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The Era of Giants: Why Large Format Slabs Are the Future of Design

By January 20, 2026News
Seamless luxury flooring using large format marble effect porcelain slabs.

In the world of interior design, size matters. The era of small squares is giving way to the “Era of Giants”—large format porcelain slabs that can reach up to 3 meters in height. These aren’t just tiles; they are architectural skins that cover floors, walls, and even furniture.

At Merlons, we are proud to host the trinity of slab innovation: Cotto d’Este, Infinity, and Ascale. Here is why you should think big for your next project.

1. The Monolithic Look: Infinity Surfaces

The biggest advantage of large slabs (160x320cm) is the elimination of grout lines.

  • Continuous Vein Matching: Brands like Infinity specialize in “Bookmatch” designs. Imagine the veins of a marble stone (like Calacatta Magnifico or Sahara Noir) flowing continuously from one slab to another, creating a seamless masterpiece on your wall or floor.

  • Total Look: You can use the same material for the floor and the kitchen island, creating a unified, high-end aesthetic.

Seamless Infinity Calacatta Oro large format flooring in a luxury living room.

🛍️ The Marble Effect: Shop Infinity Slabs (Calacatta, Sahara Noir, Ocean Blue):

2. The Thin Revolution: Cotto d'Este & Kerlite

Big doesn’t mean heavy. Cotto d’Este revolutionized the market with Kerlite—reinforced porcelain slabs that are incredibly thin (3.5mm, 5.5mm, or 6.5mm) yet stronger than stone.

  • Renovation Hero: Because they are so thin (like the Black-White or Cement Project series), you can install them over existing floors without demolishing the old tiles. This saves time, money, and mess.

  • Antibacterial: Cotto d’Este slabs often come with Microban® technology, making them the most hygienic choice for homes.

Profile view showing the ultra-thin 3.5mm profile of Cotto d'Este Kerlite slabs.

🛍️ Ultra-Thin & Durable: Discover Cotto d’Este Kerlite (Cement Project, Limestone, Black-White):

3. Beyond Floors: Ascale for Furniture & Countertops

Large slabs are essentially indestructible surfaces perfect for kitchen countertops and tables.

  • Ascale offers stunning durability in 6mm and 12mm thicknesses. Models like Seagreen or Labradorite Royal Blue act as art pieces. They are resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, making them superior to natural marble which stains easily.

  • Visual Texture: From the rusted metal look of Moma Rusteel to the soft touch of Boreal Sand, Ascale brings unique textures that demand to be touched.

Luxury kitchen island featuring durable Ascale Seagreen porcelain surface.

🛍️ Architectural Surfaces: Browse Ascale Slabs (Seagreen, Labradorite, Belvedere Black):

ventilated facade large format slabs exterior

Conclusion: Whether you want a seamless bathroom with Infinity, a quick renovation with Cotto d’Este, or a stunning kitchen island with Ascale, large format slabs offer a clean, modern, and luxurious finish that standard tiles simply cannot match. Explore the giants at Merlons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are large slabs hard to transport and install? – Yes, they require professional handling. You need specialized tools (suction cups, cutting rails) and experienced installers. Merlons recommends hiring certified professionals to ensure the slabs are installed safely and correctly.

What thickness should I choose?

  • 3.5mm – 5.5mm (e.g., Cotto d’Este Kerlite): Perfect for wall cladding, furniture facings, and overlaying on existing floors.

  • 6mm (e.g., Infinity, Ascale): Standard for floors and walls.

  • 12mm – 20mm: Specifically designed for kitchen countertops and tables.

Can I use these slabs outdoors? – Absolutely. Porcelain slabs (like Cotto d’Este Cement Project or Ascale) are frost-proof and UV-resistant. They are excellent for ventilated facades or outdoor terrace flooring.