AT EMC TILES - YOU JUST WOODEN BELIEVE IT!

THESE TILES LOOK EXACTLY LIKE THE REAL THING

They say that seeing is believing - but to convince yourself these wonderful ceramic wood look alike tiles are not the real thing – you actually have to touch them.

Ceramic tile technology has advanced in leaps and bounds in recent years so that now the latest generation of wood look-alikes are devastatingly realistic... you may even find yourself taking care not to get a splinter.

These fabulous products are taking over from the real thing – both inside and out.

Designers are discovering their hard-wearing resilience and attractive looks make them ideal for interior flooring and the new range of look-alike wooden decking is a hit with garden enthusiasts.

One of the biggest advantages of wood look-alikes is their outstanding ability to resist wear. They are made from porcelain, one of the hardest materials known to designers.

If they are correctly fitted, they will look as good in the years ahead as they did the day were new.

Whereas real wood needs constant attention and extra care to avoid disfiguring scratches and scrapes, ceramic tile will stand up to anything normal use can throw at it.

A water spillage which could ruin a wood floor can simply be wiped away.

Superior products like Wood-ker are astonishing. The colour, the texture and the feel of wood are uncannily reproduced in full bodied porcelain, with an amazing amount of attention to detail – including saw marks on the surface.

Barry Slawson, the managing director of the region’s leading ceramic tile supplier, East Midlands Ceramic says: “The range and choice of wood look alike styles is expanding all the time – as leading manufacturers develop new lines in response to the ever-growing popularity of these products.

“I would say that the development of look-alikes is one of the most dramatic and successful innovations in the industry in the past decade.

“I think it is safe to say that many people are now making look-alikes their first choice ahead of the real thing.

Picture: The realistic look of a natural wooden floor... full of character... but having
the hard wearing and minimal maintenance benefits of a ceramic tile.

“Some customers say they are concerned about the perception that tiled floors are cold to the touch. This is easily overcome by fitting luxurious and energy efficient undertile heating. It gives the tiles a fabulous warm glow – which contributes to the overall background heat of the room, for a very economical cost. There are instances where it has even allowed customers to cut back dramatically on their central heating.”

Garden decking made from tough porcelain has taken the look-alikes into new realms and proved that its qualities are ideal for outdoor applications too.

Wood decking demands almost constant upkeep to maintain it in peak conditions and nothing looks sadder than a neglected deck.

The porcelain version is indistinguishable from real wood. It is easy to lay and will stand up to everything the weather and heavy garden use can throw at it – without losing any of its attractive finish.

Picture: Ceramic Tiles - displaying all the rich, warm textures of natural wood

Barry Slawson says: “The advantages are numerous. They will never rot, unlike timber they don’t need regular weatherproofing treatment to keep them in peak condition, they will resist heavy usage, they won’t be damaged by staining or sparks or embers from a barbeque and they will look great all year round.

“We are all very excited about these innovations – which are giving designers brilliant new opportunities to replace traditional wood products with something more hardwearing – but without any loss of attractiveness.

 “The introduction of ceramic tile decking is also a highly significant breakthrough that will be welcomed by gardeners and home owners who may have been reluctant to invest in a fashionable deck – simply because of the hassles involved in their upkeep.

“Now buyers can have the best of both worlds – great looking “wood” designs they don’t have to worry about.”    

Classic Retro-Decor Style Retain Their Timeless Appeal

Highly decorated tiles – evoking delightful memories and feelings from a time gone by.

Complex, individual patterns will provide a fascinating, eye catching backdrop or they can be used in a mix to give a myriad of tile displays.

Image: Eye Catching Display Using A Mix Of Individual Designs

These tile designs have a retro feel about them that reaches back through time, evoking memories of the hippie inspired days of the 1960s and 70s. Then, viewed from a different angle, they also tend to hint of Northern Africa… with places like Morocco coming to mind.

At this year’s International Ceramic Tile Fair in Bologna, where traditionally the industry shows off its latest innovations, these fabulous tiles were one of the buzz products that generated a lot of interest. There is a wide range of selection in these types of tiles, some of which are quite colourful.

East Midlands Ceramics managing director, Barry Slawson is an annual visitor to the fair and is always on the lookout for new ideas to inspire local interior designers.

He says: “In recent years, tile trends have leaned towards a minimalist approach where neat clean lines are the order of the day. These tiles represent a departure from that, to provide a totally different feel and experience.

“Beautifully designed, they seem quite revolutionary with a lively individual character. They are definitely not tiles that can be ignored and they almost cry out for attention.

Image: Always Interesting - Whatever The Design!

“These tiles certainly provide the impact factor – and could become a very popular choice for those looking to make an impression by creating something different. The fact that they are so eye catching, means they could very well appeal to a whole new generation of tile buyers.”

Visit EMC Tiles to explore the full range of these fantastic new tiles which are available to order – with rapid delivery.

EMC Tiles - Official VERSACE UK AGENT

When a tile company becomes a main agent for a world famous brand like Versace - it's almost like winning a royal appointment.

"You can't ask for a franchise - it's a case of waiting to be asked... and they are very fussy about who they want to link their name to!

"So it's a real accolade for Nottingham-based EMC Tiles to be chosen by Versace to be one of their main exclusive UK agents.

The sumptuous Versace range of designer ceramic tiles is guaranteed
to make an impact, with their timeless, elegant, classic style.

Barry Slawson, EMC Tiles managing director says: “Versace tiles are a timeless classic. The brand has built an enviable reputation, known the world over for elegance, style, opulence and luxury.

"We are exceptionally proud to be one of the exclusive stockists. Over the years, we have been able to supply discerning customers with tiles which set their own standards.

"Versace tiles may have the celebrity status but their quality is astounding and they are much more than just a fashionable name - they are tiles of the highest design flair and finish. They are however, very accessible to the wider market and at EMC Tiles, we have supplied Versace tiles to a wide range of homes - from large executive type properties, to smaller more modest abodes.

"The thing that has united all our Versace buyers is a desire to have something glamorous and extra special in their homes – with world class recognition.

" Versace may be a huge name, but it is only part of an unrivalled range of products in our extensive portfolio of ceramic tiles.

“We deal with all the leading continental European and UK manufacturers and are able to offer our customers the widest and most up to date choices in wall and floor tiles.

“Our expert staff are always on hand to offer a wealth of advice on selection of ceramic tiles for purchase – whether it be from the Versace range, or another of the numerous options we have to offer.

"Versace is part of the prestigious Gardenia Orchidea company – one of the leading Italian Ceramic Tile manufacturers which EMC tiles are proud to have been associated with for more than 30 years.

Gardenia Orchidea was one of EMC Tiles first major suppliers and as the company began to establish a distinguished track record for quality and faultless customer service – Gardenia Orchidea realised that EMC Tiles would make the ideal partner to market its prestigious Versace brand.

When EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson, was asked if he would like take on the agency, he was delighted to accept.

He says: “Versace provided a missing link in our portfolio, giving us the ability to offer to our customers a complete choice of wall and floor tiles, with the inclusion of a top designer name.

“It is a real privilege... and the icing on the cake for us and our reputation. Very few ceramic tile companies are even approached by Versace and we were delighted to accept the honour of being able to represent them.

“We have supplied their fabulous and distinctive tiles to customers looking for something extra special in their interior designs. A Versace bathroom certainly makes a stunning statement and is the pinnacle of luxury.

Italian style positively radiates from these
stunning bathroom tiles from Gardenia Orchidea. 

Barry says: “Our showrooms have always included individual Versace roomset displays to illustrate their special designed features.

“This gives our customers the perfect opportunity to fully appreciate and enjoy these beautiful products in a realistic setting and to give them an impression of how fantastic these tiles will look in their own homes.

“In fact, our Versace roomsets have only just recently been updated as part of our continued programme of upgrading showroom displays, to ensure our customers are always kept informed of current developments and trends in the world of ceramic tiles.

“The new sets feature the fabulous Vanitas range – which includes a highly fashionable wood look-alike tile – which is perfect for floors to complement all the other tiles in the range.

"The best way to fully appreciate these fabulous Versace tiles, and all our other products, is to visit our showrooms to see for yourself just what the wonderful world of ceramic tiles has to offer. You will be amazed.”

Think New Bathroom... Think Tiles First!

In times where minimalist white bathroom suites are the norm, walls and floors play a crucial part in any bathroom makeover. Using the walls and floor as 'key' design elements, the whole space can be personalized to achieve the perfect end result.

Whether designing a new room or looking at a revamp, the major points for consideration should always be: what am I trying to create... what colours do I want to use... how light do I want it to be, and, what overall ambiance I am trying to create?

All of these questions are relevant, but it's important to start your planning from the right point. The blank canvas starts with the largest area of the room i.e. wall and floor surfaces... and that's where Tiles come in.

Ceramic tiles offer the perfect solution for bathrooms of all sizes and can be used to make a room seem larger, or create a desirable mood depending on the colours and textures chosen. Subsequent consideration regarding design can then take place, confident in the knowledge that the basics are correct.

Light and bright colour tiles will reflect light and brighten up a room, providing a relaxing environment - darker colours contribute to a more sensual mood. Careful thought should be given as to the feel and mood of the room when choosing the tile colour, as it is vital to get things right at this early stage. Even a small variation in tone can make a difference and change the ambiance of a room e.g. from a ‘cheerful’ green to a ’peaceful’ sage.

The same rules would apply to the kitchen, which typically is of a larger area. Early planning of colours for the walls and floor will help when deciding on units and worktops, to ensure harmonious integration. The variety in selection in today's ceramic tiles marketplace, means they no longer need to be a final touch – now, they play a central role in the interior design of rooms.

For tile ideas to suit your space visit EMC Ceramics showrooms or call us on 0115 977 0155.

Design Moods – Classical to Modern

Another design trend we’ve read about recently is using colour to create a mood in your home. At EMC, we offer tiles in a kaleidoscope of colours to help you customise your living space – whether you need a haven of peace and quiet in your bathroom or an upbeat tempo in your kitchen. We believe ceramic tiles provide an excellent opportunity to set different moods in different rooms, which can either match or contrast other colours and accessories.

With the bathroom becoming an ever more important part of our lives, there is also a move towards larger bathrooms that are the ultimate haven in our busy schedules. To create a beautiful space in which to unwind, EMC’s designer range of tiles from Versace are just the job. In a range of subtle colours and effects, these multi-sized tiles are suitable for the floor and walls and available in a range of ‘series’ designed to transform a room into a classical palace, roman bath or sleek modernist statement.

Each Versace range includes complementary tiles to create an entire scheme, incorporating design elements such as frescos, borders and even art within the tiles themselves. For a preview of this magical world, visit our showroom in Loughborough or Nottingham or call for more details on 0115 9770 155

A Tile With The Look Of Antique Wood Thanks To Digital Technology

A stunning new product has raised the look-alike theme to a new level, with a tile that looks and feels like a luxurious carved and hand-crafted wooden floor.

The success of ceramic look-alike tiles goes from
strength to strength in emulating wood finishes.

The fabulous Vintage series from a leading Spanish manufacture offers a range of finishes from geometric antique cross inlay patterns to straight plank designs.

These wonderful tiles are faithful reproductions of real carved woods. They are produced in hardwearing glazed porcelain using the latest digital technology to create an effect that looks indistinguishable from the real thing.

They are a new arrival at East Midlands Ceramic, the region’s leading tile supplier, which is always in the forefront when it comes to bringing tile buyers all the most recent innovations and developments in the tile world.

EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson said: “The levels of sophistication these look alike tiles are now achieving is astonishing.  Just when you thought they couldn't get any better – along come a new product which raises the standard even higher.

“This range will appeal to a wide variety of tile buyers – from commercial designers to domestic customers looking for something extra special.

“The beautiful antique geometric pattern is ideal for bars, restaurants and hotels wanting to make a lasting impression. It creates a floor with all the warmth and attractive looks of a seasoned wood floor – but with all the hard-wearing and resilient qualities of ceramic tile. It really does offer the best of both worlds.

“Add under tile heating and you have the ultimate floor for making your customers and clients feel instantly at home.

“Domestic buyers too will love the look and feel of the straight plank look – which creates a genuinely viable alternative to an expensive parquet floor. The designs can be used inside or out – making them perfect for conservatories and patios – or even for a special feature in a garden.

“The beauty of ceramic tile look-a-likes is in their hard-wearing qualities. Unlike real wood, they need minimal maintenance, they are highly resistant to damage and wear and they will look as good in ten or twenty years’ time as they did the day they were fitted.”

HITTING THE DECK WITH A CERAMIC TILE WOOD LOOK-ALIKE

Ceramic tile wood-lookalike garden decking is a fabulous new product which is about to revolutionise the ever-popular garden deck.

Rapid advances in ceramic tile technology have produced an astonishingly accurate reproduction of real wood decking. It is easy to lay and looks just like the real thing – but this decking will stand up to everything the weather and heavy garden use can throw at it – without losing any of its attractive finish.

Pictures: Fabulous ceramic tile wood look-alike decking is

about to revolutionise the traditional garden deck

Garden decking is a fashionable feature of modern gardens – but traditional wooden decking demands almost constant attention to keep it in peak condition.

The ceramic tile alternative will look just as good as it did the day you laid it – even after several years of constant use.

It’s made of tough, resilient porcelain and at a glance is indistinguishable from real wood. Although not strictly a floor tile the decking does fulfil the role as it is designed to be used underfoot.

It’s one of the latest ceramic tile products to have arrived at Nottingham-based East Midlands Ceramics, the region’s leading ceramic tile supplier.

EMC Tiles managing director, Barry Slawson said: “These new wood look-alike decking tiles from the Spanish manufacturer Cinca, are perfect for all applications where you may want to use wooden decking.

“But the advantages are numerous. They will never rot, unlike timber they don’t need regular weatherproofing treatment to keep them in peak condition, they will resist heavy usage, they won’t be damaged by staining or sparks or embers from a barbeque and they will look great all year round.
“The development of wood look-alike products is taking the ceramic tile industry by storm. They were a prominent feature of the 2012 International Ceramic Tile Exhibition in Bologna. We are all very excited about these innovations – which are giving designers brilliant new opportunities to replace traditional wood products with something more hardwearing – but without any loss of attractiveness. The introduction

of ceramic tile decking is a highly significant breakthrough that will be welcomed by gardeners and home owners who may have been reluctant to invest in a fashionable deck – simply because of the hassles involved in their upkeep.

“Now they can have the best of both worlds –
great looking decking they don’t have to worry about.”