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Girih Encaustic Tile

Is it possible to create a tile with a pattern that never repeats? We designed a new range of cement tiles inspired by recent research connecting the complex patterns of medieval Islamic tiling with contemporary mathematical theory.

Two special shapes drawn from ancient Islamic geometry are the basis of these new patterns - a hexagon and a bowtie – upon which are inscribed new aperiodic patterns. Every installation becomes unique as the pattern extends infinitely without repetition using just two tiles.

Fabricated in Morocco using a traditional encaustic technique, the tiles are crafted with dry pigments and Portland cement, giving the surface its characteristic softness and coloration. Because the tiles are formed under pressure rather than fired, shrinkage is minimal and hairline grout joints can be achieved. The pattern extends through the body of the tiles, which allows for sanding or buffing in the field to eliminate minor surface imperfections.

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Girih is offered in twelve patterns and over 100 colors. Each order is site-specific, with a unique layout generated using software tools developed by BSC. Detailed layout drawings are shipped with the order to facilitate installation.

Girih is offered in twelve patterns and over 100 colors. Each order is site-specific, with a unique layout generated using software tools developed by BSC. Detailed layout drawings are shipped with the order to facilitate installation.

Girih is offered in twelve patterns and over 100 colors. Each order is site-specific, with a unique layout generated using software tools developed by BSC. Detailed layout drawings are shipped with the order to facilitate installation.

Girih is offered in twelve patterns and over 100 colors. Each order is site-specific, with a unique layout generated using software tools developed by BSC. Detailed layout drawings are shipped with the order to facilitate installation.

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Design Team

Timothy Bade
Jane Stageberg
Martin Cox (principal-in-charge)
Andrew Skey

Manufacturer:

Popham Design

Design Team

Timothy Bade
Jane Stageberg
Martin Cox (principal-in-charge)
Andrew Skey

Design Team

Timothy Bade
Jane Stageberg
Martin Cox (principal-in-charge)
Andrew Skey

Design Team

Timothy Bade
Jane Stageberg
Martin Cox (principal-in-charge)
Andrew Skey

Manufacturer:

Popham Design

Awards

Architizer A+ Awards (Finalist)

Architizer

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