Beneath the surface – a closer look at the latest commercial tile innovations

Porcelain and ceramic tiles are the perfect partners for commercial projects and can help transform the way a project looks and feels. Now thanks to the ongoing research and development of the world’s leading tile manufacturers, tiles are getting technical and can offer specifiers a wide range of benefits from improved thermal performance and protection against bacteria, to even acting as a ‘touch screen’ for operating electronic appliances. We’ve sourced the latest tile innovations so you can design without limitations.

Interactive tiles for inspirational interiors

One of the latest – and more interesting – examples of tile technology is Hypertouch from Iris Ceramica Group. This amazing piece of tech can be added to a wide range of ceramic tile finishes to essentially transform them into a ‘touch screen’ that will enable the discreet control and operation of various appliances, such as heating, lighting and audio-visual equipment. This innovative solution has already captured the imagination of Wallpaper magazine, which awarded Hypertouch the accolade of Most Intelligent Domestic Device at the Wallpaper Smart Space Awards 2022. This is one we can’t wait to start talking to our commercial and architectural customers about!

Anti-slip tiles that go the extra mile

A vital part of any commercial tile package is safety and this is an area that our supply chain partners are investing and innovating. We are well versed in helping our specification and architectural customers understand the different slip resistance ratings for both wet and dry conditions. We also understand the importance of achieving the right balance between finding a tile that is non-slip and has a great grip, but which is also easy to clean and comfortable under foot when used in a bathroom or leisure setting. The perfect solution can be found in the stunning Kursaal range, a slip resistant tile which is inspired by weathered basalt but features Soft Grip, an innovative non-abrasive surface finish that still offers a pleasant feel to users. Another great example is RAK Ceramic’s new Lapideus range. This new range of stone effect tiles incorporates ‘Barefoot Plus’ technology, a special coating which delivers enhanced slip resistance in wet conditions such as around swimming pools and in wet rooms. These tiles have a comfortable finish, with a special non-slip roughness that is barely perceptible to the touch and are great for projects where safety and comfort are paramount.

Hygienic tiles for the modern world

With more emphasis on sanitation than ever as the commercial sector continues to adapt for the post-pandemic future, antibacterial surfaces are big news. They can work to reduce cyclical maintenance costs and reduce the environmental impact of cleaning programmes as no harsh chemicals are needed – the antimicrobial protection is built-in to the tile’s finish. We’re proud to offer a number of antibacterial tiles are part of our curated collection, including the Pure Stone and Gravity ranges. This innovative technology has also been applied to some of the most striking tiles within our latest collection, such as Luce, a unique tile range which combines a high performance antibacterial glaze with a striking finish reminiscent of silk which ‘shimmers’ as the viewer moves past it.

Best of both worlds – in and out tiles

Our supply chain partners have been working hard to continuously develop their product offering so that we in turn can bring the latest solutions to our clients, and one innovation that continues to excite is the use of tiles that can be used both inside and out. Creating a seamless tile package is not without its challenges but a new development is helping to give specifiers even greater control over how they use tiles throughout a project.

The development of Klima Technology has provided far-reaching benefits as it allows tiles to absorb or repel heat depending on the specific project requirements. This means that when installed outside, the tiles will stay safe and cool underfoot even when exposed to the hot summer sun. Inside, the tiles will retain heat for a more comfortable and constant temperature and this technology is particularly effective when applied to wood-finish tiles.

Working with our supply chain partner RAK Ceramics, we can offer a wide range of options for installing tiles both inside and out using this innovative technology to ensure that the package works well whatever the environmental setting.

Fresh thinking

Innovation across the tile industry isn’t just seen in the finished product, it’s been embraced throughout the manufacturing processes too. A great example of this is the Masterpiece porcelain stoneware collection by Lea Ceramiche which has reinvented the use of concrete and traditional Italian style ‘speckled’ stone in tile design and has recently been listed in the 2022 ABI Design Index in recognition of its skilful execution. The 2022 ABI Design Index is a precursor for the internationally recognised Compasso d’Oro award which celebrates the most creative examples of technological and industrial design. We take pride in only working with the very best manufacturers in the world and we constantly update our own curated ranges by embracing tiles that showcase the latest designs and product developments.

Sustainable solutions

Innovation has also been driven by manufacturers working to reduce their carbon footprint and designers looking at ways to limit the environmental impact of their projects. As well as an increased awareness of embedded carbon across the full supply chain, the last few years have also seen the greater production, and specification, of tiles made from recycled content. We have extended our collection of tiles made from recycled materials, and those that have Environmental Product Declaration accreditation, so that our customers can easily switch to a more sustainable specification without compromising on aesthetics or technical performance. A number of these environmentally conscious tiles are also available from our UK-held stock range, so that embedded carbon through transportation can also be significantly reduced. We’re particularly proud to work with Mosa, the world’s first ceramic tile company to gain full Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold certification for most of its tile collection.

Natural benefits

Even without these new technologies and innovations, ceramic and porcelain tiles have a wide range of benefits from being naturally hardwearing and stain resistant, to being ideally suited in both wet and dry areas, both inside and out. But if you are looking to take your project to the next level, we can work with you to advise the most suitable solutions to meet your design brief and budget. There is more to commercial tiles than meets the eye and if you’re not sure where to look, why not let us lead the way?

To find out more or to request a sample of any of our tiles, please get in touch with our expert team at info@ctdarchitecturaltiles.co.uk or call 0800 021 4835.