Chicago’s Iconic Merchandise Mart

NeoCon is always a favorite stop on the tradeshow circuit for Tile of Spain. While our space isn’t a huge pavilion as it is at shows like Coverings and AIA, NeoCon is our chance to bring together examples of the latest innovation and technology from Spain. Through a sophisticated display of a few dozen individual products, all from different manufacturers, we try to offer a glimpse of what the design world can gain through taking a solid look at Spanish tile.

So today is the last day of the show. Interior designers and architects from around the country are still moving through the 7.5 miles of hallways at Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart combing through the latest products and programs to discern what’s hot, what’s not and how these thing will play into the trends scene for fall.

For people who visited the Tile of Spain boot there were some definite favorites when it came to products:

First, people were delighted to see that a tile doesn’t have to be square. Or flat. Azulcascais Slim from Land Porcelanico features slim tile technology at its finest. Azulcascais from Tile of Spain branded manufacturer Land Porcelanico takes its name and inspiration from the natural stone, typically found in Portugal. Land and sister company Ceramicas Aparici are pioneering the use of slim tile to explore the third dimension. Land’s basketweave wall has made a dramatic impact showing the extreme possibilities of the material. At only 4.8 mm, this curved, plank-like tile allows the ultimate creativity in a wall accent. This rectified porcelain tile is double-fired for ultimate durability and available in formats 8.7” x 34.5” and in colors Marfil, Gris, Brown and Negro.

Land Porcelanico, a Tile of Spain branded manufacturer, explores another dimension in porcelain with its Azulcascais series.

People were amazed to see the realism that can be achieved by digital printing technology from so many of the manufacturers. Very good example in El Barco‘s Orion Series, created using their CeramINK technology. Would you believe this is a flat surface? No porous grooves or divets as you might see in a real species of stone. The look and “texture” is accomplished entirely with digital printing.

Tile of Spain branded manufacturer El Barco uses its CeramINK digital printing technology in the Orion Series.

Another favorite was Keraben‘s products showing its ability to selectively apply a high-gloss polish to specific parts of the design while also adding intricate detail – such as floral pinpoints that emulate embroidery. Or more modern and whimsical ovals.

Keraben showed off its ability to combine the newest technology to create interesting texture-on-texture in delicate and whimsical detail.