All too often in modern design the ‘human’ aspect of buildings and interiors becomes overlooked. Spaces can be a wonderful, sensory experience and they really should impart something to anyone who uses them. In this respect, one way to move forward in design is to refer to the past. Ceramic tiles for example have been in use for well over 4000 years and for the longest time in many cultures they have inspired a sense of luxury and awe because they were considered primarily as art. Think of the examples that we see of Middle Eastern architecture – not only do we see the structures, we also see that they are detailed both inside and out with stunning tile decoration.
Even in western culture, it wasn’t until the first stages of the 20th century that tiles assumed the primarily functional purpose that we see today. Tiles are undergoing a renaissance of sorts and there is a definite return to their creative roots – they are no longer just a practical choice for your kitchen, bathroom or laundry. Tiles are a great way to add detail and a decorative element to many areas in your home when used creatively. Look in any design magazine or quality tile shop and you will begin to see what I mean. We have all sorts of options and countless ways to use them – sometimes you just need to think outside the box.
I’m guessing that most readers will have no idea that we have a world class tile manufacturer right on our doorstep. ‘Labyrinth Mosaics’ is a tile factory based 40 minutes south of Perth in Medina. It is owned and operated by Rob Cripwell who gained success early on in his career as both the Bridgetown and Pemberton potter [located in our state’s south west]. In Rob’s own words ‘Tiles have always fascinated me, I love the challenge of seeing what I can make and it’s exciting for me to see people’s reaction to the end result’.
When I look at examples of Rob’s work I see elements that remind me of beautiful Islamic art, stunning Gaudi facades, Moorish design and even something that wouldn’t be out of place in a Frank Lloyd Wright home. Somehow through his unique vision, many elements fuse together to create a perfect alternative for current design. On offer is a virtually unlimited range which can be purchased as individual tiles, right through to assembled panels that can be installed as a whole. Commonly they are seen as border tiles, feature panels, water walls, artworks, kitchen splash backs and entire rooms – it’s limited only by your intended budget and your imagination.
Adding to the local focus, the clay used to make the tiles is sourced directly from Western Australia’s Darling Ranges. Each tile is hand molded and then fired for an overall period of 5 days, with the glazing process occurring in between. One of the specialised techniques that Rob has developed is to fuse a blend of granulated recycled glass onto the surface of the tiles which gives a lustrous depth and jewel like quality to the final finish. This is one of the things that I like most about his work; the tiles exude a characteristic sensuality and richness, they almost have a life of their own. If you use these tiles what you get is something that adds interest, mood and a classy touch of bohemian chic.
Each part of the process is completed within their factory, allowing for customisation and, surprisingly, it’s actually encouraged that clients visit at various stages of their work’s completion. For those of you with your own creative streak, there’s even an option to be involved in the production of your very own handmade tile masterpiece whilst utilising their facilities.
Going forward, Labyrinth will maintain its focus on offering a unique local product and apart from taking the range internationally, Rob is currently working on a new range of contemporary geometric tile designs. Within the next few months they will also open a new display site at ‘Homebase’ in Wembley so you can more easily see examples of his work. Until then visit the Labyrinth Mosaics website at www.labyrinthmosaics.com.au or call 9419 3200 for details or to arrange a visit to their showroom and factory.
If you are a local artist or designer and you are producing an on trend quality design based product, why not drop me a line. Visit www.matttuckerinteriors.com.au and follow the Design Guy link. Who knows, maybe you might see your business featured in future pages.
Matt Tucker
