One of our favourite places to get design inspiration is Spanish creative consultancy Masquespacio. Not only are their keen stylistic senses a treat for the eye, but their projects frequently feature vast and original tile use, showcasing our strongly held belief that tile really is the greatest of all coverings. Here are five of the company’s delightful contributions to interior design that really prove that point.
1. Albabel in Valencia, Spain
Antonio Ramirez had been running his pizzeria Albabel for 20 years before contacting Masquespacio to transform the space into an entirely new restaurant offering fusion cuisine and an unforgetable interior. With traditionally Andalusian materials including raffia, earth bricks, and plants, alongside a dramatic but sophisticated use of coloured tiles provides a space full of warmth and character.
2. Piada in Lyon, France
This colourful space is home to Arthur and Mathilde’s Italian concept Piada. The concept was to include something of the past within its design elements whilst appealing to a modern audience. The chosen material was artisan-style tiles that add texture, depth, and a vibrant burst of colour. Alongside these are golden lights and traditional mirrors behind the bar. To add a reflection of the natural ingredients used in the restaurant’s food, plants, wood, and terracotta can be found throughout the space.
3. Kaikaya in Valencia, Spain
This space showcases exactly how impactful tiles can be, even when used simply with a two tone colour palette. The stairway is a vibrant pink canvas on which the abundance of greenery can play whilst the more intimate bar utilises the same colours alongside natural wood and raffia to expertly combine Japanese and Brazilian design elements.
4. Cuadernos Rubio in Valencia, Spain
The only place in our list that is not a restaurant is the interactive Rubio concept store. Surprisingly, only plain white mosaic tiles are used throughout, but with an extremely creative effect in mind. A colourful ceiling as well as accent furniture and bold neon lighting make the space buzz with energy. Designed to act as a place of learning, the simple but exciting layout is absolutely perfect.
5. La Sastrería in Valencia, Spain
The bar and restaurant of La Sastrería appear as completely distinct entities. The restaurant’s flowing curves on its blue and white tiles are reminiscent of the sea, with furniture, wall hangings, mirrors, and other decorative elements providing depth to the effect. Whereas the bar is, though still stylish, much more familiar and simple. An entirely different colour palette and tile use are comforting in their similarity to traditional local bars and facades. Both spaces are wonderful, and being able to enjoy both in one place is simply a treat.
A new post by Hanna Simpson, Diary of a Tile Addict, December 2020.