MATERIAL OF THE MOMENT... EXTERIOR GLAZED TILES

THIS COLOURFUL AND HARD-WEARING OPTION HAS MADE ITS WAY FROM THE DESIGN LANGUAGE OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY TO RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS

- REBECCA FOSTER

Injecting a bright burst of colour that contrasts with traditional brickwork, glazed external tiles provide an eye-catching cladding solution for urban extensions. There are practical benefits, too; it’s durable, requires little upkeep and offers a service life of 150 plus years. ‘Glazed exteriors are unexpected and joyful, breaking the norms of house refurbishments,’ says Melissa Beasley, director at Beasley Dickson Architects.

Providing the tiling is designed and installed to a high standard, it will establish crisp, clean detailing around edges and openings. ‘It can therefore add an interesting sense of uniformity,’ says Johan Hybschmann, partner and architect at Archmongers. ‘Glazed tiles work well on additions to Victorian or post-war properties, as original tiles are commonly found on Victorian pubs, theatres and stations.’