WRITER | KRISTINA PANZERA
PHOTO| CIOT
There was a time not long ago when ceramic and stone products were solely about functionality and durability. Today, they have become fashion statements, elevating a home’s décor with unprecedented character and elegance. Combining natural elements with ultra-stylish looks, today’s ceramic and stone products create artful, one-of-a-kind masterpieces that stand the test of time.
As an industry leader, Ciot has unveiled these top tile and stone trends for 2020:
Tile Trends
Eye-catching color: The year ahead will be about color, from pale pinks and minty greens to punches of indigo blue, forest green, burgundy, and black. Still, warmer pastels remain popular for a more neutral, muted decor.
Striking textures, patterns, and finishes: Taking center stage are imitation cement tiles featuring colorful patterns, while neutral textures will bring a touch of Mediterranean heat or bohemian style to the home. Tone-on-tone textures will be increasingly popular for floor tiles, as will bright, glossy tiles where you can ‘feel’ the brush strokes.
Dynamic shapes: Compelling shapes – from fish scales to diamonds and hexagons – are gaining traction as a fun, free-spirited way to elevate a room. Computer-generated 3D effects will also create complex tile designs that play with light and shadows for futuristic décor palettes.
Super-sized tiles: When it comes to tiles in 2020, bigger is better. The new standard is 24 by 24 inches, with large 24 by 48-inch rectangular tiles gaining traction for upscale looks. Longer, wider planks will steal the spotlight for flooring and can be used on walls to create a sleek, modern vibe.
Metallics: Metal finishes will be increasingly stylish, with natural gold, copper, and brass highlights creating one-of-a-kind shiny, reflective surfaces. Primarily used as wall coverings, deep metallics exude a raw, organic feel. Neutral-toned metal finishes will continue trending for floors.
Distressed looks: Distressed looks continue to hold appeal for both floors and walls, imitating the look of old marble floors worn by years of foot traffic and creating an air of old-world charm and craftsmanship.
Stone Trends
Stone wrapping: Elegant and sophisticated stone slabs will envelope entire rooms, creating an inviting, unique décor. From floor-to-ceiling stone slabs on walls to kitchen islands to stairways and floors, stone delivers a striking, cocooning ambiance.
Color infusion: Warm whites are no longer monotone and flat but contain lively textures in hints of gray or gold. Rosé, burgundy, jade green, and icy blue return as light and colorful choices, and black will become in vogue, particularly with white and gold veining.
Brighter, bolder veins: While white marble with light gray veining will always be a classic choice, stronger marble colors with active veins of wine red, emerald green, and bright blue are starting to steal the show. Rather than hanging expensive artwork, these surfaces are works of art themselves.
Natural richness: Think honed surfaces and finishes that resemble raw materials and radiate the richness of nature. Leathered marble, terrazzo, and concrete looks are also becoming increasingly popular for their moody gray vibe.
