This story is sponsored by Classic Ceramic + Tile.

Given that he comes from a family deeply rooted in a design industry that dates back to 4000 BC. AD, it’s no surprise that Nick Mastrogiovanni tends to look at tiles first, and everything else second when he finds himself in a beautiful place for the first time.

“I find I’ve become this guy who analyzes the design of every new restaurant or hotel I walk into,” says the third-generation owner of Toronto’s Classic Ceramic + Tile, which recently reinvented itself with a renovation of point. . “I always look at their floors and walls and really admire the design work that goes into planning these spaces – especially because I know how much work goes into them. The tiles chosen create and add to the atmosphere and the overall vibe of these establishments, they really do make a difference.

The earliest decorative tiles date back to the ancient Egyptians, who began using them to add color and style to some of the world’s earliest architectural wonders. By the Middle Ages, tiles had become fashionable across Europe, adorning everything from opulent royal palaces to imposing churches to family homes.

Classic Ceramic + Tile has been making a difference in Toronto since Mastrogiovanni’s grandfather opened the store as a small business nearly half a century ago. After immigrating from Italy in the 1950s, he made it his mission to bring European quality and craftsmanship to his new town.

“I believe that with his love for his country of origin, he always had this passion to import from Italy and to share the excellent products that they had abroad with Canada,” says Mastrogiovanni.

This attention to detail and premium quality products has served Classic Ceramic + Tile well over the decades, with the store’s only constant being a desire to keep up with the times. Mastrogiovanni notes that when he entered the business, most home decorators were happy to walk out of the store with a one-foot box of beige tiles.

A visit to Classic Ceramic + Tile’s sleek and attractive new showroom demonstrates how much things have changed today.

The COVID-19 lockdown has created unprecedented challenges for the business, but it has also presented a great opportunity.

“At the height of the pandemic, we had to close our showroom, which was very difficult for us, being a small family business,” says Mastrogiovanni. “When it comes to buying tiles, most people prefer to shop in-store because it allows them to see tile sizes and colors in person, which just isn’t as great. entered online.

“Having been in business for over 45 years – now in the third generation – we knew we needed to freshen up our space in order to stay competitive and appeal to a younger demographic,” he continues. “That’s when we realized, what better time to renovate than now? It was no small task, but we have completely modernized our showroom and are truly proud of the space we have created – a space we ourselves would be proud to shop in as well.

Just as no one should order vanilla ice cream from a 100 flavor gelateria, no one should settle for the tiles their parents might have picked out in the 70s. Those looking to freshen up a home, condo, summer cottage or winter cottage can choose from a dazzling array of classic ceramic + tile options, from classic porcelain, ceramic and mosaic to vinyl and engineered hardwood. And those undertaking a full-scale renovation will find everything in one place, including quartz countertops and a myriad of flooring options.

Offering free design consultations, Classic Ceramic + Tile is there with hands-on support, whether you’re looking for advice on larger tiles for your fireplace, many styles of backsplash mosaics, or porcelain of all sizes.

“I always tell people that tiles are more fashionable than construction,” Mastrogiovanni believes. “There are so many different styles, colors and sizes of tiles that can create and add to the ambiance of a room. Unlike other parts of the building, tiles can really show off the personality and character of a room. a person through their visuals.

To that end, Classic Ceramic + Tile have made it their mission to provide ideas for those looking for inspiration when they have a project to undertake. Step into the showroom and you’ll have the full experience with hip-hop, house, or ambient electro on the store’s sound system, a free espresso, and a staff that’s as supportive and passionate as they are knowledgeable.

“There’s a whole new generation of first-time home buyers that’s still growing and they probably want to renovate their new space,” Mastrogiovanni notes thoughtfully. “Walking into a tile store shouldn’t seem boring – it should be exciting. With our new showroom, we’re still playing cool music, giving our customers espresso, and making their experience fun, seamless, and easy.

For more information on Classic Ceramic + Tile, visit www.classicceramictile.caor give a follow on Instagram to @classicceramictile.

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