In the realm of human creativity, few materials boast the versatility and timeless appeal of tile. Beyond its aesthetic charm, tile embodies a profound connection to the natural elements that shape our world. From the depths of the earth to the transformative power of fire, each stage of its creation is a testament to the harmony between nature and human ingenuity. Dive into the organic elemental process that is tile-making and how we choose to pay homage to our natural world through design here at Haustile.
EARTH | THE FOUNDATION
EARTH | THE FOUNDATION
The journey of a tile begins deep within the earth, where raw materials like clay, minerals, and silica are sourced. These elements, formed over millennia through geological processes, provide the fundamental substance for crafting tiles. The extraction of these materials marks the initial step in transforming natural resources into a functional and artistic product.
Born from an artistic collaboration with Ojai-based artist 'Real Fun, Wow!', our GROW tile pays homage to the natural and supernatural realms that inspire their work. This design celebrates the vital role of plant life, each tile a testament to botanical beauty, featuring patterns that evoke the essence of growth and vitality. GROW is perfect for spaces where the connection to nature is celebrated, offering a refreshing touch of organic charm to any space.
WATER | SHAPING & MOLDING
Once extracted, the raw materials undergo a meticulous process involving water. Water acts as a binder, allowing the components to be blended into a workable paste or slurry. This mixture is then molded into the desired shape and size, forming the base structure of the tile. The influence of water here is crucial, as it enables the materials to be shaped with precision and consistency.
Water, vital to tile crafting and all life on Earth, is celebrated in our RIPPLE glazed brick, a collaboration with artist Zander Schlacter. Each tile embodies the essence of water’s movement, captured in intricate patterns that ripple across the surface, celebrating water’s timeless beauty in abstract form.
WIND | DRYING & SOLIDIFICATION
As the newly formed tiles take shape, they undergo a period of drying facilitated by air and wind. This crucial phase allows the excess moisture within the tiles to evaporate gradually, leading to solidification and strengthening of the material. The gentle force of wind aids in achieving the ideal balance of moisture content, ensuring the tiles achieve their desired durability and texture.
Our KOKE design captures the fluidity of wind with swirling patterns and gentle lines. Inspired by nature's movement, it blends serene earthy tones, offering a tranquil yet dynamic aesthetic. Perfect for modern interiors and outdoor spaces alike, KOKE evokes a sense of natural elegance and peaceful energy, enriching any environment.
FIRE | TRANSFORMATION & ENDURANCE
The most transformative stage in the creation of tiles involves exposure to intense heat and fire. By firing in kilns, the tiles undergo a metamorphosis. The heat serves to fuse the materials together, enhancing their structural integrity and imparting unique colors and textures. This final firing process not only completes the physical transformation but also imbues the tiles with the resilience needed to withstand the test of time.
ASTOUNDING RAYS captures the essence of a kiln's mesmerizing glow during firing. The surface of each tile gleams with hues reminiscent of molten metals and vibrant earth tones, reflecting the play of light and shadow seen in the heart of a kiln. For our ASTOUNDING RAYS, this warmth and energy seem to dance across its surface. It evokes the intense beauty of a process that transforms raw materials into enduring works of art.
The journey of tile-making from earth, water, wind, to fire is a profound testament to the symbiotic relationship between nature's elements and human creativity. Each step in the process—from the extraction of raw materials to the final firing—harmoniously combines natural forces with human craftsmanship. The result is not merely a functional building material but a piece of art that enriches our surroundings and connects us to the world around us.
