What's replacing cool gray, high-gloss LVT in 2026?

MSI's trend guide points to warmer wood tones (honey, caramel, greige), matte and low-sheen finishes, registered emboss (EIR) texture that matches the print, and larger stone-look formats (18×18 and above). Spec tip from the article: aim for a stronger wear layer in busy rooms (20 mil cited for heavy residential kitchens/hallways) and an SPC core where temperature swings and large formats matter.

See the full 2026 colors, finishes, and styles roundup:

https://www.msisurfaces.com/blogs/post/2026/09/08/lvt-flooring-trends-2026-colors-finishes-styles-to-watch.aspx

#LVTFlooring #LuxuryVinyl #FlooringTrends #VinylFlooring #Everlife #HomeFlooring #MSISurfaces #InteriorDesign #2026Trends

Does 2cm vs. 3cm granite actually matter? Yes—it's a structural choice, not just aesthetics.

3cm (1¼ in) is today's kitchen and island norm: self-supporting without plywood, ~18–19 lbs/sf, and compatible with waterfall, full ogee, and thicker mitered edges (max unsupported overhang often cited around 10–12 in). 2cm (¾ in, ~12–13 lbs/sf) suits baths, vertical cladding, and budget projects when ¾" plywood underlayment is in place—and overhangs stay tighter (~6 in unsupported).

Compare the full side-by-side guide:

https://www.msisurfaces.com/blogs/post/2026/09/09/granite-countertop-thickness-2cm-vs-3cm.aspx

#GraniteCountertops #NaturalStone #KitchenDesign #CountertopDesign #StoneFabrication #BathroomDesign #MSISurfaces #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign

Large format porcelain tile delivers fewer grout lines, a more seamless look, and easier long-term maintenance — when the install is set up for success. Substrate flatness, the right adhesive, and a linear drain for showers make the difference. Our guide covers sizes, benefits, and the project checks that keep installs on track. Chat with us online, visit an MSI showroom, or ask a local retailer which format fits your space.

Looking for wood-look beauty that stands up to real life? Our luxury vinyl plank flooring pairs waterproof performance and scratch resistance with underfoot comfort — including the CrystaLux™ protection layer and pre-attached backing for quieter rooms. From kitchens and baths to open-concept living, it is a smart choice for everyday homes. Chat with us online, visit an MSI showroom, or explore options with a trusted local retailer.

Compare LVT wear layer thickness, mil ratings, warranties, and commercial specs to choose durable vinyl flooring for B2B projects with MSI.

Veneer thickness specs, Janka hardness by species, lifecycle cost math, and a climate-zone decision guide — the complete solid vs. engineered hardwood comparison.

When should you specify mosaic over large format?

Per ANSI A137.1 framing in this MSI guide, mosaic is typically a face area of 6 sq in or less (often 1"×1" or 2"×2"), factory-mounted on 12"×12" mesh sheets—ideal for shower floors, pools, curves, and backsplashes. Dense grout joints help wet-area traction (DCOF ≥0.42 path), while mesh flexes over minor substrate variation. Large format (≥15" on one side) opens rooms with fewer joints but needs a flatter subfloor (TCNA F125) and often a textured finish for wet DCOF.

Use the full types-and-sizes guide to match format to the surface:

https://www.msisurfaces.com/blogs/post/2026/09/09/mosaic-tile-types-small-format-vs-large-format.aspx

#MosaicTile #TileDesign #ShowerDesign #LargeFormatTile #BathroomDesign #TileSpecification #MSISurfaces #PoolDesign #InteriorDesign

Specifying porcelain slabs? Thickness is application-driven—not cosmetic.

This MSI guide breaks down the three commercial grades: 6mm (~¼ in, ~7–7.5 lbs/sf) for walls, backsplashes, and furniture cladding; 12mm (~½ in, ~14–16 lbs/sf) for countertops, vanities, and interior floors (and the practical minimum for mitered edges); and 20mm (~¾ in, ~25–27 lbs/sf) for outdoor, commercial, and high-traffic installs—including freeze-thaw climates when certified.

Read the full thickness guide before you lock the spec:

https://www.msisurfaces.com/blogs/post/2026/09/10/porcelain-slab-thickness-guide.aspx

#PorcelainTile #PorcelainSlabs #TileDesign #CountertopDesign #LargeFormatTile #TileSpecification #MSISurfaces #HomeImprovement #InteriorDesign

How thick should your quartz countertop be — 2cm or 3cm? 3cm is the industry standard for kitchens, islands, and high-use commercial surfaces. 2cm shines for baths, vertical cladding, and supported applications. Our specification guide compares weight, overhang limits, edge options, and when each thickness makes sense. Chat with us online, visit an MSI showroom, or find a local MSI countertop dealer to review slabs in person.

Ever wonder why a countertop, tile, or paver looks different at home than it did in the photo? Lighting, camera settings, screen calibration, viewing angle, and natural material variation all shape what you see — and none of them mean something is wrong with the product. Our guide walks through the five factors so you know what to expect before you specify. Chat with us online, visit an MSI showroom, or find a local retailer to see the real surface in person.

Compare loose lay, click-lock, and glue-down vinyl plank flooring by installation time, cost, stability, and repair ease to find the right method for your project.

Compare polished vs matte porcelain tile for high-traffic spaces, including slip resistance, maintenance, durability, and commercial design use.