Summer 2010 E-Newsletter
From the President
Welcome to summer! I hope all of you are getting a chance to enjoy some outdoor activities and the beautiful weather we are experiencing. Thank you to those who perused our Spring newsletter and thank you to those who have dropped me a line with comments and suggestions, I greatly value that input.
I recently had the opportunity to attend Coverings, the Ultimate Tile & Stone exhibition in Orlando, Florida. This is a large gathering of distributors, manufacturers, architects, designers and contractors where we network and get a sneak peak at new products. One of the more exciting new products is our "What's new at" feature this month, Century Tile, an innovative Italian tile manufacturer. Be sure to read more about that!
This month we are featuring one of Rochester's finest designers at SWBR Architects, Diana Pannone. Diana's work at Marcellus School can only be described as amazing, I know you will be impressed.
Your feedback is very important to us. Feel free to drop me a note with any questions or concerns, I'd love to hear from you; email me, or visit our website.
Please keep in touch and have fantastic summer.
- David A. Firkins
President of Tile Wholesalers
Featured Designer: Diana S. Kalvitis-Pannone
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Water Jet Compass Design in Commons of Driver Middle School
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We could not wait to share this project by SWBR Interior Designer, Diana S. Kalvitis-Pannone. SWBR Architects recently designed a 43,000 square foot addition to Driver Middle School in Marcellus, NY. The directive was simple: compliment the existing 1936 Neo-Georgian architecture while creating a hub for both student and community activities.
While thinking about the functionality required, Diana—who holds a BFA in Interior Design from Syracuse University's College of Visual and Performing Arts, and has 23 years of interior design (18 of them with SWBR) under her belt—was particularly challenged by the best way to create a warm, comfortable atmosphere that would stand up to the daily use of students.
She chose two tiles from Tile Wholesalers of Rochester to achieve the look and durability she required. By using Casa dolce casa, a collection that draws its inspiration from nature, she was able to create a stunning water jet compass that provides a central focus to the Commons area. This section connects the old building with the new and the use of a tile feature anchors the two-story space, with attractive sightlines from above as well as down the adjacent hallways.
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Diana S. Kalvitis-Pannone, ASID, CID of SWBR Architects
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The classroom corridors were the perfect match for Cross-Colors and Color Blox by Crossville Ceramics, a Porcelain Stone® that is stronger than marble or granite. Diana knew they would stand up to heavy foot traffic while honoring the traditional aspects of the original building in a contemporary manner.
Ultimately—from the newly created second front façade for the building that provides a dignified entrance for all members of the community, to the gymnasium with its running track, locker rooms and fitness room—the additions to the school perform strongly in both form and function.
Tile Wholesalers of Rochester, Inc. is proud to be the resource of choice for designers like Diana, who value the quality and service we provide during all phases of a project. We would like to thank Diana for sharing her exciting project and participating as our Featured Designer.
If you know of projects or Designers to recommend for an upcoming Tile Wholesaler's E-Newsletter, please contact us. We are always looking for great projects and people to highlight. In addition, you can view more photos of this project on our Facebook page. Follow the link to take a peek!
What's New at TWR
 Introducing Century Tile! Century Tile and TWR are please to introduce the Darwin Series. A completely modular concept of sizes from 10x10 to 10x20 to 20x20, complete with mosaics and trim, all with the look of real Travertine! Moderately priced this glazed porcelain can be used almost anywhere. Please make a point of stopping in the showroom to see this remarkable product for yourself. Make time to visit our showroom and see for yourself. Check out more products and ideas!
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