For its sixth consecutive year participating in the Installation Design Showcase at Coverings, Ceramics of Italy is collaborating with Diana Chase, AIA of Helman Hurley Charvat Peacock/Architects Inc. (HHCP), and NTCA Five Star tile installer, Michael’s Custom Tile, to design a high-end resort bathroom. Naturalistic tiles designed by Cotto d’Este, Florim, Marca Corona, Novabell, and Rex Ceramiche will set the serene ambiance of the space while showcasing products that are both aesthetically appealing and highly functional.
The design for this chic, rustic/modern space manifests the strong attention to detail and materiality that Diana Chase has honed over her 13-year career. The versatility of Italian porcelain will be illustrated through the use of tile simulating various natural materials, establishing a tranquil, yet high-end vibe. An Axor Massaud bathtub by Hansgrohe, the focal point of the installation, will sit atop tile designed with advanced digital printing techniques to replicate the appearance of uncontaminated wood. Featuring Rex Ceramiche tiles generously donated by Florida’s own Specialty Tile—the leading tile distributor in the Southeast United States—the floor design is on-point, showing off a trendy chevron pattern that is also reflected on one of the walls in a plank layout. While natural in appearance, the material is easy to clean and durable, making it very practical for a dewy bath setting.
In keeping with the calm essence of the space, pristine white Marca Corona tiles, in both matte and patterned gloss finishes, will be used on the walls to create a dynamic surface that ripples with shadow and light. Rustic, NovaBell brick-style tiles, in a neutral palette, will complement these sophisticated tiles. Further exhibiting the ease with which different material looks can be used together, the overhang that frames the vanity and shower areas will be constructed with large, Florim stone-look tiles to add a rugged, unfinished quality, while keeping with the design’s neutral palette. The steps and countertops will be clad in Cotto D’Este Kerlite large-format tiles that evoke marble, continuing to infuse the space with a modern resort atmosphere—and calling back to ancient Italian bathhouses, in which marble was a prevalent material. These elements will also present a less conventional use of thin tiles—on furnishings—in addition to walls, floors, and ceilings. All grout and setting materials, provided by Mapei have been specified to color-match the various tiles in the installation. As a final elegant contrast, all edges will be finished with brushed antique bronze edging trim by Schluter Systems. The installation will also feature additional
Hansgrohe fixtures and furnishings including a Pura Vida tub filler, Pura Vida wall-mounted faucet, and Axor Massaud sink.
This vignette—which will be constructed in booth 461B throughout the four-day show—will not only serve as a testament to the importance of incorporating beautiful, inventive design in hospitality spaces, but also as a live demonstration of the skilled application and installation of naturalistic tiling in various styles and thicknesses. There will be a presentation followed by a celebratory champagne toast and reception upon its completion. Ceramics of Italy looks forward to inviting attendees to interact with this warm, inviting space, from start to finish!
Register now for Coverings 2015 to see Ceramics of Italy’s high-end resort bathroom at the Installation Design Showcase in Booth 461.