There’s so much more to a beautiful bathroom than a vintage roll-top tub or a statement double vanity. More often than not, it’s the floors and the walls that elevate a good bathroom design to a great one, whether it’s an intricate pattern of tiles, an elaborate splashback or a clever use of flooring. There are endless innovations today to take into consideration too, from slip-resistant glazes to extra-large look slabs that minimise grout lines.
It’s why design professionals gravitate towards Cersaie, the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings, which is taking place in Bologna once again this year between 21 and 25 September (more than 94,000 attended last year alone).
Not only does it showcase the latest innovations and trends from some of the most exciting brands in the industry, but it also allows like-minded creatives to network and build new relationships.
This year’s event kicks off with a keynote speech from Chilean architect Alejandro Aravena as part of the ‘Building, Dwelling, Thinking’ programme. Highly regarded in his field, he won the Silver Lion at the 2008 Venice Architecture Biennale and was appointed an International Honorary Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in 2010.
Other highlights at the 43rd edition include a talk by Selldorf Architects’ Principal, Annabelle Selldorf, who will be discussing her human-centric approach to design. Through her practice, she has spearheaded projects including the renovation of The Frick Collection in New York, the National Gallery in London and the Museum of Contemporary Art in San Diego. Most recently, she was part of the team behind an award-winning new museum entrance and dedicated gallery for the ‘Mona Lisa’ at the Louvre. It’s certainly not one to miss.
Those looking to improve their skills should also check out the training meetings hosted by Veronica Verona, owner of L’Accademia dello Showroom, taking place every day. Targeted specifically at showroom professionals, the course is designed to help them demonstrate the value of the product effectively, enabling them to describe their wares beyond technical terminology. Sustainability is also a key focus, with the course including a visit to Tiling Town to learn more about this.
It’s no wonder that architects, interior designers and craftsmen alike flock to Cersaie.
Cersaie is held at the Bologna Exhibition Centre, 21-25 September. Click here to secure your free ticket
