Tile patterns are a great way to create an expressive interior, but patterns by their very nature can get repetitive and stale -- however, the 'BBQ Tiles' from Liverpool-based design workshop 'Assemble' assure unique tiles every time. The ceramic bisque tiles are fired in a barbecue, similar to how a cook might smoke meat.
To get the idea for BBQ Tiles, the Assemble team referenced the raku firing method. Raku is a traditional Japanese practice in which fired pieces of ceramic are abruptly removed from the kiln and cooled in the open air. Modifying the raku technique, Assemble swapped out a stone kiln for a wood burning barbecue.
To alter the patterns of the tiles, Assemble created different smoke intensities through the use of organic products like fruit skins and pine needles.
Barbecued Ceramic Tiles
Assemble's 'BBQ Tiles' Get Unique Patterns By Being Grilled
Trend Themes
1. Unique Ceramic Tile Patterns - Assemble's 'BBQ Tiles' offer a novel approach to creating unique ceramic tile patterns by using organic products and a wood burning barbecue.
2. Alternative Firing Methods - Assemble's use of a wood burning barbecue instead of a stone kiln opens up opportunities for alternative firing methods in the ceramic industry.
3. Personalized Interior Design - BBQ Tiles allow for personalized interior design by ensuring that each tile has a unique pattern.
Industry Implications
1. Home Decor Industry - BBQ Tiles have potential applications in the home decor industry for creating unique ceramic tile patterns.
2. Ceramic Industry - Assemble's alternative firing method using a wood burning barbecue offers disruptive innovation opportunities in the ceramic industry.
3. Culinary Industry - Assemble's use of a wood burning barbecue for firing ceramic tiles could inspire crossover innovation opportunities between the culinary and art/craft industries.