CERASPAÑA/20 - Tile of Spain

CERASPAÑA/20the technical properties at the back of the tilesuch as fixing systems, which are ever moresophisticated and make the tile as easy aspossible to install.Continues on page 6...CERAMIC TILES DO NOT HAVE TO BE FLAT.THE NEW THREE DIMENSIONAL COLLECTIONS PROVETHE POINTINALCO; Lounge SeriesThe ceramic tiles available from Spain range from tiles with very sharp, almost sculptural relief, to pieces with more subtle relief work.5

CERASPAÑA/20NATUCER; Spainterior Series, Formats CollectionThree-dimensional ceramic tiles are a very successful choice for covering a drawing room or bedroom wall in the way of a mural.Who then is the principal audience for this newtrend? Mainly, it is young people who like tolive surrounded by elegance and comfort. Thisis an innovative, young audience that knowstheir mind, that follows trends but is not aslave to fashions, seeing in them instead anopportunity to embellish their immediate surroundings.There are many positive features to bear inmind. First, the essential properties of ceramic– versatility and resistance to wear andtear and to the passage of time – that makethem an unbeatable solution to the demandsof interior design.THREE-DIMENSIONALITY,COLOR AND SHINEARE THE THREE BASICBUILDING BLOCKSFOR GIVING LIFE TOCOVERINGSSecond, their vast decorative potential.Compared with other types of coveringssuch as paint and wallpaper, ceramic tilesafford the possibility of adding volume to asurface in a controlled, original way. Tilescreate an architectural, less dull look that isUNICER; Cubic Series6

CERASPAÑA/20SPANISH TILE INDUSTRY SET TO EXHIBITAT CERSAIE AS LARGEST INTERNATIONALPRESENCE90 TILE OF SPAIN MEMBER COMPANIES TO PARTICIPATE IN ITALIAN TRADE FAIRAround 90 companies from Spain’s ceramictile industry will be exhibiting as a groupand with the support of ICEX (the SpanishInstitute for Foreign Trade) at the twenty sixthCERSAIE fair, which takes place in Bologna,Italy, from September 30 th to October 4 th . Thisgroup of exporters will once again comprisethe most numerous foreign delegation at theItalian event.A total of 983 exhibitors will be participatingin CERSAIE 2008, with the majority belongingto the ceramic tile and bathroom equipmentsectors. They will be occupying a totalof 1,723,000 square feet (160,000 m 2 ) ofexhibition space and more than 54% of theinternational exhibitors will be from Spain.The substantial industry representation atCERSAIE confirms that Spain’s exports ofceramic tile are very high.The package of promotional activity that AS-CER is rolling out for this year’s CERSAIE includes,as it has in previous years, the publicationof a catalog of exhibitors that will containinformation about each of the Spanish companiespresent at the fair. 13,000 copies ofthe catalog are being printed and they will bedistributed before the show to professionals inmore than 60 countries.More than half of the non Italian exhibitors at CERSAIE are Spanish.As well as the special issue of Domus, AS-CER has booked two advertorials in Italian trademagazines Tile Italia and Tile International.Including information on Spain’s tile sector inthe CERSAIE specials and the leading Italiantile trade publications, means that the latestdevelopments in the industry will be broughtto notice by prospective visitors (both Italianand international). The advertorial will reinforceeach exhibitors’ promotional initiatives byfeaturing images of products and news abouttheir companies.DOMUS MAGAZINE TO PUBLISH SPECIALCERAMIC TILE ISSUEAs something new and exceptional, prestigiousinternational design and architecturemagazine, Domus, will be publishing a specialissue of the magazine, in collaboration withTile of Spain. The special issue comes out inOctober and will center on the applications forSpanish ceramic tiles in architecture.In addition, advertisements have been scheduledto appear in Interni and Abitare. These willbe in line with the current “Be Creative” advertisingcampaign that aims to raise awarenessof the multiple applications of ceramic tilesamongst specifiers.ASCER will as usual be manning an informationoffice where visitors will be able to obtaininformation on Spain’s ceramic tile industry,companies and products. The office will beOffice n o .1 on the 1 st floor of Pavilion 36 (accessthrough Via Michelino Hall)DATES ARE SET FORCEVISAMA’09: FEBUARY 10-13The 27 th edition of CEVISAMA will take placein Valencia February 10-13, 2009. Nextyear, for the first time, the show will runfrom Tuesday to Friday. It will be openfrom 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. with no Saturdayopening9

CERASPAÑA/20TILE RITUAL SPACEHÉCTOR RUIZ PRESENTS FIRST“TILE HOUSE” AT CASA DECOR MADRIDIn the words of Héctor Ruiz-Velázquez, thearchitect responsible for designing the “TileRitual” space, architecture is the only tool thathas the capacity to break habits and changethe things we do on a daily basis.”The Tile House was a project of extraordinarysize that greeted visitors to Casa Décor asthey arrived and featured a number of livingspaces. Standing 33 feet (10 m) high, it was aunique building in the context of Casa Decor.The “Tile Ritual” space exuded the warmth and vibrancy of a natural material. Ceramic tiles are, in essence, earth, water and fire.10

CERASPAÑA/20The ceramic tile surfaces in the house lent the space a warm, magical atmosphere.“Tile Ritual” was a prototype house; the conceptand basic purpose was to break withpredictable layouts based on what was standardin the past. The day to day things wedo have lost all sense of ceremony. Currentroutine is a consequence of the way peoplelived in the past and of obsolete design. Thishouse set out to foster new routines thatcould become rituals, such as the ritual ofgoing into the home as a place to withdrawand to rest, the bathing ritual, the ritual of entertainingguests, etc.Visitors took their first steps into this space inthe garden area and the ceramic tile clad terrace.Inside the house ceramic tiles had beenused as the predominant covering material: onstairs, in the bedroom, in the kitchen and in thebathroom. According to Ruiz, “this design hasbeen based entirely on the multiple applicationsfor ceramic tiles. In this Tile House all the usualspaces to be found in a home are shown unitedby a multi-use material: ceramic tile. The versatilityof this material has made it possible tocreate a truly original piece of work.”According to the architect ceramic tiles are amaterial that even given their flatness, offergreat three-dimensional richness through theirtextures, colors and relief. This is a materialwhere opposing concepts such as “traditionand innovation” and “continuity and change”are equally applicable.The Tile House was not a single space but asequence of spaces that revealed themselvesone after the other. The way through them undulatedboth by floor and space, altering theirapparent size. The architect had replicated anatural environment by bathing many flat surfacesin light and shadows. As you walkedthrough the house the spaces came to life individuallyand as a whole.In some of the rooms in the house ceramic tilescovered the floor, walls and even the ceiling.This space is a testament of the possibility tocreate a new concept in domestic architecturethat reveals the enormous potential for changingthe domestic environment and make itflexible. The result was a new, modern andunique space where freedom of movementmeant that each room flowed smoothly intothe next. Each in turn enhanced the next,affording an extraordinary spatial experience.This experience was quite different to theestablished norm and contrasted with theuse of ceramic tiles as a seductive materialthat evokes memories and emotions in theuser’s subconscious. Equally, there wereperceptual aspects to the experience thatstimulated incomparable sensations. Boththe shape and the surfaces of the ceramictiles lent the space a certain magicalatmosphere of beauty, warmth, simplicity,innovation, durability, strength, efficiencyand adaptability that made this a comfortableliving environment.The presence of this ambitious project at CasaDecor was an initiative driven by the SpanishCeramic Tile Manufacturers´ Association. Theidea was to use this prestigious decoratingevent to show the huge variety of decorativepossibilities that ceramic tiles can offer andhow they can create rooms that are guaranteedto be unusual and mold-breaking yetpractical and functional11

CERASPAÑA/20STARRING ROLE FORSPANISH CERAMIC TILESAT EXPO ZARAGOZA 2008The use of ceramic tiles on the buildings at Expo Zaragoza positions the materialas a fundamental part of the most cutting edge architecture.Ceramic tiles are once again the most salient feature of the Spanish Pavilion, just as they were at the 2005 Universal Exposition in Aichi (Japan).12

CERASPAÑA/20The Zaragoza International Exposition is aunique showcase for the latest trends inarchitecture and design amongst other things,a setting in which Spanish ceramic tiles, oneof our Mediterranean culture’s most typicalmaterials, are playing a central part.Designed by architect Patxi Mangado, the building replicates a forest of poplars.The prominence of ceramic tile as a materialon the cutting edge of architecture is palpablein some of the most representative buildingsat this international event. Take for examplethe Spanish Pavilion, which is the work of PatxiMangado, the Conference Center by Nieto& Sobejano and the River Aquarium by ÁlvaroPlanchuelo. There are also ceramic tiles onthe venue’s 6,000 seats, which are a key featurefor visitors.Through these projects Spanish ceramic tilesare highlighting their versatility, which affordsdesigners enormous potential for creating innovative,unusual spaces. What is more, thenatural quality of ceramic tiles is a perfect fitwith the principles of sustainability that ExpoZaragoza 2008 is aiming to promote.a microclimate that will afford visitors respitefrom the intense heat of the Zaragoza summer.The roof, likewise, is an energy containeras it is set with solar collectors and wateraccumulators to catch rainwater.Continues on page 14...A CERAMIC TILE FOREST AROUND THESPANISH PAVILIONThe Spanish Pavilion at Expo Zaragoza is thework of Navarrese architect Patxi Mangado. Itis an endorsement of architecture committedto the environment and to sustainable development.Built in collaboration with the SpanishCenter for Renewable Energy (Cener),which specializes in bioclimatic design, it isone of Expo Zaragoza’s most emblematic buildings,both visually and in terms of the materialsused in its construction.Ceramic tiles play a central role in this building.The trees made of ceramic tiles createa forest that surrounds clear glass rooms inwhich the displays are show-cased. Thesepillars are filled with terracotta and besidessupporting the structure they also generateThe tiles were designed and tailor-made for the projectby Decorativa-Cumella.13

CERASPAÑA/20WHITE CERAMIC TILES FOR THE ARAGÓNCONFERENCE CENTERAnother of the most ambitious designs at Expois the Conference Center, which for the durationof the Expo, will house the Water Tribune.The work of architects Enrique Sobejano andFuensanta Nieto, the flexible, multifunctionalnature of the building make it outstanding.One of the most unusual elements of thisbuilding is its huge roof, a great “white cloak”of some 130,000 square feet (12,000 m 2 ). Itis made of concrete panels reinforced withfibreglass and clad with ceramic tiles. Thepanels are lightweight and need no framework.The unique qualities of the combination of matand shiny white ceramic tiles add a specialtexture to the roof.EUROPE’S LARGEST RIVER AQUARIUMThe River Aquarium is the largest sweetwater aquarium in Europe. It contains 5,000specimens and 300 species of fauna typical ofPrefabricated panels made up of shiny and matt white ceramic tiles bring vibrancy to the Aragón Conference Center.Decorativa-Cumella.The River Aquarium also includes ceramic tile ventilated façades. Cerámicas Casao.14

CERASPAÑA/206,000 tables and chairs made with porcelain stoneware have been arranged around the venue’s bars and restaurants. Ceramic was chosen for its resistance, stability and sustainability.Keraon by TAU.different rivers around the world, housed in 60fish tanks and terraria. It is the only aquariumin Spain to boast such a rich combination ofaquatic species and reptiles, mammals andamphibians. The purpose of this pavilion is toeducate, research and improve awareness.The way the building has been conceived transportsthe visitor millions of years back in timeto when all the continents were joined togetherin a single land mass known as Pangaea. Thebuilding is arranged around a central space o-ccupied by a 130 foot (40 m)-long tank simulatingthe first river, the World River. The buildinghas been structured as a play of architecturalvolumes that simulates the energy and magnitudeof the battle between the elements in theformation of the continents and the importanceof the cycle of water in the creation of life.BEING A SUSTAINABLEMATERIAL, CERAMIC TILEHAS PLAYED ANIMPORTANT ROLE IN THISEXPO, WHICH HAS FOCU-SED ON SUSTAINABILITYAND RESPECT FOR THEENVIRONMENTThe building has been designed by Álvaro Planchueloand comprises a number of twinned cubicvolumes made of prefabricated concrete,glass and, of course, ceramic tiles. Curtainsof water slide down the façade into the lowerpool, which is on the Themed Plazas level.6,000 CERAMIC TILE TABLES AND CHAIRSFOR LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTOne basic element for the Expo to run smoothlyand visitors to be comfortable is the furniturethat provided. This too has been madeusing ceramic tile as a material. The Expoorganizers chose to use it not just because itis high performance and attractive, but alsobecause they felt it is an example of usingsustainable, low environmental impact materialsand production methods. Ceramic tilehas been used in the 6,000 tables and chairsin Expo’s restaurant area and has also beenintegrated into the design of the expositioncomplex, which takes its inspiration fromwater. Furniture manufacturer Puntmobleschose ceramic tile for its resistance, durability,stability and sustainability15

InterviewManfred HeggerGerman architect and specialist in Eco-efficient construction“I ASSOCIATE SPANISH TILES WITH AMEDITERRANEAN ATMOSPHERE AND AFRESHNESS TINGED WITH WARMTH“Bornin 1946, Manfred Heggerstudied Architecture at the University of Stuttgartfrom 1967-1976; SystemsEngineere ingat theTechnical University ofBerlin andPlanning at theUni-versity of London. n. Since2001Professor Heggerer has been tea-ching “Designing and BuildingwithEnergy Efficiency” at theTechnical University of Darmstadt.Since1999 he has beendirector of the “Sustainable Ar-chitectureof the Future” WorkProgram atthe IUA(InternationalUnion of Architects)s). He isalsopresidentof the HHS Pla-ner + Architekten Association,whose objective is theplanningof construction,urban planning,infrastructureplanning, progra-mmedplanning,plus researchand development.Professor Hegger specializes in subjects such as sustainable construction and energy efficiency.16

CERASPAÑA/20PRESTIGIOUS ART CRITIC TERENCE RILEYTO CHAIR TILE AWARDS PANELASCER (the Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers´Association) is staging the seventhArchitectural Ceramic and Interior DesignAwards competition. The awards seekto identify and give recognition to architecturaland interior design projects in which Spanishceramic tiles play a major role.DISTINGUISHED PANELEach year the panel that assesses the projectsincludes leading, prominent figures from theworld of architecture, art and design. This yearfor example the panel is being headed by prestigiousart critic Terence Riley, who is directorof the Miami Art Museum and curated the 2006exhibition on Spanish architecture titled “Onsite:new architecture in Spain”, that was heldat the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOMA) inNew York. As head of the New York Museum’s18

CERASPAÑA/20The full rules and regulations governing theAwards as well as other conditions fo entryare available online at:www.spaintiles.info/awardsdepartment of architecture for almost 15 years,Riley gained a vast knowledge of contemporaryarchitecture.The rest of the jury comprises professionals ofthe standing of Beth Galí, Alfredo Payá, ÁngelaGarcía de Paredes, Luis Fernández-Galiano, TomásAlía and Ramón Monfort.As well as the recognition and prestige the TileAwards also offer substantial prize money:20,000 Euros in each of the main categories,Architecture and Interior Design.THE JURY WILL MEET INCASTELLÓN IN NOVEMBERAND THE WINNERSWILL BE ANNOUNCEDDURING CEVISAMA,IN FEBRUARY 2009THE TILE AWARDS ARESUPPORTED BY GASNATURAL, VODAFONE ANDVALENCIAPORTThere is also a competition for a Degree Projectsaward which is open to students of Architectureand carries a prize of 10,000 Euros. Theorganizers have also set aside 10,000 Euros toaward for Special Mentions.To enter the competition the work being submittedmust have made significant use of walland/or floor tiles made in Spain in the formalpart of the building or space. The deadline forreceipt of entries is October 31,2008.The jury will meet in November in Castellónand the winners will be announced and giventheir awards during the CEVISAMA trade fairwhich takes place in Valencia at the beginningof February19

CERASPAÑA/20ASCER LEADS ELITE OF WORLDARCHITECTURE IN GUIDED TOUR OFSPANISH PAVILION AT ZARAGOZA EXPOJust a week before the official opening ofthe Zaragoza 2008 Universal Exposition, agroup of the most highly regarded architectsand art critics from the United States of Americaand Western Europe were invited by SEEIand ASCER to visit the Spanish Pavilion.The Spanish Pavilion at Expo Zaragoza isthe work of architect Patxi Mangado and hissignature is the forest of ceramic tile pillarsthat surrounds the building of almost 86,000square feet (8,000 m 2 ). This is undoubtedlyone of the star Pavilions of the UniversalExposition, subtitled Water and SustainableDevelopment, which runs from June 14 toSeptember 14.A group of close to 50 prominent figuresfrom the world of art and architecture weregiven a tour of the Pavilion by its designerand enjoyed a gala dinner in the building.The group of leading architects gained a firsthandinsight into this unusual project and itsinnovative use of ceramic tiles, which onceagain appear linked intrinsically to the imageof Spain and the most cutting edge architecture.Indeed, at the Universal Exposition heldin Aichi (Japan), it was the use of ceramic tilesthat made the Spanish Pavilion stand outfrom the rest and it was the second most visitedpavilion after the host country’s ownThe architect, Patxi Mangado, and the president of SEEI welcoming their guests.ASCER AND THE STATE AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONALEXHIBITIONS (SEEI) INVITED A GROUP OF PROMINENTARCHITECTS TO SEE THE BUILDING AND ITSCERAMIC TILESxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxThe group of architects at the reception held in the Spanish Pavilion following their tour of the building.20

SHOWROOM // LAST TRENDSCERÁMICAS L’ALCALATEN - Digital Series

CERASPAÑA/20 ShowroomREAL CERÁMICACAYENNE SERIESrealcer@realceramica.com · www.realceramica.comCERÁMICAS APARICIFIRENZE & SINCRO SERIESceramicas@aparici.com · www.aparici.comALAPLANACHAMONIX SERIES-COLLECTIONalaplana@alaplana.eswww.alaplana.es22

Showroom CERASPAÑA/20VENUS CERÁMICABOULEVARD 44X66 SERIES · CEVISAMA 2008 COLLECTIONinfo@venus.es · www.venusceramica.com23

CERASPAÑA/20 ShowroomSICHAR CERÁMICAOXITE SERIESventas@sichar.com · www.sichar.comAZULEVNORD SERIESazulev@azulev.eswww.azulev.com24

Showroom CERASPAÑA/20AZUVINEO SERIES - GEOTECH COLLECTIONazuvi@azuvi.com · www.azuvi.comGLASS CERÁMICANEW YORK SERIESglassceramica@glassceramica.es · www.glassceramica.esJOSE OSET Y CIASTRATOS SERIES - PIEDRAS COLLECTIONoset@oset.es · www.oset.es25

CERASPAÑA/20 ShowroomTOGAMAPRISMA SERIES - STAR COLLECTIONtogama@togama.com · www.togama.comCICOGRESTOSCANA SERIES-COLLECTIONcicogres@cicogres.es · www.cicogres.esKEROSBAMBÚ SERIESemail@keros.comwww.keros.com26

Showroom CERASPAÑA/20EXAGRESITÁLICA SERIESexagres@exagres.es · www.exagres.esALCALAGRESTEXTIL SERIES - ESTILYA COLLECTIONgeneral@alcalagres.com · www.alcalagres.comAZULIBERTARDOR SERIESazuliber@azuliber.com · www.azuliber.com27

CERASPAÑA/20DRY FIXING:TILING IN RECORD TIMEInnovation in ceramic tiles – the result of the industry’s investment in research,development and innovation (R,D+I) – translates not just into bettermaterials, finishes, colors and increased potential and versatility, but alsointo improved processes and systems for installing them in different spaces.This is the case with dry fixing of ceramic floor tiles, an easy, fast,clean and modern solution that saves time, labor, material and money.Detail of the system developed by Tau Cerámica.Raised technical floors are also a form of dry installation.Apavisa, Metal collection.28

CERASPAÑA/20Like a jigsaw puzzle. Installing ceramic floortiles can be as easy as doing a jigsawthanks to the various dry systems that a numberof companies in the industry are offering,spearheading an innovation that enables theend user to install the tiles themselves usingthe various fixing and joining systems that requireno building work, cement, mortar or adhesives.THE TILES FIT TOGETHERPERFECTLY AND ALSOAFFORD BETTER SOUND ANDTHERMAL INSULATION THANTRADITIONAL INSTALLATIONBECAUSE IT IS SO EASY,DRY INSTALLATION MAKES ITAN OPTION TO CHANGE THEFLOOR WHEN CHANGING THEDECORThe tiles fit together by means of a polymerbase that is glued to the tiles and tongue andgroove systems that enable the tiles to fit togetherperfectly. Never has it been so easy tochange a floor: a room or other space can begiven a new look with a floor ready to walk onin a matter of hours, with a pair of hands beingthe only tool required.The possibilities of this system make it idealfor dressing a room with the good looks andunbeatable features of ceramic and porcelainstoneware tiles: high levels of resistance, easymaintenance and durability. All of this comeswithout having to worry about the inconvenienceof building work - mainly rubble and waste.Also, the floor is fitted more precisely andcleanly as all the tiles slot in easily, while thissystem affords better sound and thermal insulationthan traditional installation.Dry fixing enables the tiles to be removedat any time, which makes it easy to re-usethe material in another room or space, eitherindoors or outdoors. It is an ideal solution forflooring spaces that need a quick facelift, suchas exhibition stands,temporary structuresand fashion outletswhere the shop’s décorcan be changed quicklyand easily as theseasons change. Theeffortless way to removetiles individually alsohelps make it easier tomaintain radiant floorsand underfloor installations.This installation system requires no buildingwork but does require a smooth surface thathas been levelled and is free of irregularities.In some cases it is recommended to fit rubbermatting to provide sound insulation, which canthen be used as the base upon which to setthe tiles.Spanish ceramic tile manufacturers have pioneeredthe development of this technology.One of the manufacturers that have incorporatedit into its production system is Roca Ceramica,through its Pret a Porter brand. Underthis brand the company is offering a ceramictile that comes with a polymer base glued toits underside and a joint strip that goes aroundthe edge of the tile and joins it to the others. Allthe tiles, which come in a single size, measureexactly the same, avoiding the mismatchingthat can occur with traditional installation.Substituting one tile for another is easy and clean.Easyker, Azulindus y Martí (A&M Cerámica).The base includes a soft join that seals thetile without the need for grouting, and a rubbermembrane that works as a grip, ensuring thetile adheres to the floor.Another of the manufacturers spearheadingthe development and application of this technologyis Tau Cerámica through its DrySystem system. The main feature here is aplastic polymer composite substrate with aThere is no more than an hour between “before” and“after”. Pret a Porter, Roca Cerámica.tongue and groove joint which is glued to thetiles and enables the tiles to fit together perfectly.Should a tile break, all that needs to bedone is to cut the tongue and groove, removethe damaged tile and replace it with a newone. The range of finishes is growing all thetime and, with different sizes and shades ofstoneware tiles, is increasingly similar to thetraditional range.Azulindus y Martí (A&M Cerámica), has alsocontributed to the development of this newapplication for ceramic tiles with its patenteddry installation system called Easyker, whichit is being used with 12.5x12.5” (31,6x31,6cm) square porcelain stoneware tiles. Themost remarkable of its main features are thatit allows water to drain away and enablestiles to be moved individually, which meansinstallations such as electrical, telephone andcomputer cabling can be installed underneath.AM Cerámica has also developed a radiantheating system comprising a double thermalconductor that connects to that electricitynetwork and is set between the ceramic tileand the polymer base.These three designs are just an example of theinvestment that Spain’s ceramic tile manufacturersare making in R,D+I to develop new andbetter solutions for installing ceramic floor andwall tiles.The functional and practical nature of dry installationis a further boost to the value of ceramictiles and their thousand and one applications29

CERASPAÑA/20MERGING FOR SUCCESSThe closed kitchens that backed on to the rest of the home have had their day. What is in vogue now is precisely theopposite: open spaces that link well to the rest of the home and are full of life, where ceramic is essential to creating multipurposeenvironments and leading the way to the other rooms in the home.Keraben, Madison SeriesCeramic tiles for kitchens bring together the latest design trends with the most advanced technical performance such as resistance to abrasive cleaning agents.30

CERASPAÑA/20new kitchen concept is taking hold. EvenA those with the least disposition for theculinary arts recognize the advantages ofcentering life around the kitchen. Kitchensare now shared spaces that are playing anincreasingly important role as spaces whereeveryone pitches in to help and, most of all,where everyone enjoys getting together. Notonly do we prepare food in the kitchen, weeat, talk, relax and even work there.SPANISH CERAMIC TILESARE THE ESSENTIAL“INGREDIENT” FOR ALLTYPES OF KITCHENFrequently, in a clear attempt to merge thetwo together to the general benefit of all, thereis but a hazy borderline between the kitchenand the living room. The kitchen thus becomesa versatile space that can fulfil severalfunctions at the same time. This is the socalled“kitchen-living room”, as it is conceivednot just for its normal users but also for visitorswho will also pass through it on occasionand spend some time there with us.Particular care is dedicated to the area inthese cases, with the finest quality materialsbeing selected and electrical appliances beinghidden away. Visible accessories suchas ovens and extractor hoods are chosenon the basis of their looks as well as theirfunctionality.Beauty and pragmatism are also what drivethe choice of ceramic tile as the main materialin this new kind of kitchen. There is significantadded value to this choice such as, forexample, the fact that it is easy to maintain,is a versatile material that can provide visualcontinuity to floors, walls and even ceilings,and can be used outside the kitchen.Ceramic tile is also a perfect linking devicefor joining different areas of the home together.It is conducive to continuity and thereforemanages to integrate this multifunctionalarea into the rest of the home in a naturalway. Sometimes a subtle transition is theorder of the day, while on other occasionsFanal Cerámicas, Life SeriesGres Cid, San Remo Series and Al-andalus Seriesthe preference is for a clear differentiation.Ceramic tile offers solutions for both casesthat can be tailored to the client’s particularneeds and taste.In instances where what is being sought is tobreak up and separate different areas, coveringscan become key to achieving this, especiallyif they are used as a visual element todistinguish between different styles throughcolor or by combining them with other materials.Different textures and shades of colorcan create many different modifications onthe contrast effect. One example of this is thecombination of the gloss of glazed ceramicwith rough textures, or the warmth of woodceramic tile with the coldness of metallic finish.The results are unique environmentsthat appear to flow together and have aneclectic beauty. Almost anything is possible,especially if the starting point is a desire topursue harmony in the final product.Peronda Cerámicas, Vivacity Series/CollectionStill on the subject of color, what is surprisingis the contradiction that currently appears toexist. On the one hand there is an extensi-Tile décor has evolved enormously and today there are designs to suit all tastes.Continues on page 32...31

CERASPAÑA/20Land Porcelánico, Pietra Serena Series/CollectionThe industrial look has become popular in the most avant-garde kitchens.ve range of neutral shades such as white,grey and steel, in a clear reference to the industriallook of restaurant kitchens. On theother hand, however, the catalogs are alsoshowing tiles in startling shades like redsand maroons, which are in line with a more“pop” look.Another difference that can be observed isthe coexistence of minimalist kitchens andkitchens that are more rustic looking. The32SPAIN’S PRODUCT OFFERINCLUDES MINIMALISTCOLLECTIONS ALONGSIDEMORE RUSTIC ANDORNAMENTEDCOLLECTIONSlatter are understood to be allegories of craftsmanshipand a flavor of the authentic. Thisis a rusticity that has been brought up to dateand refined, with modern elements that giveit a touch of the contemporary.As to the minimalist choices, what people arelooking for is the essence without the ornamentation.They are looking for simplicity andbalance. Far from excess, shapes tend to beordered and placid thanks to subtle strategies

CERASPAÑA/20like the use of large formats, neutral colorsand metallic details. Flooring too reflects theneutrality of this philosophy with soft texturesand surfaces that are in tune with the simplelines that promote horizontality and spaciousness,even where the actual space is limited.What all collections of ceramic tiles have incommon is the great variety available. Thereis an almost infinite range of formats, colors,relief decors, metal, glass and stone contrasts,layers of matt glaze over transparentglaze, lustre glazes, polished and superposedfinishes, etc.The rectangular format is still the most prevalentand the only variant is the measurements,for which there is an extensive list of sizes.Many people choose a 13x40” (33x100 cm) or12,2x35” (31x90 cm) landscape format, whilst8x4” (20x10 cm), 12x6” (30x15 cm) and 12x8”(30x20 cm) formats are also very popular.Gloss finish tiles, which create a sense ofcleanliness and luminosity, also have a largefollowing. For floors, what is in vogue are industriallooking materials with oxidized or shinymetallic finishes, in rectangular formats likethose mentioned above or in a 24x24” (60x60cm) or even 31x31” (80x80 cm) square formats.Regarding installation, what consumers wantis joints that cannot be seen, so that the eyeis tricked into seeing a single surface. Hencethe use of rectified tiles and colored grout sothat each tile flows seamlessly into the next.In contrast to this however, is a trend towardcounterpoint: highlighting the joints by choosingcontrasting colors or mesh-mountedtiles like mosaic with an infinite number ofjoints. There are ceramic tiles available tosuit all tastes.Another trend is to create accents on thewalls by cladding specific areas with livelycolors over a neutral base. The effect can bequite dynamic. Why not add a mural of ceramictiles in your kitchen?Often, the background flatness is accompaniedby decorative details, primarily metaland subtle marbling. One of the latest offersis the vertical border - a salute to the mostdaring design.Equipe Cerámicas, Linhas SeriesThe audience these designs are aimed at isinnovative, young and fashion conscious. Itis true that female preference carries significantweight in the final purchasing decisionand this fact tends to make the purchasers’criteria even more demanding.White is always featured as part of kitchen tile collections.Alfa Cerámica y Porcelánico: New Wave SeriesNow that kitchens are planned out down tothe last detail and that every module performsto its maximum potential, this particular environmentis now, more than it ever was, a littleoasis of flexibility. Its boundaries can be ambiguousand its uses as wide-ranging as theyneed to be at any given time, but the onlytruly important reason is to want to enjoy it.And, if there is good food on the making, successis certain33

News and EventsTILE OF SPAIN PROMOTES SPANISH TILE INDUSTRY’S LATEST INNOVATIONS AROUND THE WORLDMATERIALS TRADE FAIR IN ROMANIASpain’s ceramic tile industry has taken part inthe Constru Expo Ambient construction materialsfair for the first time. The fair was held inBucharest (Romania) in May. The Tile of Spaininformation stand promoted the country’s ceramictile products through literature produced bythe sector and a display of a selection of theindustry’s most innovative products. Romania’scurrent positive economic situation and theconstruction industry’s vitality mean that thecountry is one of the top ten export destinationsfor Spanish tiles. In 2007, exports to Romaniawere in excess of 77.7 million Euros (122million dollars) (+35.5%).NEOCON: DESIGN AND INTERIOR DESIGNIN CHICAGOTile of Spain manned an information stand atASCTEX (The Architectural Stone and CeramicTile Exposition) within the NeoCon design andinterior design trade fair that took place in ChicagoJune 9-11. As well as information material,the stand also featured a product displayspace that showed the link between ceramictile and architecture. Tile of Spain hosted a seriesof training sessions during the fair and – incollaboration with CTCAC (Ceramic Tile ConstructorsAssociation of Chicago)- ran a seminaron the applications for ceramic tiles titled“Architects and Ceramic Tile: Why Now“.SUCCESSFUL SEMINAR IN THE RUSSIANFEDERATIONASCER has run a seminar on the architecturalapplications for ceramic tiles in Rostov-on-Don.The seminar was organized in collaborationwith the Trade Commission of Spain office andthe Spanish Institute for Foreign Trade (ICEX),and 8 tile manufacturers participated too.EXHIBITION AND LECTURES AT SIDISPOT(COLOGNE, GERMANY)Spanish ceramic tiles were the main featureof the exhibition that was held at SIDISPOT(Best of Spanish Interior Design) in Cologne,Germany, from June 16-21. A series of lectureson the new areas of application for ceramictiles in architecture was organized especiallyfor architects. Architect Hans Drexler ofthe Technical University of Darmstadt spokeabout energy efficiency in building with ceramictiles. Architect Christina Chu from PatxiMangado’s Firm of Architects, gave examplesof the use of Spanish ceramic tiles in contemporaryarchitecture, such as the SpanishPavilion at Expo Zaragoza.Company NewsECOKER PROJECT: INNOVATIONAND SUSTAINABILITYAzuliber, Bestile and Neos Additives havejoined forces to develop an innovative compositionof porcelain stoneware that can increaseenergy efficiency by 14% and reduceemissions of CO 2 into the atmosphere duringthe production process by 12%. The Institutefor Ceramic Tile Technology was also involvedin the project.34KERABEN OBTAINS MAXIMUMQUALIFICATION FOR ITSVENTILATED FAÇADEINSTALLATION SYSTEMKeraben has obtained certification for itsventilated façade system from the EduardoTorroja Institute for Building Sciences. TheInstitute, which is part of Spain’s HigherCouncil for Scientific Research, granted thecompany a Technical Eligible Certificate(“DIT”), which accredits innovative productsand construction systems as suitable for usein building. This accreditation is based onwhat the requirements for ventilated façadesystems will be in the future as indicatedin the European Standard that is soon to beissued by EOTA (the European Organization forTechnical Approvals)VIVES REDUCES CO 2 EMISSIONSIN PALLETIZATION PROCESSVives has installed a novel system in itsmanufacturing facilities for wrapping itsproducts in plastic that uses no natural gas,thereby reducing its CO 2 emissions. The newsystem does not need to heat the plasticcovers in order to fit them to the palletized load,so it saves energy, reduces CO 2 emissions andmakes a small contribution to the fight againstclimate change

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