I really wonder: Is there a point where humanity will fully substitute natural and original elements with artificial imitations? Will we be able to consume “meat” that isn’t actually meat and “cheese” that isn’t really cheese? Will we construct buildings using wood that isn’t truly wood and concrete that isn’t genuine cement? Will we be able to rely on artificial rain to fill dams and to meet our water needs, and replace ourselves with humanoid mechanisms equipped with artificial intelligence for socializing or work? It’s unsettling, but I believe the answer is “yes”.

The primary catalyst for these questions swirling in my mind was my recent attendance at the Cersaie 2023 Bologna International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings. Witnessing ceramic tiles, with patterns and textures identical to those of natural substances, pushed to such extremes through technological advancements, makes me ponder the extent to which humanity can push boundaries through the combination of intelligence, objectives, and technological capabilities.

Examining the matter from an architect’s perspective reveals its multifaceted nature.

First and foremost, when approaching the subject, whether thinking of it as a trend, tendency, or fashion, we find ourselves once again drawn to the natural textures of wood, stone, and marble. This is where the hyperrealism effect comes in. Thanks to the technological surface applications and printing techniques applied to tiles, we are brought to a state of realism that is truly astonishing. Observing every grain, knot, or trace of a milling cutter or nail that can occur during the processing of real wood inevitably prompts you to touch the product and question if it is indeed real wood. Similarly, noticing hammer and chisel marks or the natural relief of stone in stone-patterned products, and observing the layered, scaly structure of marble-patterned products heightens the excitement.

Observing all of this, we delight in witnessing humanity making a smaller impact on nature, and the increasing perfection of nature-inspired designs through the collaboration of human talent and artificial intelligence adds another dimension of liberation.

In addition to wood, travertine sections are far ahead. Colorful slate stones with hammer-marked surfaces allow you to fully experience the essence of the stone.

Apart from patterns, textures, and surfaces, we must not overlook another noteworthy aspect.

Ceramic tile productions, competing with the dimensions sourced from natural stone and marble quarries, highlight the contrast between size growth and shrinkage this year. We combine a 180x360cm marble-like porcelain slab with 5x10cm colorful tiles. Sizes like 75x150cm, 80x160cm, and 120x120cm are becoming more prevalent. In parquet-patterned products, unusual sizes such as 25x175, 40x160, and 27x180cm have become the new options offered by materials and technology. Smaller-sized products, mainly ceramic-based ones, attract widespread admiration due to their multi-colored glossy glazes and designs.

Colors, colors, colors...

Last year, blue and green dominated the natural palette. This year, while maintaining the same commitment, color preferences embrace the nature even more. Abundant earth and cotto tones are now prominent. The color transitions of the prints are so enviable... Eyes that witness exact replicas of real elements, appearing authentic, continue their journey without noticing any contradictions.

The metallic effects that began last year have now reached a noticeable level. Whether textured or flat, these applications have turned reality into fantasy. Rock sections adorned with metallic effects occasionally yield to intricate decors and glittering patterns resembling metal coatings.

Another area of experimentation for ceramic tile producers involves the use of patterns that emulate wallpaper, offering the convenience of creating large-sized tiles. Following the journey of each pencil stroke in the patterns, as if it were on paper, allows you to immerse yourself in the intricate details.

I wonder what more humanity will be able to achieve with this confidence.

Like I said, I really wonder.