Exhibition Scale

 This year’s edition shattered all expectations! Spanning a massive 191,000 sq.m. of exhibition space, the fair brought together over 2,000 brands from 40 countries and regions. Notable participation with 300 international exhibitors – from industry key players in Italy, Turkey, Brazil, Greece, Egypt, Iran and Portugal to fast-growing markets such as Cambodia, India, and Vietnam, etc.

A Leap Forward – Chinese exhibitors truly stepped into the spotlight with remarkable leaps in quality, design, innovation, and presentation. Whether in material application, sustainable manufacturing, digital transformation, or brand storytelling, Chinese exhibitors showcased a new level of sophistication and global competitiveness, earning enthusiastic recognition from international buyers.

Global Attendance

The fair recorded over 154,000 visits from more than 122 countries and regions during the 4 days. Buyers, designers, architects, and visionaries flooded every halls and aisles, all searching for the next big thing. The international vibe was remarkably strong, with surging attendance from markets including India, Russia, South Korea, Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Brazil, Italy and Singapore, etc. Connections were made, deals were sealed, and partnerships were born. This growing international presence reaffirmed Xiamen Stone Fair’s standing as a premier global hub for sourcing, networking, and industry collaboration.

Featured Events

Design, Trend, Insight, and What’s Next

 The Design Area in Halls A7 and A8 buzzed with creativity – top class architects and interior designers and stone brands collaborating to deliver habitat spaces and product installations that captivated global audiences. Xiamen Habitat Design and Life Festival and Stone Infinite Product Design Show left design enthusiasts absolutely spellbound, proving that natural stone is not just material – it’s inspiration.

The 5th Natural Stone Varieties Collection presented over 400 stunning samples of marble, granite, limestone, quartzite and beyond, revealing the hottest trends shaping 2026. “Launch Out @XSF” provided a dynamic platform for 43 exhibitors to unveil 59 new products and technologies across 5 specialized segments this year. While the WSC – Educational Sessions packed the house with industry leaders exploring the future of the stone industry.

The Passion Lives On

With the continued support and enthusiasm of the global stone community, Xiamen Stone Fair 2026 has once again set new benchmarks for excellence. The 4-day event wasn’t just an exhibition – it was a celebration of everything we love about this industry. The passion is stronger than ever. And the future will be brighter than ever.

The post A Brief Review of The 26th China Xiamen International Stone Fair appeared first on Stone World.

PK Türkiye,

• Stone Lifting, Oscillating Type,
• Stone Lifting, Non-Oscillating Type,
• Classic Type,
• Mini Micro Wire Machine (for smaller-sized blocks and rubble)
• Upgrade of Micro Wire Gang Saw (conversion from classic gangsaw to Micro Wire systems)

Besides, the sales of such products, it also provides repair, maintenance, spare parts, and consumable materials support. Furthermore, auxiliary machines such as wire winding machines and welding machines, which can be purchased together with the gang saw, also increase production speed.

The micro wire technology used in the PK Micro Wire Gang Saw introduces a exceptional innovation to the classic multi-wire gang saw approach. With a wire diameter of approximately half a millimeter, it operates with lower resistance in a more stable and controlled manner, minimizing cracks in the stone. In addition, production capacity increases, allowing more slabs to be obtained from each block. The slabs have a much smoother surface after cutting, requiring less post-processing.

• Increase of 25%–40% in the number of slabs.
• Up to 80% reduction in cutting waste.

The PK Micro Wire Gang Saw also significantly reduces operating costs by saving on raw materials, energy, water, maintenance, labor, and consumables. Savings are one of the strongest outcomes of this system. Since the machine operates in a fully enclosed structure and is equipped with economical servo motors, it provides an extremely quiet, easy, and safe working environment. It minimizes workplace accidents. PK Türkiye also stands by the manufacturer throughout the processes of ordering, installation, commissioning, and personnel training.

In conclusion, PK Türkiye Micro Wire Gang Saw increases efficiency through innovative technology; increased efficiency reduces costs, and this cycle offers businesses a sustainable and profitable production model.

The post PK Micro Wire Gang Saw – A New Definition of Innovation, Efficiency, and Savings appeared first on Stone World.

The natural stone projects I’ve designed and managed over the years have shown me this: Marble doesn’t age; it matures. And there’s a significant difference between these two concepts. Aging signifies a loss of value; maturing, however, is the emergence of character.

The marks that form on marble’s surface over time are often seen as flaws. Yet these marks are part of the stone’s relationship with the space and with people. When we look at ancient structures, what makes them valuable is not their flawlessness; it is the marks they bear. Marble’s reactions to time do not make it ordinary; on the contrary, they make it unique.

Today, many materials are treated as if they must retain their original state. They must not scratch, lose their luster, or change… Marble must stand apart from this expectation. Because marble, though inanimate, behaves like a living material; as it is used, it becomes an integral part of the space.

I frequently observe a phenomenon in projects: Users who initially worry about marble aging eventually not only accept this change over time but also form a bond with it and come to love it. Because every mark on the stone’s surface creates a memory belonging to the space. Here, marble is not merely a covering; it becomes a surface that holds the past.

Today, claiming that marble has aged often stems from a misguided expectation. Interpreting a surface that has lost its luster as a loss of value goes against the nature of marble. The value of marble does not lie in its resistance to time; it lies in its ability to exist alongside time.

Perhaps the question “Does marble age?” should be rephrased: Do we want materials that remain unchanged, or spaces that age and gain value alongside us? Because some materials are beautiful on the first day. Marble, however, grows more beautiful with time.

Deniz Çobanoğlu

Natural Stone Designer | London, UK

The post Does Marble Age or Simply Grow Older? appeared first on Stone World.

 Could you introduce yourselves to our readers? How did Grizzo Arquitectos come into being?

Grizzo Arquitectos is a studio based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, working across architecture, interior design and development. The practice emerged from a desire to build projects where design, construction and material experimentation could coexist closely.

From the beginning, we were interested in working at multiple scales—from houses to restaurants and residential developments—always maintaining a direct relationship with materials and the construction process. Our work often moves between urban contexts and more natural environments, which allows us to explore how architecture can respond to different landscapes, climates and cultural conditions.

Rather than pursuing a fixed stylistic language, the studio focuses on creating spaces with strong atmospheres, where light, texture and material presence shape the experience of architecture.

What does the “studio–workshop” approach mean to you?

For us, the idea of a “studio–workshop” reflects a way of working that is closer to craftsmanship than to purely theoretical design.

Architecture does not end in drawings. It continues through prototypes, construction details, material tests and constant dialogue with builders and artisans. Many of our ideas emerge from these exchanges.

This approach also allows us to treat materials not only as finishes but as structural and spatial elements. We like to understand how something is made, how it ages, and how it can be assembled with simplicity and intelligence.

In that sense, the studio works almost like a laboratory where design and construction evolve together.

How would you describe Argentina’s architectural culture and building tradition?

Argentina has a very rich and diverse architectural culture shaped by migration, geography and economic cycles.

There is a strong modernist tradition influenced by European ideas, but at the same time there is also a powerful culture of experimentation and adaptation. Because resources are often limited, architects frequently develop creative solutions with simple materials.

In many regions of the country, architecture is closely linked to the landscape and climate—from the stone constructions of the northwest to the timber structures of Patagonia.

This diversity creates a culture where architecture often oscillates between technical precision and a more intuitive, almost handcrafted approach to building.

How do local context and everyday life influence your projects?

Context for us is not only physical—it is also cultural and emotional.

We pay attention to how people inhabit spaces, how they gather, cook, rest or move through their homes. These everyday rituals often become the starting point for spatial decisions.

At the same time, the landscape, the available materials and the local construction techniques strongly influence our work. We try to build projects that feel rooted in their environment rather than imposed on it.

The goal is always to create spaces that feel natural and intuitive for those who inhabit them.

What questions do you usually start with when beginning a new project?

Every project begins with a series of questions rather than formal ideas.

We try to understand what kind of atmosphere the project should create. How should the space feel? Where does the light come from? How will people move through it?

Another important question is how the building meets the ground and the surrounding landscape. The relationship between architecture and terrain often defines the entire project.

And finally, we ask what materials can express the character of the place in the most honest way.

What criteria most strongly guide your material choices?

Material selection is guided by three main factors: availability, atmosphere and aging.

We prefer materials that belong to the region where the project is built or that can be sourced locally. This reduces complexity but also creates a stronger connection with the place.

We also think a lot about the sensory qualities of materials—their texture, weight, color and the way they reflect light.

Finally, we value materials that age well and gain character over time. Architecture should not only look good on the day it is finished; it should become richer as it is inhabited.

What is your approach to working with local stone?

Stone is a fascinating material because it carries a sense of permanence and geological time.

When we work with stone, we try to respect its inherent logic rather than forcing it into overly artificial shapes. The way it is cut, stacked or placed often determines the architectural language.

We are particularly interested in combining stone with other materials like concrete, wood or metal in ways that highlight the contrast between natural and industrial elements.

What kind of tradition exists in Argentina regarding the use of natural stone and marble?

The use of stone in Argentina varies greatly depending on the region.

In the northwest, stone has been used for centuries in both indigenous and colonial architecture. In other regions, particularly in cities, marble and stone were introduced through European influence during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Today, natural stone appears both in contemporary architecture and in restoration projects. There is growing interest in rediscovering local materials and using them in more experimental ways.

When and under what conditions do you choose to use natural stone in your projects?

We usually choose natural stone when the project requires a strong relationship with the landscape or when we want the building to feel deeply anchored to the ground.

Stone is particularly powerful in projects located in natural environments—mountains, forests or coastal areas—because it creates a dialogue with the surrounding geology.

At the same time, it can also work beautifully in urban contexts when used with precision and restraint.

Which types of stone or marble have you worked with so far?

Our projects have incorporated different types of stone depending on location and availability.

We have worked with regional stones in several residential projects, as well as different marbles and granites used in interior applications such as kitchens, bathrooms and public spaces.

Each material brings its own visual language and technical challenges, which is part of what makes working with stone so interesting.

How do the texture, veining, and natural imperfections of stone influence your design process?

The natural irregularities of stone are not flaws—they are often the most expressive aspect of the material.

Texture, veining and variation introduce a level of unpredictability that enriches the architectural composition. Rather than trying to control these characteristics too strictly, we prefer to design in ways that allow them to appear naturally.

This creates spaces that feel more tactile, more human and less standardized.

How do you see the role of natural stone in the architecture of the future?

Natural stone has an interesting future because it combines durability, sustainability and beauty.

Unlike many synthetic materials, stone does not require complex industrial processing and it can last for centuries. In that sense, it represents a more responsible way of building.

We believe future architecture will increasingly look toward materials that have long life cycles and strong connections to the earth—and stone fits perfectly within that vision.

What is the most important advice you would give to young designers, architects, and professionals in the field?

The most important advice would be to remain curious and patient.

Architecture is a discipline that takes time to mature. Young architects should spend time understanding materials, construction processes and the realities of building.

Travel, observe how people inhabit spaces, and learn from craftsmen and builders. Many of the most valuable lessons in architecture do not come from drawings but from the act of building itself.

And perhaps most importantly: try to develop a personal way of seeing the world, because architecture ultimately reflects how we interpret our surroundings.

The post Projects rooted in the environment, not imposed upon it: Grizzo Arquitectos appeared first on Stone World.

We see that the marble sector has become significantly more challenging in recent years. What do you think are the main reasons behind this process?

Today, the marble sector is affected not only by economic fluctuations but simultaneously by increasing regulations, rising energy costs, labor supply challenges, and global competition. In the past, managing a single risk might have been sufficient; today, a multidimensional crisis management approach is required. Naturally, this situation has made the sector more fragile, but at the same time it has pushed it toward becoming more professional.

Compared to the past, in what ways does operating in the marble sector today require greater effort?

Being strong in the field alone is no longer enough. Financial discipline, sustainability, marketing, brand management, and human resources management must all be handled simultaneously. Marble is no longer just stone; it is a value proposition, a narrative, and a symbol of trust.

How are rising costs, energy prices, and labor conditions affecting your production processes?

Cost pressures have pushed us to work more efficiently, more strategically, and with greater control. As Mısra Marble, we have completely abandoned unplanned production. Every block, every cut, and every shipment is now part of a strategic decision. Although this discipline may be challenging in the short term, it guarantees sustainability in the long run.

Has it become more difficult to maintain the balance between field operations and management during this period? What kind of approach are you following?

It has definitely become more difficult, but I believe that managing without losing touch with the field is the most effective model. We make decisions at the table and test them in the field. It is very clear that no strategy that does not align with field realities can be sustainable.

As Mısra Marble, what strategies are you implementing to withstand these challenging conditions?

Focus and specialization. Instead of trying to do everything, we deepen our expertise in our own stone, our own quarry, and our own quality standards. At the same time, we invest in brand value. Because today the real goal is not merely to survive, but to be the preferred choice tomorrow.

What are the main challenges that teams working in the marble sector face today?

Uncertainty and physical hardship. Working in the field has always been demanding, but today concerns about the future have been added to this reality. Therefore, we prioritize providing our teams with transparency, trust, and a sense of continuity.

As chairwoman of the board, what was the most difficult decision you had to make during this process?

Giving up speed. We could have grown faster, but in order not to lose control, we deliberately chose to slow down. It was difficult in the short term, but in the long term it was the right decision.

How have contractions or changes in export markets affected you?

As markets shrink, quality and trust become even more important. Instead of competing purely on price, we focus on sustainable partnerships. We prefer to move forward with fewer but stronger clients.

In your opinion, what is the most critical factor for surviving in the marble sector today?

Resilience and vision. Companies that can read not only today but also the conditions two years ahead will remain standing. It is not reckless courage but strategic courage that leads to success.

How do you evaluate the perspective of young people and new entrepreneurs toward this sector?

Young people approach the sector with greater vision but also greater impatience. In this industry, patience, hard work, and continuity are essential. With proper mentorship, I believe young professionals can bring significant value to the sector.

Despite all these challenges, what keeps you motivated and committed to this industry?

Seeing the labor hidden within the stone. Transforming a rock into value, becoming part of a building, and leaving a lasting trace behind… This sector has given me not just a profession but an identity.

The post Marble Is No Longer Just Stone, but a Value Proposition appeared first on Stone World.

In this interview with Recai Nataç, we discussed many topics from the company’s founding story and its current position to the architectural potential of Verde Amore and the company’s goals in global markets. According to Nataç, natural stone is not only a building material but also a powerful design element that gives architecture character and identity.

Could you briefly summarize the journey of Natac Stone from its founding to where it stands today?

The foundations of Natac Stone date back to 2004. Over the years, our company has operated in the fields of concrete, construction, quarry management, and cement, building strong field experience and technical infrastructure.

Our journey in natural stone began approximately two years ago. When we started our marble adventure, our goal was not merely to engage in trade but to correctly position a special stone with strong character that could add value to architecture. Natac Stone was founded on the belief that natural stone is not just a construction material but a value that creates architectural identity and gives projects character.

Today, we focus entirely on Verde Amore. Thanks to strong quarry management, meticulous quality control processes, and a project-oriented working discipline, we have quickly gained recognition both domestically and internationally. Natac Stone is no longer just a stone supplier; it positions itself as a solution partner that contributes to projects technically and aesthetically.

In which areas of architectural projects do you see the strongest potential for Verde Amore? Is it more suitable for interior or exterior use?

Verde Amore stands out in exclusive projects with its strong deep green tone. One of the features that distinguishes it from other marbles is its volcanic structure, which makes it suitable for various surface treatments and allows it to be used in both interior and exterior applications.

In interiors, it delivers impressive results in focal points such as lobby walls, flooring, staircases, fireplace backdrops, bathrooms, and kitchen countertops. In exterior spaces, it creates a strong identity in pool projects, walkways, façade claddings, and prestigious entrance areas.

What truly differentiates Verde Amore is its volcanic geological formation, which provides high strength and durability. This makes the stone not only aesthetically striking but also technically robust.

In interior spaces, it creates a dramatic and impressive atmosphere in focal areas such as lobby walls, fireplace surrounds, and kitchen or bathroom countertops. In exterior applications, its durability allows it to be used confidently in façades, prestigious entrances, and high-traffic areas.

Thanks to its low water absorption rate and compact structure, it can also be used in pool interiors and surrounding areas, delivering strong performance especially in villa and hotel projects.

Additionally, due to its high hardness, Verde Amore can successfully accommodate a variety of surface finishes such as flamed, sandblasted, brushed, and antiqued finishes. Flamed finishes create a more matte and slip-resistant surface. Sandblasted and antiqued treatments provide a natural and timeless character. Brushed finishes highlight the stone’s veining in a softer, tactile way.

In this sense, Verde Amore offers not only a powerful visual impact but also great application flexibility for designers, making it suitable for interior, exterior, and wet-area projects from both aesthetic and technical perspectives.

How do you evaluate the future demand for green-toned stones in the natural stone sector?

Globally, there is a rising trend toward naturalness and sustainable design. Green tones represent nature, balance, and luxury simultaneously. We anticipate that demand for dark and characterful green marbles will continue to grow, especially in the Middle Eastern, European, and American markets.

After a long period dominated by minimal design approaches, there is now a clear shift toward bolder and more distinctive stones.

In architectural projects, where are Natac Stone products most commonly used?

Our products are frequently preferred in hotel and residential lobbies, luxury residential projects, private villa applications, prestigious commercial spaces, custom-designed furniture and decorative panels, and pool and landscape projects.

We particularly provide large-format slabs, allowing designers greater freedom in their projects.

How do you guide your clients when selecting products for interior and exterior applications?

First, we analyze the project location, climate conditions, and intensity of use. Stone selection should not only be based on aesthetics but also on technical durability, surface treatment options, and maintenance requirements.

For every project, we provide our clients with consultancy that combines both aesthetic and engineering perspectives.

For Natac Stone, is the domestic market or export more of a priority? Which countries and markets are you targeting?

Export is a strategic priority for us. Europe, the Gulf countries, and the American market are among our primary target regions. However, we are also seeing strong growth in high-end projects within Turkey. We consider the domestic market important for brand positioning.

How do you evaluate Turkey’s position in the global natural stone market?

Turkey is one of the strongest countries in the world in terms of reserves and diversity of natural stone. However, there is still room for development in terms of value-added products and brand perception.

At Natac Stone, instead of selling raw materials, we aim to take part in the global market with carefully selected, processed products that carry strong brand value.

Are you participating in the Marble İzmir Fair this year? If so, what are your main goals there?

Marble İzmir Fair is one of the most important international meeting points of the natural stone industry, and this year we are participating with Verde Amore. We will be located at stand 822 in the block area.

Our main goal at the fair is to present the strong and distinctive character of Verde Amore to international buyers, develop exclusive project collaborations particularly in Europe and the Gulf region, and position this special stone correctly on a global scale.

For us, the fair is not simply a place to display product variety; it is a strategic platform to strengthen the brand value of Verde Amore.

Do you think the Marble İzmir Fair meets expectations in terms of export and international trade connections?

When companies participate with the right preparation and the right target audience, it becomes a highly productive platform. It offers significant opportunities, particularly with professional visitors from the Middle East and Europe.

Are there any new stones or product series you are highlighting at the fair?

This year we are particularly showcasing Verde Amore bookmatch applications and our large-format selected block production. Our project-based special selections are also among the highlights.

What are Natac Stone’s short- and medium-term plans regarding production capacity, product variety, or new investments?

At Natac Stone, we concentrate all our efforts on Verde Amore. Focusing on a single quarry and a single product allows us to maintain maximum quality control at every stage from production to selection.

In the short and medium term, our plan is to gradually increase production capacity in line with the growing demand for Verde Amore and further strengthen our block and slab supply processes.

Increasing demand from international markets and prestigious architectural projects is shaping our production planning toward growth. Our aim is not to increase product diversity but to establish Verde Amore as a globally recognized, preferred brand stone.

The post A Single Stone, A Strong Brand: Natac Stone appeared first on Stone World.

First of all, could you briefly introduce yourself and Riva Interior Architecture? How did the studio begin?

My name is Aslı Gürcan, and I am an architect. I graduated from Yozgat Bozok University as the second-ranked student in my department, and I truly enjoy what I do. I joined Riva Interior Architecture in 2022, and since then I have actively taken part in every project we have undertaken.

The founding of Riva Interior Architecture actually stems from the idea, “I can do this much better.” Our founder already had experience in the construction sector. Before our current office building was constructed, a turnkey proposal had been received from a construction company. However, when the proposal was examined carefully, it was clear that the content was not very sound. At that point, our founder said, “I can do this better,” and established Riva Interior Architecture. With his own team, he built the office where we work today, and since then we have continued our journey with ambitious projects in the construction industry.

How would you define Riva Interior Architecture’s design philosophy? What distinguishes your studio from others?

I believe the key element that sets us apart in our designs is our client-focused approach. When developing our projects, we do not impose predefined styles based solely on the location or type of space, nor do we simply follow what is currently “trendy.”

Instead, we begin by carefully analyzing exactly what the client wants and then develop a unique design language tailored specifically to them. Of course, our own signature can be felt in our designs; however, we measure true success by the sincere smiles and gratitude of our clients.

How does your project development process progress? Which stage excites you the most?

Although the steps may appear complex, our system is actually very clear:
Analysis – Project Development – 3D Modeling – Implementation – Delivery.

At every stage, we examine each detail meticulously together with our team of specialists. The stage that excites me the most is definitely the design development phase. Combining the information we receive from the client with my own vision. Selecting materials, placing them, and creating harmony is incredibly enjoyable for me.

However, this enjoyment also brings great responsibility. People shape their lives within the spaces I design. This perspective strengthens my commitment to my profession every single day.

How do you evaluate current interior design trends? Do they influence your projects?

I am particularly happy to see the return of dark and rich color palettes. While I appreciate calming pastel tones and Scandinavian style, the human eye eventually seeks a strong focal element.

Recently, colors such as terracotta tones, deep olive greens, and especially plum and purple shades have been gaining attention. In my opinion, these colors add excellent depth to interiors.

Of course, trends influence my designs to some extent. While shaping the concept according to the client profile, I try to blend current trends with my own design touches.

How do you approach the use of natural materials in your projects? What do marble and natural stone represent for you?

If I want to convey quality and elevate living standards in a project, the first material I turn to is marble. The endless combinations of patterns and colors it offers, especially in flooring applications, are incredibly exciting for me.

When we also consider the psychological and physical benefits of natural materials for people, it becomes even more important for me to incorporate them into my projects.

What can you say about the aesthetic and functional value natural stone adds to spaces?

I find the concept of uniqueness particularly valuable. Every natural stone slab has its own distinctive vein structure and color transitions. This ensures that the designed space is truly one of a kind in the world, offering users a personalized and luxurious experience.

At the same time, natural stone is a timeless material that never goes out of style, which makes it even more appealing.

How do you evaluate Turkey’s natural stone diversity from a design perspective? Do you use local stones in your projects?

Using local materials is an excellent opportunity both for sustainability and for reflecting the ethnic spirit of a project. It is also a strategic move for our national economy.

For this reason, our first preference in projects is always domestic products. To be honest, in my recent projects I frequently focus on materials such as Afyon White marble, travertines, and Elazığ Cherry marble. They offer wonderful possibilities in terms of color and combinations.

Is there a project in your career that you consider unforgettable or a turning point?

I would say the “Yaprak Restaurant” project in the United Kingdom. Not only was it my first restaurant project, but it was also one of the projects where I had the most design freedom.

Because the space required multiple functional areas and the creation of a strong brand identity, we were able to establish a perfect balance between durable and luxurious materials.

How do you see the relationship between architecture and interior architecture today?

Today, I believe a project remains incomplete if an interior architect only deals with “decoration” or an architect focuses solely on “mass design.”

Especially in professional practice, particularly in large-scale offices or public buildings, the “inside-out” approach, where interior architectural decisions shape the architectural form, is one of the key factors for success.

Are there any exciting new projects you are currently working on?

We are currently working on several enjoyable office projects. The one that excites me the most right now is a three-story office project in Çakırlar.

What makes this project special is that we were asked to integrate solar panel solutions both functionally and aesthetically into the interior and exterior spaces. I am eager to complete the design and see the final result of the building.

What advice would you give to young interior architects or those who want to pursue a career in this field?

In my opinion, the key to becoming a good architect or interior designer is being a good listener and being patient.

Whether the person you are communicating with is a colleague, an engineer from another discipline, or a client, when you fully understand their expectations, you can combine your abilities with those expectations and achieve successful results.

Technical knowledge, experience, and professional networks will naturally develop over time in your career. However, if you are not a good listener, these processes become much more difficult.

Patience is essential, because many long nights of work await you. But believe me, the sense of pride you feel when you successfully deliver a project makes it all worthwhile.

The post An Inside-Out Perspective on Design: Architect Aslı Gürcan appeared first on Stone World.

This textural richness offered by geography is transformed into a seamless spatial narrative through the natural stone Deep River by Alimoğlu Marble, which lies at the heart of the design. The fluid patterns of Deep River translate the traces left by the powerful waves of the Black Sea on coastal rocks into the language of kitchen design, creating an aesthetic bridge between past and future.

Datum487 Studio’s vision, grounded in responsibility toward design discipline, combines the raw strength of natural stone with modern functionality, transforming the spirit of the region into a timeless and prestigious living space.

The post Datum487 Studio appeared first on Stone World.

Hosted by İzmir Metropolitan Municipality and organized by İZFAŞ, Marble İzmir brings together all components of the natural stone industry—from production and design to technology and trade. Türkiye’s strong potential in natural stone reserves and diversity is once again presented to international markets through Marble İzmir with companies from across the country and participants from around the world taking part in the fair.

Strong international participation, expanded hosted buyer program

Despite global developments and the impact of increasing uncertainties in the Middle East on trade, Marble İzmir continues to stand out as a reliable and sustainable meeting point for the industry. Built on long-term commercial relationships, the natural stone sector maintains its momentum even in such periods, while the fair ensures the continuity of commercial dialogue by bringing together stakeholders from different regions.

As part of the hosted buyer program carried out with the support of the Ministry of Trade and in cooperation with the Aegean Mineral Exporters’ Association, along with İZFAŞ’s international initiatives, qualified buyers and industry professionals from various regions—particularly the United States, China, India, Mexico, Russia and European countries—are welcomed in İzmir. In addition, 110 hosted buyers from 38 countries have registered via online channels, along with more than 1,300 visitors from across Türkiye and over 50 countries, while tens of thousands of industry professionals are expected to visit the fair. With this strong international participation, Marble İzmir offers a key platform for direct business engagement.

Spanning over 150,000 square meters

Marble İzmir spans more than 150,000 square meters of indoor and outdoor exhibition space. The outdoor area features block marble and heavy machinery, while natural stone companies exhibit in Halls A and B, as well as machinery and technology companies are located in Hall C.

D-ESIGN Arena: a focus on design and experience

Hall D stands out as one of the most dynamic areas of the fair, redesigned this year under the “D-ESIGN Arena” concept. Bringing together design, art and commerce, the area hosts Marble Talks sessions with architects, academics and industry professionals, along with scheduled business meetings and special events.

The Sculpture Workshop, highlighting the artistic dimension of natural stone, showcases works created by artists from different cities of Türkiye. These works are exhibited throughout the fair at the D-ESIGN Arena and are planned to be placed in various locations across İzmir after the event, contributing permanently to the city’s cultural life. The 8th International Natural Stone Design Competition continues to represent one of the most concrete examples of value-added transformation in natural stone. This year, 724 projects from students representing 67 universities in 8 countries were submitted, with 19 finalist designs produced and exhibited in the same hall.

Strengthening international collaborations

One of this year’s highlights is the strengthening of international collaborations. The partnership with the Italian Marble Machinery Manufacturers’ Confederation paves the way for new commercial and technical opportunities with Europe, particularly in machinery and technology, while further reinforcing the fair’s international position. This collaboration aims to enhance knowledge and technology sharing within the sector and strengthen the global competitiveness of the Turkish natural stone industry.

Contribution to the economy and exports

The impact of Marble İzmir extends beyond the exhibition grounds. Hosting tens of thousands of visitors each year, the event generates significant economic activity across sectors such as accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, and as well as logistics. While this creates short-term momentum for the city’s economy, it also strengthens İzmir’s position as an international trade and exhibition hub in the long term.

The export performance of the natural stone sector has developed in parallel with Marble İzmir, increasing from approximately 77 million dollars in its early years to over 2 billion dollars today. With the fair being included in the “prestigious fairs” category by the Ministry of Trade, participating companies can benefit from support of up to approximately 1,292,800 TL. Additional square meter-based support provided by the İzmir Chamber of Commerce also contributes to stronger participation.

In its 31st year, Marble İzmir continues to serve as a powerful platform where the global natural stone industry comes together, bringing trade, design and technology under one roof.

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