CEMENT TILEs - PART 3 - DESIGNS FOR LIFE
by Fiona Flores Watson
In terms of tile patterns to choose from, the company offers 35 designs, shown in the catalogue and online in set colours but available in different shades at no extra cost. Some of these designs have such enduring popularity that they are still produced exactly as seen in a colour brochure from the company's early days, which Antonio shows me, carefully preserved and in pristine condition.
The classic grey-on-yellow eight-pointed star, "Estrella en crema", is now offered in zingy turquoise and red, while the ever-popular "Diecinueve" (Nineteen) with a cross-type motif brings to mind the Cruz de Santiago - original moulds, dating back 80 or 90 years, are patched with cork to prevent colour spread. Some designs simply have number names, while others are called after the place where the trepa was bought - for example a pretty design with yellow and the premium blue, featuring birds on its cenefa (edging), is "Aracena".
New patterns, simpler and more graphic, are now appearing, as well as more modern colours - a chequered tile of soft pastel shades - white, mossy green, salmon-pink and sunny yellow, is aimed at children's nurseries. Another current trend, Antonio tells me, is "patchwork", where people use a random selection of tiles with different designs - such as on the company's Twitter profile. As the Mosaicos Pino palette coordinates well, this an excellent option, especially for smaller spaces, while whole floors in lighter shades of yellow and blue, or classic, sophisticated monochrome grey, tend to lend a more contemporary feel. Some people also use the tiles on the outside of their houses, for eye-catching decoration.
If you want your own tile design, a new mould will cost 200 to 300 euros, depending on how elaborate it is - and obviously you choose the colours. What better way to brand your company, than with its own logo on made-to-order flooring?
Continued.....Part 4......Famous places