Editors and art directors are like kids in the proverbial
candy or toy store: we are inspired and awed by the variety, selection and
creativity processes that go into developing new designs or tile products lines
by manufacturers.
Between Surfaces (held in Las Vegas,
Jan. 30-Feb. 1) and Cevisama (held in Valencia, Spain, Feb. 5-9), we could
barely keep ourselves from running from one exhibitor to another. Actually, by
the second day, we were strolling – albeit in quick spurts.
Of course, attending these shows
comes with a price: they all add to my encouragement (and unfortunately, to my
husband’s dismay!) for remodeling our master bath and kitchen.
Thankfully, I can take comfort in
knowing I’m not the only one caught in a decision-making quandary.
According to several recent construction-related articles,
the outlook for the industry is quite positive. In other words, the rest of the
country has remodeling on its mind too! Let’s face it, with the current real
estate economy the way it is and interest rates seeing yet another reduction,
homeowners are opting for remodeling rather than relocating - all of which
lends much-needed optimism to our industry. For an in-depth article on
construction industry forecasts, visit our sister publication, Bath &
Kitchen Pro, at www.bathandkitchenpro.com.
Which leads me back to the recent
shows we attended. Here are a few items that caught our eye: the transparency
of glass tile combined with delicate embedded etching; the variations of mosaic
and micro-mosaic tiles; designs that resemble leather, pinpoint patterns on
solid colors, retro chic, and more. Did I mention the “smart floor tile”
unveiled at Cevisama from Tau Ceramica? Read more about these items and more
starting on page 8 of the product showcase section. Remember, Coverings is just
around the corner (April 29-May 2, in Orlando). I can’t wait to see what other
designs and developments will attract our attention.
Speaking of innovations, are you or
someone close to you the proud owner of an Apple iPhone, Sony PlayStation 3®,
hi-def TV, or a Wii system? Then you can appreciate the value of updated
technology, especially in software programs that can streamline your business
by keeping it in the black. ReadTILE Magazine’s Annual Software
& Web Technology Solution Product Round Upon page 46 for the
latest products available.
Finally, make sure you checkTILE’swebsite daily (www.tilemagonline.com) for
any breaking news, Web Exclusive features, and more.
If you have any questions, comments
or suggestion, then please feel free to contact me via phone (818-224-8035,
ext. 2216) or email (nalbandiana@bnpmedia.com).
Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder
March 7, 2008
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