Flooring Sustainability Summit 2025 Recap
IS IT THE CHICKEN OR THE EGG?
John Trendell, Labor Committee Chair
The second annual Flooring Sustainability Summit was held in Washington DC, July 16 & 17. There were almost 250 attendees representing all different types of flooring and all aspects of the industry from architects to manufacturers to installation. Once again, the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) put on a first-class program of experts, workshops, and speakers. In attendance representing TCAA were Ed Conners, president of the Greater NY and NJ Tile Contractors Association and myself. Our partners, IMI and IUBAC, were well represented with four participants.
The first portion of the program was a discussion of the changing landscape of sustainability. While there was common agreement that market driven forces are always the preferred impetus to providing well-built healthy buildings using sustainable materials and practices, public policy certainly can provide additional help in meeting these goals.
Right now there are federal initiatives for less regulations but that does not preclude state and local interests in sustainability. There is also the AIA materials pledge which adheres to good sustainable practices. And most encouraging, private practices in sustainability are growing.
During one of the panel discussions I heard, at least for me, the most interesting comment of the entire program from a gentleman representing union labor. He pointed out that labor represents anywhere from 40-60 percent of the cost of flooring. So, without a qualified well-trained workforce, green initiatives and proper design fail. Absolutely!
The final keynote speaker was an architect with both a cautionary and positive outlook for the future of sustainability practices going forward. We have not done enough. But a simple question he poses to all his clients, do you want a safe, secure, and healthy building for the people and for our environment?
So, as I suggested in the title, how do we go about reaching our goals? Of course, it doesn’t matter how or what methods we use. In fact, a multi-pronged set of actions, taken on by all of us, will help insure that we are doing the right things to build great buildings the right way.
I look forward to our continued efforts and to next year’s Flooring Sustainability Summit!
On Thursday, October 16, the New York Hilton Midtown will host A Celebration of Tile, Marble & Terrazzo, a full-day event dedicated to showcasing the artistry, sustainability, and innovation driving the industry forward. Organized by the New York/New Jersey Ceramic Tile Promotion Fund, this gathering brings together architects, developers, contractors, and design enthusiasts to explore the latest trends while addressing critical business and workforce challenges. With sessions ranging from sustainable porcelain slab design to poured-in-place terrazzo specifications, attendees can immerse themselves in both timeless craftsmanship and cutting-edge building practices. Beyond the technical sessions, the event fosters collaboration and dialogue. Networking begins with a breakfast buffet and continues through panel discussions on pressing issues like wage theft and insurance fraud, as well as opportunities in rainscreen assemblies and evolving building codes. A buffet lunch will bring participants together in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, while supplier exhibits and CEU-accredited sessions ensure that attendees leave not only inspired but also professionally enriched. Whether you’re an architect seeking CEUs, an owner exploring new market strategies, or simply a lover of stone and tile, this event promises a day of learning, connection, and celebration. Click Here to Register
The International Masonry Institute (IMI) and the Tile Contractors Association of America (TCAA) are partnering to host an educational seminar, Modern Tile Finishes: Designing & Detailing for Project Success, on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Independence Visitor Center in Philadelphia, PA. This program, designed for architects, interior designers, and contractors, will review best practices for tile assemblies in commercial spaces, including design and installation options, industry standards, and real-world case studies. Attendees will also have the opportunity to earn two AIA LU/HSW continuing education credits. Highlights include Scott Conwell’s presentation on The Materiality of Tile and a panel discussion featuring project team members Britni Lettsome, Joe Battaglia and a representative from Mosaic and Tile who recently completed a tile retrofit of the Visitor Center itself. Planning for this event has been a true collaboration between TCAA and IMI, with a focus on creating a meaningful regional program for members. With a capped attendance of 60 participants, the seminar promises to be an engaging and intimate opportunity for industry professionals to network, learn, and discuss innovative approaches to tile design and installation. Schedule: 8:00 – 8:30 AM 30 minutes Registration, Breakfast, Networking 8:30 – 8:40 AM 10 minutes Welcome, Introductions 8:40 – 9:40 AM 60 minutes “The Materiality of Tile” 9:40 -9:55 AM 15 minutes Questions, Coffee Break + Networking 9:55 -10:40 AM 45 minutes Independence Visitor Center Panel Discussion 10:40 -10:50 AM 10 minutes Question and Answer 10:50-11:00 AM 10 minutes Closing remarks Speakers: The Materiality of Tile Scott Conwell , FAIA, FCSI, LEED AP Director of Industry Development International Masonry Institute Independence Visitor Center Panel Britni Lettsome Associate VP of Operations IMIWEB.ORG | 267-596-0180 Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation The Liberty View at Independence Visitor Center Joe Battaglia Business Agent, BAC Local 1 PA/DE Representative, Roman Mosaic and Tile IMI Staff: Casey Weisdock (Organizer + Facilitator) Scott Conwell (Presenter) Cindy Lanoue (Support) TCAA Staff: John Trendell Maggie Trendell Event Details: 📅 Date: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 📍 Location: Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA