While it has been said before, it is important to reiterate that a stone or tile design is only as good as its installation. With so many different types of products on today's market, each design has its own specific requirements. It is critical that the appropriate stone or tile setting materials are used and the correct method of installation is taken for each particular application.Coverings 2014

To illustrate the importance of a quality installation, NTCA Five-Star Member Contractors will once again work closely with four top design teams during the Installation Design Showcase, which will be held during Coverings 2014 -- the four-day exhibition which will take place next month in Las Vegas. Now in its fifth year, the live-action demonstration and exhibit will pair representatives from Las Vegas-area design organizations with industry-leading tile and stone manufacturers and installers to create full-scale, conceptual vignettes, in full view of Coverings attendees.

The goal of the Installation Design Showcase is to bring to life -- right on the show floor -- the synergy that develops between the design team and the installation contractor. Having witnessed the transformation during previous shows, it is amazing to see how the applications go from bare bones to an actual vignette in only four days. It is both fun and educational to witness the progress each day and see the collaboration between the designer and installer.

The Industry News section of this edition of the Stone & Tile Design Insider includes a full write-up on this year's Installation Design Showcase. Learn more about the participants and their designs.

Also, one of the Project Spotlights in this edition is a feature on the Amaya La Jolla restaurant in La Jolla, CA, which details how careful thought and planning had to be given for a successful installation. Due to the weight and size of the custom stone pieces, it had to be ensured that they would stay attached to the walls. As a result, in addition to the mechanical attachments, an adhesive was also used for protection.

The article explains how collaboration was once again a key to the end result. The installer worked closely with the installation product manufacturer to find the right solution.

As always, we like to hear from our readers. If you have a project you would like to share, please don't hesitate to contact me at: adamsj@bnpmedia.com.