The start of 2012 had our staff off and running. Trade show season was in full swing with Surfaces/StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas followed by Cevisama and Revestir. And what we can report back is that tile manufacturers are still setting the bar high when it comes to the quality and aesthetics of today’s tile product lines. Defined textures, saturated colors and an obvious high level of technological know-how are evident in today’s designs.

Every year I am fortunate enough to visit Valencia, Spain, to attend Cevisama — the annual international tile and bathroom furnishings exhibition. As I toured the large exhibition halls, I was amazed at the abundance of new products that were on display. It is apparent that tile manufacturers are investing a great deal in research and development. A full showcase of products that were on display can be found beginning on page 12 of this issue.