Modern Tile Finishes Event Recap
The Modern Tile Finishes event kicked off with a strong start, featuring an engaging morning of networking and tabletop exhibits with our generous supplier sponsors, MAPEI, Daltile, Panaria, Custom Building Products, Portobello America, and LATICRETE. Their continued partnership and support are key to advancing excellence in tile design and installation.
Following the networking session, Scott Conwell, IMI Director of Industry Development and Technical Services, delivered an insightful presentation on the materiality of tile, offering architects, designers, and contractors a deeper understanding of the ANSI standards that guide proper tile installations and define what qualifies as ceramic tile. His session set the stage for thoughtful discussions about the relationship between design intent, materials, and skilled union craftsmanship.
The second half of the program featured two panel discussions highlighting real-world applications of modern tile design and installation, brought to life through the expertise of union tile craftworkers:
Joe Battaglia of BAC Local 1 and Britni Lettsome, Associate VP with the Philadelphia Visitor Center Corp, shared lessons learned from the Liberty View Independence Visitor Center Remodel, emphasizing collaboration between design professionals and highly trained union installers to successfully complete a project on a tight timeline.
Kevin Trevisan and Anthony Torres from Roman Mosaic closed the program with an in-depth look at their work on the Equinox Fitness Center, showcasing how qualified union labor and technical precision elevate even the most complex installations.
The event underscored the vital connection between union labor, innovative materials, and design excellence, reinforcing how collaboration across the architecture, design, and contracting communities ensures that tile installations are not only beautiful but built to endure.
IMI supports masonry workforce training and education while offering sponsors visibility and industry engagement.
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