As the largest stone and tile show in North America, Coverings is a trade show that continues to grow even with the economic downturn hitting hard for the past few years. Athough high quality tiles have suffered like every other industry, companies like the thirty year old Inalco (the International Alcorenses Confederadas, S.A.) is one of many Spanish companies that survived mostly because their products have always focused on a simple equation of constant innovation, bulletproof quality, and sheer beauty.

Pyrene. Designed by Inalco.

When I overheard some of the Coverings press folks squeal with excitement about Inalco, I learned (as a Coverings rookie) that they are one of Spain’s premier tile companies, always staying true to a timeless facade while attempting new technologies that increase the lasting value and ease of installation for their tiles. While listening to Luís, Inalco’s head export manager, we roamed throughout the lofty booth until, what I’d soon find out is their new line of ceramic tiles, caught my eye. It’s called Pyrene. Using innovative IPLUS technology, the slate-like tiles were showcased in the company’s Slimmker version – an environmentally friendly size of tile that has a thickness of just 4mm. Pyrene is the first tile to be embossed using white inkjet, a technology that has always proved impossible since white on black is a difficult feat. Ideal for walls and elegant on interior floors, the IPLUS technology sets Inalco’s timeless appearance of unique tile printing apart as we enjoyed the delicious Spanish tapas.