While colors, sizes and shapes have always played a factor when selecting the appropriate tile for a design, now there are more texture and surface finishes available than ever before to consider as well. Technology has allowed for more defined veining and grain looks for stone- and wood-look tiles, and texture can range from a subtle sheen or ribbing to a raised three-dimensional effect.

“Although the concept of porcelain tile emulating wood, marble and stone has been around for over a decade, Italian companies continue to challenge themselves,” said Ceramics of Italy. “Many have developed proprietary techniques to make their collections look and feel like the real thing while others play with the characteristics of natural materials to create high-impact designs that are completely unique.”