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Is there a leaning towards the heritage look?
Malesha: Yes, definitely. The simple reason is that “history repeats itself”. But this time the technology used for manufacturing is advanced with a higher aesthetic appeal.
Variava: These days, the definition of heritage and old world has been turned on its head. With very few manufacturers of good quality mosaic tiles, the market has come to perceive it as avant garde. For those desiring old-world charm, we have Heritage Tiles that are perfect for any home sporting an ethnic or colonial style. The same tiles, when used with pastel colours, become modern.

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Amin: Yes, more and more people are looking for the retro look and feel.
What new products have you launched?
Malesha: Wooden, metallic, silk, rustic and other ranges in floor and wall tiles – the latest being the Old-humbra fort wall finish from Spain. We have also launched the old traditional size of 10cm x 10cm with a new aesthetic rustic look.
Variava: In tune with the trends, we have launched new colours and materials such as crystal balls, glass chips and mirrors. Some new textures are also available.
Amin: Nitco has launched a range of wall tiles in 120 shades, and Naturoc in lapato and matt finish in more than 40 shades.
Do you manufacture tiles that are eco-friendly?
Malesha: To maintain quality and finish, we use the most advanced technology available. Quality checks are done while choosing the raw materials, to ensure that the process is environment-friendly and with the least pollution. Only the best quality materials are used, and the water is recycled several times. Finally, international standards and norms are strictly followed during each phase of the production process.
Variava: We manufacture a range of tiles with recycled materials, primarily glass. These are popular with those who are environmentally as well as fashion conscious.
Amin: Yes, Nitco tiles are made using natural materials and are easily recyclable. All the unfired and fired materials which are scrapped during the manufacturing process are reused to produce a new tile, and 100% of water used is recycled. The huge plantation across the factory provides a healthy atmosphere, which creates an eco-friendly environment in the manufacturing process. Nitco tiles do not contain volatile organic compounds, lead and allergens that could negatively affect air quality.
What new innovations could change the future for tiles?
Malesha: The latest GenNext technology tiles like our Sonic, Silk and Seine series have definitely changed the current trend. In future, inkjet printing which will give a 100% natural look and texture to the tile could be seen.
Variava: The modern Indian consumer is no longer content to buy cheap off- the-shelf products. There’s a growing appetite for something different and a renewed interest in all things cement – a trend we are sure will continue. With many of our floors having lasted for 60 or 70 years, we know that cement mosaic tiles can stand the test of time.
Amin: The Indian customer has always used natural stones like marble, slate, granite and even wood extensively for flooring, a desire that Nitco attempts to fulfill through Naturoc. Then there’s Crystal White Marble – which has a surface of crystals, giving a super glossy look on a vitrified base.
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