2013 Interior DESIGN trend - MAN-made materials

Here is my top 10 design trends for 2013 spread out over the next 10 days...

Trend #1 Geometric patterns 
Trend #2 Animal influences

Trend #3 Brass metal
Trend #4 Industrial style light fixtures
Trend #5 Reclaimed wood

Trend #6 - MAN-made materials

Over the last decade there has been a huge demand for natural stone or wood.  How could you not love the thought of a material where no 2 pieces are alike. In a world of mass production, individuality and uniqueness are definitely more important then ever.  As wonderful as it sounds there is always a catch.  The problem is they aren't quite as durable as we'd like.  Wouldn't you love a marble island?  Well unfortunately it can stain, and unfortunately granite can too, so if your an avid cook you have to be careful.  Hardwood floors in the bathroom would be great for the overall flow in your house, but they are not recommended around water.  And what would you think about travertine in your foyer?  Again it would be stunning, but unfortunately it scratches.  I'm sure you can see where this is going.  The consumers loved the idea of stone, but they wanted something better.  That's when the manufacturers started making products that had the beauty of natural products, but had the added bonus of essentially being bullet proof.

Let me introduce these wonderful man-made materials to you.

Quartz

Quartz Countertops are resistant to stain and easy to clean: Unlike a granite countertop, quartz countertops are non-porous and stain resistant.

Quartz countertops are resistant to heat and naturally fight germs: Because Quartz is non porous, food bacteria and fluids have a more difficult time getting trapped inside.

Traditional Bathroom design by Cincinnati Media And Blogs The Vintage Glitter House

Porcelain Tile (can look just like stone or hardwood)

Hard, Dense and very durable

Essentially stain-proof and highly resistant to moisture

Frost and Fire resistant... good for any interior/exterior application

Offers good traction and resistance to slipping

Doesn't need sealing (except polished finished), waxing or polishing

Broad range of colors, textures and patterns

Easy to clean with hot water or typical products

Does not etch like marble or travertine

Highly resistant to scratching

Won't break or crack easy

Traditional Living Room design by Toronto Tile Stone And Countertop Cercan Tile Inc.

Modern Hall design by Tel Aviv Architect NURIT GEFFEN-BATIM STUDIO

Luxury Vinyl

Luxury vinyl flooring has naturally influenced designs with performance advantages 
including flexible and easy installation with low costs and excellent durability.

Modern Bathroom design by Atlanta General Contractor Cablik Enterprises

Although you can't beat the beauty of natural products, these man-made materials are great alternatives.  As we move forward in our busy lives, I think these maintenance free products will continue to grow as an interior design trend for 2013.