Las Vegas—Now that SURFACES 2011 and StonExpo/Marmomacc have ended, it’s a good time to reflect on the general trends that were evident on the show floor.
For one thing, wood floors remain as popular as ever, but manufacturers are looking to the past for inspiration, showing such styles as parquet flooring and wide-plank products. Wide planks are almost impossible to get these days, plus the boards have a tendency to warp. But manufacturers have solved that problem with engineered flooring that is more stable and offers the same look.
Another trend, which has been hot for some time, is mosaic tiles made from a variety of media on one sheet. Manufacturers are using remnant pieces to construct sheets that feature marble, metal, glass, and even wood. These products offer a different way to spice up a backsplash.
And finally, the European influence in ceramic tile cannot be overstated. Styles and looks that started in Italy and Spain, such as large formats, bright colors, and ceramic that looks like real wood, have migrated to the U.S. in a big way. One manufacturer rep says she expects this will continue for the foreseeable future.
Here are some cool flooring (and non-flooring) products from the final day of the show.
Learn more about markets featured in this article: Las Vegas, NV.
