CHICAGO, IL -- Fiandre, part of the Iris Ceramica Group, recently announced its first U.S. production of marble looks and slabs in a new porcelain tile collection called Royal Marble. The collection features refined marble looks in both large and traditional formats. The Royal Marble collection was designed in Italy and will be manufactured in the U.S. in the company’s production facility in Tennessee. Manufacturing is scheduled for early summer.

The announcement expands Fiandre’s commitment to sustainability issues, as the U.S. production will reduce the tile’s carbon footprint, offering quicker lead times and increase energy efficiency -- all with the same quality and look of Italian made porcelain.

“This is a significant achievement for Fiandre,” said Joy Klein, vice president of sales and marketing of Transceramica, Fiandre’s direct sales division. “Our clients can now reap the benefits of faster lead times and delivery for a high-end collection of marble-look slabs and shapes.”

Royal Marble is inspired by exquisite marble varieties, perfect to add a luxurious feel in a formal or relaxed environment. Highlighted by the signature vein patterns and fine white lines that cut across the surfaces, Royal Marble lends spaces character and sophisticated elegance. The natural charm of the neutral shades in the Royal Marble line makes any space feel warm and welcoming. Marble looks also fit all decor styles from classic to contemporary, making it an ideal choice for accentuating any type of decor.

The material’s versatility allows designers to complement or contrast hues, or create distinctive mosaic patterns on floors and walls. Royal Marble tile adds a timeless visual impact wherever it’s placed. The natural characteristics of porcelain tile -- very strong, durable, long-lasting and water-resistant -- provide additional advantages.

The tiles are offered in six colors -- White, Beige, Light, Charcoal, Black and Grey Crosscut -- which are available in polished and honed finishes. The collection is available in six different sizes and two different thicknesses: 120 x 60, 60 x 60 and 30 x 60 inches in 6 mm thickness; and 24 x 48, 24 x 24 and 12 x 24 inches in 8 mm thickness. Royal Marble’s reduced 6 mm thickness offers increased flexibility and is recommended for architectural and commercial projects.