John Lewis & Partner, Leeds

Prodotto: Hexagonal Tiles with a Metallic Finish

The use of ceramics on an architectural scale always requires an excellent synergy between an artisanal approach and production rigor. We drew on our special know-how to produce the special metallic finish of the hexagonal tiles of the facade cladding of the john lewis department store in leeds, a building designed by acme studio. In tribute to the local decorative tradition, the architects opted for a terracotta cladding.

Since it was impossible to use a traditional metallis glaze due to the problem of acid rain, we developed an innovative, tough, durable surface finish. The terracotta tiles were glazed in vacuum kilns, inside which the metal particles were bonded to the surface by means of a stable chemical reaction. The process creates a gleaming bronze effect with unique reflections and exquisite, sophisticated variations in colour due also to the piece’s geometric form and its position inside the kiln.

FAQ

The client for the project is ACME Studio.

The building is located in Leeds, United Kingdom.

Hexagonal terracotta tiles with a special metallic finish were used.

The cladding design is inspired by the local decorative tradition, with terracotta used as the main material.

Klinker tiles require minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with non-aggressive products is enough to preserve their beauty.

Due to the acidity of the rainfall, it was not possible to use a traditional metallic glaze. An innovative, durable and resistant surface finish was therefore developed.

The tiles were glazed in vacuum kilns, where the metallic particles fused with the surface through a stable chemical reaction, creating a glossy bronze effect with unique reflections.

The finish features sophisticated and refined colour variations, influenced by the geometry of the tiles and their position within the kiln.

The project combines an artisanal approach with rigorous production standards, drawing on TeamWork’s expertise to create a unique, high-quality product.

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COLOUR
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green
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blue
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white
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cream
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grey
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yellow/orange/gold
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pink
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pink
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bronze
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bronze