Developing New Techniques for Artificial Marbling Cement Tiles at Solodesign Cement Tiles Factory
January 13-14, 2025 – Solodesign Cement Tiles Factory, Yogyakarta
At Solodesign, we recently had the privilege of hosting an exciting and hands-on workshop focused on developing new techniques for creating artificial marbling cement tiles or also we called as splashed tiles. Held from January 13-16, 2025, the workshop collaborated with Goy Architect from Singapore, develop new design and experience it directly.
The workshop began with the discussion session where the participants shared their ideas and concepts for their cement tiles. Inspired by their surroundings and personal experiences, many participants came with visions drawn from nature, local culture, and architectural history. Our role was to help them transform these ideas into tangible designs.
At the sharing session we also shared the history and technical aspect of cement tiles, as well as the materials and the process of production. With the knowledge in hand, they can move into the tile-making process, learning how to mix, mold, and pour the tiles. With expert guidance from our tilemakers, participants also learned the art of marbling—a technique that turns each tile into a unique work of art.
One of the interesting aspects of the workshop was the way Goy Architecture and the Team bring the local culture and nature into their designs. They used the Merapi Mountain as inspiration, recreating its rugged beauty and imposing presence in their tiles. Others incorporated traditional patterns from Gerabah (traditional pottery), the striking lines of Luric (a traditional fabric pattern), and natural motifs such as leaves. These cultural and natural elements helped to fill the tiles with meaning, making each one a blend of creativity, heritage, and craftsmanship.
“It was a very exciting experience. We were able to bring our ideas and turn them into the cement tiles, creating something truly unique. The process was both challenging and inspiring. I especially loved pouring the colors that resemble the Merapi Mountain that I was inspired of.”
At Solodesign, our goal has always been to elevate the art of cement tile-making, providing the architect and designer to create their own style and pattern that resemble their signature, highlighting their potential for creativity and design innovation. Cement tiles would be more than just a functional building material, they could be a medium for creative expression, one that allows designers to tell a story through their work.
This workshop was an opportunity to not only showcase the technical side of tile production but also to emphasize the importance of local culture and natural inspiration in design. We were delighted to see how our guests embraced this concept, bringing their own visions to life through the tiles they created.
As we continue to push the boundaries of design, we aim to create a space where architects and designers can experiment with new techniques, collaborate with us, and explore the potential of cement tiles as a powerful design element.
Many expressed how the workshop broadened their understanding of cement tile production and gave them a new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind it. One architect noted, “This workshop allowed us to explore a new design language using local inspiration and traditional techniques. It’s exciting to see how these cultural elements can be translated into tiles that tell a story.”
We are already discussing future collaborations with Goy Architect and look forward to seeing how they incorporate the skills and techniques learned during the workshop into their upcoming architectural projects.
At Solodesign, we’re committed to promoting the artistry behind cement tile-making, a craft that requires time, patience, and a deep understanding of the materials. Our aim is to continue fostering innovation while honoring the tradition of this remarkable craft. We’ll be hosting more workshops in the future and are excited to welcome new participants who are eager to explore the beauty of cement tile production.
As we move forward, we will continue to champion the intersection of craftsmanship and creativity, inviting more designers to discover the endless possibilities of cement tiles. We believe that through collaboration and education, we can inspire a new generation of tile-makers and designers to push the limits of what can be achieved with this timeless material.