European Natural Stone Companies Invade Houston

Introduction to the Delegation

A delegation of 10 European natural stone companies, including eight Italians, a Dane, and a man from Portugal, recently visited Houston to showcase their products to top design firms. The mission was organized by Veronafiere Spa, the renowned organizer of Marmo+Mac, the world’s leading international trade fair for the natural stone industry.

The Mission’s Objective

The main goal of the mission was to create opportunities for manufacturers to connect with top-tier industry professionals, fostering networking and business development in the strategic U.S. market. Francesca Bacci, business development manager at the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, stated that "The Chamber was proud to partner locally with Veronafiere to coordinate all the events and meetings held in Houston on May 5, 6, and 7."

Design and Architecture Firms Involved

The delegation visited several design and architecture firms, including Gensler, Perkins & Will, HOK, Jacobs, Intexture-Aura, Rottet Studio, and Nina Magon Design. They also stopped by Thorntree Slate at the Houston Design Center and the Amodo European Collection showroom at the Decorative Center. AIA Houston hosted a credit panel at their headquarters, and BeDesign hosted a luncheon with special guest and design powerhouse Abel Design Group.

The Featured European Brands

The following European brands are now available in Houston:

• Basaltite Guidotti Battaglini Srl: A medium-grey stone with crystals of leucite immersed in a microcrystalline structure.
• Cancian Pavimenti: A legacy Venetian terrazzo brand that dates back to 1840 and is the only LEED-certified brand on the list.
• Domos: A company based in Verona’s Stone District that develops marble and natural stone products.
• Elite Stone: A brand that offers dramatic and timeless design statements with its marbles.
• Fauske Marble by Moser Aps: A sustainably-minded fourth-generation company from Denmark that produces exquisite arctic marbles.
• Grassi Pietre Srl: A company founded in 1850 that combines artisanal know-how with modern technologies for stone processing and production.
• Marcolini Marmi Spa: A brand known for its adherence to Italian taste and tradition in the areas of marble, granite, onyx, and stone.
• Moca Stone SA: A company that offers warm and creamy marbles that are perfect for high-end residential and commercial projects.
• Porfido Trentino – Cave Famiglia Pisetta: A company that offers a variety of porphyry products, including cubes, irregular slabs, and tiles with split sides.
• R.E.D. Graniti Spa: An exquisite marble cladding company that offers monument-quality stonework built to last for generations.

Conclusion

The introduction of these European natural stone brands to the Houston market is expected to enhance design in the Bayou City for many years to come. With their unique and luxurious products, these companies are sure to make a statement in the world of design and architecture. As the demand for high-end residential and commercial developments continues to grow, the presence of these brands in Houston is likely to have a significant impact on the city’s design landscape.