At the most recent Coverings Expo, Crossville partnered with design firm Interstruct, Inc. and installation company C.C. Owen Tile Co. in the creation of a stunning vignette that explored the use of tile in a modern, uniquely functional space.
Tasked with taking an indoor public pocket space to the next level, Maria Valbuena, architect associate with Interstruct, Inc., designed an experimental structure that invites people to interact with the structure and use it in different ways. The vignette, constructed in broad levels that intersect the lines between steps and seating, became an inviting space where people could climb, sit, and just relax on the multiple levels utilizing fun angles and highlighting a contemporary color palette achieved through creative use of Crossville tile collections. Show attendees were seen throughout the week—hanging out in the vignette, taking lots of photos, and enjoying the levels just as would be intended for a public area.
For the walls of the vignette, Valbuena specified Crossville’s Color By Numbers collection in the 19th Hole hue; Thjs color provided an exciting burst of orange among the cut and angled installation of Crossville’s porcelain tile panels in Bianco Assoluto. For the floor of the vignette, Valbuena created steps by mixing Crossville’s porcelain tile panels in Fumo with Retro Active 2.0 in Mercurial. The gray tones blended beautifully allowing the bright orange and white to take center stage inviting people in to relax in the unique space.
In collaboration with the design team, Rod Owen of C.C. Owen Tile Co. brought the vignette to life through its installation with careful attention to detail. Owen is an experienced Covering’s vignette installer and recognized the challenging design proposed by Valbuena. Due to space limitations at the show, Owen realized the large porcelain tile panels would need to be cut in C.C. Owen Tile’s warehouse to ensure the pieces would correctly fit together in the vignette.
By integrating various Crossville tile formats and styles, Valbuena and Owen created an inviting and relaxing space. Thanks to innovative design and experienced installers, Crossville’s vignette displayed how tile offers creative answers for design and technical challenges beautifully.
The cleverly leveled space demonstrated the synergy between great design and installation and exemplified how closely designers and installers need to work together to achieve fabulous final projects. Through tours offered during the week of Coverings, show attendees learned the tips and tricks from the design and installation tea. Drawing on Crossville’s wealth of innovative materials and customization options, the talented professionals incorporated functional and aesthetic requirements to answer very specific occupancy needs and offer design inspiration that will carry beyond the show.
By integrating various Crossville tile formats and styles, Valbuena and Owen created an inviting and relaxing space. Thanks to innovative design and experienced installers, Crossville’s vignette displayed how tile offers creative answers for design and technical challenges beautifully.
Project Participants:
Architectural & Design Firm: Insterstruct
Installation Company: C.C. Owen Tile Company
Installation Materials Sponsor: Ardex
Backerboard & Trim Sponsor: Schluter Systems
Tile Sponsor: Crossville, Inc.
