What makes a Japanese-designed tile discernible from the many other options on the market? We discuss the processes and qualities, developed over centuries over practice, that ensure our Japanese tiles remain unchallenged in strength, durability and artistic beauty.
What makes a Japanese-designed tile discernible from the many, many options on the market? Artedomus is proud to work with a number of Japan’s most celebrated tile manufacturers, some of whom have been operating for over a century. Our Japanese partners – considered to be both artisans and masters of tile manufacture – are knows for their incredible craftsmanship and high quality fabrication processes which employ traditional and innovative techniques that have been developed over many decades.
At the heart of our relationship with our Japanese tile partners is Artedomus’ commitment to understanding the intricate process of Japanese tile design – which we share with you here. This involves direct factory visits, conversations with owners, and a comprehensive grasp of each product’s journey. This transparency builds trust and reveals that many of the enduring technologies, while old, are incredibly effective. It’s this profound respect for materials, process, and an appreciation for the natural beauty, variation, and beautiful imperfection of ceramic tiles, that elevates Japanese designed tiles from mere building materials to works of art.
Craftsmanship mastered over centuries
One of Artedomus’ leading Japanese tile partners is INAX. INAX’s process begins with their careful sourcing of materials: clay is sourced from local hillsides, and glazes are meticulously extracted from nearby mineral deposits. This ensures INAX’s tiles carry an inherent authenticity and connection back to the country’s natural landscape.The transformative heart of INAX tile production lies in its precise firing process. Tiles, fragile until subjected to intense heat, embark on a journey through INAX’s tunnel kilns – some stretching a hundred metres long – where they move along tracks to reach their fiery zenith at the centre of the kiln. Firing typically takes up to two-and-a-half days – essential to producing tiles of strength and discernible aesthetic character. Watch this in action.
Creative ideation through quality manufacture
Many of the tile masters with whom we work have mastered the craft of creating Japanese ceramics in distinctive shapes, colours, and textures, building a reputation for innovation and relevance that has endured across stylistic eras and international markets. This enduring success stems from a finely tuned combination of factors – from production speed and tile thickness to the precise chemical composition of the glazes, and a shared passion for creative ideation.
Through brands such as Arute, for example, Artedomus is able to respond nimbly to new design concepts and rapidly developing stylistic directions, working closely with a range of Japanese tiles manufacturers to introduce new shapes, sizes, textures and colours. And, thanks to the enduringly high quality of fabrication and craftsmanship, our Japanese tiles remain unmatched and unchallenged on qualities of materiality, fabrication, strength, and beauty.
We’re constantly updating our tile ranges, to offer new formats, sizes and colour options. Browse these ranges which have recently welcomed new additions.
