Tile
In an age of mass production, the handmade tile is a quiet act of rebellion. It is a material that celebrates the unique, the imperfect, and the mark of the human hand. Unlike the sterile uniformity of a machine-made tile, each artisanal tile has its own subtle variations. When laid together, these individual imperfections coalesce into a surface of immense character and life. We choose handmade tile not for its ability to create a perfect grid, but for its power to create a surface that is rich, soulful, and deeply human.
Form Study 01
RF–01 · Archive Reference
Surface Properties
Extruded vs. Pressed
TX–01
The manufacturing method has a profound impact on the tile’s character. Extruded tiles are forced through a die and wire-cut, resulting in a more rustic, irregular body. Pressed tiles are formed in a mold, creating a more uniform shape. The choice between the two is a choice about the level of imperfection and character desired, from the highly irregular Zellige to a more uniform but still handmade encaustic tile.
Through-Body Pigment
TX–02
A polished finish closes the pores of the stone and creates a near-mirror-like surface that reveals the full depth, colour, and crystalline structure of the material. We use this not to create bling, but to create a dynamic dialogue with light. A polished surface brings movement into a space, reflecting the shifting light of the day and the subtle colours of the surrounding environment, making the material feel alive and responsive.
High-Temperature Firing
TX–03
By firing a clay tile at a very high temperature (over 1200°C), the clay body vitrifies, becoming non-porous and thus frost-proof. This technical specification is what makes it possible to use the beauty and warmth of a material like terracotta in an exterior application in a cold climate. It is a science-based solution that expands the possibilities of a traditional material.
Quiet Papers
Tile in an Outdoor Patio
A study on using high-fired, frost-proof terracotta tiles to create a durable, natural, and time-worn terrace in a country garden.
Tile in a Kitchen Splashback
An exploration of using handmade Zellige tiles for their unique, light-reflecting glaze and beautiful imperfections to create a soulful feature in a minimalist kitchen.
Tile in a Bathroom Floor
A case study on using patterned, through-body encaustic cement tiles to create a durable, slip-resistant, and characterful floor in a busy family bathroom.