID and postponed commercial projects.

“During the period, demand for our products exceeded our production, and inventory declined by about $80 million, as we ramped up plants across the world.

In the third quarter, we generated about $530 million of cash, bringing our cash and short-term investments to approximately $1.2 billion at the end of the period.

We will pursue additional investment opportunities, including internal growth, acquisitions and stock purchases as the pandemic and economies improve.”

The company’s strong third-quarter recovery and its ability to continue its operations despite the highly complex pandemic scenario demonstrate its high level of resilience.

“Our results in the period significantly exceeded our expectations, with sales recovering and operating income substantially increasing above last year’s levels,” said Jeffrey S. Lorberbaum, Chairman and CEO of Mohawk Industries, with reference to the third-quarter performance.

“Under continued pandemic conditions, people all over the world are spending more time in their homes and working remotely. Globally, this trend is increasing investments in home remodeling as well as driving new home purchases.”

Overall, the results unveiled by the Calhoun, Georgia-based multinational on 29 October reveal a smaller than expected contraction during the first nine months of the year.

THE GLOBAL CERAMIC SEGMENT In the third quarter of 2020, Global Ceramic Segment sales (Daltile, American Olean, Eliane, Marazzi, Emilgroup, Ragno, Kerama Marazzi, Kai) were almost back to 2019 levels with a decline of under 1% (+2% on a constant currency and days basis) and generat-

16 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

and offsetting the previous months’ losses. Net earnings increased from $156 million in the third quarter of 2019 to $205 million in the same period in 2020.

Chiara Bruzzichelli The company has shifted its sales focus from commercial to new home construction, which c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it is expected to increase through 2021.

Commercial sales improved from the prior period but are still lagging.

Price increases have been announced to cover higher freight and operations costs. The quartz countertop plant is performing as planned, and the company is increasing its higher styled veined collections to improve its mix.

At the end of September, the plants in Mexico were operating near capacity to reduce order backlogs, running shorter production quantities and optimizing SKU offering.

ed sales of $911 million ($2.5 in the nine month period).

This marked an exceptional recovery with respect to the second quarter, when Covid-related closures led to a 21% decline in sales and operating losses of $34 million.

All ceramic businesses improved substantially in the third quarter despite low inventories limiting both sales and service.

Most plants have staffed up to run all of their capacity to meet present demand and increase inventories in the fourth quarter of the year.

In the United States, traffic is increasing in showrooms and galleries as well as in customers’ retail stores but has not yet returned to pre-Covid levels.

SHA

Canada

Ceramic Carpet Rugs Distribution

CORPORATE P.O. Box 120 160 South In Calhoun, Geo (706) 624-22

Europe

Ceramic LVT / Sheet Vinyl Laminate Carpet Tile

INDEPENDEN ACCOUNTING KPMG LLP Atlanta, Geo

Russia

CORPORATE Alston & Bird Atlanta, Geo

Ceramic Laminate Sheet Vinyl

TRANSFER A American St Trust Compa 6201 15th Av Brooklyn, Ne (972) 764-27

U.S.

Ceramic Carpet and Rugs LVT / Sheet Vinyl Laminate Countertops

Malaysia

PUBLICATION The Compan Statement, F reports are a can be order communicat or via the Int Investors. W to Kenneth H headquarter

Wood

Mexico Ceramic

Brazil

Stock

India

Ceramic Laminate (JV)

Wood/ Laminate (JV) Distribution

The following stockholder r beginning on

Australia

Carpet Hard Surface Dist.

EXPORTS 21.5%

The peer grou Interface, Inc values were c the Company dividends we believes that Company’s p

$250

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17 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

that recorded the best results in the third quarter of 2020, with sales up 13% on the third quarter of 2019 to $681.3 million and a total of $1.77 billion in the 9 month period. The segment’s business, which is concentrated mainly in Northern Europe and is aimed more at the residential than commercial markets, was the least affected by the pandemic. While laminate sales growth was limited by insufficient manufacturing capacity, it is LVT that contributed the most to the increase in sales.

In the fourth quarter, the company will begin shipping its next generation of rigid LVT products with new features that will strengthen its market position.

In Brazil, where Mohawk Industries is present through the Eliane plants, Q3 2020 saw the best quarterly performance in history, with significant growth in both the domestic and foreign markets.

To offset rising inflation, the company has announced a price increase that will go into effect later this year.

The European ceramic business delivered strong results in the period as residential sales improved and inventories in the channel were replenished. In Russia, the ceramic business has recovered and performed better in Q3 than last year, driven by strong results in new construction and increased sales in the more than 300 owned retail stores throughout the country.

“We enter the fourth quarter with improved sales and margin trends and have a solid order backlog across the enterprise,” concluded Lorberbaum. “Residential remodeling and new home construction are forecasted to remain strong as the pandemic has transformed our living spaces. The fourth quarter is slower for our industry due to normal seasonality, and we expect lower growth in channel inventory levels. Our higher margin commercial business will continue to be slow. We are implementing our restructuring plans and are on track to reduce costs as expected. Our visibility continues to be limited by many uncertainties, including how government restrictions and demand will evolve. Our strong balance sheet, cash generation and liquidity will allow us to move from a defensive posture to a more aggressive growth strategy next year.”

ECONOMICS

THE SITUATION IN OTHER SEGMENTS The Flooring North America division (production and sales of carpet, laminate, vinyl, LVT and wood in North America) reported a 2% decline in the third quarter to $982 million ($2.6 billion in sales for the nine-month period).

The segment’s performance improved substantially with respect to the half year. Sales are expanding rapidly in the segments of carpet and LVT and above all laminates, a segment in which it is investing and installing a new line that should begin production in the fourth quarter of 2021.

As mentioned, the Flooring Rest of the World segment (production and sale of carpet, laminate, vinyl, LVT and wood outside North America) is the division

✕

MOHAWK INDUSTRIES’S SALES BY SEGMENT Net sales

Q3 2020 ($x1000)

Q3 2019 ($x1000

% var Q3 20/19

Jan-Sept 2020 ($x1000)

Jan-Sept 2019 ($x1000)

% var Jan-Sept 20/19

Global Ceramic

911.303

916.422

-0.56

2.513.088

2.772.805

-9.37

Flooring North America

982.292

1,001,908

-1.96

2,630,710

2,907,327

-9.51

Flooring Rest of the World

681,275

600,855

+13.38

1,766,635

1,866,028

-5.33

2,574,870

2,519,185

+2.21

6,910,433

7,546,160

-8.42

Consolidated net sales

18 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

00520 Visual Comunicazione – VE

A L L I N 1 S YS T E M

H E I G HT S F RO M 25 TO 1025 M M I N A S I N G LE R AN G E SCAN & GO I M P E R T E K .C O M

BALANCE PRO SELF-LEVELLING HEAD WITH STOP LEVELLING SYSTEM

14 PRODUCTS RANGE 25÷1025 MM

ADJUSTABLE FROM THE TOP

CAPACITY UP TO 1000 KG

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY EXPECTED TO FALL B Y 7. 8 % - C O M P L E T E R E C OV E R Y N O T B E F O R E 2 0 2 3 90th EUROCONSTRUCT Conference

Total construction output in the Euroconstruct area grew by 3.1% in 2018, and so slightly better than

expected six months ago.

On the other hand, the outlook for the forecast period up to 2021 shows

Beyond all market influences seen in recent years, the effects of the corona crisis have now taken over within a short time.

According to the latest forecast, the construction volume in the EUROCONSTRUCT area is expected to slump by 7.8% in 2020. This means the second upward revision after -11.5% in June and -9.1% in August.

COUNTRY

ECONOMICS

Austria Belgium Denmark Finland France Germany Ireland Italy Netherlands Norway Portugal S pain S weden S witzerland United Kingdom WESTERN EUROPE (EC-1 5) Czech Republic Hungary Poland S lovak Republic EASTERN EUROPE (EC-4) "EUROCONSTRUCT COUNTRIES (EC-1 9)"

an even slower development, in a context of a weakening economic expansion. New construction continues

For 2021, the forecast is quite similar to the revision in August and amounts to a growth of 4.1%.

For the years 2022 (+3.4%) and 2023 (+2.4%) the outlook remains positive.

Until 2023 total construction output in the EUROCONSTRUCT area is likely to reach € 1.73 trillion and to exceed the pre-corona level of 2019 by € 28 billion or 1.7%. The consequences for the individual counTAB. 1 - TOTAL CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT tries are significantly (% change in real terms) different.

ESTIMATES FORECASTS OUTLOOK Thus, the range goes 201 7 201 8 201 9 2020 2021 2022 2023 from a small growth in 2.5 3.6 3.6 -2.8 2.5 2.1 1 .8 Finland and stagnation in Portugal and Nor1 .9 2.3 0.4 -7 .1 8.7 3.2 3.6 way to a sharp decline 3.0 1 .3 9.1 -0.7 1 .0 2.3 2.1 of almost one fifth 2.0 2.0 -1 .4 1 .3 -5.3 -0.2 -2.0 in the UK in the cur3.9 3.3 2.8 -1 5.8 1 3.6 4.7 2.8 rent year. Other heavyweights like France or 2.1 1 .8 2.0 -1 .6 -0.2 0.4 0.2 Spain are also strong1 3.6 1 3.0 7 .5 -1 6.0 8.1 3.8 4.0 ly affected, whereas 0.5 1 .9 2.9 -7 .4 6.6 4.5 2.1 the German market did 3.6 6.4 3.1 -2.2 -6.1 4.6 5.7 surprisingly well due to 6.9 -2.8 2.6 0.1 0.3 4.4 2.4 the fact that activities could continue relative1 1 .0 9.3 6.0 0.1 2.3 2.5 2.7 ly unhindered.

5.0 6.4 4.5 -1 2.5 4.5 3.5 3.0 Regarding the individ7 .3 0.1 -0.5 -0.4 -0.1 0.1 1 .8 ual market segments, 1 .2 0.9 -0.3 -2.0 0.6 0.4 0.5 it should be pointed out that the civil engi5.9 -0.2 3.2 -1 9.5 1 2.6 8.4 4.8 neering sector is like3.5 2.4 2.7 -8.0 4.5 3.4 2.3 ly to be least affect4.5 7 .0 1 .1 -3.9 -1 .3 1 .9 3.3 ed by the corona tur25.5 1 9.8 1 6.3 -8.3 -4.5 6.2 6.4 bulences. The expenditure on infrastructure 7 .3 1 4.2 5.0 -3.1 0.3 3.0 3.0 facilities will fall by on3.8 8.0 -4.7 -9.5 1 .0 4.5 2.7 ly 3.8% this year and ex8.6 1 2.8 5.2 3.3 3.6 -4.5 -0.8 pand by 5.2% next year.

However, the nega3.8 3.0 2.9 4.1 3.4 2.4 -7.8 tive consequences for

Source: EUROCONSTRUCT, November 2020

20 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

to be the leading force of the expansionary cycle (+4.3% in 2018, resulting in an overall cumulated increase

by 17.5% compared to 2014), with new civil engineering approaching a 6% annual growth.

building construction should be much bigger. The EUROCONSTRUCT network is expecting a minus of 9.2% for the non-residential construction sector followed by a moderate plus of 2.5% in 2021. Even in 2023, the level of 2019 is likely to be missed. This is different for the residential segment. After a major loss by 8.6% in 2020, the market will regain significant momentum in 2021 with an expected growth of 4.7%. Due to government bans and legal uncertainties in spring also many renovation projects had to stop, partly even for weeks.

This leads to the fact that, different from typical economic crises, this time even the renovation sector has been heavily affected. While the construction of new buildings will probably collapse by 10.5% this year, the renovation activities will severely weaken by 7.3%, as well.

The assessment of the further development of construction activity is based on the assumption that the economy in the EUROCONSTRUCT area will shrink by 8.0% in 2020 and grow by 4.9% in 2021. But in times of strong restrictions of public life and with another lockdown in many countries, whose duration and conse-

New residential construction is estimated to pass a 5% increase in 2018 compared to the previous year.

quences are currently difficult to assess, this can onChiara Bruzzichelli ly be an orientation. In fact, the direct impact on the c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it construction industry should be much less severe than in spring. The situation for construction companies, clients and authorities is no longer entirely new and most construction sites should remain open now because, compared to the period March-May, there are already many protection measures in use and the digital working procedures are practised. But indirect negative effects of the pandemic must be considered, as well. Already the first lockdown caused economic damages like rising unemployment, sunken turnovers or tax losses which will be felt in the coming months.

While these are not yet fully foreseeable, the European economy is now threatened by a second blow, although partly this may be less severe. Much will also depend on how well the government relief/stimulus programmes will work.

Beyond the corona issue it is to be expected that in the mid-term positive factors like the need for housing in urban regions, for energetic renovation and for modernising the infrastructure will set the tone again. ✕

FIG. 3 - GDP VS. TOTAL CONSTRUCTION (year to year change in %)

Source: EUROCONSTRUCT, November 2020

FIG. 2 - GDP AND TOTAL CONSTRUCTION OUTPUT FROM 2017 TO 2023 (year to year change in %)

21 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

FOTONEWS

No more cold feet on the road with Schlüter-Systems A floor heating system in a camper van? To Michael Schenk, the answer was “absolutely.”

Together with his partner, the self-employed tile installer and Schlüter-Systems craftsman from the Swiss town of Dotzigen in the Berne Canton bought a VW T4 Syncro in autumn 2019 and then converted it to a camper van.

“Of course, the camper van did not have any heating. Because we wanted to use the vehicle for travelling in colder temperatures, we knew we needed a heating system.”

Schenk ultimately chose the electric floor heating system Schlüter-DITRAHEAT-E. “The available space only allowed for an electric variant, and I have repeatedly installed the system myself,” he explained. DITRA-HEAT-E stands out for its low assembly height and quick response time. The DITRA-HEAT-DUO membrane with anchoring fleece, as used here, transports the heat to the surface with particular speed and efficiency.

Temperature changes are noticeable within minutes. The system heats an area of 1.56 m2 in the VW camper van.

At the same time, the membrane securely uncouples the covering – in this case, tiles of the NovaBell series by Ceramiche Gruppo Bellei in an appealing wood look – from the substrate and protects the tiles against damage.

The first highlight is already evident when entering the living space of the camper van, where Schenk has fitted the step with a SchlüterLIPROTEC-LL profile.

Both the LED profile and the electrical floor heating system are operated with a second battery, which is charged by the vehicle engine and a solar panel on the roof.

No external power source is needed. To protect the edge of the covering, Schenk also installed a stainless steel Schlüter-SCHIENE profile.

With practical and elegant accessories like that, the couple looks forward to camping trips in comfort and style.

22 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

23 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

Paola Giacomini

ABK GROUP LOVES SHOPPING M&A strategy aimed at increasing the group’s production capacity and diversifying its portfolio into new segments. On 29 October the Finale

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ABK Group, one of the leading players in the Italian and international ceramic industry, recently announced two major acquisitions as part of an

24 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

Emilia-based group announced the purchase of the complete share capital of Ceramiche Gardenia Orchidea, a long-established Italian company that

generated a turnover of over 38 million euros in 2019 under the Gardenia Orchidea and Versace Ceramics brands.

This was followed on 12 November by

the acquisition of a 49% stake in the Spanish firm Arbe Stolanic, a company that specialises in the production of kitchen countertops and owns several

patents for the use of an innovative concealed induction cooking system.

We discussed the two acquisitions with ABK Group’s Chairman Roberto Fabbri.

Chiara Bruzzichelli investments in technology and innovation aimed at c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it strengthening our leadership in the sector.

Tile International: You are also looking to expand in the furniture sector, as evidenced by your acquisition of a stake in Arbe Stolanic. Could you tell us a little about Arbe Stolanic and how this new partnership was formed?

R. Fabbri: Arbe Stolanic is a Valencia, Spain-based company specialising in the production of kitchen and bathroom countertops. In particular, it owns several patents for Cooking Surface Prime, an innovative concealed induction cooking system produced in conjunction with our ABKSTONE and Materia slabs. Cooking Surface Prime earned Arbe Stolanic an award for best innovation in the sector at the SADECC 2019 kitchen festival in Paris.

In practice, it is an invisible induction cooking system installed directly underneath the 20 mm thick slabs without the need for further machining operations, thereby optimising the kitchen space and transforming the entire countertop into a workspace while allowing for un-

Tile International: Despite the difficult period facing the global economy, ABK Group is stepping up its pace of growth with operations of major strategic importance such as the acquisition of Gardenia Orchidea.

Could you tell us about the operation?

Roberto Fabbri: The Ceramiche Gardenia Orchidea Group was founded back in 1961, and throughout its almost 60 years of history has played a vital role in bringing the style and quality of Italian ceramics to over 100 countries worldwide. For more than 20 years, it has also been distributing the Versace Ceramics line, an exclusive brand of wall tiles and prestigious bathroom furniture collections displaying the distinctive Versace style.

The acquisition will therefore enable us to boost our presence in the high-end ceramic sector, where we are already present with our historic brands ABK, Flaviker and Ariana and the new ABKSTONE and Materia brands specialising in 12 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm thick large slabs. It also establishes us as one of the top players in the luxury segment of the ceramic industry and is part of a broader development strategy that includes

Roberto Fabbri

25 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

We expect to reach a total turnover of 150 million euros this year, an limited functionality and creativity. of growth in 2020 given how difficult The latest version, Cooking 3.0, re- increase of around 35% compared a year it has been for everyone? duces cooking times compared to to the 111 million euros of 2019. This R. Fabbri: To tell the truth, we will marks the culmination of a journey in traditional systems and optimises see an acceleration in 2020. We exwhich we have worked hard to keep at energy consumption. pect to reach a total turnover of 150 the forefront of design and technoAs you were saying, ABK Group’s acmillion euros this year, an increase logical innovation. quisition of a stake and a seat on the of around 35% compared to the 111 board of directors of Arbe Stolanic million euros of 2019. is a win-win strategy for acceleratThis marks the culmination of a jouring our international expansion in the furnishing sector. ney in which we have worked hard to keep at the foreWe have found the ideal partner for marketing this front of design and technological innovation. technologically unique, versatile and highly durable Tile International: In other words, you are reaping product that is sure to become a fixture of kitchens the rewards of the recent large-scale investments you both now and in the future. mentioned earlier, especially in the field of large slabs.

Tile International: Will you be marketing this system R. Fabbri: That’s right. One of our two production fayourselves in the future? cilities in particular, the one in Solignano Nuovo (ModeR. Fabbri: The system will be sold by Arbe Stolanic na), is without question one of the most advanced and under the new brand name Cooking Surface Prime in revolutionary plants for the production of large slabs Spain, Portugal and France and distributed exclusive- ever built. ly under our ABKSTONE and Materia brands in the rest We invested around 40 million euros in this project, of the world. which was completed in the summer of 2019 and led to Tile International: ABK Group has been growing rap- the launch of the new ABKSTONE brand in early 2020. idly since 2013. Are you expecting to maintain this pace At this plant we also conducted a research project in

26 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

Arbe Stolanic an award for best innovation in the sector at the

collaboration with Sacmi and with compaction of large size slabs with SADECC 2019 kitchen festival in funding from the Italian Ministry for thicknesses of up to 30 mm.

Paris. In practice, it is an invisible Economic Development aimed at deA latest-generation digital printer eninduction cooking system installed veloping extra-thick through-vein cesures an extremely high graphic resdirectly underneath the 20 mm ramic marble slabs with a digital finish. olution. To ensure the highest qualthick slabs without the need for With more than 100 silos for wet and further machining operations. ity of the slabs we also use an X-ray dry mixing of selected high-plasticiDensity Scanner for dynamic grain ty raw materials, the plant can hansize control and a new 7-level dryer dle an unlimited number of coloured to improve moisture release. The kiln bodies, which are fed into the Continua PCR 3000 line is also remarkable, and with a length of 185 metres is equipped with new and enhanced rollers for improved one of the largest in operation in Italy. ✕

27 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

T H E AT T I C O : T H E N E W LY R E F U R B I S H E D R O O F T O P S PA C E Iris Ceramica and FMG Fabbrica Marmi e Graniti officially open The Attico, a panoramic space designed for entertaining and socializing on the rooftop of

their historic Fiorano Modenese (Modena, Italy) headquarters. This latest project concludes the restyling of Iris Ceramica and FMG headquarters

cious fully-glazed area with panoramic terrace overlooking the EmiliaRomagna hills. Currently, the interior layout comprises two large zones: a lounge with seating and places for meetings, and a bistro area with bar-kitchen. However, their specific use is not immutable since the two spaces are flexible to cater for differing needs and uses such as events, talks, meetings, co-working and conferences.

The project’s concept Designed by Area-17 Architecture & Interiors, the entire refurbishment fully respects the original architecture of the building which was constructed in the 1960s. The various phases of the project re-imagine Iris Ceramica Group two brand’s aesthetic, technical and product development in line with corporate identity, while maintaining a strong link with the past and traditions.

The attic, once divided into three small suites to host clients, has been transformed into a contemporary, versatile yet welcoming space. The previous rooms have been opened up and replaced by a single, spa-

Materials

PROJECTS

The Attico has been customized to showcase the versatility of the MaxFine rangeof large format porcelain tiles, manufactured with meticulous attention

28 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

which over recent years has included renovating the showroom, original reception converted into a Historic Museum, and finally management offices.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

29 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

PROJECTS

30 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

to detail, demonstrating their infinite potential and the various effects which can be achieved.

An extremely practical spatial design where the products are displayed in all formats to create solutions which combine aesthetically stylish design with high technical performance.

Sophisticated Marmi MaxFine surfaces, particularly Sahara Noir in polished finish, take center stage in the interiors. Installed on the walls and floor, they are also used for perimeter pillars, tables, coffee tables, storage units and brise soleil, all created using large format, waterjet-cut ceramics. The kitchen countertop in the bistro area is completely tiled with Sahara Noir which elegantly contrast with sophisticated Calacatta Oro from the Marmi MaxFine collection, used to highlight the large wall fitted with shelving and supports, also in porcelain tiles.

The lounge & meeting area, features Onice Grigio installed to create the appearance of a ceramic rug. In shades of gray with warm and cooler toned veining, and laid on part of the floor only, it illustrates possible tile combinations with contrasting or tone-on-tone effects. Exquisite, luminescent shades of Onice Giada are used for the vanity top in the bathroom, high-

lighting the versatility of large-format MaxFine tiles for furnishings and accessories, even in personal care and well-being areas. Walk On MaxFine in Silver, with their simple aesthetic appearance, were chosen for the raised floor in the open area of the terrace, with the concrete effect surface enhancing the airiness and breadth of the space. The large outdoor kitchen with deep sink and modular storage was created using large format MaxFine tiles in Walk On and Emperador. Urban furnishings and hand-made multi-purpose seating, with built-in loudspeakers, are tiled in Onice Giada, Walk On and Emperador from the MaxFine range which give the outdoor space a practical yet aesthetically stylish look.

FMG not only wanted to create a welcoming, comfortable space in The Attico for customers and guests, but also one which showcases the wide-ranging applications for MaxFine ceramic surfaces through custom-made designs. As a result of ongoing research into the products’ aesthetic appearance and technological innovation, the large format tiles offer architects and interior designers unprecedented ideas for ever-changing design needs, both indoors and outdo ors. ✕

31 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

courtesy of Realtà Mapei

THE JEWEL CHANGI SI NGAP OR E AI R P ORT A new retail hub now connects three of the four airport terminals together and includes hotels, a shopping centre and a garden with a 40 m high waterfall.

Designed by the Israeli-Canadian architect, designer and urban planner Moshe Safdie, who previously designed the Marina Bay Sands resort in Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport is the new retail hub made from steel and glass which, since 2019, with its network of footbridges and an overhead railway line, connects three of the four terminals of Singapore’s main airport.

The airport is at the heart of a regeneration and ex-

An ambitious project that combined the construction of a futuristic architectural structure with the installation of natural landscaping inside the complex. The

PROJECTS

pansion process and Jewel Changi is the latest of a series of futuristic projects for the structure.

It consists of an imposing hall that connects three of the airport’s terminals, characterised by a large tropical garden dominated by a ring-shaped glass roof, at the centre of which there is the highest artificial indoor waterfalls in the world.

The aim of the project was to transform the airport into a destination in its own right. In fact, inside the

32 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

challenge was to ensure that only adhesives particularly suitable for the job would be used to install the various types of ceramic tiles and stone materials on the various

types of substrate. And what is more, the installation products also had to be able to withstand and resist the constant passage of thousands of people.

Chiara Bruzzichelli c.bruzzichelli@tiledizioni.it

structure (which has a surface area of 134,000 m2), visitors find more than 300 shops and boutiques, restaurants, a cinema with 11 screens, a 130 cabin Yotelair, gardens and pedestrian areas.

eas where more than 120 carefully selected plant species from all over the world are nurtured at a constant, controlled temperature of 23-24 °C, and a view overlooking the 40 m high Rain Vortex, the highest indoor waterfall in the world.

Apart from being an iconic symbol of the airport, the waterfall is an installation that allows rainwater to be collected and then recycled into an irrigation system.

The roof is made up of a 200 m long by 150 m wide toroid-shaped, grid-shell framework, the only one of its kind.

The cupola is covered by more than 9,300 glass panels, that allow the right amount of luminosity and light to flow into the complex, and has a 12 m diameter opening in the middle from where the water for the waterfall flows through.

DESIGNING A WATERFALL IN AN AIRPORT The structure of Jewel Changi is divided into two main blocks: a rectangular basement slab where the carpark, a cinema and service areas are located, and the toroid-shaped main building, spanning over 10 storeys (five of them are located underground), hosting the shops and boutiques over seven floors and featuring a large terraced greenhouse with a glass cupola roof.

And it is the last of these areas that makes this airport so unique; a tropical garden over five levels, with an imposing glass and steel cupola, a bridge for the shuttle service connecting the various terminals, and a large artificial waterfall at the centre of the building.

The heart of the complex is the Shiseido Forest Valley covered by a large glass cupola, featuring a large, terraced garden with walkways and relaxation ar-

DIFFERENT AREAS REQUIRED DIFFERENT ADHESIVES Mapei supplied the most suitable adhesives to install the various types of ceramic tiles and stone on all ten storeys of the structure.

33 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

Shiseido Forest Valley. The lava stone slabs on the garden walls along the Rain Vortex and the slate slabs for the floor in the entrance to Jewel Changi Airport, in the Shiseido Forest Valley and in Terminal 1 were installed with KERAFLEX MAXI S1 cementitious adhesive with Low Dust technology and the joints were grouted with KERACOLOR SF cementitious grout.

The same adhesive was used for the coverings along the cascading waterfall feature on the eastern side, while to grout the joints the preferred product was KERACOLOR FF cementitious mortar admixed with FUGOLASTIC liquid polymer admixture to improve its adhesion and mechanical strength and to reduce porosity and absorption.

The floors and stairs in this area were covered with granite, which was installed using KERAFLEX MAXI S1 adhesive and KERACOLOR FF cementitious mortar.

A really tough adhesive had to be used for the soffit at the entrance of the Shiseido Forest Valley and the

product recommended for this particular area was KERAPOXY acid-resistant epoxy adhesive.

The flooring for some of the walkways in this area, in the Canopy Park and in the shopping area was made from even-shaped cobbles, which were installed with KERAFLEX MAXI S1 and grouted with KERACOLOR FF. The paving for the paths in the Canopy Park were in granite and the slabs were also installed with the same products.

Floor -1. For this underground area, the granite floor slabs were installed with KERAFLEX MAXI S1 while ceramic tiles were installed in the area where the restaurants are located with KERAFLEX adhesive. In both cases the joints were grouted with KERACOLOR SF super-fine, white cementitious mortar.

PROJECTS

Shopping centre. The floors on all seven levels of the shopping centre were covered with slabs of flecked

34 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

cream marble and black granite slabs which were installed with KERAFLEX MAXI S1. The joints were grouted with KERACOLOR SF mortar.

walls of the bathrooms in another area, on the other hand, were covered with black granite slabs installed with GRANIRAPID adhesive. Before installing the coverings on walls, the substrates were treated with PRIMER G primer in water dispersion.

The ceramic tiles used to cover the metal doors giving access to the service rooms and rooms for airport personnel were installed with KERALASTIC T thixotropic adhesive. Joints were grouted in all the areas with KERACOLOR SF.

Terminals. The floors around the lifts in Terminals 2 and 3 were covered with slabs of marble installed with KERAFLEX MAXI S1 and the joints were grouted with KERACOLOR SF. The floors on floor -3, in the lobby and in the corridor connecting the terminals to Terminal 1 were covered with white Kashmir granite, which was installed with KERAQUICK S1 high performance cementitious adhesive and grouted with KERACOLOR SF. The floor of the covered walkway connecting Terminals 2 and 3 was also covered with the same material and installed with the same products.

External areas. To pave the area in front of the entrance to Terminal 1, granite slabs were installed with KERAQUICK S1 and grouted with KERACOLOR SF. Some of the slabs had to be installed over metal grates and, to get the best result, it was recommended to use KERAPOXY adhesive and KERACOLOR FF grout for joints.

Bathrooms and service areas. To install tiles on the floors and walls of some of the bathrooms, it was recommended to use KERAFLEX adhesive. The floors and

✕

35 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

N G K Ü TA H YA S E R A M İ K

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

Creative patterns, which follow each other in harmony, offer unique decoration alternatives to the places with today’s trends. B O O K M AT C H ceramics with the size of 120x240 cm provide ease of application along with the advantage of size in indoor and outdoor designs. Since the joint gaps of bookmatch designs are thin during the application, a very natural appearance is obtained. The original collection of NG Kütahya Seramik, which carries its marble, wood, concrete and natural stone textured designs to living areas, is in high demand by industry professionals in architectural projects.

These designs, which can be used in spaces such as gardens, working areas, wet areas, sitting areas, hotels, etc., add a sense of depth to living spaces and give a stylish, natural, modern and aesthetic appearance.

M A R E A , which shows the natural marble look gracefully, creates refined spaces with its inspiring bookmatch effect. A L B AT R O S innovative interpretation creates a contemporary and powerful effect in living areas. Inspired by nature, the series creates a feeling of peace and relaxation in all areas of use. The B L U E T TA (picture on top) serie, which reveals its style in spaces with its distinctive and eye-catching lines, offers architects freedom in their choices. A L AV YA (picture on bottom) brings the elegance of marble to the spaces with its dancing black lines on its white surface. Reflecting naturalness with its innovative designs and realistic surface effect, Alavya offers its black and white colors in perfect harmony. Moreover, the dynamic structure of B A R B A D O S , one of the most demanding ceramics of Bookmatch design, it brings an artistic innovation to living areas with its interesting colors and bookmatch design.

36 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

IMPERTEK

Impertek has always been strongly oriented towards technological research to improve its products.

Among the innovations introduced, the arrival on the market of the new Balance Pro system. A support for raised floors, which collects the best features of the entire P E D E S TA L L I N E range.

Balance Pro allows operators to cover heights from 25 to 1025 mm with a single range of products. With only 14 items, it is in fact possible to reach any desired height, just adding an extension or adjusting the screw. Balance Pro allows also to adjust the height from above with the new Top Key, also even after the tiles have been laid. But manual adjustment from the base is also possible when the pedestal is in the center of a large tile or in other special situations.

The tilting head allows to correct up to a 5% of slope. The supports guarantee a load capacity up to 1.000 kg. The head can in any case be blocked thanks to the Fix Ring, improving the stability in perimetral areas or in presence of very small tiles.

With Balance Pro it is thus possible to install tiles of any size, marble, granite, decking and, with the Rail System, to lay composite floors, simply by replacing the head and integrating the aluminium joists. Antishock System, an interchangeable rubber shim positioned on the head, guarantees an excellent grip with the tiles.

Speed of installation, safety, sturdiness and the possibility of configuring the support according to every need, make Balance Pro a truly revolutionary system for laying raised floors, designed to simplify the work, while guaranteeing an impeccable result.

37 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

SERAMIKSAN

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

Bathrooms are the most favorable environments for the growth of microorganisms. Although strong chemicals are used for cleaning, it is not an easy task to create hygienic and healthy environments. Due to the fact that these chemical cleaners can not remove the microbes completely from the surface and in addition to this, microbes multiply rapidly until the next cleaning. Therefore, a hygienic bathroom poses a great importance for the whole family’s health. Seramiksan is now at the service of all bathrooms and families with a brand new surface technology: S E R A M I K S A N H YG I E N E .

Seramiksan Hygiene offers healthy bathrooms for healthy life and protects human health.

The silver ions of nano-size found in its content destroy the cell structure of microorganisms and prevent the growth of new microbes by 99.9%.

What’s more, its effect lasts for a lifetime.

All products in which Seramiksan Hygiene technology is used provide maximum hygiene with minimum amount of water and detergent. Thus, they offer real saving for the family budget.

Seramiksan, which has been accredited by the Turkish Accreditation Agency and tested and approved by the independent laboratory SANITER and German Hohenstein Institute, reflects its expertise on its products with its hygiene technology.

38 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

The Cutting Revolution for Large Format Tiles

· TITANIUM WHEELS SELECTION SYSTEM · Non-slip system without suction cups · Quick elastic connection · “No Limits” extendable system with rails · INTERNATIONAL PATENT · 100% MADE IN ITALY

montolit.com

P R O F I L PA S P P L E V E L D U O is the

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

new line of supports for outdoor raised floors, designed and produced by Profilpas.

With PP Level DUO, there is the possibility to choose between fixed and self-levelling head in an instant, directly during the installation. A choice that can be made easily, thanks to the special converter Perfect Ring. Indeed, if you insert it between the head and the screw, the support becomes fixed. On the contrary, if there is the need to compensate the slope of a surface up to 6%, it will be sufficient not to insert the ring to obtain a self-levelling system. PP Level DUO is a system of supports not only for the installation of ceramic tiles, but also for decking, thanks to the specific head, and for single-format and multi-format ceramic planks.

The latter can be laid with exceptional precision and stability, thanks to the double joist installation system, designed and produced by Profilpas. This is a system composed of two joists in natural aluminium that must be fixed on a special head, thus creating a rail for the positioning of the spacer. All the PP Level DUO supports can be adjusted in height from the top thanks to the adjustment key, that allows both to correct the smallest imperfections and to compensate big slopes.

Moreover, there is a full system of clips in stainless steel for the creation of perfect steps and vertical risers.

40 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 CERTIFIED

www.topcer.com

FERR ARI&CIGARINI

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

The new M V B A M I N E U S is an automatic machine able to carry out both the cutting and the profiling of skirting pieces, doorsteps and window sills, with bullnose and half bullnose edges, in a single passage and with just one movement of the piece. Alternatively, it can make 45° mitering for production of kitchen and bathroom top and steps. MVB AMINEUS makes the production of high quality elements possible on ceramic, gres porcelain, marble, granite and agglomerate materials, in a fast and simple way, with just one automated compact machine.

42 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

From 26.10.2020 tecnanext.com

ORGANIZED BY

IN COLLABORATION WITH

SUPPORTED BY

Ministero degli Affari Esteri e della Cooperazione Internazionale

PROGRESS PROFILES

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

Humidity, water infiltrations and inadequate drainage could cause serious damages to external surfaces, which are constantly exposed to rainfalls and weather. For this reason, it is highly recommended to carry out a perfect laying work to ensure the structures’ suitability.

Progress Profiles, world leader Italian manufacturer of technical and decorative finishing profiles and fixing/laying systems including membranes for construction and interior design, patented P R O D E S O ® D R A I N M E M B R A N E , a waterproof, draining, uncoupling membrane that allows the vapour management, with a thickness of only 5mm (13/64”) .Technologically advanced, under the sign of versatility, simplicity, speed and efficiency of installation, P R O D E S O ® D R A I N S Y S T E M is particularly suitable for large sizes XXL tiles laying in all indoor and outdoor environments, even in humid areas such as SPA or indoor pools.

The membrane is composed of a high-density polyethylene sheet to which a draining layer is thermo-welded at the top; a non-woven polypropylene fabric is glued to the bottom.

The reliefs of the polyethylene sheet create an “air chamber” under the tiles which favors the movement of the air helping a microventilation which allows the drainage and rapid drying of the adhesive preventing the spillage and the ascent of triacetates and the formation of efflorescence in the joints.

Thanks to its structure, Prodeso® Drain Membrane can also be applied on substrates that are not perfectly cured, on old tiles or Plywood/OSB. Using Prodeso Drain System, the installation time is considerably reduced; the system, indeed, allows working without any interruption from the laying of the membrane up to the end. a Full package of accessories have been carefully studied and added for a perfect laying system.

Progress Profiles presents once again an innovative product that matches high functionality and maximum versatility, thus facilitating installers work and guaranteeing an always perfect and long-lasting results.

44 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

CERAMICHE PIEMME

W H AT ’ S N E W ?

More than just a collection of floor and wall tiles, Evoluta by Ceramiche Piemme is the very essence of innovation in terms of both product and process. The company’s first line of porcelain tile to originate from a totally transformed industrial process, it is also the first in a long series due to be developed in collaboration with the industry’s major technological players under the Synchro Digit Piemme initiative.

The textured surface of the tiles is no longer created during the pressing stage, where the need for repetition imposes limitations, but is digitally printed in perfect synchrony with the digital decoration.

E V O L U TA therefore represents the latest state of the art in porcelain tile, and is capable of replicating any natural material to totally unprecedented standards of hyper-realism: the slightest vein pattern or streak of colour is now accompanied by its perfect tactile counterpart, just as in nature. This effect is unparalleled on the ceramic market and enables designers to choreograph materials in such a way as to generate outstanding visual quality, for nature-inspired domestic interiors geared towards well-being. Evoluta really showcases the evocative textures of metamorphic rock, such as Italian quartzite, with an almost unlimited range of graphic and surface variants. The collection comes in five colours and three sizes. It also includes three decorative textures designed for use on walls: “Cave” reprises the fine craftsmanship of cutting and recomposing small strips of stone; “Cluster” draws inspiration from traditional hexagonally cut stone, on which it puts a modern slant; and lastly “Forest”, with its delicately polished surface texture, gives designers free rein to create imaginative three-dimensional coverings unconstrained by conventional installation patterns.

46 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

RAIMONDI

One of Raimondi’s best-known and most appreciated products for the world of large format tiles devices and solution is certainly the handling device EASY MOVE that, in its latest generation, has seen two fundamental improvements.

In fact, it’s now possible to appreciate improvement in its performance and safety, thanks to the S U C T I O N C U P “ R V 1 7 5 ” (included as a standard equipment) designed to offer flawless performance and reliability. RV175 can also be purchased separately as a single suction cup. Perfect for handling ceramic tiles and slabs, whether with smooth or textured surface, it is also suitable for lifting any non-porous material such as marble, granite, glass, etc. During its designing process, great attention has been paid to aspects such as longevity and maintenance: the components most subject to accidental wear and tear, like the stain free rubber cup and the vacuum gauge, are easily removable and replaceable. Performance and safety of the suction cup are guaranteed by the high performance anti-rust valve (which allows the suction cup to grip in any position, even “upside down”) and by the constant feedback of the grip (vacuum) state provided by the vacuum gauge.

Moreover, Raimondi presents also the brand new product “ O N LY -O N E ”, a device that has to be mounted on EASY-MOVE handling frames (MkIV and MkIII versions) and assists the operator during the installation of large format tiles, reducing fatigue and making its work more ergonomic. The device allows a single operator to collect a tile sized up to 150x150 cm (59”x59”) from the floor and transport it to the installation area, back butter it, and lay it down next to the tile previously installed.

For tiles bigger than 150x150 cm (59” x 59”), it provides excellent support for handling and installation process. It is suitable for tile thickness from 3 mm up to 20 mm (1/8” – 3/4”).

47 T I L E I N T E R N AT I O N A L 3 / 2 0 2 0

The first deformable adhesive with hight workability for the laying of wall and floor tiles of all kinds and large-sized slabs.

Excellent for overlapping and radiant systems.

C2TE S1 EN 12004

EN 12004

FOSHAN，CHINA

4.18-21, 2021

Professional | International | Influential

800+ Exhibitors with 10,000+ Exhibits 400,000+ Sqm Exhibiting Area 120,000+ Attendees Include

Exhibits:

Tiles·Sanitaryware·Unit Bath·Mosaic·Whole-house Customization

·Ceramic Auxiliary Materials·Ceramic Equipment

en.cerambath.org

+86 18925942595/+86 75782525961

cerambath@eccc.com.cn/fair@eccc.com.cn

CONTENTS

3

EDITORIAL - Let it slnow

Gian Paolo Crasta

PROJECTS:

4 8 14 18 22 26 28

Lapitec for the loft winner of the "Silver Interiors Award 2020" The tallest skyscraper in Downtown Miami Casa Nemini Teneri: a cork-clad residence in Sicily TreeHugger by MoDus Architects WHAT ’S NEW - Material Mix PHOTONEWS - Kebony wood completes luxury eco-hotel on Cornish coastline MATERIC DESIGN - 5 Materic Design novelties for indoor and outdoor living

COVER PICTURE: Café Got, Barcelona • Design: El Equipo Creativo Photography: One Represent Agency • Full article on: https://www.materialicasa.com/mc-en/projects/cafe-got-barcelona/

SURFACES INTL ADV LIST: Cerambath..............................................................1 Dom - Victoria PLC.......inside back cover Fustecma.............................................................. 21

Kajaria.....................................two-sided insert NG Kütahya.................................................. 12-13

TILE INTERNATIONAL'S ADV LIST (Upsidedown!)............................................................................. 11

4

The loft winner of the "Silver Interiors Award"

Surfaces INTL 2/20

26

A luxury eco-hotel on Cornish coastline

2

28 Materic design

EDITORIAL

✗ • LET IT SLNOW • Gian Paolo Crasta - g.crasta@tiledizioni.it

The words seem particularly prescient at the end of this grimly unprecedented year, which has profoundly changed our habits, while at the same time prompting us to rediscover certain aspects of life that we had neglected amidst the relentless haste and intensity of the recent past.

“ TH E RE WAS ALWAYS MOR E I N THE WORLD TH A N M EN COULD SEE , WA L KED THEY EVER SO SLOWLY; THEY WI LL SE E IT NO BET TER FOR G OING FAST ” WR OTE JOHN RUSKIN, AN ENGLI SH IN TE LLECTUAL , I N THE L ATE 1800 S .

We’ve all felt the effects of being deprived of the social interaction, meetings and appointments that once punctuated our private and professional lives. We’ve missed the euphoria that wells up as we wait for the turnstiles to open at our favourite trade shows, we’ve missed the tactile sensation of caressing newly unveiled surfaces with our hands, and we’ve missed the rich textures and decorative effects that fill our vision at these events, which bring us together and are so important for us all.

That’s why we’ve put so much effort into making further improvements to our media and intend to carry on doing so, with a special focus on international professionals involved in the design and distribution of coverings.

So we wish you happy reading and hope you will enjoy flicking through or digitally viewing the pages that follow from the comfort of a relaxing armchair during this holiday period.

Let it snow! ✕

UPSIDEDOWN

!

But we’ve also discovered new rhythms, routines and ways of working, and new ways of meeting and socialising that we’ll no doubt carry with us into the future and that will enrich our daily lives.

And we’ve reviewed our priorities, reopened and cleared out old closets (real and mental) and rediscovered old habits, including the habit of spending time reading and finding out about what’s going on around us.

3

Surfaces INTL 2/20

PROJECTS

L APITEC FOR THE LOF T WINNER OF THE "SILVER INTERIORS AWARD 2020"

I

T WAS CO MPLET ED JU ST A FEW M O N THS AGO AND HAS ALREADY REC E IVE D THE R ECOGNITION O F TH E I N T E RI O R AWAR DS 2020 IN T HE CATEGO RY " R E NOVATIO N OF A PART MENTS OVE R 1 0 0 SQ UARE METER S" : IR IDOU AT TI KO U A PA RTM E NT, DES IGNED BY T HE G R E E K STU DI O AK PRAXIS , OCCU PIES THE SECO N D F LO OR O F A COMPLEX OF THE 50S , I N AT H EN S , AN D OVERLOOKS THE N ATI O N AL G A R DE N AN D T HE PRES IDENT IAL PAL AC E , N OT FAR FROM THE ACR OPOLIS WI TH I TS M O NUME NTAL R UINS .

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4

The penthouse is spread over a single level of 290 square meters, has three bedrooms with private bathrooms and a large home office space, and is characterized by a completely new Mediterranean style.

The traditional white color dominates all the rooms, walls and ceiling at any point, including the tone-on-tone plaster moldings highlighted by linear lighting, and the thin skirting, in contact with the wenge flooring.

The decorative profiles and the chevron layout of the parquet, which contrasts with the vertical surfaces, are used to remove any minimalist hint, reinterpreting the classic aesthetic.

PROJECTS

5

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PROJECTS

ge central island in the center, equipped with a cooking area, sink and integrated snack top.

The top was made of Lapitec in Michelangelo Satin finish, and the use of a single slab over 3 meters long allowed to create a continuous surface without any junction marks.

The 12 mm thick rib also has the same finish as the top, thanks to the 'full-body' composition of Lapitec.

Finally, the sink, the top and the relative splashback of the wall system are always made of Lapitec Michelangelo Satin for a pure result and a monolithic look.

The subtle veins that decorate the surface renew the architectural firm's desire to re-read materials and elements typical of classicism, but in a new dimension: no longer using traditional stone, but sintered stone, which while retaining the warmth

The house thus appears as a container with almost museum features: punctuated by large openings that connect one room to another and by large panoramic windows with white profiles, it looks like an art gallery in which the furnishings and accessories can be read in the same way as a permanent collection.

Contemporary paintings with black frames, sculptures, antiques and geometric pendant lamps help to design a calibrated sequence, where spaces are mostly left empty with the only objective of emphasizing the furnishings.

A “TOTAL WHITE� KITCHEN Completely total white except for the paintings and the floor, the kitchen develops in a narrow and long room and has a lar-

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6

PROJECTS

and charm of natural materials, guarantees higher performance also in a sustainable way.

The composition of Lapitec is in fact completely free of inks, resins and other toxic additives: an essential detail for AK Praxis, member of the Sustainable Building Council of Greece and BREEAM LICENSED ASSESOR company (GreenBookLive.com), which like the company has always made sustainability the cornerstone of its working philosophy. ✕

7

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PROJECTS

THE TALLEST SKYSCRAPER IN DOWNTOWN MIAMI

B

RI C KE LL FL AT IR ON IS A FUTUR I STI C NEW BUILDING IN MIA MI BY C MC G ROUP, T HE REAL ESTAT E DEVE LO PE R FO U N D E D BY UGO COLOMBO. LO CATE D AT 1 0 00 BRIC KE LL PL A ZA (MIA MI, FL 33 1 3 0) , I T F E ATURE S A DES IGN BY REV UELTA A R CHI TECTUR E INT ERNATIONA L TH AT H AS R EVOLUTIO N I ZED T HE S KYLINE OF TH E A M ERICAN C I TY, A LONG WIT H IN TE R I O R D E SIGN BY ARCHITECT MAS S IMO I O SA GH I N I .

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8

PROJECTS

Photo credits: Exterior: Golden Dusk Photography - Lobby, spa, pools and public spaces: CMC Group and Tony Tur Photography

9

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PROJECTS

The 64-story tower in the central Brickell district is an icon of Italian design and style. Margraf marble and modular tiles adorn all of the deluxe apartments, the penthouse suite, the lobby, the public spaces and the Sky Spa. In recent years, Miami has experienced significant redevelopment that has transformed it from a holiday destination into a cosmopolitan city.

At 224 metres, the new high-rise building is the tallest construction in the city. It contains 527 units and has a Spa on the 64th floor. Margraf’s Botticino Fiorito Light and Bianco Statuarietto marble tiles have been used in the spacious residences, where curved shapes prevail.

Bespoke interior design schemes will be used in all of the apartments, with superior Italian furniture and finishes.

The different areas of the homes are designed to offer residents a blend of comfort, luxury and beautiful, unique qualities.

The curved lines from the exterior of the building are recreated in the lobby, where natural light shines through large floor-to-ceiling windows. A spellbinding touch is added by a Zebrato fireplace and book-match style flooring made of Palissandro, which is also used to clad the reception desk. Zebrato and Striato Elegante marble were used for the flooring and

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10

PROJECTS

the façade outside.

Brickell Flatiron’s crowning glory is the Sky Spa, which boasts all-round views of Miami. As well as a pool with 360° views, there is a health and fitness centre with treatment services, a private steam room, a sauna and changing facilities. An eye-catching role is played in these heavenly surroundings by Bianco Siberia in the relaxation water lounge, Pietra Ducale in the outdoor pool and Bianco Venezia in the spa.

There are indoor and outdoor public spaces and amenities for residents on the 17th and 18th floors, including a lap swimming pool, a private cinema, a clubroom, a billiards room and lounge, and a children’s playroom.

In addition, there is a cutting-edge 586 sq.m gym with a sophisticated, immaculate atmosphere thanks to the combination of materials such as onyx and ivory marble in conjunction with the warm tones of metals including brass, bronze and copper.

The services are designed to cater to every need: the porter’s office and garage are open 24 hours a day and there are self-service storage facilities for bicycles and other items, six high-speed lifts and a dedicated service lift.

The combination of marble’s unique, exceptional properties and an unparalleled design and laying service mean that Margraf can play a crucial role as a strategic partner for international architects and contractors working on peerless, prestigious buildings. ✕

TECHNICAL DETAILS • • • •

Location: Miami Client: CMC Group Building Architect: Revuelta Architecture International Interior Design: Massimo Iosa Ghini

• Quantity and types of Margraf marble used: Lobby: • Main entrance leading to the lobby: sandblasted Striato Elegante for the outdoor flooring (approx. 30 sq.m), polished Zebrato / Striato Elegante on the façade.

• Lobby: book-match style Palissandro flooring, Zebrato fireplace, Palissandro lobby desk cladding (approx. 450 sq.m of Palissandro).

Secondary entrances: • Sandblasted Lipica Unito outdoor flooring (approx. 250 sq.m).

Sky Spa: • Polished Bianco Venezia for the spa, massage room, steam room and counter tops (approx. 200 sq.m). Solid Bianco Siberia blocks running across the indoor pool to serve as a walkway.

• Brushed Pietra Ducale outdoor pool.

Private outdoor pools: • Another two brushed Pietra Ducale private outdoor pools.

Bathrooms in the homes (Penthouse and upper penthouse + other units), total marble tiles used (30.5x30.5 / 61x30.5 cm – thickness 1 cm): • Bianco Statuarietto: 14,400 sq.m • Botticino Fiorito Light: 8,841 sq.m

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PROJECTS

CASA NEMINI TENERI: A CORK-CL AD RESIDENCE

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E STL ING IN T HE COU NTRYSI DE AMO N G CAROB AND OLIVE TR E E S , AN D COMPLET E WIT H A NATUR AL S WI MMI N G POOL A ND A N ART IFIC I AL L AK E T H AT SUPPL I ES PU R IFIED WATER , N E MI N I TE NE RI IS S ICILY ’ S FIRST R E SI DE N C E CL A D E N TIRE LY WITH CORK PANE LS .

T H E PRE L I MI NA RY AND FINA L PL AN S WE R E D R AWN UP BY GIOVA NNI BENEDE T TI, AN A R CHI TECT AT ER R ANT EA R CHIT ECTUR E (SA RAH BECC HIO, PAOLO BORGHI N O ) , WH I LE THE EXECUT IVE AND ST R UCTUR AL PL A NS , TH E CHOICE OF MATER IALS , TH E D E SIGN OF THE TECHNICA L SYSTE MS , A R CHI TECTUR AL A ND STRU CTURAL D E TAI LS , F URNIS HINGS AND OUTDO O R S PAC E S , NOT TO MENTION T HE OVE R AL L PR OJECT MANAGEMENT, INVOLVE D TH E CO L L ABORATION OF A NU MBER O F LO CAL PR O F E SSIO N ALS , INCLU DING GIOR GI O S CR OFANI AN D R AFFAELE GIA NN O N E (BOTH E N GI N EER S ), A ND T HE A R C H I TECTS F R A N C E SCO GIUNTA , TOMMA S O VE R DE SCA O F T HE D E SI GN FIR M MONBOIS , AN D VIVI AN A PITROLO AND DA NILO D E MAI O O F T H E ARC HI TECTU R E FIR M DA R CH2 .

Cork gives the architectural envelope a clean, rigorous appearance that blends perfectly into the natural surroundings, while also ensuring maximum energy efficiency. The structure is made of wood with X-LAM technology, in line with the architectural preferences of the family that owns the property, who wanted a home with low energy impact, excellent acoustic insulation and a high level of seismic resistance.

As a natural, renewable raw material, wood provides a uniquely comfor-

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table habitat thanks to its high degree of air-tightness, its good thermal insulation throughout the year, its complete freedom from toxic emissions and its ability to regulate humidity effectively throughout the house, because it absorbs or releases vapour as necessary.

Architecturally, the house shows its extremely minimalist character by blending and juxtaposing materials such as wood, cork, concrete, stone and metal, whose essence is authentic and uncompromising, and by expressing the strong stylistic influence of the Bauhaus school of architecture, which the property’s owners hold in especially high regard. All of the materials used for construction purposes are left unconcealed and unadorned, so that the essence of the architectural design shows through their structural function with purity, in keeping with the principle of “less is more”. The two curved partitions made of reinforced concrete left deliberately exposed should be seen as nothing less than a sculpture that contrasts with the cork shell, the natural surroundings and the local stone, which is another key feature of the design.

Indoors, all the spaces are designed to be occupied and lived in on an everyday basis. The same applies to the furnishings, which are designed and deployed without excessive adornment, and bring materials such as wood and metal, which are used outdoors, back into the indoor environment, with the only difference that indoors they are treated with natural beeswax to embellish their surface finish.

Considerable care and attention has also gone into the interior coverings, which are overlaid with layers of jute and manually treated natural limestone, to provide a soft, distinct and welcoming appearance that works in perfect con-

PROJECTS

Location: Scicli (province of Ragusa) Material used: CORKPAN MD FACADE PANELS, thickness 4cm Tecnosugheri

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PROJECTS

trast with the industrial concrete flooring finished with a power trowel, and with the wall of the kitchen area, which is clad entirely in metal.

Every room in the house is served by a controlled mechanical ventilation system, which regulates humidity, ensures constant air changeover and delivers high air quality. The result is an ideal thermal and hygrometric balance that helps improve efficiency and save energy.

In view of the position and orientation of the house, the owners chose not to install any artificial cooling systems and opted instead to enjoy the natural ventilation afforded by the coastal location of this island home. The structure of the house is designed to benefit from additional natural air changeover thanks to the cross currents generated by the large windows in the property’s two main facades. This makes it possible to absorb the Mediterranean climate by leaving the house open, and taking shelter from the sun in the kitchen and veranda areas, without any barriers between the interior and the beauty of the natural environment outside.

The architectural layout, the position of the building, the extensive windows and the orientation of key vantage points

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are all designed to maintain visual contact with the sea and the surrounding views. Wherever you are in the house, in fact, you are transported by the natural beauty of the setting.

The design as a whole is intended to create an oasis of bio-sustainability and relaxation: the lake, the swimming pool, the garden and the surrounding greenery all follow the same philosophy of respect for nature, and integrate with each other to produce an ecosystem that serves its own needs.

As well as blending seamlessly into the garden as a whole, the lake serves the purpose of purifying the water for the swimming pool, which is a 20 x 3.10 metre corridor of water, where you can swim in total privacy and enjoy the pleasure of immersing yourself in water that has not been treated with any chemicals or other substances, and that leaves a unique sense of freshness on the skin.

The vegetation chosen to adorn the garden follows the same underlying principle as the design of the house, and was specifically chosen to avoid wasting water, by using hardy, indigenous plants, well suited to arid environments, which need little or no watering, depending on the time of year. ✕

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PROJECTS

TREEHUGGER BY MODUSARCHITECTS

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TAL I AN ARCHITECTU R E FIR M M O D USARCHIT ECTS PRES ENTS I TS REC E NTLY COMPLET ED TREEHUGGE R , T H E N EW TOURIST INFORMATION O FFI C E B U I LD I N G OF THE CITY OF BR ES SAN O N E (BO LZANO, ITALY ), A ND WINNING E N TRY O F A COMPE TITION HELD IN 2016 .

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Located just outside the historical centre of the South Tyrolean city, adjacent to the Bishop’s Palace of Bressanone, the eye-catching concrete building is the last episode in a series of “architectural homicides” dating from the 1800s up until the 1970s.

TreeHugger takes on the qualities of airiness and levity in alignment with the site’s

PROJECTS

Photo credit: Oskar Da Riz

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antecedent structures, which were dedicated to the welcoming of visitors, with their respective features of slender columns, deep loggias, and delicate overhangs.

The project raises its body on tiptoe and frees up the ground level to give it over to the city as a public space.

New visual connections are made, not only to the main building of the Bishop’s Palace, but also to the ancillary Chinese and Japanese pavilions that mark the corners of the Palace gardens.

The exotic, sinuous curves of the corner pavilions are re-interpreted in the building designed by MoDusArchitects which transforms into a new gateway for the city of Bressanone.

The site is characterized by an existing monumental tree that governs the design.

TreeHugger twists and turns around the central platanus to form an inseparable connection between nature and edifice. The visual and tactile qualities of the roughhewn walls of the bush-hammered concrete and the scaly bark of the plane-tree mimic one another in their juxtaposition.

With the tree trunk as the fulcrum, five arched spans release the building from the ground, accompanying the tree upwards

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to draw an open frame around the tree’s crown. In order to achieve the seamless, vertical surface of the outer concrete shell, the full height of the walls was cast from one flow and in successive sections to form a continuous 9-metre-high ring, within which the concrete plates were then poured.

The curvature of the walls, together with the floor slabs form a collaborative composition in which the form, the structure and the building facades become one.

The building is almost entirely glazed on the ground floor, which houses the public spaces and info booths, to allow maximum transparency and permeability. The entrance is clearly marked by the inset windows and the large overhang that cantilevers out towards the new square. The upper floor, housing the administrative offices, is closed and enigmatic in the sequence of its convex surfaces.

With its welcoming curves balanced by the decisive concrete tectonic, TreeHugger strikes up a conversation with its historical context while organically attracting passersby and visitors as a magnet devoted to the sharing of local culture. ✕

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new showroom GRESPANIA made by Fustecma

Come back with your best face! renew your showroom like never before to sell as always

COMPREHENSIVE SHOWROOM RENOVATIONS TECHNICAL AREAS - SHOWROOMS - INTERIORS STANDS - DESIGN - TAILORED EXHIBITORS

MATERIAL MIX

HISBALIT Inspired by music and the magic produced simply by the right combination of sound and silence, BLACK & WHITE is the new collection from Hisbalit’s Art Factory. It includes over twenty geometric designs created with high-quality ecological glass mosaic tiles in black and white.

The new range of surfaces takes the light and purity of white set in counterpoint to the elegance and sophistication of black. A magnetic contrast that produces, as with a piece of music, different harmonious and balanced designs. A timeless tandem, giving unmistakable personality to every space, achieving the perfect balance between the classic and the modern.

Piano, Allegro, Arpeggio, Blues, Ostinato, Sonata are just some of the names of the 22 references of the new collection from Hisbalit, with an interplay of orientation and movement, symmetries and contrasts.

Geometric motifs which, along with the rest of Hisbalit’s collections, can be used on any surface, both indoors and outdoors. The models are designed with tesserae in varying (2,3x2,3; round and hexagonal) and with a satin finish.

Easy to install on any type of surface, Hisbalit tiles require no maintenance, are easy to clean and are totally hygienic and antiallergenic. Glass, for its part, is a non-porous material with 0% absorption, resistant to chemical agents and totally inalterable over time with a life span of 30 to 40 years.

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MATERIAL MATERIAL MIX MIX

LISTONE GIORDANO Listone Giordano, the reference brand for high-end wood flooring, and Paola Lenti return to collaborate by betting on color. In fact, they present the new versions of PERIGAL, the original floor resulting from the encounter between the Umbrian company's rich knowledge of wood and the unmistakable stylistic code of the finishes of the famous designer. Inspired by a nineteenth-century mathematical theorem, Perigal is characterized by unusual geometric shapes and caressed by striking strokes of color, which leave the natural grain of the material visible. The geometric modules, developed to interpret the horizontal dimension of the floor, can now also be mounted on the wall, to become a singular boiserie. In addition to the shapes and finishes, the combination Lenti Listone Giordano focuses entirely on colors, an aspect often overlooked by wooden floors. In this way, Perigal is tinged with the newest colors Water, Graphite, Oil and Teal with a touch of joy that does not compromise the innate elegance of the product.

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OTHER MATERIAL SURFACES MIX

MISHA Misha presents “ESOTISMI”, the new wall coverings collection designed by Cristina Celestino, made in pure silk and hand-embroidered or hand-painted. Cabana, Passiflora and Formosa - the new creations evoke a daydream. All of these are a fantasy vision where an imaginary flower in loud, unnatural colours sits against flat, repeated backdrops inspired by the world of textiles: ridged lines alternate with vertical stripes, micropatterns and military designs. The collection is a completely eye-popping landscape that mixes and incorporates organic geometries and elements. The uncontrolled, blooming nature is composed, on the one hand, of fanciful mushrooms, and on the other of enormous passion flowers and passion fruit.

The whole production process of Misha’s wallcoverings is entirely natural and the Esotismi collection fully represents the attention and the awareness of the brand towards the “green” theme. The glues used are not acrylic, but natural starch based, which also allows the wallcoverings to be applied gently without the risk of damaging them once removed.

The artisans involved on the decoration process mostly employ natural pigments for the hand made decoration.

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TILE ITALIA 1/2019 MATERIAL MIX

SICIS Under the cold surface, metal hides a seductive power, more than any other material. No longer considered only for its industrial and functional use, over the years it has become a must for trendy coverings.

SICIS, primarily known for glass and marble mosaics reinterpreted innovatively, has long ago created and patented the steel and other metal mosaic and an entire collection dedicated to this: Metallismo collection.

Steel and brass moulded in an eclectic mix of shapes, sizes and finishes, with their own personality.

METALLISMO presents a variety of stylish motifs, monochromatic and essential combinations particularly suited to the canons of modern architecture.

It was created precisely to meet the needs of architectural projects where the coating plays a decisive role to realize futuristic atmospheres, technologically innovative.

Also important is the hygiene guarantee of this material, a result of its high resistance to corrosion, the surface compactness that makes it free of porosity, and, last but not least, the high bacterial removability during cleaning. These are certainly decisive arguments in the choice of covering materials, especially now.

The tesserae of Metallismo are available with different finishes in steel and brass, and in different shapes, which include square, rectangular, oval, rhomboidal and octagonal tesserae. Available also various sizes until square and rectangular slabs, and several finishes: glossy, satin and three embossed solutions. All items can be arranged in many combinations, such as interweaving, herringbone, etc. The mosaics are preassembled for quick and easy installation.

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PHOTONEWS

COSA INTERESSANTE 2 sulla quale fare il focus bla cla jbeqfewfkg w feGEEGASCfbfd -jfhdekwjfewjbfekjf ejfemfnfenbfewjbfefmdf. kjqerffhvfmhfejhfkhf,nfejnfen jfjkhefkje

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PHOTONEWS

KEBONY WOOD COMPLETES LUXURY ECO-HOTEL ON CORNISH COASTLINE Set atop the sloping Cornish coastline, Carbis Bay Hotel is an eco-friendly estate which prioritises green luxury living, tailored to holidaymakers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. From installing an on-site Energy Centre, which provides power for the hotel, spa and the variety of room types, to cladding the new beach lodges and ocean venue, part of a £15m beachfront regeneration project, in Kebony, a global leader in sustainable modified wood, the forward-thinking Carbis Bay Hotel ensures that the commitment to green living runs through all aspects of the coastal holiday resort. The family run estate, located in popular holiday-hotspot, St Ives, also ensures the maintenance of its blue flag beach, marine life and wider natural rural surroundings boasting a world-first promenade made solely from recycled plastics from the ocean.

The Energy Centre provides power for the whole site, as

well as harnessing the heat created during the production of electricity to heat a constant supply of hot water running throughout the site and its swimming pools, providing a carbon saving of approximately 70 tonnes per-annum to the environment.

Architects, The Bazeley Partnership, were careful to select innovative construction materials for the beach regeneration project that would contribute positively to the hotel’s environmental footprint; this was a significant factor in the hotel’s recent award success at the AA Hospitality Awards 2019, where the Estate won ‘Best Eco Hotel.’ Kebony wood, was chosen to clad the entire exterior, due in part to its global reputation as a leading producer of sustainable wood, and its unique aesthetic which sees the wood delicately weather and blend into the unique beauty of the surrounding area.

Developed in Norway, Kebony’s revolutionary technology is an environmentally friendly process which modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with furfuryl alcohol - an agricultural by-product. By polymerising the wood’s cell wall, the softwoods permanently take on the attributes of tropical hardwood including high durability, hardness and dimensional stability.

The revolutionary process not only provides a wealth of enhanced physical properties, but also contributes to the timber’s unique aesthetic which sees a natural silver-grey patina develop over a time.

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MATERIAL MIX

M AT E R IC D ESI GN 5 Materic Design n ovel ties for in door an d outdoor livin g.

Marble, m osaic , glass, copper an d recycled plastic form f ive contemporar y design complem ents created to sh owcase th e premium materials f rom which th ey originate.

LA CASA DI PIETRA, IL MEDITERRANEO A series of collections have been created by some Tunisian artisans with the guide of Gumdesign Gumdesign;; a design method to innovate in a sector linked to the Roman tradition. This project has been implemented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and funded by the European Union within the framework of the Programme of Support to the Competitiveness of Services (PACS).

The Triangoli collection was born from the observation of some traditional Roman mosaics present in El Jem and the Bardo Museum in Tunis; it is a first step towards the production of threedimensional objects made with mosaic tiles tiles.. The materials used are Tunisian stones - marble Thela Beige di Tunisia - and the recovery of late 19th century glazed ceramic, in a logic linked to high craftsmanship, the recovery of materials and a new expressive and productive language for local decorative arts.

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MATERIAL MIX

CIRCULA BY TOMEK RYGALIK Circula, by Polish designer Tomek Rygalik, Circula, Rygalik, is a bench created to offer a symbolic and functional space for dialogue and encourage direct social interactions. “Human beings are not intended to be a solitary species: we are social animals says Rygalik - Today everyone’s talking about distancing, but there will come a moment dedicated to recovery from all of this, both physically and relationally.”

Round in name and form, Circula is the stylistic and conceptual synthesis of the circularity of design.

Made from sustainable, durable materials, the Circula bench is designed to recover, reintegrate, and stand the test of time.

The three different versions are made of spruce or pine wood, recycled plastic, and phosphate steel.

The wood is sourced from responsibly-managed, FSC- or PEFC-certified forests. The plastic is made 100% from recycled packaging and was developed in collaboration with Boomplastic - a creative studio dedicated to plastic recycling.

The visual and tactile result of this version is the beauty of waste material: the recycled plastic remains partially transparent to highlight the coarse and colorful fragments suspended within it.

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MATERIAL MIX

DROPS: COPPER TABLES INSPIRED BY WATER Drops is a family of coffee tables in three different sizes, inspired by the unexpected, irregular shapes of water droplets on a surface.

Their soft, familiar lines embody the skilled craftsmanship and artisan know-how of De Castelli Castelli,, which has revived the traditional technique of manually hammering and shaping copper copper..

The tables, designed by italian creative duo Zanellato/Bortotto,, are thus a nod to a tradition that, Zanellato/Bortotto given a contemporary interpretation, is manifested in products that harmoniously integrate with everyday settings. The new DeNuance finish from De Castelli further enhances the copper tops, giving each piece an organic, natural look through the combination of fire, oxidation and pigments. DeNuance and Verderame breathe life into a fresh combination of tones inspired by water and the way it moves. De Castelli metals now have a new look, rich in depth and an infinite range of hues.

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MATERIAL MIX

PAVÈ STONE COLLECTION BY KREOO The Pavè Stone collection by Kreoo has always been the iconic product of the brand, in its mission to give a leading role to natural stone in design: a decisive stylistic sign, by Enzo Berti, Berti, developed and enriched over the years with new shapes and material options, becoming the flag product of the company design identity. Today it celebrates 10 years of simplicity, harmony and functionality.

Thanks to the infinite possibilities of combination and use of living spaces (indoor and outdoor), the Pavè Stone system has been selected to identify prestigious projects around the world, from the Dropbox headquarters in San Francisco to the Art Residence in Moscow, until the prestigious private residences of Cornaro Villa in Italy, luxury terrace apartments in Mumbai and private winter garden in Jeddah Saudi Arabia, just to name a few.

The Pavè collection by Kreoo is inspired by the effect of natural river water gliding over the stones of the river bed: water flows, smoothes and polishes, forming nature’s great artwork.In artwork.

In Pavè system the volumes evoke the shapes of river pebbles, exploring the expressive potential of natural elements such as marble, wood and cork in their most natural meaning, both from the aesthetic than functional point of view.

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MATERIAL MIX

YALI GLASS The Venetian Lagoon is well known as a cradle of arts and traditions that stretch back several millennia.

So it’s no coincidence that Yali Glass, a pearl of contemporary creativity, has its roots here and represents a perfect synthesis of the craftsmanship that has always been the hallmark of Murano glass,, and an extremely refined, minimalist vision glass of design with hints of Zen. Founded in Venice in 2008 by Marie-Rose Kahane,, Yali Glass is now extending its wide Kahane range of table accessories and complements with its first collection of furniture products, in the form of the Vignole and Torcello coffee tables, based on a perfect balance between traditional and contemporary design input, and creativity and fine craftsmanship.

The two tables – Torcello and Vignole – share a glass top in gradations of green that transition into to grey and transparent, and have a rounded, sinuous shape, that pays tribute to the landscape of the Venetian Lagoon Lagoon,, where small islands, shorelines and canals create irregularly shaped basins of water. Their silhouette is also reprised in the vases adorned with complex floral decorations developed according to the ancient Japanese principle of Moribana, which celebrates the symbiosis between mankind and nature.

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District DESIGN CONTEMPORANEO E DETTAGLI UNICI, IL PIACERE DI PROGETTARE CO CONTEMPORARY DESIGN AND UNIQUE DETAILS, AN THE PLEASURE TH OF D DESIGNING

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