Considered to be a pioneer of the post-modernism architectural movement, Michael Graves, FAIA, has been creating signature buildings around the world for decades. His meticulous attention to detail and appreciation for natural building materials are evident in all of his designs.

At Villa della Torre di Fumane, a 16th-century structure outside of Verona, Italy, the tranquil settings of the courtyard and garden spaces lie in stark contrast to the “story” being told by the architecture. The space, which uses local stone in a range of different applications, represents a tale of Biblical proportions - at least according to some historians.

In July, an article appeared in The New York Times that connected granite countertops with high levels of radon -- causing quite a stir among the general public.

In speaking with Dick Clark, principal of Dick Clark Architecture in Austin, TX, it is clear that the architect has developed an interest in finding new and innovative applications in stone, while still being inspired by historical uses of the material. Clark's work has included multi-family housing and developments, interior design and more than 150 private residences, and he is perhaps best known for his award-winning restaurants and entertainment venues in Austin's downtown Warehouse District and throughout Texas.

While stone and tile have been known to create a certain feel for a space, the use of innovative decorative tile products offer architects and designers the opportunity to really incorporate material that truly reflects the setting in which they are creating. Whether designing a residence to reflect the hobbies of the homeowner, or using interesting materials to capture the allure of a commercial setting, the decorative tile and mosaic options in today's market provide endless choices.

While the use of natural stone and tile continue to be mainstays when it comes to hospitality design, it seems architects and designers are considering more than just aesthetics when making their material selections. Although thought and planning are given to creating attractive spaces within hotels or restaurants, today's designs extend beyond developing an eye-pleasing environment. They are about creating an overall quality experience for patrons, which encompasses aesthetics, function and comfort.

The variety of decorative tiles being produced continues to provide architects and designers with unlimited design options. The following is a collection of some of the newest product lines in today's market:

Technology and creativity are two of the driving forces behind product development, and judging by the stone and tile collections that have been introduced this year, manufacturers have been diligently working to create unique product lines that intrigue and inspire architects and designers. An assortment of the newest stone and tile products to hit the market were on display at two large exhibitions that took place this spring -- The Kitchen/Bath Industry Show (K/BIS), which was held at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL, and Coverings, a stone and tile exhibition held at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL.

Back in March, I was fortunate enough to be a part of a guided quarry tour in Texas, which was hosted by the Marble Institute of America (MIA). This was the third MIA-hosted trip I have taken in the past year, and at the conclusion of each tour, I always walk away with a sense of awe.

Located just several miles from the city of San Sebastián in Spain's Basque country is Chillida-Leku -- a sculpture museum paying tribute to the work of one of the great 21st-century sculptors, Eduardo Chillida. But this museum, which sits within a forest filled with Oak and Beech trees, varies drastically from typical art institutions. Large sculptural works -- made of materials such as marble, granite and Corten steel -- stretch high into the sky and are displayed throughout the sprawling grounds. And while these works are intriguing and awe-inspiring enough, another attraction on the site is a 16th-century stone farmhouse, which the artist restored himself and which houses its own collection of artwork.