Contemporary Stone & Tile Design

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With the approach of summer comes the close of another trade show “season.” And while we are in an economic recession, the final results of these stone and tile exhibitions were not all doom and gloom. While in many cases traffic was slower than usual, and there was a noticeable downsize of many exhibition booths, some optimism remained among those in attendance.

CLEVELAND, OH -- The Marble Institute of America (MIA) has issued a call for entries for the prestigious 2009 Pinnacle Awards Competition, which includes the recently added Grande Pinnacle Award. The Grande Pinnacle Award will be awarded to the best winning entry across all categories.

Whether it is a residential or commercial application, stone and tile products are contributing to innovative and timeless exterior designs.

While trends in kitchens and baths will continue to follow lifestyle changes, stone and tile remain materials of choice in these areas.

Now stabilized after a seven-year-long engineering project, a detailed conservation effort is being made to restore the stonework of one of Italy’s most enduring architectural icons.

The 27th edition of the Cevisama trade fair was recently held in Valencia, Spain, and tile manufacturers came armed with their newest developments to display for the masses.

This past February, I had the opportunity to be a guest of Tile of Spain on a press tour to Cevisama - the International Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings Show - in Valencia, Spain. A division of the Trade Commission of Spain, the organization promotes Tile of Spain-branded manufacturers, and the primary purpose of this trip was to create awareness of these products.

The 26th edition of Cersaie, the international exhibition of ceramic tiles and bathroom furnishings, recently took place in Bologna, Italy. Although the event timeframe was pressed against a world financial crisis, attendance figures did not disappoint nor did the efforts brought forth by those exhibiting.

Designing for the hospitality sector requires some panache and innovation.  The majority of patrons who visit establishments such as hotels, restaurants, spas and golf resorts are splurging on themselves and expect a certain level of quality, including the décor.

Born in Basel, Switzerland, Fiona Swarovski has worked to create her own niche in the design sector while also serving as a worldwide ambassador for Swarovski International’s image and style.