CHAPTER 13 • Olde California
Why did you name Chapter 13 Olde California?
The Spanish influence in most of what is now the Western United States is undisputable with its lasting impression as exemplified in the missions and haciendas from California through New Mexico and Texas. These beautiful buildings still play an integral role in promoting the rich colors and styles originating from Latin and European roots. The Handpainted tiles in Chapter 13 capture the beauty of the Spanish colonial style perfectly.
What are the key features of Olde California?
- These tiles are Handpainted. If you look closely you can see many brush strokes and quite a tone variation on most tiles. Olde California is a true representation of artisan Handpainted tiles! These tiles are also made right here in Southern California, rich with the tradition of making artisan Handpainted tiles.
- Olde California is a collection of extruded floor and wall tiles made of very durable terra cotta clays. These tiles come in 5 glazed "field" colors in 3" x 6", 6" x 6" and 12" x 12" size. Also, there is a 12" x 12" unglazed terra cotta paver.
- The line is complemented with big "beefy" antiqued mouldings that add many design possibilities to Chapter 13 Olde California. These moldings have some designed-in irregularities true to handcrafted tiles that make them emulate the handmade tiles of yesteryear.
Where can this collection be used?
The Handpainted tiles can be used in any interior wall application and on light duty floors were there is a suitable strong substrate and where continual pivoting (such as in front of a sink) is NOT done. Powder rooms, hearth surrounds, wine rooms, stair risers, koi ponds - fountains, inlays on out-of-door patios with the terra cotta tiles in this Chapter, on barbeque or outside fireplace inlays surrounded by stucco, backsplashes in kitchens, and tub surrounds would all be wonderful areas to use these beautiful tiles.
The colored field tiles are suitable for any floor or wall application in homes or commercial floors of light - medium duty wear. Medium duty wear would include most "boutique retail" stores.
Lastly, the 12"x12" unglazed terra cotta pavers with 6x6" embossed deco are excellent for interior or exterior use and from residential to heavy commercial applications. These unglazed tiles also exceed ANSI slip resistance testing standards.
Are there any special design or installation tips for Chapter 13 Olde California?
Olde California has surface bullnose and bead to allow for versatile installations.
The colors in the hand decorated pieces work wonderfully with the field tiles. The rich terra cotta, soft blue, natural green and warm almond palette allows for compatibility and thus many design opportunities.
We produce Chapter 13 Olde California to reflect the shade variations associated with handmade tile. As with all Jeffrey Court handmade tiles, we strongly recommend laying out and blending the tiles prior to installation. This step will ensure a proper color blend in order to achieve a classic look for your installation.
The décor pieces are made from a different "bisque" body. They are NOT designed to be modular with the field tiles. When used with field tiles, we recommend a broken joint installation to achieve the best aesthetics.
Again, this product will vary primarily from the painting applications; work from multiple cartons and lay out the tiles to blend the selections prior to installation.
Please note if the Handpainted tiles are used outside they should NOT be in an area exposed to moisture and frequent FREEZE-THAW conditions. Also, harsh pool chemicals, especially acids and "hard" water, can over time affect the Handpainted tile’s surface. Also, we don’t recommend installing the Handpainted tiles on the floor in front of a kitchen sink where constant foot traffic and twisting could abrade the hand painting.
