A Whole World of Tiles

The world of tiles and flooring is as vast as it is innovative. At CERSAIE, one of the most important international fairs in our industry, inspiration comes in every shape, size, and texture. Held every September in Bologna, Italy, it is a fair I always try not to miss. Visiting this event is not only about discovering new colours and styles, but also about seeing the latest technologies, from underfloor heating to advanced drainage solutions.

As an interior designer, I consider flooring one of the most important elements in creating homes that are not only beautiful but also practical. This fair always leaves me enlightened and excited about the possibilities.

One standout trend is how porcelain tiles now replicate the look of timber so convincingly that it is hard to tell them apart from the real thing. Their durability and ease of maintenance make them an appealing alternative to natural wood, especially for busy households.

Walking from pavilion to pavilion, I am met with hundreds of displays, each designed to inspire. Many stands recreate entire living spaces so you can see the products in context, sparking ideas for real-life applications. I do not just take photos, I touch, feel, and examine everything that catches my eye. Tiles are not just for walking on. They can elevate a home into something truly special.

Textured tiles were a highlight this year, offering a tactile experience that adds depth to both floors and walls. Smooth or ribbed, veined like timber or soft as eggshell, the variety is endless. The shape of tiles is just as important, with geometric patterns sitting alongside organic forms to create bold design statements.

A trend that continues to evolve is the use of three-dimensional shapes, often mimicking brickwork, to create walls that allow airflow while offering privacy. These designs are not only practical but also visually striking.

CERSAIE is not just about tiles. Bathroom design takes centre stage too, with bold colours, glossy finishes, and even playful coloured tapware. While some of these trends may be too daring for my Australian clients, they are invaluable to see and understand. It is all about knowing what is new, what is here to stay, and what is fading away.

Terrazzo patterns remain strong, while ultra-thin tiles are making waves for wall cladding. Beyond the designs themselves, the fair is a reminder of why we love what we do, collecting ideas, learning, and wearing out our most comfortable shoes.

After days of walking, photographing, and gathering ideas, I return home with thousands of images to sort through, ready to share with clients and industry colleagues. These experiences are inspiring, educational, and yes, a little exhausting, but I would not miss them for the world.

If you would like to see more from the last CERSAIE, including the latest tile trends, bathroom innovations, and design details that caught my eye, watch this video, where I take you a quick recap of this exciting week.

And if you wish to visit CERSAIE in 2025, well... better start packing, September is almost upon us :)

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information. Learn more from James' knowledge via his FREE online shows James Bought A House (a renovation) and James Bought A Guest House (a brand new build).