72 2019 | TRENDS paved the way for fantastic new opportunities for tile, Wright said. “The increase in sizes and thicknesses of tile has allowed for new applications in kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, tables, and outdoor kitchens,” she noted. “Geometric shapes, bold graphics, and colors are great ways to bring personal style and interest to spaces. When installed correctly, tile and stone offer  durability and water resistance, as well as beautiful aesthetics and easy maintenance.” Qualified labor One of the purposes of the Installation & Design Experience is to champion the partnerships that result when pairing visionary designers and qualified install- ers, who have obtained industry-recognized credentials, be they Certified Tile Installers, ACT certified install- ers, Trowel of Excellence Installers or NTCA Five-Star Contractors, which require certification for entry into an elite group of craftspeople. Wright’s firm seeks out qualified installers, explaining that they “offer consistent quality installations and an overall understanding of the product's characteristics and the details that contribute to a coherent design and installation. Below is a paragraph on installer qualifica- tions from our specifications.” A&D FOCUS (continued) Rendering of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) headquarters in Orlando, Fla., currently under construction, designed by HHCP. A closer look at the Installation & Design Experience The Installation & Design Experience, booth #3538, allows Coverings 2019 attendees to experience firsthand numerous types of tile installations implemented by qualified, trained and certified tile installers. These interactive sessions will showcase today’s best practices relative to a multitude of different tile installations, and state-of-the-art projects will involve cutting-edge ceramic tile technology installed by qual- ity craftspeople. Other highlights of the experience include a live demon- stration stage located in the lounge area, where trained and certified crews will educate attendees on the proper installa- tion of large-format tile, including gauged porcelain tile panels and slabs, as well as the importance of substrate preparation.  Specially prepared videos will be featured in kiosks located throughout the Experience, featuring important information on silica awareness and best practices on avoiding expo- sure, and common installation errors that negatively impact successful tile installations, and much more. Organizations working to improve the industry through the development of apprenticeship programs, online education, certification, and workforce development will have booths dedicated to the promotion of these programs, with representatives available to answer questions and provide valuable information.   A special highlight this year includes an area created by the Tile Council of North America, featuring their highly respected testing laboratory. Common tests that are conducted in the TCNA Lab will be explained and featured, including how vital this information can be as it relates to suitability and perfor- mance.  Special programs and events are also being planned, such as guided tours for attendees, product giveaways, happy hours, and customized games featuring ceramic tile-related content.