In Search of the Element: Tactile Surfaces Inspired by the Particles of the Universe

The search for the fundamental particle has been driving inquisitive minds for much longer than we can imagine. Leucippus and Democritus, Greek philosophers of the 5th century BC, were the first to suggest that the entire universe is made up of particles called atoms, indivisible and colliding with each other in an infinite void. Since then, much has been studied about how dynamics actually occurs at the atomic level (neutrons, protons, electrons), and much remains to be discovered. Understanding the Higgs boson, for example, may lead to a new understanding of the origin of the universe and life, because it can explain how elementary particles have mass. The transition from atomic abstraction to the world as we know it is remarkable. It was this immersion in a particle – the smallest known particle of the universe – that inspired the new collection by Italian firm Fiandre Architectural Surfaces, which produces ceramic pieces for spaces.

From particle to mass, from mass to matter, from matter to surface, and from surface to application. “Beginning with the origins of the universe, the Big Bang, Pulsar draws inspiration from matter, not only in its geological sense but also as originating from the atom to infinity, in search of an architectural and symbolic identity that connects humans to their deepest roots.” This is the path the group explored: like a sensory journey, an explosion of matter With stylistic and emotional value, enhanced by a beautiful visual and tactile depth. Pulsar is inspired by matter, not only in its geological sense, but also from atomism to infinity, seeking an architectural and symbolic identity that connects humans to their deep roots.

PULSAR is a new collection of Fiandre Architectural Surfaces, created from natural raw materials. You mainly use it for floors and wall coverings, and the pieces can be used in indoor spaces and wet environments, with sizes of 120 x 120, 120 x 60 and 60 x 60 cm, each with a thickness of 1 cm. With a natural look rich in detail, earthy tones create a variety of combinations for both classic projects and trend-setting projects.

The whole technique used to make it reveals the full thickness of the product, which is uniform and consistent from surface through to body. This feature makes them ideal for designs with visible, molded edges, allowing surfaces to be decorated with subtraction, as if etched. That is, the piece maintains its initial appearance throughout the thickness, even in cases of wear or damage. To achieve this, a pioneering production process is used, where raw materials and natural minerals are combined without any pre-determined pattern, creating a harmonious blend of grains and chips that make each bar unique and unrepeatable.

The series comes in five natural colors—Snow Pulsar, Graphite Pulsar, Gravel Pulsar, Silt Pulsar, and Dune Pulsar—and three finishes—Satin (smooth and silky to the touch, yet matte), Natural R10B (textured to the touch, yet without any optical roughness) and Structured R10B (plays on textured irregularities that are emphasized by light, a specific feature that makes them visually ideal for wall coverings).

In addition to the aesthetic and tactile properties, the patented Active Surfaces® technology explores the photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide which, together with silver, make ceramic an anti-microbial and odor-resistant material. Thanks to exposure to light (natural or artificial) and moisture in the air, Active Surfaces® are able to kill bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold. Similarly, they also eliminate unpleasant odors, prevent the formation of polluting particles, and prevent the adhesion of dirt, making rooms more hygienic and comfortable. It has also been shown to have antiviral efficacy for the COVID virus, which can be eliminated by 94% in just 4 hours of exposure to natural and artificial light.

Learn more about this and other Fiandre products in our Materials Catalog.