PORTLAND, Ore. (April 11, 2008) – At the 2008 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show in Chicago, ANN SACKS, premier manufacturer and distributor of luxury tile, stone and plumbing products, unveiled Galaxy Black, a limestone of sophisticated simplicity. Exclusive to ANN SACKS, Galaxy Black offers homeowners and industry professionals a stunning limestone that speaks to a variety of needs. From its competitive price point to the creative finishing options, this material fits a wide spectrum of installations.

Galaxy Black is quarried in blocks and then cut into various thicknesses and sizes before the finishing process is applied. The stone imparts a weathered, rustic persona, its unique coloration a ground of smoky black broken by a constellation of white flecks and swirls as random and beautiful as a clear, evening sky (thus inspiring its name).

ANN SACKS recommends sealing the stone to protect the surface and enhance ease of maintenance, but it is supplied untreated to allow for customization dependent upon the project or preference. Sealing deepens the stone’s shade significantly – similar to the effect water has when washing over a beach pebble. Three finishes allow Galaxy Black to speak to individual needs:   

• Honed/Sandblasted: This technique imparts the smoothest finish. The surface is sandblasted to give the tile a slightly textured face and slip-resistant quality, then machine polished for a softly honed finish. The stone is offered in 6”x24”, 12”x12” and 24”x24” formats.
• Antiqued: Employing a painstaking antiquing process, this hand-applied finish distresses the surface of the tile, the edges antiqued to replicate the aged beauty of historic reclaimed materials. The stone is offered in a 20”x20” format.
• Bush-Hammered: A new ANN SACKS finish created primarily for walls. The tile is heavily distressed by repeatedly striking the limestone surface to create a deep, pitted texture. The stone is offered in 10”x40”, 20”x20” and 24”x24” formats.

Founded in 1981, ANN SACKS has built its reputation with inspiring designs in tile, stone, plumbing, lighting and accessories. Based in Portland, Ore., the company is a division of the Kohler Co. Interiors Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kohler Co., that includes Baker Knapp & Tubbs, Inc., Baker furniture, Baker Knapp & Tubbs Showrooms and Baker Stores, Kallista plumbing and McGuire Furniture Company.

Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations.