Earlier this month my FL design team dropped by the annual Coverings tradeshow to take a look at the latest and great offerings tile manufacturers are showcasing to industry professionals. Below are the three trends our team felt dominated the show, and how we envision these show stopping surfaces could be utilized in your space.

Focus on Florals

In a post pandemic world, biophilic design, the concept of increasing an occupant’s connection to the natural environment, has become a key focus in design. As we all emerged from our homes with a greater appreciation for the outdoors, and a new work from home lifestyle, homeowners have begun gravitating toward warmer color palettes and to employ naturalistic materials for the spaces they now spend so much time in. By far, the most prevalent trend at the show was the use of floral-patterned surfaces.  This flurry of florality spanned the gamut from glorious to gaudy providing us with OOOOHHHHHS,  AAAAHHHHHS, and Oh Mys!  If you are looking to welcome this horticultural trend into your home, select one with staying power and timeless design.  These oversized Deco slabs would be stunning in an entry, atrium, or surrounding a soaking tub.  

Large and in Charge

There seems to be a competition to create impossibly large format tiles with unbelievably naturalistic patterns.  The scope spans from natural stone look materials that resemble onyx or marble, to unique and bold book matched options that certainly draw their inspiration from a Rorschach inkblot test or kaleidoscope. These statement pieces come at a price but they offer the drama needed for that special space in your home. Consider utilizing these beauties for a floor to ceiling fireplace installation or magnificent main shower. 

 

Tactile Texture 

For many years manufacturers have offered tile with the illusion of texture but this year they have upped their game with a treasure trove of trompe l’oeil.  Textures are reminiscent of rippling water, dappled meadows, sheer cliffs, and plaited hair.  These textures beg to be touched and provide a visceral return to the natural world.  While heavier textures are best left to walls, this universally pleasing and sure to stay trend has innumerable applications.  Back splashes, bathrooms, and fireplace surrounds would all benefit from a textured tile.

 

Whichever trends you decide to follow or eschew, remember to stay true to your design vision.  Come back and see us next year as we check in with Coverings 2024 for the latest and greatest in tile and stone technology!

 

Till next time, 

Happy Designs!