In recent times we have witnessed a recovery of the classic ceramic products within a trend that, according to the Cuaderno de Tendencias Cerámicas Observatorio Cerámico (ITC) 19/20, can be defined as ‘Soft heritage’

Softness, delicacy and minimalism with warm touches are the main features of this decorative trend, which is a reinterpretation with refined graphics and renewed colours. Thus, in combination with other natural materials, it seeks to generate spaces conducive to calm, rest, reflection and even introspection. For this reason, it is a decorative line especially indicated for the home, but also for other habitats, such as hotels, where it is especially sought for sensations of comfortable warmth and relaxation.

This ceramic trend, which symbolises the intangible legacy of the tile, walks hand in hand with minimalist interior design, but avoiding being cold or impersonal.

As far as materials and graphics are concerned, following the guidelines of the latest edition of the Cuaderno de Tendencias Cerámicas Observatorio Cerámico, it is worth highlighting the leading role of hydraulics, one of the emblems of the most traditional ceramics, which have undergone an unprecedented process of renovation. A good example of this would be the Chess series, which reproduces the aesthetics of the hydraulics with a silver effect on the edges of the piece and plays with black and white and a geometric design to dress up the environments with ceramic authenticity. Another hydraulic tile emblem is the Diamond model. With two versions (Graphite matt and Grana matt) and a design that divides each piece into eight triangles, Diamond composes mosaics with which to cover floors and walls in their entirety or partially to delimit spaces.

In terms of colour, this trend emphasises the typical nuances of terracotta. The terracotta tones are a source of total inspiration in this sense. The Potter model recalls the work of potters and traditional artistic ceramics, but with all the technical features of today’s ceramics.

Warm tones are also at the heart of the Soft Heritage trend. Combined with blues and greens, they generate a decorative potential that is highly appreciated in many of today’s interior design projects. This can be seen in the Osaka models, an impressive version of the traditional Japanese bevelling with a complete balance between volumes and textures, and Poema, which simulates the crackle effect and which, with its six colours and two decorations, opens up a whole spectrum of personalised combinations.

CREATIVE BY ITT CERAMIC

All these models are included in Creative, the new brand of ITT Ceramic presented with a resounding success at Cevisama 2019, and whose main mission is to pay tribute to handcrafted ceramics in small format.

Finally, it should be noted that in the Soft heritage trend, the passage of time is also a key element. Worn-looking ceramics are now at the forefront. A good example of this is the Pompeia model, with which ITT Ceramic recalls part of history and fuses the old with the contemporary, creating a renewed version of classic cement. Another series to be highlighted in this chapter is Siena, with an aged effect and a marked relief, which simulates with extraordinary realism the floors of the old houses of Tuscany.