Close

Textures at Play

Interior designer Claudia Afshar’s collaboration with Cosentino redefines vertical cladding with nature-inspired textures and a timeless aesthetic

In an era where design is as much about emotional resonance as it is about aesthetics, the Japanese concept of ukiyo, which translates to “living in the moment, detached from the bothers of life”, emerges. Capturing this philosophy with a refined, tactile sensibility is the UKIYO collection, a ground-breaking collaboration between Cosentino and internationally renowned interior and product designer Claudia Afshar. The collection interprets natural materials through contemporary craftsmanship, bringing to life textured surfaces that radiate warmth, harmony and quiet luxury.

“Playing with texture is timeless, and it is so important in all materials, not just fabric,” Afshar shares. “I have always been inspired by the materials found in nature and [by] making the spaces I design as comfortable, warm and authentic as possible. UKIYO is calming yet simplistic, and the colourways and fluting are romantic, but also contemporary and masculine to achieve balance.”

One of the first ready-to-install fluted tile offerings in the industry, UKIYO is available in both Dekton and Silestone – two highly durable and design-forward surface solutions. Engineered specifically for vertical applications, the tiles are available in two fluting styles: GV2, with grooves spaced 25mm apart (5mm wide, 3mm deep), and GV3, with tighter grooves spaced 11mm apart (4mm wide and deep). Each tile measures 450mm x 3000mm (17.7″ x 118″), offering expansive coverage for large-scale installations.

With a matte finish and versatile design, the UKIYO collection is ideal for a range of vertical applications – from feature walls and fireplace surrounds to bespoke furniture and exterior façades. Its dimensional surface brings visual interest and tactile depth to any setting, whether residential or commercial.

The Latest

Kohler Celebrated Transformative Designs at INDEX Saudi Arabia 2025

Transformative design experiences were highlighted through curated collections from Kohler, KALLISTA, and Kohler x Studio McGee along with panel discussions on wellness, design, and sustainability.

Serenity and Soul

Blending Aman’s signature serenity with the cultural soul of Saudi Arabia, Amansamar emerges as a bold new destination for design-led living and hospitality

Quiet Luxury

The Bernhardt brand brings understated elegance and enduring craftsmanship through Interiors in the UAE

Transform Your Living Space

Renowned designer Antonio Citterio introduces a new paradigm in contemporary seating through the Loungescape sofa

Inside Hobb

We speak with the founder of Hobb, Haifa Malhas, about building a bookstore and a community centred around love for design

Revealed: The venue and date for the identity Design Awards 2025

Save the date for the much awaited gala night.

Crate & Barrel x Jake Arnold The Hartford 90 Wood Outdoor Sofa by Jake Arnold

Conscious design, textural sophistication, and seasonal comfort: What Crate & Barrel and CB2 bring to the GCC with New Stores and Collection

With fresh openings in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Crate & Barrel and CB2 unveil Fall/Winter collections that blends tactile design, sustainability, and exclusive collaborations, bringing global style closer to regional homes.

Surface Appeal

Global surfaces leader Cosentino launches four new quartzite options in the Sensa range

Dubai Design Week 2025

Dubai Design Week 2025 reveals an exciting 11th edition programme

Taking place from 4-9 November 2025, Dubai Design Week this year centres around community.

Rooted in Stillness

Casa Tranquilo by DADO offers an immersive retreat into nature

Treetop Sanctuary

The Ritz-Carlton’s intimate treetop retreat offers a rare invitation to connect deeply with nature and culture

Desert Counterpoint

In Summerlin, Nevada, Faulkner Architects and Concept Lighting Lab have revealed a desert home that withstands extremities