The deVOL Journal

Handmade at Cotes Mill

13th September 2016

By Hannah Livesley

The popularity of ‘handmade’ is ever increasing as we crave special and unique items to adorn our homes. We’re curious to hear its story and the journey from concept to creation. Knowing that a maker has lovingly created an object with their hands and a few tools brings a unique quality and a sense that the object has been made especially for you.

Our handmade tiles are just that, made completely by hand.

In our little ceramics studio, here at Cotes Mill, I cut, print and finish each tile until they are exactly right. From experimenting with different designs to a completed collection, it is greatly satisfying seeing our tiles become part of a customer’s home and part of the creative journey.

T H E   C O L L E C T I O N

The tiles are created using lava clay, which gives a subtle speckled appearance when fired. I then finish each one with a simple white glaze to allow the beautiful detail and intricate patterns to really shine through.

I am often surprised at the imaginative spaces people have installed tiles to create a beautiful feature so I wanted to run through my top favourites, inspired by our past customers and images found online.

S P L A S H B A C K

Perfect for use as a splashback in a kitchen, the tiles will create a really impressive feature wall. With their simple white glaze they will complement many interior styles from modern to more rustic spaces.

F I R E P L A C E

Image found on: https://uk.pinterest.com/

This imaginative use of tiles is often seen on Victorian fireplaces, a tradition that celebrated the art of decoration. It is a great space to have a feature and a beautiful backdrop to a roaring fire.

B A T H R O O M

Image found on: https://uk.pinterest.com/

Tiles play a strong part in the bathroom but this doesn’t mean you can’t be creative. Creating a feature amongst plain tiles could look perfect in a shower area and wet room or even above the basin.

S T A I R C A S E

Image found on: https://uk.pinterest.com/

An unexpected location for tiles but one I absolutely love! These remind me of quaint, old Mediterranean streets.

G I F T W A R E

Used simply as decorative coasters, our handmade tiles can add a creative touch to an afternoon tea. This set is on display in our Cotes Mill showroom and makes for the perfect gift.

The possibilities for our handmade tiles are truly endless, which is what makes them so versatile for many interior projects.

If you would like further information, please contact myself by email on hannah@floorsofstone.com. I would love to hear from you and chat through your ideas.