Spotlight

LACE MARKET TILES

18th May 2020

Last summer, back in the days when life was still ‘normal’ and we thought nothing of getting in the car and going places (remember those days?), we went to visit Holyrood Architectural Salvage in Edinburgh looking for something for the garden. As we were wandering around, I spotted an array of vintage tiles that were arranged by pattern in small batches, and as I was looking at them, admiring their rich hues and retro feel, I was wondering what someone might use them for. As that’s a problem when considering period tiles: finding enough of the design or style you want to work for the project you might have in mind.

This collection of Lace Market Tiles from deVOL answers that problem, bringing that vintage look and authentic character to a contemporary range of tiling, in both patterned and plain tiles, and in the most beautiful hues of Sepia, Rose and Vintage Teal.

The collection was created by one of deVOL’s ceramicists, Hannah, who sourced intricate vintage lace remnants and garments from her grandmother and incorporated the patterns in this bohemian collection. Working carefully on a colour palette that would be complementary to the sense of age and character of the tiles, Hannah reflected a range of glazes that grant these pieces their aged and weathered feel.

And look at this ochre hue! I mean…  stunning. The patterns are created by pressing the remnants of vintage lace into clay using an antique tile press at DeVOL’s studio at Cotes Mill in Leicestershire, and this technique gives a very clear relief and texture to each tile, while a little ageing of the clay before glazing also gives these tiles a delicately worn look.

Which would be your choice of colour? Each feels gorgeous on its own right, but I can’t help but be drawn to the sepia colourway, followed by that very vintage looking teal hue. Prices start from £5 per tile.

See the collection of Lace Market Tiles here.

All photography from DeVOL.