Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Merry Christmas from Avente Tile

May the holiday season bring you joy and fulfillment, and the warmth of being surrounded by friends and family!

Deer in Moonlight Mural - Rosewood
Deer in Moonlight Ceramic Tile Mural

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Thanks to the Tile Heritage Foundation

Editorial Note (Jan. 2, 2012) - After publishing this post, I was thrilled to read this article, Foundation crafts artisan-tile archive, honoring the co-founders of the Tile Heritage Foundation and their commitment to preserving our tile heritage.
Tile Heritage FoundationAs another year draws to a close, I want to shine the spotlight on a great organization that is benevolent and generous, The Tile Heritage Foundation. Since it was founded in 1987, this California-based non-profit has been supporting the preservation, history and appreciation of tile. This organization gives back to the tile community and works to preserve our tile heritage. Avente proudly supports their efforts and thanks the directors, staff and volunteers.

The Preservation of our Tile Heritage

The Tile Heritage Foundation promotes an awareness and appreciation of ceramic surfaces in the United States. The Foundation provides consultation and research, leads preservation efforts and shares information about tile. The Tile Heritage library and research facility has a wealth of knowledge including books and slides about ceramic tile surfaces. They provide historical perspective and depth on all ceramic surfacing materials and educate the public by sharing tile’s rich history. Because of these efforts, the organization now plays a major role in the preservation of rare existing ceramic installations. They promote contemporary tile work as well.

This year the Foundation celebrates their 25th-anniversary. A big drive is to transition their archive to an online searchable resource available to the industry and to the public.

Tile and our Collective History

One of the reasons I started Avente was my love of tile - both in the beauty of the hand painted design and the sense of place and time it conveys. A mosaic brings you back to the Roman Empire. The light hand painted blue and white strokes of a stylistic floral pattern on tile can have you dreaming about a centuries-old street corner in Portugal. It's pretty amazing what tile can convey!

Shortly after I started Avente Tile, I remember Jorge Aguayo, of Aguayo Tile explaining that he had discovered many floors in disrepair while visiting Cuba. His goal was to preserve these amazing tile tapestries of pattern and color found in Cuban tile. If we don’t strive to preserve and record these amazing works of art, we lose so much in the collective history of who we are.

Cuban Tiles found in Old Havana and Camaguey are in disrepair
Cuban Tiles found in Old Havana and Camaguey are in disrepair
Photo Courtesy of Aguayo Tile

I occasionally get calls from friends and customer’s saying they found some amazing tile after removing layers of other surface coverings during a remodel of their early 1900's home. These moments warm my heart. I am reassured that people do want to preserve well-crafted design and they value the history of a very special place. They want to help document, record and preserve the collective history that is ours.

When I can’t identify that tile, where do I send them? The Tile Heritage Foundation, of course.

Tile Identification Services

The Tile Heritage Foundation offers tile identification services to the public at no charge. Pretty darn amazing. Who else offers such a great service for free? I've sent many architects and designers their way. To take advantages of this service, Simply email foundation@tileheritage.org with clear, images of individual tiles or tile installations. Include other relevant information like site, city, state, size, date (approximate), architect/designer if known. If the experts at Tile Heritage are not able to identify the work, your email will be forwarded to others who are likely to know.

I could go on about the great folks at the THF; but, just visit www.tileheritage.org and discover what a great resource they are. Most importantly, if you can, I encourage you to join Avente and support this great organization with a donation.

Thanks and Happy Holiday!

- , Avente Tile


Tuesday, December 11, 2012

New! Arabesque Cement Tile Spanish Pavers

New Arabesque Cement Tiles Bring Spanish Flair to Any Décor

Arabesque Spanish Cement Tile

Our newest line of cement tile offers not only a classic, time-tested look, but also the durability and craftsmanship of traditional handmade cement tile. Introducing Arabesque Cement Tile!

The geometrically inclined Arabesque pattern, part of our cement tile collection, pays homage the rich look of classic clay bisque tiles that have been used in Spain, the Mediterranean, and northern Africa for centuries. With Arabesque, you'll also receive the durable, time-tested benefits of cement tile with the added benefit of a broader color palette, and sizes and shapes that can be adapted to any décor and environment.

Further, by using our Arabesque Spanish Cement Tile in your next design project, you'll feel good knowing your choice is also good for the environment. Made in the USA, this collection is made using a high percentage of locally sourced materials, which minimizes transportation impact. Moreover, the cement used for producing these tiles is supplied by an Energy Star Certified factory.

Arabesque Aragon
Arabesque Aragon
Cotto Dark
Arabesque Mudejar Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile
Arabesque Mudejar
Cotto Dark

Finally, unlike their bisque counterparts, Arabesque features a Paver Color Palette that includes 30 colors and two blends. The Classic Color Palette (in six shades) takes its cue from clay bisque that would be historically used to make Saltillo tile, brown Spanish pavers, and red clay tiles.

For a contemporary look, you can choose from our extensive collection of 24 colors within the Premium color palette, which includes subtle greys, green, plum, rust and tan. Prices for the Arabesque collection start at $15 per square foot. Your choice of color, size, format, and finish will affect the final cost. There are 8 designs within the collection. Most designs are available in two or three styles allowing you to choose a larger, smaller, or slightly different format. Our online product catalog details the available styles, tile sizes, shapes, formats, color, and price for each design. Remember, each piece is handcrafted, therefore, please expect to receive them within 4 to 6 weeks from the time your order is placed.


Pinterest logo


Pinterest: Inspiring, Trend-Setting, Project Organizer

Avente Tile's Winter Pinterest BoardIn the November issue of Tile Talk News, we touched upon our Pinterest boards and how we make it work for us. In this issue, we'll be sharing some best Pinterest practices that we've incorporated into our daily Pinterest schedule and ever-expanding boards.

We recently attended a Pinterest-focused twitter chat for kitchen and bath industry professionals, @KBTribechat where we left with newly found encouragement to continue to do what we've been doing. The chat featured Beth Hayden @bethjhayden, a nationally known speaker and social media expert, who taught us and dozens of other attendees a couple of new things. Here are some tips that both we and Beth have found that led to successful, profitable pinning:

  • Use descriptive titles, keywords, proper credit for photos, active links to where the image was sourced from.
  • Inspire visitors of your boards to go to your website to purchase what they like.
  • Pin every day, even if it's just a few things. You.ll keep things fresh, and chances are you'll get re-pinned more often.
  • Use the Pinterest Popular tab to see what kind of content people love, and what they are sharing. Beth mentioned that the "Popular" tab is her own trends spotter.
  • When clients are looking for a specific project type, i.e. kitchen, patio, mud rooms. You can send them to our Pinterest boards, or, they can send you to theirs. It's almost as if you're swapping portfolios.
  • Make sure you have your website listed in your Pinterest profile, and that you're posting your own blog posts.
  • Pin things that your audience (client base, customers, friends, etc.) are into, such as travel, architecture, design, nature, and so on.
  • Most importantly, remember your manners. As in all social media platforms, good manners will get you far, while bad manners will leave you stagnant. If someone takes the time to like or repin what you've posted, or has left a comment, make sure to thank them!

Lastly, did you know you could find out what people are pinning from your site? This invaluable piece of information, http://pinterest.com/SOURCE/[yoursitehere.com], can help form or reshape your online strategy.

For instance, take a look at ours: http://pinterest.com/source/aventetile.com/

This isn't a live link, so you'll have to copy and paste it into your browser. And where it says [yoursitehere.com], that's where you'll enter the website address where you want to see who is pinning from it, and which images have been pinned.

We hope this information has been helpful. If you're already on Pinterest, let us know how you use it, and what successes you've had with it. We'd love to hear your suggestions and/or questions, too! Follow our Pinterest boards and let's get pinning together!


Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Persian Tile: A Form of Art and Religious Expression


Sheikh Lutf Allah Mosque Peacock Dome
Sheikh Lutf Allah Mosque is one of the architectural masterpieces of Safavid Iranian architecture, standing on the eastern side of Naghsh-i Jahan Square, Isfahan, Iran.
Image via: www.IslamicArts.org 

The impact of Persian tiles occupies a prominent place in the history of Islamic art. Recognized for having one of the richest and varied art legacies, Persia (now Iran) used this form of art to decorate palaces, public buildings, monuments, mausoleums, and religious buildings, such as mosques and theological schools.

According to the Iran Chamber Society, “The history of Iranian tile dates back to the prehistoric period. It holds an important position among the various decorative arts in Iranian architecture. The four main decorative features can be categorized here as well. They include stone carving, brick work, stucco and tile panels. Using an intricate method of manufacturing, design and the type of materials used in the four methods mentioned above, the methods have evolved as a result of natural factors, economical and political effects.” 


Interior arcade of Sheikh Lutf Allah Mosque, Isfahan, Iran.
Image via  www.IslamicArts.org.

It's because of their expertise in handling raw material, and especially because of their artistry, Persian tile makers found themselves in great demand. Their talents were sought in all corners of the vast Islamic empire. Over the centuries, creative artisans used colored stones and brick to create geometric patterns on structures. The rudimentary patterns then developed into natural subjects, such as plants, animals and humans. These masterful creations grace both the interior and exterior of historic Iranian structures.


A mihrab is a niche set into the middle of the qibla wall of a building in order to indicate the direction of Mecca. (Early 14th century).
Image via Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

The art of tile manufacturing reached its peak of perfection and beauty at the end of the 13th century. Moraq tiles (mosaic style) panels created with this technique were made to withstand the elements of time. “Tiles in such colors as yellow, blue, brown, black, turquoise, green and white were cut and carved into small pieces according to a previously prepared pattern,” says the Iran Chamber Society. Further, “These pieces were placed close together and liquid plaster poured over to fill in all the opening and gaps. After the plaster dried and hardened, a large single piece tile panel had been created, which was then plastered onto the required wall of the building. Timurid monuments in Herat, Samarkend and Bokhara were covered by this decorative technique. Among the most famous monuments decorated in this style are the Goharshad Mosque (1418 CE), the Molana Mosque (1444 CE), the Jameh Mosque of Yazd (1456 CE), the Jameh Mosque of Varamin (1322 CE), and the Madrassa of Khan in Shiraz (1615 CE),” the Society added.


Imam Mosque, Isfahan, Iran.
Imam Mosque, Isfahan. Image via www.IslamicArts.org.

Of the many tile masterpieces found in Iran is the Shah Mosque in Isfahan. The dome of this religious building, which originates from the 17th century, serves as a wonderful example for mosaic tile, as well as cuerda seca tiles. A variety of tile had to be manufactured in order to keep a consistent look throughout its vast halls that were covered in mosaic tile.


Detail of one of many tiled walls of the Jameh Mosque, Yazd, Iran.
Detail of one of many tiled walls of the Jameh Mosque, Yazd, Iran.
Image via www.IslamicArts.org

Also of importance to the tile-making techniques of the Persian empire was the the Safavid dynasty (1502-1736). It was during this time that ornamental mosaic pieces were often replaced using the haft rang (seven colors) technique. Images were first painted onto plain rectangular tiles, glazed, and then fired. Aside from economic reasons, the seven colors method gave artisans freedom with their creativity, as well as more time to stylize their works of art.


The complex of the Friday mosque of Yazd; found in the 12th century.
Situated adjacent to the center of the town of Yazd, the complex of the Friday mosque of Yazd was found in the 12th century. However, what stands on the site today is the new mosque (masjid-i jadid) built in 1324 under the Il Khanids. Image via www.IslamicArts.org.

It's unfortunate that this glorious form of art wasn't extensively documented throughout the ages. The patterns and designs were a closely guarded secret, and therefore, the techniques were only passed down orally from father to son, or from master to student.


Vakil Mosque, Shiraz, Iran.
Vakil Mosque, located in Shiraz, Iran, is a beautiful mosque built in the mid-18th century by Karim Khan.
Image via www.IslamicArts.org.

Sadly, this concludes my exploration of tile through the Middle East. Before I get too old, I would really like to explore the country that I was born in, Turkey, as well as Iran, where my husband was born. The architecture, the history, and knowledge that Islamic nations provided not only to their people, but to far-reaching lands, shouldn't be dismissed.

I hope you enjoyed reading this series as much as I enjoyed researching and writing it. Have you gained a greater appreciation of tile? How would you implement current tile patterns and colors into contemporary or modern designs?

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Creative floor tiling

It's a bit of a story to this tile project as this section of the floor has been concrete for a few years. I've been a builder and blogger for some time now and we have a home on Cupid's Cay, Eleuthera, Bahamas that we work on every year. There are many more posts to read all dealing with your home on my blog, The Building Blox. Now you know the story about builders finishing their own homes right?

Well this year we decided we would tackle this floor when we returned but there were complications that worked out for the best. We went to the tile store that we had purchased from here in Eleuthera and they no longer carried the same tiles that we had used so it was decision time. We looked through the offerings and due to the increased cost we settled on a beige color tile and got 6 boxes, which worked out to 48 tiles that were each 18" x 18". Now how to make 48 tiles cover the area that we had? I thought about it for a day or so and did an experiment to see if it was going to work. It looked great!


Now once the decision was made I had to start the layout and plan on the concrete floor for how the tiles were to be spaced so that they looked like the design that I had made.


Once that was determined it was time spread out the thin set and lay the tile with the appropriate row spacing.  Now the reason that I did the large tile rows first was so that I would have the level in between to gauge the height of the pieces that I would be adding after.  This way I could determine if they were above or below the tile height and adjust them according.  Some of the thinner pieces needed a bit more thin set to bring them up to the tile height and some pieces had to be shaved on the tile saw because they were too thick.


The outer edge band is made by breaking up tile that we had. The tile store also gave us a box that had been broken to use, which was really nice of them.


As I started down the rows it was very much like making a puzzle.  Over the years we have collected pieces of glass, broken plates, bottle bottoms and a slew of random things on our beach walks and now was the time to use them.  We used everything we had but had run out so we had to make a trip to the north where we knew a beach that would have a new supply and Success! 

The stick you see in the above photo was used to make sure that the pieces were at the right height between the two tiles.

I also added in some blue that I cut out of bottles that I had been saving. The blue around the floor really catches your eye. Any guesses on what bottle they come from?

Luckily for me, throughout the project I had professional supervision. Here she's checking to make sure the thinset is the right consistency!

Broken tile, plates, found tile pieces, bottle bottoms and more all became part of the floor.


The finished floor.


So with a bit of creative thinking a floor that stands out from the rest and also uses a great many recycled pieces was made. The other thing that I didn't mention was that other than my labor this floor cost $200.00 to do. I can honestly say it was a great project and fun to do.

As to the degree of difficulty and if you should attempt something like this? I believe that a person with good DIY skills and/or someone that has done previous tile work could undertake a project like this. The key is of course having the knowledge of how to do it and just as importantly taking the time to plan it out and the patience to make the puzzle work.

Let me know what you think. Like it or not so much? Would you consider undertaking a project like this?

If you hadn't already guessed, the blue bottle pieces are from Bombay Blue Sapphire Gin that I cut with the tile saw.



A short post script.
When I first thought about doing this a good friend, Paul Anater, said it was very similar to what is done in Spain called Trencadis.

Trencadís (Catalan pronunciation: [tɾəŋkəˈðis]) is a type of mosaic used in Catalan modernism, created from broken tile shards. The technique is also called pique assiette. This mosaic is done using broken pieces of ceramic, like tiles and dinnerware

Although its a similar style, I adapted it to the materials I could find here on the island or more accurately, could find on our beach walks. Duel purpose walks- treasures and exercise!

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Great Floor Designs with Rustic Cement Tile Pavers

Project Pick: Durable, Rustic Spanish Pavers Offer Time-Tested Look

Rustic Spanish Pavers

These pavers have the rich look of classic clay bisque tiles that have been used in Spain, the Mediterranean, and northern Africa for centuries. With these pavers, you get the benefit of cement in their durability and strength, a broader color palette, and sizes and shapes that can be adapted to any décor and environment.

Further, by using our Spanish Paver Tiles, you'll feel good knowing your choice is also good for the environment. Made in the USA, this paver tile collection is made using a high percentage of locally sourced materials, which minimizes transportation impact. Moreover, the cement used for producing these tiles is supplied by an Energy Star Certified factory.

A few square formats also include clipped corners to accommodate decorative accent tiles. Our Malibu Deco Tiles are the perfect choice to pair with these Spanish pavers. Use this combination with the smaller 4"x4" formats to make a great looking backsplash or for attention-getting stair risers. Here are two great examples of the hand-painted Malibu ceramic tiles we offer: Malibu Catalina and Malibu Zeteca.


Malibu Catalina Hand Painted Ceramic Tile< Malibu Zeteca Hand Painted Ceramic Tile


Malibu CatalinaMalibu Zeteca


Our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers come in various square and rectangular formats. All tiles are 3/4"-thick nominal thickness. You'll find square formats from 2"x2" to 16"x16"; and rectangular formats from 2"x4" to 8"x16".

Finally, unlike Spanish pavers, these tiles are available in 30 colors and two blends. The colors are available in two styles: solid or flash. The Paver Color Palette includes classic bisque colors in terracotta, red and brown that provides traditional style. The Classic style takes its cue from clay bisque that would be historically used to make Saltillo tile, brown Spanish pavers, and red clay tiles. For a more contemporary look, choose from our extensive collection of 24 colors with the Premium color palette, which includes subtle greys, green, plum, rust and tan.

Like what you see? Go ahead, don't be shy, take a look at all of our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers!

See all our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers


Pinterest logo



Avente Tile Autumn Pinterest Board

Pinterest: Inspiring, Trend-Setting, Project Organizer

Move over Facebook and Twitter because Pinterest is gaining momentum. The site, which was launched as recently as two years ago, is a social media platform that allows users to share their interests on theme-based boards. Users not only upload their own photos, but they can discover other users' photos (Pins), and re-pin (copy) them onto their own boards. Users can also categorize their boards to include ideas for upcoming weddings, home remodeling projects, recipe organization, and so much more.

According to Mashable.com, an online news source for all things connected, more than 70% of Pinterest's 10 million users told BizRate that they turn to the social pinboard site for shopping inspiration and to keep up with upcoming trends. There's also better user engagement with brands on the photo-sharing website: 66% of users regularly follow and repin retailers. Not surprisingly, the female/male ratio has been quoted as somewhere between 70-80% female. As a retailer for handmade cement and ceramic tile products, we've seen many positives with Pinterest, including new business leads. Here's how we make our Avente Tile Pinterest boards work for us:

In next month's issue of Tile Talk, we'll be sharing some best practices for Pinterest. Happy Pinning! In the meantime, tell us how you use Pinterest!


Tile Tip


Small tiles are the optimal choice for shower floors because they:
  1. Follow the contour slope to the drain.
  2. Provide additional grout lines that improve slip resistance.
Our Yucatan ceramic field tile can be purchased face-tape mounted in 2"x2", 1-1/4"x1-1/4", or 1-1/4"x2-1/2" formats. To further improve slip resistance, we can also add grit to the glaze.

The Yucatan series is inspired from long-standing, sprawling haciendas and villas found throughout the Mexican peninsular state. As a vitreous product, it's an ideal choice for countertops, fireplaces, pools, and fountains.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Rustic Cement Tile Pavers

You've changed the clocks, you've voted, the election season is over and fall is in full swing. Time to sit back, relax and get ready for Thanksgiving and the holidays. . . your next tile project. I know it's a busy time of year. However, I couldn't wait any longer to introduce our newest line of cement tiles, Rustic Cement Tiles Pavers.

Rustic Cement Tile Pavers
Cotto Gold Rustic Pavers in a 12x12 Format
Rustic Cement Tile Pavers Come in a Variety of Colors & Sizes

Right away you'll notice that these Cement Tile Pavers have a handmade appearance with a slightly irregular edge, face and finish that creates a rustic look. They have the rich look of classic clay bisque tiles that have been used in Spain, the Mediterranean, and northern Africa for centuries. With these pavers, you get the best of both worlds: the look of clay bisque and the benefit of cement. Cement tiles offer durability and strength, a broader color pallet, and sizes and shapes that can be adapted to any decor and environment.

Where to Use Cement Tile Pavers

This line of cement tiles is our most versatile ever. It can be used on wall and floor applications for both indoor and outdoor applications. It is also rated for pedestrian and light vehicular traffic so it's great for commercial locations and driveways, too! Unlike most other cement products it's also rated for freeze/thaw cycles. What does all this mean for you? Basically, you can use this tile just about anywhere and you'll see fantastic results. Because cement tile is porous, you will need to apply a penetrating sealer to protect them from staining and preserve their color and original appearance.

These tiles are made in the USA and the majority of raw materials are locally sourced to minimize transportation impact. Cement for these tiles is supplied by an Energy Star Certified factory and include varying amounts of recycled content.

Rustic Cement Tile Paver Formats

Our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers come in various square and rectangular formats. All tiles are 3/4" thick nominal thickness. You'll find square formats from 2"x2" to 16"x16"; rectangular formats from 2"x4" to 8"x16".

Rustic Paver Formats
Mission Red Flash Rustic Pavers with Different Sizes & Random Layout
Rustic Pavers Come in Many Sizes

A few square formats also include clipped corners to accommodate decorative accent tiles. Our Malibu deco tiles tiles are the perfect choice to pair with these Spanish pavers. Use this combination with the smaller 4"x4" formats to make a great looking backsplash or for stair risers.

Rustic Paver Formats
Rustic Cement Tile Paver Formats and Sizes

Rustic Cement Tile Paver Colors

Unlike Spanish pavers, these tiles are available in thirty colors and two blends. The colors are available in two styles: solid or flash. The Paver Color Palette includes classic bisque colors in terracotta, red and brown hues that provide traditional style. These classic styles take their cues from clay bisque that would be historically used to make Saltillo tile, brown Spanish pavers, and red clay tiles. You'll also find an extensive collection of more contemporary colors including subtle greys, green, plum, rust and tan.

Tuscan Mustard Rustic Pavers in a 12x12 Format for Entry
Tuscan Mustard Rustic Pavers in a 12x12 Format for Entry

Expect variation in all the colors because this is a hand-crafted product that replicates natural variations that you would find in many clay products, like Saltillo tile. The flash colors are intended to exhibit a high degree of variation in both the shade, tone and saturation of the color. These tiles have "through-body" color because, the color goes all the way through the tile. The color is added to the concrete during the mixing process.

Explore our Cement Tile Paver Collection

Curious? Take a look at our Rustic Cement Tile Pavers and see if there is something that catches your eye.


What do you think of these Rustic Cement Tile Pavers? How would you use these tiles?

- , Avente Tile

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Turkish Tile: Artistry Through the Ages


The significance of Turkish ceramic tiles occupies a prominent place in the history of Islamic art. Its deeply enriched heritage, which can be traced as far back as the Uighurs of the 8th and 9th centuries, owes its subsequent development to Karakhanid, Ghaznavid, and Iranian Seljuk art.


Turkish tile from Aladdin Palace, Konya, Turkey
Throne scene on a star-shaped tile using the Iranian-Seljuk minai technique. Aladdin Palace, Konya, Turkey. Image via www.turkishculture.org.
Siren on a star-shaped tile from Kubadabad Palace
Siren on a star-shaped tile, underglaze painting, Kubadabad Palace, c. 1236. Karatay Madrasah Museum, Konya, Turkey. Image via www.turkishculture.org.

Countries with colorful histories, such as Turkey with its sovereign past that includes the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, have always provided a deep-rooted fascination to outsiders because of their culture, traditions, food, and most importantly, the art produced within the country. It’s through this art that we, the current generation, are allowed to take a brief glimpse through the artisans mind and eyes of what was seen, felt, and experienced at the time.


Star-shaped ceramic tile from Kubadabad Palace
Sphinx on a star-shaped tile using the luster technique. Kubadabad Palace, c. 1236. Karatay Madrasah Museum, Konya, Turkey. Image via www.turkishculture.org.

Turkish Ceramic Tile Develops

When the Seljuks (Turkic nomads from Turkmenistan who were related to the Uighurs) victoriously conquered the Byzantines at Malazgrit in the early part of the 11th century, they brought with them their knowledge and talent for creating works of art on ceramic materials. As a result, a distinctive style of Seljuk art and architecture emerged by the 13th century. Seljuk mosques, medreses (a building or group of buildings used for teaching Islamic theology), tombs, and palaces were lavishly decorated with these exquisite, handmade tiles vividly in turquoise, cobalt blue, eggplant, and black. 


Seljuk tile from the second half of the 13th century.
Seljuk tile from the second half of the 13th century. Image via www.turkishculture.org.


By the late 15th and early 16th centuries, a new period in Ottoman tile and ceramic-making had emerged in Iznik. Artisans employed in the studios of the Ottoman court were sent to Iznik so their designs could be interpreted upon the ceramic wares and tiles that would adorn the palaces. As a result of the patronage, Iznik was known as the most artistically and technically advanced ceramic region.
Animal and flower figures, 16th century, Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey.
Animal and flower figures, 16th century, Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, Turkey. Image via www.turkishculture.org.
Early on, the Iznik style of ceramic artwork became distinctive with its blue and white designs and motifs of foliage, Arabesque patterns, and Chinese clouds. Court-appointed artisans were now imitating the 15th century Chinese Ming porcelains that had begun to permeate the Ottoman court.

By the middle of the 16th century, natural motifs such as plants, flowers, ships, animals, and even people, began to appear on ceramic tile. With their wide variety of vivid colors, the demand for ceramic tile as decorations surged with the extensive building programs undertaken by Suleiman I (1520-1566) and his successors. Countless examples of mosques and tombs across the Ottoman Empire were adorned with the products of the Iznik potters' skill.

Turkish Tile-Making Techniques

During the Anatolian Seljuk period, architectural decoration involved the use of glazed and unglazed bricks were used to produce a variety of patterns on the façades of buildings. The most frequently color used for the glaze was turquoise, followed by cobalt blue, eggplant violet, and sometimes black. Hexagonal, triangular, square, and rectangular monochrome tiles were also used in creating architectural details.

Panel of Hexagonal Tiles.
Panel of Hexagonal Tiles. Image via www.turkishculture.org.
However, unlike brick, these geometric shapes were used for indoor applications. The geometric tiles, made from a hard, yellowish paste, were glazed with vibrant hues of turquoise, cobalt blue, violet, and occasionally, green. There are also rare examples of these geometric tiles in existence that possess traces of gilding.

Further, the Anatolian Seljuks also incorporated extensive use of mosaic tile art for the interiors of domes, transitions to domes, vaults, mihrab niches, and walls.

Unfortunately, by the 18th century, the ceramic industry in Iznik had died out completely and another city, Kutahya, replaced it as the leading ceramic arts center in western Anatolia. Kutahya succeeded where Iznik failed in its ability to keep up with orders while maintain their renown product integrity. However, during the first half of the 19th century, Kutahya's ceramics industry also suffered a downturn.

Polychrome tiles, underglaze painting, harem of the Topkapi Sarayi, Istanbul, 16th century.
Polychrome tiles, underglaze painting, harem of the Topkapi Sarayi, Istanbul, 16th century. Image via www.turkishculture.org.
Lastly, there is a widely held belief that figurative painting in Islamic art is prohibited, in accordance with the Koran. According to Turkish Culture, “Religious rulings issued only in the 9th century discouraged the representation of any living beings capable of movement, but they were not rigidly enforced until the 15th century. Figural art is especially rich in tiles, as well as stone and stucco reliefs of the Seljuk period, adorning both secular and religious relief monuments. The subjects included nobility as well as servants, hunters and hunting animals, trees, birds, sphinxes, lions, sirens, dragons and double-headed eagles.”

The tiled hearth of the crown prince’s apartment in Topkapi Place, Istanbul, Turkey.
The tiled hearth of the crown prince’s apartment in Topkapi Place, Istanbul, Turkey. Image via www.turkishculture.org.
To view the products of today’s ceramic tile producers, visit the Turkish Ceramics Promotions Group. You can also plan to visit Unicera, the annual fair in Istanbul, Turkey where you can view and visit with Turkey’s producers of ceramic, stone and bathroom products  like to visit the annual ceramic and stone Unicera International Ceramic Bathroom and Kitchen Fair in Istanbul, Turkey, February 27-March 3, 2013.

How would you use Iznik-patterned tiles that are still produced today? Have you been to Turkey to see any of the above-pictured pieces?








Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Climbing Out with Color, Texture and Time in Tile

About Bathroom Blogfest
Bathroom Blogfest 2012 - Still Climbing Out
Bathroom Blogfest 2012 celebrates its seventh anniversary with the theme 'Still Climbing Out'. During the week of October 29 through November 2, 2012, bloggers interpret the theme in a blog post and provide their own unique perspective based on experiences and background. First, a round of applause goes to C.B. Whittemore, chief simplifier of Simple Marketing Now. C.B. makes this entire event possible and orchestrates it with style and ease. She is also hosting a Twitter chat on 10/31/12 via #KBTribeChat from 2pm to 3pm EST. Thank you, C.B.!

Avente Tile Talk has participated for three years in this annual event. We kicked-off this year's blogfest with Tile Talk Contributor, Arpi Nalbandian, explaining Ceramic Tile's Creative Nature. A list of participants is included at the end of this article. Read their posts and see how they are Still Climbing Out!


We are Climbing Out

As the end of another year rapidly approaches and a presidential race looms large, it’s a good time to take stock of where we are at and where we want to go. I think most of agree with this year’s blogfest theme. There’s been a lot of progress; but, alas, we are still climbing out. The stock market is a great indication of optimism and confidence and it’s easy to see when you look at the Dow Jones over the past year.

Dow Jones Industrial for one year
The Down Jones is Still Climbing Out

Despite the cautious and fickle moods of Wall Street and the somewhat somber mood on Main Street, I’m optimistic about the future (perhaps to a fault). In fact, I’m really excited about what I’m seeing. The mission of the blogfest is to draw attention to how important the bathroom - and other forgotten spaces like bathrooms - are to the overall consumer experience. I’d like to focus on how tile is helping folks climb out and build a better bathroom (or any room) experience.

Climb Out with Color

I'm a big fan of color and pattern in design. One of my biggest frustrations is the ubiquitous 'sea of beige and white' tile. I’ve noticed a shift this year. I’ve seen more colorful tile at trade shows than ever before and the trend is coming to showrooms. I’ve also sent out an amazing array of colorful tile. Here’s photos of a recent sample order.

Monte Cristi Cement Tile
A colorful pattern: Monte Cristi Cement Tile

Ocoa Cement Tile
A colorful pattern: Ocoa Cement Tile

Melilla Cement Tile
A colorful pattern: Melilla Cement Tile

This Chelsea (New York) kitchen was recently remodeled. The owners chose a colorful cement tile pattern for the backsplash. It looks fabulous and sets the standard for style. Don't tell me there isn't optimism out there! Folks are embracing color more than ever before.


The colorful patterned backsplash sets the style for this kitchen

Provide a Better Experience with Texture

The prevalence of texture is being found everywhere in tile. Texture adds interest and depth. Sometimes it is just the appearance of texture, created with geometric patterns, like this popular Cuban Heritage pattern.

Cuban Geometric Cement Tile Patterns
Geometric Cuban Tile provides an illusion of texture

Large format tiles and stone tiles are are available in relief, too. I love these stone tiles by Galrão Group from Portugal. They transform stone into textured landscapes that are absolutely captivating.

group galrao wave tile
Galrão Group's Wave Stone Tile

Even if folks balk at color, they will embrace the flowing geometric pattern in these concrete pavers that have surface roughness for a rustic look. It's a classic pattern in an updated color. Arabesque Cement Floor Tiles have low relief and are available from ARTO Tile & Brick.

arabersque concrete floor tile
Arabesque Cement Tiles Captivate with Pattern and Texture

Time to Choose

We are climbing out. Things are getting better - keep that great attitude! New trends in tile and design are making better experiences for any room. It might take longer than you want; but, I think you'll agree - it's a better place to be. Just take the time to design and choose the right tiles for your taste and needs.

Think about color and texture with tile and in no time you'll be looking at a better bathroom. What do you think? Can color, texture and tile make a better bathroom? What is most important to you?

KBTribe Chat Focus on Still Climbing Out

In addition to blog articles and social media content, Bathroom Blogfest will host a Twitter chat on 10/31/12 via #KBTribeChat from 2pm to 3pm EST. The Twitter Chat will focus on ‘Still Climbing Out: Bathroom Design After Cancer’ in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month co-hosted by Nora DePalma, principal, O’Reilly-DePalma, and C.B. Whittemore, chief simplifier, Simple Marketing Now.

Learn more about #KBTribechat and Bathroom Blogfest 2012 by visiting Bathroom Blogfest focused #KBTribechat.



This year's participants include:

NameTwitter UsernameBlog NameBlog URL
Susan AbbottsusanabbotttheIdeaStudiowww.theideastudio.ca 
Laurence Borelblogtillyoudropblog till you dropwww.laurenceborel.com
Bill BuyokAventeTileAvente Tile Talkwww.aventetiletalk.com
Jeanne ByingtonjmbyingtonThe Importance of Earnest Serviceblog.jmbyington.com
Mr. SteamsteamtherapyThe Mr. Steam SteamTherapy Blogblog.mrsteam.com/
Nora DePalmanoradepalmaOR-DP POVwww.oreilly-depalma.com/blog
Stacy Garciakbtribechatkbtribekbtribe.wordpress.com
Diane KazandkazanPublic Bathroom Blogthekazan.blogspot.com
Arpi NalbandianArpi_NalbAvente Tile Talkwww.aventetiletalk.com
Victoria & Shelley Redshaw & PondscarletopusScarlet Opus Trends Blogwww.scarletopus.com
Sandy RenshawsandyrenshawPurple Wrenpurplewren.com
Bruce D. SandersrimtailingRIMtailingrimtailing.blogspot.com
Paige SmithnoneTile tips from installation professionalsneusetile.wordpress.com
Todd VendituoliTALV58Thebuildingbloxwww.thebuildingblox.com
Shannon VogelcyswebsitesFrom the Floors Upfromthefloorsup.com
CB WhittemorecbwhittemoreContent Talks Business Blogsimplemarketingnow.com/content-talks-business-blog/
Irene WilliamscrossvilleincElevate Your Spaceelevateyourspace.wordpress.com
Linda WrightlindalooSkip to the Loo!lindaloo.com/