Custom terracotta tiles for the Multipurpose Space in Flix, Tarragona

There is nothing more stimulating than a challenge. When it comes to design, this means adding extra creativity to overcome the possible obstacles that come up during a project, which is what happened when we were commissioned for the Multipurpose Space in Flix, Tarragona. A place created to be versatile and where todobarro’s tiles had to demonstrate their adaptability.

Natural clay walls and floors

For this commission, we worked following the lead of Arquitecturia. The starting point wasn’t an easy one. We had to carefully and precisely cover the floors and walls of a whole cultural center, using an artisanal and imperfect product such as our natural clay tiles.

Another challenge was the creation of a self-supporting wall and a terracotta screen based on the structure of our tiles. This involved architectural elements such as latticework and a floating wall that does not reach the floor.

Where we might initially have seen limitations and obstacles, we soon realized that what we had been offered was a great opportunity. Solving these spaces as they were proposed was no easy task, but it presented us with a unique opportunity to innovate and provide tailor-made solutions.

The solution: custom tiles

This is how we came to the conclusion that, in order to tackle the complexity of this project, it was necessary to create custom tiles. To begin with, we started with one of our most versatile formats to create the necessary customizations and adaptations.

Our basic formats were chosen for this customized evolution. Specifically, we developed versions of the Rectángulo 20×10, Rectángulo 40×20, Rectángulo 40×10, and Cuadrado 20. The color chosen was the salmon finish, which provides a greater richness of chromatic nuances with worn textures similar to those of antique tiles. This shade allowed us to harmonize modern aesthetics with classic elegance, ideal for this space.

Without a doubt, what we enjoyed most about this project was the process itself. The journey we took with Arquitecturia to bring it to life was full of creativity and learning. It leaves us with a legacy that has expanded our arsenal of solutions and resources that will accompany us when tackling new projects.

Seeing how our tiles took shape to become part of a complex designed to host cultural and social events has been inspiring. We hope that the result will contribute to fulfilling the purpose for which this new place was created: a space for meeting and creativity.

Photographs: José Hevia