SURFACE NEWS
GROUNDED IN INNOVATION: TOP FLOORING TRENDS FROM THE GLOBAL STAGE
At international Surfaces trade shows such as Cersaie, Cevisama and Domotex, the industry unveiled a future rooted in sustainability, sensory design and cutting-edge technology. A new vision emerged – showcasing products where materials do more, feel better, and speak to both function and form.
Sustainable Sophistication Sustainability took center stage. Manufacturers showcased flooring made from recycled, renewable, and low-impact sources. Highlights included bio-based linoleum, cork, reclaimed wood, and tiles from upcycled construction waste. Products that were as design-savvy as they were eco-conscious featured gradients and textures that mimicked natural stone.
Texture Takes the Lead This year marked a clear shift toward tactile experiences. From brushed woods to embossed ceramics, textured surfaces invited users to interact physically with their environment. Beyond aesthetics, haptic flooring is increasingly functional – helping define spaces and transitions through subtle changes in texture, particularly in open or multi-use areas.
XXL and Ultra-Thin Tiles Large-format and ultra-thin tiles dominated displays, with slabs reaching up to 1.6m by 3.2m. These allow for seamless, grout-free installations ideal for modern, open-plan designs. Thanks to advancements in printing, these tiles convincingly replicate natural materials like marble and steel, while being lightweight and easy to install.
Warm, Earthy Palettes A noticeable palette shift replaced cool greys and stark whites with warm, nature-inspired tones. Think honeyed oak, clay, soft greens, and terracotta. These colours – evoking forest floors and desert landscapes – enhance residential and wellness spaces with their grounding and biophilic appeal.
Smart Floors, Quiet Tech Technology is beginning to make its way underfoot. Smart flooring systems embedded with sensors were introduced, capable of tracking movement, temperature, or occupancy. Though still emerging, applications in healthcare and senior living – such as fall detection – are showing the promise of tech-enhanced environments.
Craft Meets Innovation A surprising trend was the revival of traditional patterns like herringbone, reinvented with engineered materials and modern locking systems. These heritage motifs, updated with inlays of resin, terrazzo, or metal, reflect a broader movement: blending the familiar with forward-thinking fabrication.
110 Surface News