I recently returned from an awe-inspiring trip to Italy, where I had the privilege of attending one of the largest tile exhibitions in the world, held in Bologna—a city that pulsates with history and gourmet traditions. As someone who’s been a mosaic designer for years, I’ve always found the architecture and streets of Bologna to be an endless source of creativity. The city’s grandeur, combined with its rich textures and ancient structures, speaks through every stone and archway, and inspires my designs in profound ways.
Bologna is not just about the art and architecture; it is the food capital of Italy, after all. Walking through the streets, you cannot help but notice how the culture of food merges with the design. The same care and passion that go into their world-famous dishes are reflected in the city’s historic tiles and buildings. It's a place where the past meets the future, and that’s exactly what the annual tile show, Cersaie, embodies.
The exhibition, which draws inspiration from Milan Design Week, features some of the oldest tile manufacturers in the world, some of which have been around for centuries. These factories continue to reinvent themselves and inspire with their dedication to their craft. They blend ancient techniques and with modern trends, creating pieces that are not just products, but stories. It is like watching them take the soul of Italy’s design heritage and fire it into their kilns, resulting in jaw-dropping innovations.
Being a veteran of these shows, I have stood on both sides of the table. I know all too well the challenges of being in a booth for 10-12 hours a day, presenting designs with enthusiasm while your legs are screaming for a break. These shows are no small feat and require stamina, both physical and mental. When I walk through the exhibit, I can easily cover 8–10 miles a day, while my brain works just as hard, analyzing and comparing every new tile. And yet, no matter how exhausting it is, I find myself invigorated by the sheer creativity and innovation surrounding me every time.
What really stood out to me this time was the growing focus on natural materials - or at least, on tiles that look natural and are sustainable. We’re moving away from the throwaway culture and embracing a future where recycled materials and durability shine. New lines that reflect this shift are Travertino Antico, Roma, Serene Rosa Perlino, natural stone mosaics, and dimensional tiles such as Adobe Deco, Homey, Journey, Punto, and Rombini. Designers are clearly moving toward sustainable choices, and it’s a shift that resonates with the artisanal world of tile and mosaic.
Another noticeable shift was the embrace of imperfection, a concept that’s gaining traction across design disciplines. Think Wabi-Sabi, the Japanese philosophy that finds beauty in the imperfect. Organic shapes have made their way into tile designs—patterns like Bon Bon mosaics and the handmade look of Adobe porcelain tiles are perfect examples. The aesthetic is raw, authentic, and unapologetically imperfect, celebrating the beauty of things that are natural and handcrafted.
Speaking of Japanese influence, I can’t stop talking about Katsumi - a kit-kat mosaic that mimics traditional Japanese glazes. The intricate, handmade look brings a sense of artistry that feels both ancient and fresh. Another new collection, Nordic, is a porcelain wood slatted look that reflects the influence of Scandinavian design. This material allows designers to bring warmth, texture, and simplicity to a space, especially in wet areas like shower walls. This fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design, also known as Japandi, creates a tranquil, minimalist atmosphere that perfectly balances warmth and functionality.
Of course, no trip would be complete without bringing some of these incredible finds back to share with you. I’m thrilled to introduce two new lines: Brisa and Mira. Brisa is a small-format porcelain wall tile, with a vibrant, gradient color palette and glossy finish that gives each piece its own uniqueness. Mira, on the other hand, is more subdued—its earthy tones and cotto-like appearance create a calming, rustic atmosphere, perfect for anyone who is after a more grounded, organic look. While I’m a big fan of 8x8 squares, the 2x12 planks stand out and demand attention.
These collections are now available for preview at our Portland showroom and I can’t wait for you to experience them before they make their way to select dealers and architectural libraries. Also, feel free to reach out to our Territory Managers or A+D Manager to schedule a private showing. Whether you are in love with bold, vibrant designs or are leaning toward something more understated and natural, there is something for everyone in our new collections.
So come by, let’s explore these designs together, and bring a little bit of Bologna inspiration and beauty into your own projects!
Featured Tile: Rombini
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The Basilica of Santo Stafano
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