According to a recent study by The Freedonia Group, demand for countertops is expected to reach 540 million square meters on 2.6% annual growth by 2023. Solid-surfacing materials and laminates are projected to remain the most widely used for countertop installations, but high-end products such as granite, engineered quartz, and porcelain are also expected to hold a significant amount of market demand.
Silestone by Cosentino introduced its Loft Series to offer a fresh and contemporary take on the industrial and architectural look of concrete and cement. Silestone Loft Series designs combine an unfinished look with a matte texture that is smooth to the touch, while providing the mechanical properties of Silestone. According to the manufacturer, in addition to its very low liquid absorption, Silestone's nonporous surface is highly resistant to stains, impacts, and scratching. The series is available in two initial colors: silver lake (pictured) and Brooklyn, a darker gray.
Crossville porcelain countertops mark the domestic tile manufacturer's first foray into surfacing slabs. The 12-millimeter, 100% porcelain surface is fired with added fiberglass reinforcement to help prevent cracking or splintering during fabrication and to provide strength. According to the manufacturer, the surface's composition allows it to resist cracking, staining, and scratches, in addition to resisting damaging effects from high temperatures, chemicals, acids, or solvents. The countertop, which is suitable for both interior and exterior use, is available in 10 style options with a choice of either an unpolished or a polished finish.
Federal Brace's Sento floating vanity support bracket provides balance and support strength without visually intruding on the design of the space. According to the manufacturer, the formed fabrication process gives the product the strength to hold both base cabinets and countertops. The support arms are 18 inches long to support a 22-inch-deep cabinet or countertop. Installation can be hidden behind the wall material or through the cabinet base for a wall-hung vanity. The vanity supports will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act when installed according to the requirements of the Accessibility Guidelines of the Act.
VT CenterPointe butcher block countertops and backsplashes are made from two sustainably harvested natural wood species, acacia and hevea. Each block is sold unfinished, and either side may be installed facing upwards. Countertop blocks, which measure 1½ inches thick are available in 50-, 74-, and 98-inch lengths. Backsplashes measure 98 inches long, 1½ inches thick, and 4 inches wide.
Ann Sacks' new hand-modelled clay wall tiles reportedly emphasize "mankind's ancient decorative approach to materials and surfaces through rough, primitive etchings." The effect is meant to be powerful, solid, and rugged with sophisticated details, according to Ann Sacks. The tiles, designed by Alissa Nienke, are suitable for installation on shower walls and for high temperature areas such as behind ranges and fireplace surrounds. According to the manufacturer, the tiles are also suitable for use in both freeze and thaw conditions.
Island Stone's Spindrift Marble interlocking tile set offers authentic Italian Carrara marble as a mosaic of individually crafted pebble-style shapes. The tiles measure 11¾ inches square by ¼ inch thick, and they feature uniform edges, clean grout lines, and a smooth, flat surface. They are suitable for use in walls, in showers, and in freeze/thaw areas, or as residential or high-traffic flooring.
