At the beginning of September 2025, the city of Graz became the hub for innovations in architecture, interior and exterior design, as well as sustainable building materials. ARCHITECT@WORK Graz 2025, held on September 3 and 4 at the Stadthalle Graz, brought together architects, designers, engineers, and other professionals. The main focus was on sustainable materials and the transformation of our built environment. This year’s theme, “Transformation”, opened up important discussions on how tradition, natural resources, and innovation can be combined into holistic solutions.
For our brand Cotto Rustic, the participation was a valuable opportunity to show that handcrafted terracotta tiles are far more than just a product. They embody a philosophy – the connection of traditional craftsmanship, natural materials, and timeless elegance.
About ARCHITECT@WORK Graz
ARCHITECT@WORK is an internationally recognized professional platform for innovations in architecture and design, clearly distinguishing itself from traditional construction fairs. Exhibitors undergo a strict selection process, and the products presented must meet the highest standards of quality and relevance.
The premiere in Graz attracted 1,386 visitors, who were able to discover a total of 175 innovations – each one carefully selected by a professional jury of architects and designers. This curated approach enabled high-quality contacts, intensive knowledge exchange, and inspiration for future projects. For the professional community in Austria, this event represented an important moment to set new impulses for architecture and the use of sustainable materials.
Our Appearance
At the Cotto Rustic stand, visitors were able to discover three basic shades of our handcrafted terracotta tiles – Terracotta Red, Tuscan Yellow, and Natural Rose – combined with various surface treatments that highlight the natural texture and individual character of each tile.
A specially designed floor presentation allowed guests to experience the effect of the tiles in a real space. This was complemented by a diverse selection of samples, digital presentations on the screen, as well as printed catalogs that provided a comprehensive insight into the versatile application possibilities.
Our presentation followed a clear guiding principle: to emphasize the core values of our brand – craftsmanship, the use of 100% natural materials (clay and water), and complete recyclability. With this, we wanted to show that our tiles are not just a surface, but a material that combines tradition with modern sustainability standards.
Audience Reactions
The response from architects as well as interior and exterior designers was consistently positive. Many visitors asked specific questions on topics such as proper care and recommended impregnation, compatibility with underfloor heating, resistance to weather conditions, and the wide range of applications – from interior flooring and wall coverings to outdoor areas and facades.
Particular interest was aroused by the application in the field of restoration and monument preservation. Our tiles were recognized as a material that brings authenticity, durability, and aesthetic value into historic buildings – qualities that are crucial for the preservation of cultural heritage. Today, it is becoming increasingly difficult to find original materials that allow truly authentic restoration. Thanks to our traditional production, terracotta tiles and terracotta elements retain the character of the original materials and allow faithful renovation of old floors, walls, as well as architectural and facade elements made of terracotta.
Why Our Participation Was Important
For us, the fair in Graz had multidimensional value. It opened up direct contact with professionals, created new business opportunities, and confirmed Cotto Rustic’s position as a reliable partner in projects where sustainability, aesthetics, and authenticity are crucial. Even more important was the direct feedback – valuable insights into market needs that help us further optimize our offering. From new formats and additional surface treatments to technical support and individual consultations for architects and planners: every comment from Graz provides us with impulses for the next development phase.
Conclusion
The premiere of ARCHITECT@WORK Graz 2025 confirmed the clear trend within the professional community towards natural and sustainable materials. Our presentation showed that handcrafted terracotta tiles are not only an aesthetic choice but also a long-term solution that connects the past and the future.
Cotto Rustic will continue to build bridges between tradition and modern architecture by offering materials that bring warmth, authenticity, and timeless value to every space. We are convinced that natural elegance and artisanal precision are not a luxury, but the foundation for sustainable building. That is precisely why our tiles are not just a product – they are part of a story of quality, identity, and spaces that endure for generations.