CERSAIE, the International Exhibition of Ceramic Tile and Bathroom Furnishings, will take place in Bologna, Italy, from September 21-25, 2026. Located in the historic heart of the Italian ceramic industry, this highly anticipated event brings together more than 600 international exhibitors and welcomes over 100,000 global visitors from 160 countries each year. For kitchen and bath design professionals, CERSAIE 2026 provides an unparalleled preview of the trends, innovations, and cutting-edge sanitaryware and tile products shaping the future of design in these spaces.
Above photo: For kitchen and bath design professionals, CERSAIE 2026 provides an unparalleled preview of the trends, innovations, and cutting-edge sanitaryware and tile products shaping the future of design in these spaces.
In kitchen and bath design, ceramic and porcelain tile are emerging as standout choices, combining striking visual appeal with the performance and durability designers demand. In kitchens, non-porous, heat- and scratch-resistant porcelain slabs are gaining momentum for countertops and islands. Designers are also specifying these large-format surfaces for cabinetry applications and architectural cladding. Taking this innovation further, porcelain surfaces are now being integrated with invisible induction technology beneath the porcelain surface, creating a seamless, uninterrupted design.
Travertino Rainbow by Materia
In bathrooms, the growing trend of “tile drenching” extends tile across floors, walls, and even ceilings to create immersive, spa-like environments. This approach pairs naturally with ready-to-install porcelain washbasins, vanities, toilets, and tubs, as well as shower drainage systems. Beyond interiors, porcelain’s resistance to temperature changes, UV exposure, and high-traffic areas allows these sophisticated applications to transition seamlessly from kitchen and living spaces to outdoor patios, pavers, and pool decks – maintaining their beauty and performance over time.
Known as a global destination for trend discovery, CERSAIE 2026 is expected to showcase the latest tile products and collections reflecting a shift toward richer sensory experiences, with color, texture, and artistic expression taking center stage. Warm, nature-inspired palettes featuring espresso, deep chocolate, cinnamon, and saffron will create a sense of comfort, while marble- and stone-effect porcelains elevate gold into a sophisticated new neutral. Manufacturers are also exploring the interplay of light and metallic detailing, while also using backlit technologies to enhance depth and architectural drama.
Flautini by Ceramica Vogue
For designers seeking calm, restorative environments, organic minimalism continues to evolve into a more refined aesthetic defined by desaturated hues and layered “textural monochromatics.” Ribbed, raked, and bush-hammered clay effects, soft sand finishes, and ultra-realistic wood looks bring tactile dimension. At the same time, ceramic surfaces are moving beyond traditional backgrounds to become works of art, with large-scale murals, three-dimensional optical effects, and poetic natural landscapes transforming walls into immersive visual experiences.
As the industry places increasing emphasis on sustainable design, Italian manufacturers continue to lead with a growing commitment to environmental responsibility. Made from natural raw materials and free of PVC, phthalates, and harmful VOCs, ceramic and porcelain tile are recognized as among the healthiest surfacing options available for kitchen and bath applications. Many Italian manufacturers have implemented rigorous environmental measures for decades, including the reuse and recycling of manufacturing waste, along with efforts to reduce water and energy consumption during production. As a result, many new products and collections carry certifications and transparency labels such as EPD, LEED, and Greenguard, as well as Declare labels. A growing number of Italian tile companies have also achieved B Corp status, underscoring their broader commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Breccia Medici by ABKSTONE
In addition to its expansive 155,000-square-meter exhibition space, CERSAIE distinguishes itself through a robust offering of educational and experiential programming. The event has hosted world-renowned, prize-winning speakers, reinforcing its reputation as a major forum for architectural and design dialogue. This year’s event will once again feature the “Cersaie Designs Your Home” and “Building, Dwelling, Thinking” programs, offering design professionals a dynamic lineup of conferences, panel discussions, and lectures led by respected voices in the industry. Visitors can also explore “Tiling Town,” a dedicated 400-square-meter space where live tile installation demonstrations showcase the latest techniques for large-format tile applications.
Beyond the show itself, visitors will be immersed in the rich cultural charm and architectural heritage of Bologna. Renowned as Italy’s culinary capital, the city offers a chance to explore its historic streetscapes, iconic porticos – protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and its vibrant, eclectic atmosphere.
Visit www.cersaie.it/en for more information and register for your free entrance ticket.
