In this age of heightened ecological consciousness, the selection of materials for interior design and refurbishment is increasingly seen as a duty of care for the planet. Among these sustainable choices, porcelain stoneware stands out as an ideal solution for bathrooms, combining aesthetics, durability, and respect for the environment. But let’s quickly find out why.
What is porcelain stoneware?
Porcelain stoneware is a type of highly resistant ceramic, produced through a process of pressing and firing at high temperatures. This material is distinguished by its density, low porosity, and high resistance to factors such as wear, scratches, and moisture.
Unlike other traditional materials used in bathrooms, porcelain stoneware offers greater longevity and simplified maintenance. Its manufacturing process involves sophisticated technology that ensures consistency in colour and texture, making each tile not only durable but also aesthetically pleasing. This adaptability makes it suitable for various design styles, from minimalist to luxurious.
Durability and resistance: a long-term investment
The durability of porcelain stoneware is one of its greatest advantages. Resistant to stains, scratches, and wear, this material maintains its beauty over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements. This not only means economic savings in the long term but also less waste production, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.
Its hard-wearing nature makes it ideal for high-traffic areas in bathrooms, ensuring that the aesthetics are maintained even under strenuous use. Furthermore, the resilience of porcelain stoneware to thermal shock and moisture makes it a practical choice for bathroom environments, which often experience significant temperature and humidity fluctuations.
This resistance to environmental stressors ensures that the bathroom tiles do not crack, warp, or lose their colour over time, preserving the integrity and appearance of the bathroom for years. The investment in porcelain stoneware is thus not only an investment in aesthetics but also in functionality and longevity, making it a wise choice for those looking to combine style with sustainability.
Reducing environmental impact
The long lifespan of porcelain stoneware implies a significant reduction in environmental impact. Fewer replacements mean fewer natural resources used and less waste produced.
Additionally, many manufacturers of porcelain stoneware engage in sustainable production practices, such as water reuse and emission reduction, making this material even more environmentally friendly. The energy-efficient production processes and the commitment to reducing carbon footprints further enhance its eco-friendly profile.
Eco-friendly maintenance
Another important aspect of porcelain stoneware is its easy maintenance. Its non-porous surface prevents dirt and bacteria buildup, making cleaning simple and quick. This reduces the need to use aggressive chemical cleaners, favouring the use of eco-friendly and less polluting cleaning products.
Maintaining the perfect condition of porcelain stoneware surfaces is easy: routine cleaning with mild detergents and water is all that is needed to promote a more sustainable and healthier environment in the bathroom.
Versatility and recyclability
Porcelain stoneware stands out not just for its practicality, but also for its remarkable versatility. Available in a wide range of colours, textures, and sizes, it adapts to any style of decor, from classic to modern. At the end of its life, porcelain stoneware can be recycled, and used in the production of new materials.
This is a testament to its sustainable nature, offering a responsible disposal option that contributes to the circular economy. The ability to mimic other materials like wood, stone, or marble, while providing superior durability and ease of maintenance, makes porcelain stoneware a smart choice for those who seek both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility.
Health and safety in the bathroom
Choosing porcelain stoneware also contributes to creating a healthier bathroom environment. Its resistance to mould and bacteria ensures a hygienic surface. Moreover, being an inert material free from harmful substances, porcelain stoneware is safe for health, not releasing toxic elements into the air.
This aspect is particularly important in enclosed spaces where air quality is a concern. The anti-slip properties of certain finishes of porcelain stoneware also enhance safety, reducing the risk of slips and falls in wet bathroom conditions. Additionally, the ease of cleaning and maintaining these surfaces helps in preventing the buildup of allergens and irritants, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory issues.
The non-reactive nature of porcelain stoneware means it does not interact with cleaning chemicals or personal care products, further ensuring a safe and non-toxic environment. Thus, porcelain stoneware is not just an aesthetically pleasing choice but also a practical one, prioritizing the health and safety of those who use the bathroom space.
Ceramiche Refin: sophisticated Italian tiles for residential and architectural projects
Established in 1962, Ceramiche Refin is a distinguished Italian company in the ceramic sector. As a member of the Gruppo Concorde in the global ceramics market, the enterprise specializes in crafting sophisticated porcelain stoneware tiles suitable for both residential settings and architectural projects. The company’s collections are inspired by the enchanting beauty of natural elements like marble, terracotta, clay, and stone.
Annually, Ceramiche Refin produces over 8 million square meters of porcelain tiles, utilizing cutting-edge technology in surface graphic design and post-production techniques. The company’s guiding principles include a profound commitment to environmental conservation and the utilization of natural resources, coupled with the essence of Italian craftsmanship.
Concerning the latest collections, one of the most original is CERA. Taking inspiration from wax, it represents an innovative concept in the field of ceramic surfaces. After extensive research, Ceramiche Refin has successfully emulated the plasticity of this material, crafting a design distinguished by its remarkable depth. Cracks, traces, and cavities that reproduce the effect resulting from the casting and solidification of wax dance on a background where dark and light areas alternate.
TAMASHI, (“soul” in Japanese), represents the latest collection of porcelain stoneware with a wood-like appearance, drawing inspiration from modern and minimalist wood styles used in contemporary furnishings. This elegant collection is the result of extensive research, aimed at achieving a perfect balance of colours and graphics.
Drawing inspiration from one of the oldest deserts on the planet, a site honoured by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the NAMIB collection comes to life. It masterfully blends simplicity with vastness, infusing the essence of pristine nature into the realm of interior design. The tile surface, predominantly uniform, features a blend of colour variations and details, marked by alternating light and dark streaks.
Finally, the latest news is the restyling of the PRESTIGIO collection. The design aims to revitalize the range of ceramic slabs featuring a marble-like appearance, bringing it in line with the latest industry trends. It seamlessly blends the authentic textures of natural marble with a distinctive and contemporary style. There are five new variants of white marbles: Statuario Apuano, Calacatta Oro, Nuvolato, Arabescato, and Opera.
