Each year, the May issue of Stone World publishes the year-end import and export statistics from the U.S. Department of Commerce. It takes a few months for the government to relay these figures to us, but it is worth the wait, since the import totals offer an excellent snapshot of how our industry is faring - especially compared with the figures from previous years.
Despite all of the information out there on shop safety, we are still hearing about way too many accidents - often fatal accidents. My question is this: How are your businesses addressing the issue of safety in the workplace? How formalized is your safety program? Do you hold regular safety meetings? Have you changed or expanded your approach to workplace safety in the past few years?
At stone industry trade shows such as StonExpo or Coverings, the one event I always make sure I attend (no matter how early it takes place) is the "Fabricator Forum," where industry members gather and present their issues to a panel of industry experts.
When I was in journalism school, I was taught that the space for the editor’s column is the most valuable page in the entire magazine. And once again, I am using this prime real estate to urge the industry to focus on safety in the workplace - whether that is a shop, a warehouse, the jobsite or even the office.
Located in the North Hills area of Austin, TX, a townhouse was redesigned to feature a more exposed layout and also update the finishes of the existing master bath. Designed by Marsha Topham, Senior Project Architect of CG&S Design-Build, the homeowner wished to incorporate a warm color range, with a strong red accent of natural stone and tile.
CaesarStone has introduced the newest addition to its Environment First collection: Starry Night. This new color consists of finely crushed remnants of Blizzard, CaesarStone’s best-selling color. CaesarStone is the only quartz surface to recycle waste generated by stonemasons, something the company has achieved through a local Recycling Program, reports the company.
Born in the Dominican Republic, Rafael Alvarez is an accomplished architect, graphic designer and painter whose work can be found around the world. A visual arts graduate from the School of Arts Apec (EDA) and Architecture at the Universidad Nacional Pedro Henriquez Urena (UNPHU), he was an Artist in Residence, Art and Design Director and instructor for the Foundation Altos de Chavon - an affiliate of Parson’s School of Design in New York City.
Informal and functional appear to be two primary components in kitchen design today, and homeowners are also searching for a relaxing, simplistic space for their baths. Many consumers are straying away from sophisticated designs and are leaning towards more minimal looks - but overall, still inspiring.
Tile manufacturers and other industry professionals from around the world gathered in Valencia, Spain, from Tuesday, February 8 to Friday, February 11 for Cevisama 2011, the Ceramic, Natural Stone and Bath Equipment Show. The exhibition, which celebrated its 29th edition, is held annually and has become a landmark industry event.