There are national peculiarities not only in the field of traditions, holidays, mentality … Having analyzed the choice of ceramic tiles in the world market, we can highlight the main features of this material depending on the country of origin. Our tips site will tell you about these differences..
Italy
Italian tile manufacturers are trendsetters! It is from this country that new trends come, new tile designs that set the tone for everyone else. No wonder it is in Italian Bologna that the Cersaie exhibition is held annually, which the portal always tells you about.
Non-standard tile shapes, extraordinary design solutions, all kinds of combinations – all this comes from Italy. In addition, Italian tiles are considered the standard of quality..
Ispaniya
It is surprising that the Spaniards, who are considered passionate and bright, tend to produce tiles in neutral, very calm shades. Apparently, it is these options that are in the highest demand in the country. The neutrality of trimming with borders and panels, which are always very numerous in Spanish collections, is diluted. In addition, Spanish ceramic tile manufacturers are famous for their very successful imitations of wood, metal, leather, natural stone and textiles..
Germania
Germans are conservatives. Therefore, the design of ceramic tiles is rarely surprising. The country is still actively producing traditional metlakh tiles, which never lose their color thanks to technology proven over the centuries. But German manufacturers have become leaders in the production of innovative grouting for tile joints, as well as protective compounds against fungus and mold. It was in Germany that a bacteria-killing, self-cleaning tile coating was developed..
Great Britain
There are always a lot of floral patterns in the collections of English tiles: small flowers, whole bouquets, ornaments from leaves. Many images by British ceramic tile manufacturers are taken from ancient prints, which gives the products a unique and classic look. In addition, the traditional English technique is a symmetrical pattern. Victorian “rugs” – paths that can be found inside the house as well – most often in the corridor and hallway do not go out of fashion.
Africa
Tiles are produced in Morocco and Tunisia. It is more of a decor, an accent of interior design, rather than finishing for the entire bathroom or kitchen. African tiles are bright, exotic, with geometric and floral designs. Popular, in particular, are miniature zellige tiles of different colors, from which whole paintings can be laid out..
China
They turn to Chinese manufacturers if they want to save money, but at the same time buy tiles similar to products from Spain and Italy. Yes, Chinese tiles outwardly will perfectly imitate famous designer collections, they are cheap, but the quality still raises criticism from buyers.
Russia
In our country, tiles are produced by many large enterprises. In particular, OJSC “Volgograd Ceramic Plant”, “Shakhtinskaya Tile”, “Kerama Marazzi”, “Uralkeramika” and others. The quality usually raises no objections, the choice is great. For the most part, Russian manufacturers produce “economy-class” tiles designed for buyers with a small budget. Therefore, they do not surprise with special design delights.
What are some distinctive features or characteristics that differentiate the tiles produced in various countries? Are there any specific styles, designs, or techniques that are unique to certain regions? How does the choice of materials, patterns, or colors differ between countries? I’m interested in understanding the cultural and aesthetic influences that shape tile production around the world.