Inside AKDO: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Craft, Community, and Stone
When our design consultants visited AKDO’s Connecticut headquarters, they expected to see beautiful stone. What they discovered went far beyond the surface. From innovative design processes to deeply rooted company values, the visit offered a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the industry’s most design-driven tile and stone suppliers.
A Space That Reflects the Brand
One of the first things our team noticed? The environment itself. From the showroom to the warehouse, AKDO’s facility is a direct reflection of its brand—intentional, refined, and meticulously maintained. Multiple consultants described it as the cleanest warehouse they’ve ever seen, a detail that speaks volumes about the care behind the scenes. But beyond aesthetics, there was something more meaningful: a shared sense of culture. Much like our own team, AKDO operates with a strong sense of community—something you can feel immediately when meeting their people.
Slabs That Speak for Themselves
While AKDO is widely known for its mosaics, this visit put a spotlight on slabs—and left a lasting impression.Seeing them in person changed everything. As one consultant noted, even the highest-quality digital imagery doesn’t fully capture their depth and movement. From expressive marbles to richly layered quartzites, the slabs revealed a level of natural beauty that simply can’t be replicated on screen.Standout materials included:
- Calacatta Manhattan
- Mystic Silver
- Grigio Versilia Gold
- Breccia Capraia
Each slab felt like a one-of-a-kind work of art—timeless, tactile, and deeply dimensional.
Design Innovation at Every Turn
AKDO’s commitment to design was evident throughout the visit, especially in their approach to mosaics and product development.Their mosaics, in particular, stood out as unmistakably “AKDO.” With a strong geometric influence and a willingness to blend materials—stone, glass, and even metal—these pieces feel both architectural and artistic.Even more exciting? Our team had the opportunity to preview and provide feedback on products still in development. This level of collaboration highlights AKDO’s openness to innovation and their desire to stay ahead of design trends. Recent and upcoming collections like Vielo, Elyra, and Musea demonstrate this forward-thinking approach—combining pattern, texture, and tone in ways that feel fresh yet enduring.
Craftsmanship Meets Capability
Beyond design, the visit revealed the depth of AKDO’s capabilities.From custom mosaic programs to highly detailed slab crating processes, every step is handled with precision and care. The team also emphasized their ability to support designers through:
- Live slab tours
- Virtual appointments
- Customization opportunities
This level of service ensures that specifying materials isn’t just easier—it’s more collaborative and tailored.Another key differentiator is AKDO’s connection to its sister company, which owns quarries and factories. This vertical integration allows for greater control over quality, sourcing, and production—something few suppliers can offer.
Another key differentiator is AKDO’s connection to its sister company, Silkar, which owns quarries and factories. This vertical integration allows for greater control over quality, sourcing, and production—something few suppliers can offer.
A Family-Driven Foundation
At its core, AKDO is a family business—and that foundation is still deeply felt today. Hearing firsthand stories from leadership about the company’s journey, its ties to Turkey, and its growth through changing markets added a personal dimension to the experience. There’s a clear sense that the people behind the brand care—not just about the product, but about each other and their partnerships.
The Takeaway
Across the board, one message was clear: AKDO is a partner as much as it is a supplier. From the quality of their materials to the thoughtfulness of their team, everything reflects a commitment to long-term relationships and exceptional design.
And for our consultants? The visit didn’t just reinforce their confidence in the brand—it strengthened it.
To learn more, visit AKDO or explore their latest designs on Instagram at @akdo_usa.
