As we have discussed in past issues of Contemporary Stone & Tile Design, consumers have become quite savvy in their tastes.

Located about 40 miles from Florence, Italy, In the Tuscan Countryside, the medieval city of Lucignano offers an unspoiled glimpse into the classic stone architecture of the period

For almost as long as he can remember, Charles Rabinovitch of C.M. Rabinovitch/Architects in New York wanted to be an architect when he grew up.  He was first inspired at the age of nine when he visited an exhibit on the work of renowned French architect Le Corbusier.   

While stone craftsmanship is still held in high regard today, the methods of producing the finished stonework has changed dramatically over the decades. Advancements in technology have enabled stone fabricators to mass-produce tiles, architectural details and customized pieces more efficiently and quickly.

Since founding his own firm in 1983, Victor Saroki, FAIA, has seen rapid growth in the architectural profession. Over the past two-plus decades, Victor Saroki & Associates Architects, PC, has evolved from a small residentially focused firm in the Detroit, MI, area to a diversified, multi-disciplinary architectural practice.

After enduring decades of wear and tear, a 1914 building in Fort Worth, TX, had its interior marble architecture revitalized to reflect its original design

The variety of mosaic shapes, colors and sizes on today's market allows designers and architects to create a space unique to a client's personality

Today's interior designs are incorporating a range of stone and tile to develop comfortable yet classy personal and public spaces - relying on products ranging from simple large-format beige tile to iridescent glass mosaic accents

In putting together this issue of Contemporary Stone & Tile Design, my staff and I went through the usual process of reviewing the photo selections for the issue. And during this stage of production, it occurred to me that the use of stone and tile can literally transport one back to any given era of design; whether it be classic, modern, contemporary, retro or ethnic.

While earth tones remain a staple in today's designs, consumers are also desiring stone and tile products that stir interest and bring a bit of pizzazz to both personal and public spaces