March 20, 2024

Tile of Spain manufacturers returned to Valencia, Spain, last month for the landmark 40th edition of Cevisama, the International Fair for Ceramic Tiles and Bathroom Furnishings. This year’s fair was held from February 26 – March 1, 2024, at Feria Valencia, located in Valencia’s center city. The anticipation surrounding the 2024 edition of Cevisama was tangible, as over 70,000 industry professionals from across the globe navigated the exhibition floor to explore the latest innovations from over 500 exhibitors. Throughout the four-day event, Spanish tile manufacturers showcased ground-breaking advancements in production methods and technologies, unveiling a new era of ceramic excellence. Below is a preview of the pioneering technologies and trends highlighted by select companies participating in Tile of Spain USA’s prestigious “Passport to Creativity” tour:

Primal Instinct

The evolution of ceramic production technology is a testament to the artistry and innovation of modern tile manufacturing. Spanish companies are leading the industry with high-definition and multi-step printing systems to encapsulate the essence of organic matter and transport them upon ceramic surfaces. This technological leap has given rise to new collections characterized by intricate wood grain patterns, hyper-realistic marble veining, rugged natural stone textures and even the gentle movement of water. These elemental embellishments forge authentic reliefs that are virtually indistinguishable from its origin counterparts.

Iridescent Influx

Hints of metallics and prismic overlays are conjuring a newfound sense of magic among emerging ceramic collections. These soft, but striking details are achieved through novel printing methods that cast a shimmering, rainbow-like effect on the tiles. Whether used as an accent or installed as stand-alone cladding, these pieces offer a distinct visual experience, as the chromatic brilliance of each tile transforms with varying degrees of light and vantage points.

Feeling Blue

A subtle yet significant shift is rising within this year’s dominating ceramic colorway. While muted neutrals continue to hold sway, there is a noticeable gravitational pull towards shades of blue. (Photo above is Deco Allure from Gayafores.) From deep navy and warm teal to supple aqua, ceramic tiles touched by this serene tonal range evoke an emotional response as they set the foundation for calm and tranquil atmospheres, indoors and out. Responding to the allure of azure, manufacturers are introducing a diverse array of blue tiles in an assortment of formats, finishes, textures and patterns.

Lightly Glazed

Spanish manufacturers are experimenting with new ceramic fields like never before as they adopt new “selective” glazing styles. This departure from traditional uniform glossing entails the careful application of glazes or glues to a particular area of the tile and re-firing at lower temperatures to achieve the desired effect. The juxtaposition of matte or natural finishes with strategically placed notes of glaze creates a kinetic interplay of light, shadow and depth.

Brick by Brick

Renowned for its classical appeal, the subway tile has witnessed a revival in recent years. As ceramic design ventures into a new era, this iconic format is being reimagined with a distressed brick-like veneer that exudes industrial charm. These tiles replicate the architectural appeal of traditional bricks with their tactile irregularity, Earthy hues and geometric draw.

Undulating Tendencies

Curved surfaces are making a splash in the realm of interior design, with gentle contours inspired by movements found in nature. Ceramics etched with deep grooves, structured fluting and beveled details subtly ebb and flow, permeating environments in a wave-like pattern. Beyond adding visual intrigue, these tiles enhance the overall optics and acoustics of a space, establishing a harmonious blend of form and function.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Tile of Spain