Look below the surface, and you’ll find that there’s a rich backstory to all the best finishes. In some cases, that’s a result of a material’s design. Take Ceramiche Keope’s CottoMilano geometric tiles, for instance. At first glance, they might just appear charmingly abstract — but they’re actually packed with references to historic Milanese architecture. Meanwhile, other surfacing solutions reveal their true depth as you start to learn more about their composition. Critically, several manufacturers have recently introduced mineral composites made with zero crystalline silica. The result of extensive R&D, these latest launches make important, necessary strides towards addressing one of the surfacing industry’s greatest occupational hazards. With all that in mind, here are 10 countertop, flooring and wall products that demonstrate artistic merit and positive innovation.

Surfacing

1

Éclos by Cosentino

The newest brand in the Cosentino family — a mineral composite billed as the result of some 28,000 hours of research — distinguishes itself with zero crystalline silica. Featuring layered veining that extends throughout the full body of the material, designs incorporate a minimum of 50 per cent recycled content, and some reach almost 90 per cent. Enjoy heat resistance up to 220°C.

2

Marvel Epic by Atlas Concorde

Using some of the world’s most high-drama marbles as a reference point, Atlas Concorde has developed a range of serious statement-makers — including Calacatta Viola, shown. For maximum impact, the same porcelain surfacing can be used across floors, walls and furnishings.

3

ICON by Caesarstone

Caesarstone’s crystalline silica–free offering blends natural minerals and approximately 80 per cent recycled content, including post-industrial glass. Three new colours launch this spring, including Sedara, shown.

4

St. Isley by Cambria

Expanding the quartz manufacturer’s Coordinates series, Cambria’s latest combines sweeping blue-grey veining with warm undertones to evoke a rugged coastal landscape. Available in thicknesses of two or three centimetres, slabs measure up to 335 by 166 centimetres.

5

Marble Touch by Italgraniti

Modelled after Calacatta marble, this porcelain pattern from Italgraniti is offered in two colours — one with white and grey tones, and another that skews warm and creamy. Slabs are offered in three thicknesses (0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 centimetres), the thickest available in sizes up to 160 by 320 centimetres.

Tile

1

City by Cir

Milan’s industrial soul provided the starting point for glazed porcelain bricks accented with well-worn texture in this introduction by Cir. Two solid treatments (Matt and Lux, shown) and two patterned geometric designs (Squares and Lines) are available, all in blocks measuring 6.5 by 29 centimetres.

2

Motivo by Mutina

Ronan Bouroullec looked to wood panelling to develop this new wall tile range for Mutina. Each of the blocks and linear frame elements is available in six matte colours and one metallic silver finish. The depth created by the thicker trim pieces results in interesting shadow play throughout the day.

3

Colinas by Viúva Lamego

Portuguese tilemaker Viúva Lamego partnered with Toronto studio Republic of II by IV for decorative wall tiles named after the Portuguese word for “rolling hills.” Three sizes and five colours allow for dynamic mix-and-match configurations.

CottoMilano by Ceramiche Keope

Working with porcelain manufacturer Ceramiche Keope, designer Domenico Orefice developed a series of geometric designs referencing Milanese landmarks that all had their terracotta bricks fired in the city’s historic Curti furnace. Choose from glossy, matte and anti-slip surfaces.

5

Nesting Room by ABK

Moooi brings its idiosyncratic vision to its first ceramic tiles, developed alongside ABK. Representing nature through a dreamlike lens, the collaborative collection combines three lines — Hypnotic Owl, Cloistered Dove and Reiki Rhea (shown) — each with its own mix of geometric and animal-themed designs offered in tile and large panel formats.