While each issue of Contemporary Stone & Tile Design has something fresh to offer, I always find our summer issue to be particularly fun to put together. For as long as I can remember, this issue has always been dedicated to “decorative and glass tile.”
As I walked through the halls of Cevisama last month, I was struck by all the textured surfaces now offered on tiles. Clearly, advances in technology continue - giving tile products strong definition and personality.
Featured on the cover of this issue of Contemporary
Stone & Tile Design is the inside of D’Espresso - a coffee shop that has
created quite a buzz in New York City.
Each fall, Contemporary Stone & Tile Design
includes a focus on mosaic design. Considered to be an ancient art form,
mosaics still remain a popular choice for residential as well as commercial
applications.
Now that summer has officially arrived, many homeowners are utilizing their backyards as additional living spaces. Weekend barbecues, pool parties and other events are often hosted by homeowners who want their guests to experience a comfortable and inviting outdoor area.
It has been said that it only takes one good idea. And that was exactly the case for Ellen Blakeley of Ellen Blakeley Studio in San Francisco, CA, who was a pioneer in using recycled material to make glass tiles.
It is becoming apparent that “green design” is not a passing trend. More and more, words such as “sustainable,” “LEED certified,” “eco-friendly” and “carbon foot print” are being used to describe the construction of new buildings and homes. According to a statement recently released by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), local communities in the U.S. are expanding their green building programs despite the economic downturn.
Although times remain tough and it seems like everyone is still “pinching pennies,” there are some people out there who are spending money. While they might not be making extravagant purchases or splurging on luxurious vacations, they are choosing to spend their earnings wisely by investing in their homes. Taking the time now to renovate a bathroom or replace outdated kitchen countertops for ones made of granite or quartz will only add value to a residence and pay off in the long run.
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