Victorian geometric cement tiles

As the above name indicates, this type of design was first developed in the Victorian era (1837-1901) in the United Kingdom, and named after Queen Victoria. Due to the industrial revolution taking place in England and the rich plucking of the colonies, the middleclass became well to do.

As often seen in times of a blossoming economy, architecture was booming. This led to a steep increase in the demand for building materials. After some period of time a whole range of different shapes of floor tiles was to be found. Not only squares but also rectangles, hexagons, octagonal trapezium and other shapes to form increasingly complex floor patterns. Victorian tiles were originally produced in the UK.

Production in the UK became very expensive due to rising labour costs and the variation of shapes. The cost for installing the tiles became even more exorbitant. Therefore the demand for beautiful Victorian tiles became almost obsolete.

We at De Tegel BV always find it unnecessary and a great pity when historic cultural heritage traditions and products disappear, which can often be avoided when looking at things with a new approach or under a different angle.

The Victorian patterns go perfectly well with the matt patina of our hand made cement tiles. Our designers at De Tegel have cleverly combined different (formally) loose shapes to form one new pattern, adapted to our 14 x 14 cm cement tiles. This has led on one hand to a large decrease in loose shapes, and on the other hand it enables installation of complex forms combined on to one single tile, therefore for a much lower cost.

Another advantage about working with our handmade cement tiles is that you can easily adapt the colours. Thus when you choose a traditional pattern using a modern colour palette, you create a classic but contemporary floor in which you can combine the best of both worlds. Delivering this unique service underlines our motto; ‘Passion for handmade beauty’.