Ceramics pioneer Trivium showcases natural stone at Meesters in de Tuin

About ROMFIX / By Team ROMFIX

Ceramics pioneer Trivium showcases natural stone at Meesters in de Tuin

Natural stone is making a comeback. After years of preference for sleek, clean and low-maintenance ceramics, demand for rough, natural forms is growing. Trivium owner Niels in ’t Veen is responding at just the right moment. “As Trivium Ceramics, we were the first to bring ceramic tiles to the Netherlands in 2010. We soon realised there was more than ceramics. We now also supply natural stone and concrete.” This year, Trivium is focusing on natural stone. “The material has a design value that ceramics can never quite match. Some of it is also local, from quarries in Belgium and Germany. That fits the spirit of the times perfectly.”

 

Natural stone is making a comeback. After years of preference for sleek, clean and low-maintenance ceramics, demand for rough, natural forms is growing. Trivium owner Niels in ’t Veen is responding at just the right moment. “As Trivium Ceramics, we were the first to bring ceramic tiles to the Netherlands in 2010. We soon realised there was more than ceramics. We now also supply natural stone and concrete.” This year, Trivium is focusing on natural stone. “The material has a design value that ceramics can never quite match. Some of it is also local, from quarries in Belgium and Germany. That fits the spirit of the times perfectly.”

A stand full of rocks and boulders
At the next Meesters in de Tuin, Trivium will give its latest products a striking setting. Expect boulders, rocks and coarse textures instead of a standard tile display. “We’ve chosen a natural setting, with types and sizes the market has never seen before. We want to bring something new,” says In ’t Veen.

Expect boulders, rocks and coarse textures instead of a standard tile display

Ceramics will remain part of the range. “It is an important product that will always have a market because of its sleek appearance and easy maintenance. These two worlds will continue to exist alongside one another.”

The 1 cm ceramic tile: light, sustainable and challenging

Last year, Trivium surprised visitors with a ceramic tile just 1 cm thick. The innovation generated considerable interest. “The product has many benefits,” In ’t Veen explains. “Thinner tiles mean more fit on a pallet, reducing environmental impact and transport costs. They are also lighter, easier to handle and cheaper to buy.”
Installing such thin tiles requires care. “The challenge lies in the sub-base. With 1 cm ceramic tiles, installation must be even more precise. The right adhesive and drainage bedding mortar are crucial for a stable base. The difference is invisible to the end user, but it demands knowledge and skill from the installer.”

Keeping your knowledge up to date is essential
Last year’s presentation of the 1 cm tile gave many landscapers and paving contractors food for thought. “I think we surprised a lot of professionals,” says In ’t Veen. “It shows how important it is to stay up to date. Consumers are better informed than ever, partly through AI and online information. They ask questions a professional may not be able to answer immediately. You have to keep learning.”

He believes gaining knowledge is crucial. “Ten years ago, I was already telling anyone who would listen to get out of their office chair. We are all busy, but the world keeps moving. If you don’t keep up, you’ll lose ground and the competition will take over.”

 

Working with technical partners

Technical partners will once again provide product demonstrations to meet that need for knowledge. ROMFIX, Terrasbouwer and Rubi will show how to install, clean, joint and cut ceramics and natural stone. “That is extremely important,” In ’t Veen explains. “We can show the products, but they have the technical expertise to install them correctly.”

“If you don’t keep up, you’ll lose ground and the competition will take over”

Networking with leading businesses
Meesters in de Tuin is an important event for Trivium. “It’s about being visible and showing you belong among the leading businesses in this segment. Look at DJS Hekwerken or Boomkwekerij Ebben, who have been involved from day one. It is about branding and being where the top of the market comes together.” New contacts develop almost naturally. “You become part of that network, which matters enormously. If you want to convey quality, you need to be there.”

Practical knowledge and inspiration

The stand’s natural setting will be worth a visit at the next event. Visitors will discover new products and practical demonstrations with useful insights they can apply. “We want to keep helping the market move forward,” In ’t Veen concludes. “If visitors leave with inspiration and practical know-how, we’ve achieved our goal.”