We enjoy the design and implementation challenges of three dimensional form when it meets the medium of glass mosaics under the exacting precision dictated by water. Luxury water shapes are the most complex tile installation environments. We select materials to enhance a water shape, excite an exterior color palette, and ultimately become the ‘bling’ of the outdoor environment, and this is an exciting place for us to continue mastering our craft. We have learned from so many craftsmen before us, and the individual who really took Luke under his wing in the early years is Greg Andrews, formerly of Greg Andrews Tile, and now a founder of the National Tile and Stone Authority. Greg has committed many years to this work, developing many of the very methods that have now become the standard, training individuals like ourselves, and now continuing to make a real difference in this industry by continuing to offer his expert insight, gathered from real field work and long term results.
When we first receive plans of a project we listen to the client’s design vision, we start thinking about how tile and/or mosaics can best be used to enhance that vision – this includes color selection, type of iridescent finish, shapes and patterns, dimensional pieces or large format materials, mosaics, and the many and patterns, dimensional pieces or large format materials, mosaics, and the many possible combinations and variations. If there are curvelinear elements, we think about what size, shapes and colors of tile can be used to enhance those forms, and at the next stage, how we can manipulate the mosaics to follow curves, template areas and hand cut mosaics to fit these curved shapes. It’s a square peg/round hole situation, and our goal is to make the mosaics flow smoothly through a design instead of drawing attention to the static shape of a piece of tile. We also think about contrasting color, bright reflective finishes and custom trim details that serve the purpose of catching and throwing light. Translucent glass can be paired with opaque materials to create further texture and depth in an installation. In recent years we have placed a very heavy focus on long-term functionality and maintenance requirements for various types of designs and materials. All of these decisions are influenced by the shape of the vessel, the style of the architecture, the natural environment and ultimately the wishes of the client.
