PORTLAND, Ore. (April 11, 2008) – ANN SACKS, premier manufacturer and distributor of luxury tile, stone and plumbing products, continues its tradition of bringing innovative new materials to the tile medium with the introduction of Laque at the 2008 Kitchen/Bath Industry Show in Chicago. These dramatic lacquer wall tiles are available in a large 12”x24” format and in a simple palette of black or white.

In stark contrast to their modern aesthetic, the manufacturing process for Laque tiles is rooted in the time-honored tradition of Vietnamese lacquer art that dates as far back as the third and fourth centuries B.C. Each individual tile undergoes a painstaking process that requires over two months of delicate handwork.   The pieces of wood are initially coated in thick lacquer filler comprised partially of the sap from the native Vietnamese lacquer tree.

The pieces are then covered with fine cotton gauze to prevent any future cracking and ultimately they each receive 12-18 coats of lacquer before their final polishing. The polishing is also done by hand in the traditional method – using the heel of their hand, artisans polish each piece to a warm glossy finish.

“Laque tiles make a subtle yet rich wall covering as feature walls or in non-wet areas of the bathroom. They balance the complexity of a rich history of artisanship with the simplicity of sleek black and white tiles,” said John Hart, chief merchandising officer, ANN SACKS and Kallista.

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.