talking with kate walker

inspired by the traditional tile-making methods of Morocco and the Mediterranean, the hand-crafted look of Zellige tiles achieves a rustic yet ultracontemporary appearance.

When National Tiles introduced the Zellige collection, interior designer Kate Walker (founder of KWD) was immediately enamoured. “This Spanish-made collection captures a handmade texture so beautifully,” says Kate. “The varying surfaces create a play of light and movement that adds a unique touch to every project.”

Having grown up in the tile industry, Kate has always been passionate about using tiles in the most effective way possible. “I love being innovative and creative with tiles to design spaces that reflect the style of the home surprisingly and invitingly,” explains Kate.

“Over the last 20 or so years, there have been significant developments in tile technology. Ceramic tile manufacturers are developing creative, cutting-edge, ground-breaking designs that explore colour, texture and tone in extraordinary ways. I love working with organic materials with movement, surface interest, and a handmade feel.”

Kate has incorporated each colour from the Zellige range into a wide variety of projects, “I love the undulating textures and colours, and I have featured the aqua, turquoise and white tiles in a wide variety of projects. The two different finishes create very contrasting looks. The gloss bounces light around the room and adds shine to a space, whereas the matt finish resembles polished plaster and reflects the Moroccan influence.”

The innovative Zellige tile is square and can be creative with lay patterns. Explains Kate, “We have laid these tiles stacked, off-set, on the diamond and, in some projects, we have combined the lay patterns to great effect. There are many ways to play with these tiles and create new looks. We’ve even laid them on the ceiling in a bathroom.”

Zellige tiles have become Kate’s go-to range. They are timeless and elegant while complementing every aesthetic. “I love organic products. I am a huge advocate for texture and tone. I enjoy researching and exploring the history of tiles, as well as the different ways in which they get made. Zellige tiles work for us for all these reasons - it’s the ideal tile for any design style.”

“Having National Tiles offer this range has helped us elevate our projects, and now I look forward to the next incarnation of the collection. I’d love to see a rectangular version and the introduction of some bold shades to expand the range, like emerald green, cobalt blue and my favourite new colour combination: oxblood, bone and Yves Klein Blue.” www.katewalkerdesign.com.au

Available in 7 colours:

RegalCharcoal Grey RegalDoveGrey

RegalTealBlue RegalSeaGrass

RegalPaleBlue RegalRosePink

RegalBrightWhite