The contemporary Cupaclad 201 Vanguard series is one of three cladding systems shown by Cupa Pizarras at VDF products fair that put natural slate in the spotlight.

The roofing and cladding manufacturer is also showcasing its understated Cupaclad 101 Logic system alongside the textured Cupaclad 101 Random range – both of which are fixed with hidden screws.

All three series, now viewable at the VDF products fair, are designed for use across all architectural projects and function as ventilated facades to help improve a building's energy efficiency.

Cupaclad 201 Vanguard is Cupa Pizarras' boldest facade system, which it has developed to help users add "a modern touch" to projects.

The system marries large, horizontal slabs of natural slate with stainless steel brackets that are left exposed for a statement finish.

Cupaclad 101 Logic and Cupaclad 101 Random are both designed to celebrate the natural textures of slate and rely on a system with concealed, self-drilling screws to help retain focus on the material.

The differences are that Cupaclad 101 Logic relies on consistently-sized slabs to deliver a "simple, balanced" aesthetic, while the Cupaclad 101 Random system comprises three different sizes of slate that can be overlapped and randomly arranged for a more "dynamic" finish.

Caesar Ceramics is another company that has introduced its latest surfacing collections at VDF products fair. Among the four porcelain surfacing collections are a range of tiles called Enchant that evoke aged and painted wood, and the Shapes of Italy range that resembles stone.

Other brands that have unveiled new designs include Danish brands Fritz Hansen and Muuto and Austrian bike brand Vello.

About VDF products fair: the VDF products fair offers an affordable launchpad for new products during Virtual Design Festival. For more details email [email protected].