Tiles or Textiles: Digital Printing Technology Blurs the Line Between Materials

Textiles in interior applications can add warmth and dimension to a room, but they can also collect dust, hold odors, fade, and stain easily. Advances in digital printing technology are making printed ceramic and porcelain tiles a viable alternative to heavy fabric applications for both residential and commercial wall and floor coverings.

Below are some of the newest textile-inspired tile collections that ARCHITECT saw at Cersaie 2017. Read about other tile trends from this year’s tile and bathroom fixture show here.

• PAD by Patrick Norguet for Lea Ceramiche

  This collection comprises two fabric-inspired patterns.

  

• Wide & Style by ABK

  This collection of large-format tiles offers tapestry-like imagery for wall applications.

  

• FineArt by Ceramica Sant’Agostino

  This new collection of digitally printed porcelain tiles is inspired by textiles.

  

• No Code by Viva

  These faux leather tiles are offered in smooth, raised grain, and crocodile print patterns.