In the run up to Coverings 2021, the organisers hosted a Tile Trends webinar to showcase this year’s most important and inspirational tile innovations. As part of an extensive review of this important event, TSJ looks at the ten top trends identified.
Coverings’ 2021 Tile Trend forecast is the result of considerable thought and much in-depth research.
It draws together the insights and analysis of three leading international tile associations and sponsors of Coverings: Ceramics of Italy/Confindustria Ceramica; Ascer/Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association of Spain/Tile of Spain; and Tile Council of North America. It can thus fairly claim to offer an informed global overview of this fast-moving design-led industry.
Kitchen designer, Alena Capra – very much the face of Coverings in her role as spokesperson – collaborated with Coverings’ sponsors to gather and forecast the top 10 tile trends for 2021.
This was launched to celebrate National Tile Day in the USA, an event designed to highlight the key benefits and applications of ceramic tile: durability, sustainability, safety, versatility, affordability, aesthetic appeal, and hygiene.
“As the fifth National Tile Day approaches, we look forward to celebrating the many benefits of specifying and designing with ceramic tile, as well as continuing to provide insights about the elements of tile that make it the safe, sustainable, and stylish surface option for residential and commercial projects,” said Capra.
“The ‘2021 Tile Trends’ webinar will showcase this year’s most important and inspirational tile innovations.”
The ten trends to follow
The following tile trends are a preview of the newest and most admired styles to be discovered during the Feb. 23 Coverings Connected webinar, and in-person at Coverings 2021, July 7-9, in Orlando, Florida.
Flecked Effect
This trend features a kaleidoscope of colours or floating fragments of shapes, where the patterns lend a burst of energy to floors and walls. From chunky to fine flecks, and large slabs to smaller tiles, the flecked effect offers endless, unique style options.
Gorgeous Greens
Using shades of green with tile textures reminiscent of nature will be a popular approach to bring the outdoors inside during 2021.
Soft Textures
With a growing preference for toned-down designs, look to trending tile options that offer softer and more natural looks as people yearn for a connection to nature in 2021.
High Gloss
Glossy tiles offer eye-catching shine and durability for areas that need to be cleaned often, which is why the high gloss trend is expected to make a big comeback this year.
In Vein
Expect to see large-scale veining in 2021. Marble-look designs are evolving; some have fewer wide, river-like veins with flowing movement and clean edges, while others have more angular, frenetic looks.
XXL
Extra-large ceramic tiles are increasing in popularity this year. This trend enables countless applications and design possibilities, with large-format tiles that come in sizes up to 5.25 feet by 10.5 feet, and thicknesses ranging from 3.5 millimeters to 2 centimeters.
Large Hexes
Non-rectangular tile styles, specifically hexagons, are growing to monumental sizes in 2021. Hexagons as large as two feet in diameter can add tons of drama to a space.
Patterned Concrete Lookalikes
Concrete-look tiles will continue to serve as a muse for architects and manufacturers this year, with playful patterns and infinite laying schemes that add a dramatic impact on any indoor or outdoor space.
Muted Tones
2021 will see a strong rise in muted tile tones, such as soft blues and greens, that create soothing and relaxing spaces.
