Tile of Spain Companies Present Latest Designs During Record-Breaking CEVISAMA
Vives’ Resort Collection
CEVISAMA, the International Fair for Ceramic Tiles and Bathroom Furnishings, held its record breaking 37th edition from January 28th to February 1st, 2019 at the Feria Valencia center in Valencia, Spain. 542 Spanish exhibitors showcased their latest products and innovations to over 94,000 industry professionals from more than 65 countries.
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY
During his introduction at CEVISAMA, Vicente Nomdedeu, the president of The Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association (ASCER), outlined the 2018 production, sales and exports figures that reflect the strength of Spain’s industrial sector.
The Spanish tile industry reached similar levels of success of those obtained in 2017 with overall sales increasing by 2%. With almost 75% of all sales made abroad, Spain currently exports to 187 countries worldwide with a total export growth of 1% since 2017. Particularly noteworthy is the sharp hike in US sales (+11.8%), which ranks second on the list of Tile of Spain’s export markets. The American continent accounts for 18.3% of total exports.
FEATURED TRENDS FOR 2019
The 37th edition of CEVISAMA saw a noticeable shift in ceramic tile trends. New designs allow for a myriad of possibilities for walls and floors, resulting in strikingly different offerings, combined with the functional characteristics that make ceramic tiles a favorite among users. The following provides a brief overview of some of the new trends and innovations showcased by Tile of Spain USA’s featured companies at CEVISAMA 2019:
 |
| Black Flamingo Collection by Bestile |
Color and Movement: Bright hues complemented by rhythmic textures are making its way back into the forefront of design. From colorful murals to grid-like patterns, the Strike collection from Aparici, Black Flamingo collection from Bestile and Habitat collection from Equipe combine desirable shades and textures for a standout look.
Cement Tile Reproductions: Inspired by the traditional hydraulic floor, the Havana collection by Roca Tile, Make-Up collection from Rocersa and Dalia by Oneker are the perfect accent to any space. The traditional patterns lend unique color and design that enhance any project with its decorative elements.
 |
| Calcutta Gold Collection by Azteca |
Dramatic Marble Veining: Marble looks are back once again, but this time with bold veining that allows for a design as elegant as it is dramatic. With a variety of size formats and finishes, Calcatta Gold from Azteca, the Laurent Collection from Museum and Ascale by Tau offer endless design possibilities.
Handcrafted and Artisan: Traditional designs with a modern makeover, the Naïve series by Decocer, Maranta by Keraben, and Tranpani by Metropol bring in natural colors that are warm and inviting with special decos that create cheerful and dynamic settings. Uneven surfaces are strongly evocative of bygone times and are enhanced by visuals that are updated for a modern touch.
 |
| Whistler Collection by Peronda |
Innovative Wood Looks: Wood looks are seeing a necessary revival with the Woodland series by Cevica, Whistler series by Peronda and Robur series from Saloni. The new wood looks created a lived-in feeling that brings out the unique beauty of each space it graces, while also allowing for a sense of continuity.
Stone Imitations: Ranging from clean and neutral to weathered and worn, stone looks are the best bet for both interior and exterior projects that require the durability of porcelain. The Khan series by Casainfinita, Cements collection by Ceramica Mayor and Natura collection by Apavisa all bring much needed depth to walls and floors.
 |
| Piastrella by Natucer |
Subway Tiles: First appearing in New York City in the early 1900’s, subway tile has quickly grown into one of the world’s favorite design elements. The Piastrella collection by Natucer, Riad collection by Harmony and Hanami collection by Vives take traditional subway tiles one step further with vibrant colors, mixed finishes, intricate patterns and eye-catching reliefs.
TRANS-HITOS EXHIBIT
The Trans-Hitos Exhibition of Ceramics for Architecture celebrated its 15th anniversary at CEVISAMA in a series of ground-breaking, transgressive projects proudly termed “Agora.” The annual Trans-Hitos exhibit, sponsored by Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association (ASCER) and coordinated by the Habitat Area of the Instituto de Tecnología Cerámica (ITC), was made up of 5 unique, yet connected, spaces that spanned across 6,000 square feet of the main entrance of the show.
 |
The Greek word “Agora”, or open space meeting ground, is reminiscent of the central public places in Greek city-states where citizens gathered to meet, learn and grow in the same way attendees gather year after year at CEVISAMA. A precursor of urban development, Agora allows for the analysis, study and conclusion of ceramics as a great technical and aesthetic ally. More information on the 2019 Trans-Hitos exhibit is available here.