To get an idea of Terramater’s character, it is important to consider its history. This collection is a contemporary interpretation of the expressive tiles of the 1970s – yet, at the same time, it pays homage to rapid single-firing, a process, that revolutionised the international industrial ceramics industry 50 years ago. The process was patented by Marazzi in 1974, and it involves the tile body and glaze being fired at a high temperature in a single firing cycle to save time and energy. This same method is used for Terramater stoneware. During the firing process, the glazes, granules and natural oxides fuse with the red clay to create uniquely vibrant surfaces. The collection also makes subtle reference to the manufacturer’s roots in the Sassuolo area, where both architecture and geology are characterised by red clay. All the materials were selected with sustainability in mind. For example, 60 per cent of the tiles are made from recycled content and raw materials of Italian origin. Imperfection in the form of fine inclusions is the hallmark of this richly detailed tile collection. Terramater comes with two different 3D surface structures that transform interior spaces into vibrant living environments. Ritmo has a more dynamic structure and a sublime textured finish, whereas Losanga interprets the charm of Art Nouveau in a contemporary way. Cleverly conceived tile formats – one square and two rectangles – also offer plenty of scope to create innovative patterns. According to the product designers, larger tiles are also being designed to further expand the creative options. “The Terramater collection is almost art,” said the Red Dot Jury members when they assessed the tiles from northern Italy. “The handcrafted textures, the colour play in the glazes and the modular concept for both floors and walls offer an incredible variety of interior architecture options. Tradition is combined with a modern and sustainable production process to create an almost archaic aesthetic.” This condensation of brilliance, tactile materiality and evocative colours in one single collection is both a retrospective and a new narrative that draws its inspiration from the richness of red clay.
