'pico collection' by rowan and erwan bouroullec for mutina

‘pico collection’ by rowan and erwan bouroullec for mutina images © studio bouroullec

french designers ronan and erwan bouroullec have developed the ‘pico collection’ for italian ceramics company mutina. composed of compressed sand and mixed minerals, this series of tiles maintains the rawness of handmade cement and traditional earth floors, letting the materials convey their natural characteristics. the collection’s simplicity allows it to be adapted for use in both public and domestic spaces.

a ladybug provides scale for the size of the dots

starting with neutral base shades of white, grey, and sand, the matte surfaces have depth from an irregular pattern of either inverted or elevated dots, rendering subtle textures that contrast with the bright hues and slick coats common among contemporary tiles. two tones of red and blue, applied as little dots in the hollow or as a base color, further activate the relief by creating slight shadows, making the tiles colder or warmer.

alternate tile surface

‘pico’ indoors (left) and outdoors (right)

full range of colors

blue applied to dots

contrasting dotted relief (vertical wall) and red indented dots (horizontal surface)

‘pico collection’ will be presented during the fair cersaie in bologna, italy from september 20 – 24, 2011.