Artisan Porcelain Tiles for the Pool

By Arpi Nalbandian, Tileometry

Custom tile design by Carson Magness Landscapes at The Pasadena Showcase House of Design. Photo by Karol Franks via Flickr.

With summer just around the corner, it's now time to clean and restore the backyard for a season full of fun and great memories. Along with washing the outdoor furniture, cleaning the grill for upcoming BBQs, and testing outdoor equipment, you shouldn't forget to refresh and update the look of your swimming pool with richly colored, hand-painted porcelain tiles.

Field tile, or plain, solid colored tile, is a tile found in the main "field" or area of an installation covering the walls, floors or steps of your swimming pool. You can pair field tile with our decorative Spanish ceramic tiles to create spectacular designs.

In addition to their wide variety of uses, hand-painted pool tiles offer more versatility and value than any other material with their resistance to abrasion, their ability to handle freeze/thaw conditions, and their ability to retain color. With such a wide variety of deep, rich hues and sizes to choose from, porcelain pool tiles offer you the freedom to create beautiful designs that withstand the elements. Because these are made-to-order, handcrafted items, please allow 3 to 6 weeks for delivery.

Here are examples of the soothing porcelain tile glazes we offer in our Pool Tile collection.

Azure

Cerulean

Midnight

Spencer

We offer a wide variety of pool tile formats, options, trims and accessories. Also, please visit our dedicated Ceramic Tile FAQs page for any questions you may have. Of course, you can also call our office at 888.739.4972, and we would be more than happy to help with your purchasing decisions.

---

Celebrating Summer

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time." - John Lubbock, The Use of Life

Summer's energy translates to taking on new projects, perhaps one that has been set aside for years. Replacing cracked or broken pool tile or finally installing that fountain or water feature you've always wanted for the garden .now's the time!

Using handmade or hand-painted porcelain tile for your next outdoor project will not only enhance the look of your home, but you can rest assured the tile you choose will withstand the elements, too. For whichever project you choose to conquer, Avente Tile is here to help you reach your design goal. Our extensive ceramic tile Design Ideas gallery features a large collection of projects dedicated to inspiring you and your living space. How can we help inspire you today?

Patterned Tiles are Power Play at Coverings 2014

By Bill Buyok, Avente Tile.

While Coverings was celebrating its 25th anniversary in Las Vegas, I was celebrating something I hadn't seen much of at this annual tile and stone trade show since I've been attending: patterned tiles. Lot's of patterned tiles!

Apavisa's Hydraulic Blue pays homage to Classic Cement Tile Designs

I was thrilled to see patterned tile proudly promoting artisanal looks almost everywhere. While last week's post, New & Old Cement Tile Patterns Heat up the Strip, was supposed to be the last in a series to focus entirely on pattern and tile design, you'll see why this week's post is devoted to pattern once again: it shows how pattern is playing a big part in both design and tile trends.

Aparici's Vanguard embraces bold pattern and placement

Tile Returns to Its Artisanal Roots

Those of you who follow our blog know that I'm a big proponent both of color and pattern in design. So, I was thrilled to see many manufacturers embrace pattern in their 2014 tile designs! While pattern definitely took center stage, the underlying theme was a trend to create tiles with an artisanal look. I was thrilled to see porcelain tiles paying homage to traditional and contemporary cement tile patterns. A well-executed example of where pattern took precedence is with Apavisa's Hydraulic series.

Apavisa uses classic patterns and a straight-forward palette

Cement Tiles are often called hydraulic tiles in Spanish-speaking countries. To create cement tiles, each tile is hydraulically pressed as part of the manufacturing process. This is often called a "hydraulic look." Apavisa isn't shy about letting us know that the inspiration for these tiles comes from the cement tile manufacturing method that was first developed in Southern France during the mid 19th century. The tiles break from tradition using a larger 12-inch format,  and are available in four pleasing but limited colors of patchwork natural, grey natural, black natural and blue natural. 

Apavisa's Hydraulic Natural Patchwork has 27 random patterns

The patchwork natural colorway comes with 27 random patterns in each box! And remember, while the look is that of hand-crafted cement, these tiles are made entirely of porcelain.

I want to thank Lori Dolnick and Katie Sikorski for inviting me to participate in the Tile of Spain Press Conference and tour hosted by the always-insightful Ryan Fasan. As an advocate of hand-crafted ceramic and cement tile, I felt more connection than ever to these new porcelain tiles. Finally, a tip of the hat to Tile of Spain for exhibiting distinctively unique ceramic innovations at Coverings 2014!

New & Old Cement Tile Patterns Heat up the Strip

By Bill Buyok, Avente Tile.

Greetings from Las Vegas! This week I'm in Las Vegas making my yearly pilgrimage to Coverings 2014, an annual tile trade show.

Avente Tile Owner, Bill Buyok, in front of the Cuban Heritage Tile Mural at the Tropicana.

As I conclude my final post on playing with pattern in tile design, I'm excited to share a unique wall installation of our classic, popular Cuban tiles and our newest line of cement tile offered by Aguayo Cement Tile. That's yours truly seated at a wall installation of our popular Cuban Heritage Design 140 1A 8" x 8" Handmade Cement Tile at the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Avente Tile supplied this unique installation when the resort completed a remodel a few years ago.

A wall tile mural installation at the Tropicana of Cuban Heritage Cement Tile

Guillermo & Tania Collection

Guillermo and Tania is the sixth collection of unique cement tiles offered by Aguayo Cement Tiles that are created by artists from the Dominican Republic. These unique tiles showcase the artist's skills and elevate cement tile to functional art. This collection, created by artists Guillermo Gomez Lama and Tania Marmolejo, features eight different designs - each presented in three colorways. All tiles are in the 10-inch square format. The collection features new, contemporary designs that are ideal for commercial and residential spaces.

Guillermo & Tania Collection is a new cement tile line from Avente.

 One of may favorite new patterns from Guillermo is "Asterisk" in a bold blue colorway.

Asterisk is a new, contemporary cement tile pattern

Lama is a visual artist, graphic designer, paper lover and obsessed with both patterns and the production process. His work's influences are based on vibration and repetitions of experimental electronic music, mosaics, and the patterns of human behavior. His work is also influenced by the art of lithography and giants in that field, such as Andy Warhol and Peter Gee.

The influence of Lama's graphic design background and lithography are apparent in this cement tile pattern.

Also, I love the flowing, organic patterns of Tania, and a personal favorite is Bloom. The motif creates a three-dimensional effect as the petals converge on each bloom.

Tania Marmolejo's Bloom cement tile pattern

For this project, Tania uses the line as a design element. She uses an eclectic mix of Swedish textile designs and Caribbean themes, such as tropical gardens and the sea.

Wave is a new cement tile pattern by Tania Marmolejo

I'm looking forward to the show and celebrating 25 years of Coverings. I've been attending the show for over a decade.

Coverings 2014 is at the Las Vegas Convention Center

If you happen to be at the show, stop by Booth #19002 and say hello! 

Aguayo Cement Tile Booth #19002 at Coverings 2014

You'll love the new patterns; but, you'll also be able to see some of our classic patterns that are as popular today as they were when Aguayo first introduced them over a decade ago. We'll also be sharing more of the Guillermo and Tania collection here, and it will soon be available for purchase at Avente Tile.

Two-Tone Cement Tile Pattern Creates Serenity

By Arpi Nalbandian, Tileometry

This recent cement tile installation features a centered pattern so the eye is naturally drawn to the main field pattern.

Gone are the days of solely mixing bold colors and patterns only to walk away with a headache rather than inspiration! However, integrating patterns to create a soothing space remains high on everyone.s design list. With "staycations" on the rise, people crave to be enveloped in serene, soothing environments without leaving home.

Such was the case with one of our clients who created a very different effect with the Mission Ring Cement Tile pattern on their kitchen's backsplash by using the same color in almost all of the cement tile mold segments.

The green of the Mission Verde Caribe color was the perfect choice for this kitchen located in Hawaii. The white in the tile accentuates the white of the cabinets, while the effect of the wood tones reinforces the tropical, peaceful feel.

Mission Rings Pattern in Two Colors

Mission Rings Pattern in Several Colors

Thanks to our customization services, not only can you substitute colors to create a unique effect; you can also alter a pattern by using the same color in an adjoining pattern (or mold) segments. Designing with cement tile means taking a vision, idea or surrounding complementary area, and making it come to life!

To learn more about tile, patterns, and design, make sure to subscribe to Avente Tile Talk. Our blog is published weekly and this month, we'll continue to examine patterns by focusing on herringbone, diamond, and on-point and more. Join us!

---

Pinterest: Spring and Yellow

"Behold my friends, the spring is come; the earth has gladly received the embraces of the sun, and we shall soon see the results of their love!" — Sitting Bull

The sun is shining bright and warm, seeds have begun to sprout in our vegetable gardens and we couldn't be happier! It's amazing how a burst of color can enhance someone's day or living space.

What better color is there than yellow to brighten up an area that lacks something. From an accent wall, to a wall niche, and of course tile, spaces that include yellow are associated with happiness, intellect, and energy. Yellow is also closely related to Spring and Easter, where, according to color experts, both the color and the seasonal change produce a warming effect, arouse cheerfulness, and stimulate mental activity. With this month.s Pinboard selections, we know you.ll soon be focusing on the fresh and colorful changes that only come around this time of the year!

To get you started on your Spring cleaning and freshening up of spaces, here are several handmade cement tile and hand-painted ceramic tiles that evoke the feelings of this season year-round.

Featured Tile

Artist Series Life of Riley Hex Handmade Cement Tile	Classic Bordeaux-B Handmade Cement Tile
Heritage Tibetan Gold Handmade Cement Tile	Barcelona Yellow Hand-Painted Ceramic Tile
Portuguese Braganza Hand-Painted Ceramic Tile	Spanish Cadiz Hand-Painted Ceramic Tile

Inspired? Then visit our pages on houzz.com, our boards on Pinterest, and browse through dozens of our Cement Tile Design Ideas andCeramic Tile Design Ideas where you can find a large collection of projects showcasing our handmade and hand-painted ceramic tile, cement tile, decorative tile, mosaic tile, and so much more. Let us know how we at Avente Tile can assist you!

Portuguese Ceramic Tile Artistry

Panel of Portuguese ceramic tiles by Jorge Colaço (1922), representing Henry the Navigator at the Sagres Promonory. Lisbon, Pavilhão Carlos Lopes. Photo by Joaquim Alves Gaspar, Lisboa, Portugal

According to the curators of the Palácio Nacional de Sintra (National Palace of Sintra) in Portugal, the use of azulejos (a form of Portuguese or Spanish painted, tin-glazed, ceramic tile) in decoration is unique when compared with other countries by the way it adapts to architecture on a monumental scale. During the 15th century, the azulejos spread to the Iberian Peninsula and flourished together with other Mudéjar crafts. In that period, the azulejos used in Portugal came from Seville, the only supplier manufacturing center in the first half of the 16th century. Before that, and until the second half of the 15th century, only the alicatado (mosaic formed of polygonal, colored glazed tiles) was in use.

Now, you too can bring the look and feel of Portugal into your home by using our Portuguese Ceramic Tiles in your next project. Inspired by centuries-old styles from Portugal, these decorative ceramic tiles are beautifully hand-painted on red bisque and finished with a high-gloss glaze. Crazing is normal, adding character and uniqueness to each tile. Each hand-painted design includes borders, corners, large decorative tiles and accent dots. The vibrant colors of our decorative Portuguese ceramic tile collection, such as this kitchen backsplash using our Oporto series, stands out when paired with our Portuguese Natural Ceramic Tiles.

As always, our first priority is to offer excellent ceramic tile products backed by our expertise and customer service. So, how can we help you with your ceramic tile needs today?

Featured Tile

Portuguese Oporto 6" x 6" Hand Painted Ceramic Tile	Portuguese Portalegre 6" x 6" Hand Painted Ceramic Tile
Portuguese Ruan 6" x 6" Hand Painted Ceramic Tile	Portuguese Natural 6" x 6" Hand Painted Ceramic Tile

---

Pinterest: Ceramic Tile & The Holidays

"People are happier at Yuletime because they take the milk of human kindness out of the deep freeze" — Arnold Glasow

Now that Thanksgiving is over, the frenzy of shopping and cooking for the winter holidays begins. Aside from feeling overwhelmed, these celebrations happily rejuvenate the feelings of warmth that only family and friends can offer.

Throughout these holidays, the kitchen and main living spaces will be the most popular areas. With your guests undoubtedly chatting, eating, or lending you a hand, you'll want to keep things simple, organized and clean. When you choose one of our hand-painted Portuguese, Spanish, California, or Malibu ceramic tiles, complemented by our hand-painted ceramic field tiles, you'll definitely keep things simple because ceramic tile is not only easy to clean, it's also hypoallergenic, and inherently antimicrobial!

Did we inspire you? Then visit our pages on houzz.com, our boards on Pinterest, and browse through dozens of our Ceramic Tile Design Ideas portfolio page where you can find a large collection of projects showcasing our handmade and hand-painted ceramic tile, cement tile, decorative tile, mosaic tile, and so much more. Let us know how we at Avente Tile can assist you!

Interview with Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

Today's post is the second in our Tile Artisans Interview Series. It’s a joy to share their love of tile. By getting to meet the artisan, you begin to discover both their techniques and inspirations. I met Esther of Lilywork Tile about eight years ago at Coverings, an annual tile and stone trade show. I was captivated by the unusual dance that her complex glazes played with unusual textures and classic patterns. Esther has a passion for tile and you’ll find that in every Lilywork Artisan Tile that is made. — Bill Buyok

Bosphorous/Rosette Focal by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

1. How and when did you start creating your tiles?
Both Paul and Esther, owners of Lilywork, come from art backgrounds. Paul studied at the Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia. During this time, his mentor, Will Mead of Peace Valley Tile, introduced him to tile-making. It was here that Paul developed a passion for the craft that has been with him for the last 14 years. Paul had worked tirelessly to hone his craft, balancing his own business and, until recently, holding the position of Mold-maker at Moravian Pottery and Tile Works in Bucks County, PA. Esther, the other half of Lilywork, got her start at the Hartford Art School. Originally starting in printmaking and textiles, Esther quickly found her niche in tile-making. “I realized the layering of pattern, texture and color I wanted could best be achieved in the ceramic arts.”

Herringbone Backsplash by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

2. As an artisan, what inspires your creations?
Lilywork owners gain inspiration from travels, pulling ideas from architecture and cultures across Europe and the Near East.

Ravenna Listello by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

3. Now, of the many designs and projects, which stands out as your favorite? Why?
One of our favorite recently completed projects is a residential backsplash. It is a traditional space in a historic home using Lilywork field tile in the herringbone pattern. It also incorporates one of our more interesting textured field tiles, Bosphorous, and three-dimensional rosettes into the focal area. We were able to work more closely during the backsplash design process for this project.

Backsplash with 4" Field and Star+Cross Focal
by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

4. What was the proudest moment for you and your hand-made tile business?
One year ago, this past April, we both began to work exclusively for our own company. It is something special to look back at what had been built from the ground up and now could sustain us, especially during a time when the economy was uncertain.

Concept 1 by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

5. In promoting your creations, and to help gain greater exposure, which digital platforms do you use (Blogging, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.)? How do you use them to promote your hand-made tile business?
Facebook has been helpful for showing studio process shots. It is invaluable for designers, dealers and prospective clients to see and understand the hand-made process.

Concept 2 by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

Concept 3 by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

6. Which of these social media platforms has helped your business the most? How?
We self-promote via our website, and Facebook, which have been useful tools for people familiar with our business to further explore our products and concepts. Houzz has introduced our business to a wider market not yet familiar with Lilywork. We would like to work more with Pinterest, as time permits.

Babylonia Listello with 1" Field Tile by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

7. Where do you see the company going from this point forward?
Lilywork recently moved to Stonington, CT, and we look forward to working locally, and direct to the trade in our new location.

Iznik Listello with 2" Decoratives by Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC

Name: Paul & Esther Halferty
Company(s) Name: Lilywork Artisan Tile, LLC
Email: info@lilywork.com
Phone: 215-859-8753, 860-599-6050

Facebook: www.facebook.com/LilyworkTile
Website: www.lilywork.com

---

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy reading about these Tile Artisans:

• Interview with Nutmeg Tile Designs
• Inner Piece Art Tiles