One of the most straightforward ways to give an existing space a revamp or a new space its aesthetic identity, surfacing is a critical aspect of any project. But with so many options to choose from in today’s market, where to begin? Colours, textures and high-performance qualities like antimicrobial and anti-odour properties abound. And, with designers and studios experimenting more than ever with bio and alternative materials, one can truly select a fit that matches the aesthetic and ethos behind a space. See a group of six impressive collections below.

Photos: Mauro Tittoto and Mattia Balsamina

EIDOLA

Del Savio 1910

One of the collections within Del Savio 1910’s Marble Patterns family, Eidola is defined by geometric motifs and unique colour stories. Conceived by Dutch designer Mae Engelgeer, the tiles are crafted by skilled artisans – Del Savio’s expertise spans three generations. In addition to typical cladding Eidola can be utilized to finish coffee tables, freestanding volumes with various surfaces and storage configurations.

COMMON SANDS - FORITE

Snøhetta x Studio Plastique 

Snøhetta and Studio Plastique teamed up in an attempt to extend the lifecycle of glass from electronic products that would otherwise end up in a landfill. The result of their collaboration is Common Sands - Forite, tiles made of recycled glass from microwave ovens with terrazzo-like quality and applications ranging from surface coverage to semi-transparent partitions. 

ENSEMBLE

Mutina 

To celebrate its decade-long collaboration with Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Mutina presents the project Ensemble, which comprises fresh editions of the brand’s tile classics Pico and Rombini, the new terracotta brick Bloc and decorative element Punto, as well as Mutina’s first wooden flooring option Pico Bois, which was inspired by the common use of parquet in Brittany’s houses. Blue and red dots used on the wooden slats recall the graphic motif of the original Pico collection. 

PLAMINA

Isoplam 

Elevating the already eye-catching properties of precious metals like bronze, brass, copper and a variety of other surfaces, the decorative coating Plamina is used to enhance new materials or to restore used materials. Isoplam's water-based coating can be applied on walls, ceilings, tables, countertops and more to create a wide variety of striking metallic effects.  

PALAZZO DELLE POSTE

Iris Ceramica Group 

With antibacterial, antiviral, anti-pollution, anti-odour and self-cleaning properties, Iris Ceramica Group’s Active Surfaces collection was essential to the renovation of the private roof terrace and pool area on the fourth floor of Lecce’s Palazzo delle Poste building, originally built in 1922. The ceramic material from the Loft series by Porcelaingres, an Iris Ceramica Group brand, closely resembles opulent stone, and was selected for the outdoor area in the shade Snow, creating a relaxing ambience.

DISTRITO ALUMINIO

Coverlam by Grespania 

Found everywhere from skyscraper façades to home kitchen countertops and healthcare facility floors, Grespania’s Coverlam is a highly versatile material used in interior and exterior environments. The lightweight material is finished with a ceramic application which helps in eliminating atmospheric pollution and gives it a self-cleaning quality. A variety of colours and finishes are available.