A vibrant mix of the new and the old will share space at Coverings 2005, May 3-6 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla. Along with the latest products, technologies, services and educational opportunities, the show will play host to a display of ancient tiles, offering attendees the chance to examine the historical foundations of the industry.

Attendees can expect the latest ceramic and stone tile lines to be showcased at Coverings. Along with varied other offerings, large-format tiles, especially those emulating the look of natural stone, will be on display; as will products from growing niches such as metal and glass tiles. Installation materials themselves are also becoming more aesthetically pleasing, with new design-savvy grouts, surrounds and profiles.

In collaboration with the Tile Heritage Foundation, Coverings will be showcasing a display of historic ceramic tiles dating back to the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. With tile from Spain influenced by the Moorish Conquest, tile from Italy created using the maiolica technique resulting in white surfaces and brilliant colors, and tile from the United States influenced by the Arts & Crafts movement, the display promises to be an education.

All of the tiles, along with enlarged photographs of historically significant installations, will be shown in a 60-foot, two-sided display consisting of three distinct sections representing each of the three countries. The display will be housed in the South lobby of the convention center.

And to make sure attendees realize they are appreciated for their continued business, Coverings will host an event on the night of May 5 to honor dealers and distributors attending the show. The Appreciation Night will be held at the nightclub The Grove, located along Orlando's Universal CityWalk.

For more information, telephone (703) 683-8500 or visit www.coverings.com.