By Louis Iannaco
Achieving style and design through state-of-the-art technology has been the goal of tile manufacturers for the last decade or so. While not much has changed on that front, one growing trend that can be thrown into the 21st century mix is the advent of green, not as a tile color but as an environmentally friendly attribute.

So it is with an emphasis on earth-friendly, as well as larger formats, different textures and more innovative designs than ever, that the ceramic tile industry struts its stuff heading into autumn.

Daltile

New from Daltile is Stone Radiance, which combines the varied color tones of natural marble and travertine with sleek glass tile, the most popular colors from Daltile’s Maracas Glass and Glass Reflections product lines, noted Lori Kirk-Rolley, senior marketing director. Stone Radiance is suitable for walls and backsplashes in both residential and commercial settings, as well as exterior walls in freezing and non-freezing climates.

Fidenza is a glazed porcelain floor and ceramic wall tile with the sophisticated look of natural stone, she said. “The collection’s three earthy colors feature medium shade variation and visual movement within each tile, further enhancing the look of natural stone.” Fidenza is suitable for floors, walls, backsplashes and pool linings in both residential and commercial settings, as well as exterior floors and walls.

Mannington

This fall Mannington is introducing four porcelain tile patterns and accent pieces. Foliage takes its inspiration from the subtle textures and colors in nature, which change with the seasons. Symphony blends soft, subtle hues into a well-orchestrated combination of color and texture. Patchwork offers a rustic visual that’s refined by a tailored, square-edge structure. Metro’s urban design has the look of cool, colored cement.

“We have designed these introductions around several trends we’ve seen,” said Jim Dougherty, director, ceramic business. “American styling is No. 1. Consumers want the European look and feel that tile offers, but in colors, sizes and designs that are appropriate for American home décor. Size and color options for a custom look are also important. No matter the price point, the ‘cookie cutter’ look is out.”

Mohawk

Offering the latest in digital imaging technology, the 2009 introduction of Gravura has been openly received by retailers, said Ben McNabb, brand manager, hard surface. “The digital imaging, known as Ink Jet, is the most extraordinary printing technology ever developed in the industry. Each tile features a 3D appearance of natural slate. No two tiles are exactly the same. Gravura is a true differentiator giving consumers the best of both worlds: the beautiful look of slate with the luxury of glazed porcelain.”

Also introduced in the 2009 ceramic launch was the addition of Sorriso, a glazed porcelain with the rustic look of natural stone; Caridosa, a glazed ceramic floor and wall combination emulating natural stone; and the value-priced Pantego Bay.

Mohawk this fall is launching a ceramic promotion for retail sales associates and will feature a full range of products.

Shaw

According to Jason Kyzer, the mill’s tile and stone product category manager, consumers still want style and design, but they also want added value. To that end, key products for Shaw this fall are Brushstone Lunar and Matrix. “Both porcelains have great colors and style at a good value,” he said. “Plus, they are made with 40% recycled content. These products have been successful due to the fact they are not only highly styled, but affordable and designed for floors, bathrooms, backsplashes, etc., and have accents to create a custom look.”

Also new from Shaw Tile is Glass Essentials, a “dynamic design in glass offering high style in six gem-like glass colors,” Kyzer said. “Use it indoors or out, for accents or entire walls, or in combination with other types of tile. It provides a strong architectural element that can be contemporary or traditional, intricate or dynamic.”