AI-Generated Marble: A New Approach to Ceramic Surface Design
A new ceramic surface collection developed collaboratively by Reply, Marazzi, and ACPV ARCHITECTS explores the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in material design. Presented during Milan Design Week, the project titled A New AI Generation Marble demonstrates how machine learning and digital tools can be applied to develop surfaces with a marble-like appearance, while aiming to reduce environmental impact.
Application of Generative AI in Surface Design
Initiated in 2023, the collaboration combines expertise from the fields of architecture, technology, and ceramics. AI algorithms inspired by biomimicry were used to generate surface patterns that reflect characteristics of natural stone. These patterns were then applied to large-format porcelain stoneware slabs produced by Marazzi. The surfaces are intended for architectural use, including in the refurbishment of Reply’s new headquarters in Turin, located at the former Caserma De Sonnaz.
A core objective of the project was to explore how digital design tools could contribute to the development of reproducible and scalable surface materials, without relying on the extraction of geological resources. The design process used denoising and super-resolution algorithms to ensure visual clarity at architectural scales, up to 3.2 metres in height.
Relevance to Sustainable Material Development
For professionals in architecture, interior design, and product design, the surfaces offer a potential alternative to traditional marble. The ceramic materials are produced using resource-conscious processes developed by Marazzi, incorporating digital tools into more efficient manufacturing cycles. The aim is to reduce material waste, optimise logistics, and lower the overall environmental impact compared to natural stone extraction.
According to project partner statements, the generated surfaces seek to retain the aesthetic complexity of marble while avoiding the environmental costs of quarrying. The approach aligns with broader industry efforts to integrate sustainability and circularity into material production.
Design Methodology and Technical Execution
The development process involved close collaboration between ACPV ARCHITECTS and Reply’s AI specialists. The design methodology was guided by architectural requirements, ensuring that the generated surfaces would be suitable for built environments in terms of scale, durability, and pattern composition. Rather than replicating natural marble, the surfaces are digitally designed, offering a controlled yet varied visual language.
The ceramic slabs produced are intended for applications such as flooring, wall cladding, and interior finishes. Their technical properties aim to meet performance standards while offering visual diversity through AI-generated patterning.
Material Implications and Industry Context
The use of generative AI in this context contributes to ongoing developments in digital material design and manufacturing innovation. By decoupling surface aesthetics from geological limitations, the project explores new opportunities for designers to access alternative material solutions.
The collaboration also reflects a growing interest in combining computational tools with traditional design disciplines to expand material options while addressing sustainability challenges. The products are part of Marazzi’s broader portfolio of ceramics developed using environmentally certified production cycles.
Source: Reply, Marazzi, and ACPV ARCHITECTS
Photos: Serena Eller Vainicher