Mockrock

Tile impersonates rock, metal, wood.
Under the weight of a viscous summer heat, it is soothing to consider the cool, hard surface of ceramic tile. When one imagines plodding barefoot over a fired-clay plane, however, there is no need to envision traditional ceramics. These days, such surfaces may appear to be of African wengé, oxidized copper, Montana granite, or Italian travertine. Tile manufacturers have attempted to capture the aesthetic qualities of materials like wood, metal, and stone for several years, but advances in imaging and cutting technologies have recently come together to make these faux treatments truly believable.

Down Under: What’s afoot with warp and weft?

In her new collection, The Depths, rug designer Vicki Simon introduces a compelling repertoire of undersea creatures. Angry Fish, Food Chain (inset, left), and Dunkleosteus owe their naive line quality to her eight-year-old son, Tate, who originally drew them with markers.

product: Geometrix Metal Ceiling Panels
manufacturer: USG
web: usg.com

Geometrix Metal Ceiling Panels, made of lightweight aluminum, can be used to create 3-D patterns or installed randomly to add visual variety to a ceiling (they can also be wall mounted). The 2-foot-by-2-foot panels can be placed in a 9/16-inch profile and a 15/16-inch suspension system. They are available in four shapes: flat, wedge, and wedge with inside or outside corners.

product: Mind/Body/Soul
manufacturer: Durkan Commercial
web: durkancommercial.com

Designed in collaboration with Chicago-based architectural, graphics, and branding studio CleverSpin, Mind/Body/Soul was created using computer art and digital images that were split apart and reconstructed to create depth and pattern. The modular tile carpet is available in nine patterns and 15 standard colorways.

product: Techzone
manufacturer: Armstrong
web: armstrong.com

The Techzone ceiling system uses standard components (lighting, diffusers, and sprinklers) placed in a six-inch-wide technical band to organize necessary elements and create an uncluttered look. Applications include libraries, open-plan offices, airports, and retail settings. Four and five foot modules are available.

product: Makrolon 4-Wall Sheet
manufacturer: Bayer Sheet Europe
web: bayersheeteurope.com

The Makrolon 4-Wall Sheet is a polycarbonate sheet designed for a variety of uses, including roofs, façades, and window rows in public and private buildings. It is nearly 1/2 inch thick and is available in widths of 41, 47, 49, or 83 inches and lengths of 20 or 23 feet. It comes in white or clear.

product: Onda
manufacturer: Stua
web: stua.com

Designed by Stua founder Jesus Gasca, Onda is both stylish and ergonomic. Its seat is designed to fit the curves of the human body and its back provides lower lumbar support. A stainless steel frame allows it to be used in both indoor and outdoor settings. Two versions are available, kitchen counter and barstool. The seat is available in five colors, orange, taupe, sky blue, brown, and stone.