NERJA
“Bringing the 80s Costa del Sol aesthetics back”
We designed the Nerja collection as a direct response to a commission from todobarro. The objective was to develop a new series that would respect the brand’s artisanal philosophy while introducing a distinct aesthetic to their existing catalog.
Rooted in the city of Málaga, where todobarro was born and where every piece is handcrafted, the collection finds its primary inspiration in the nearby coastal town of Nerja and the unique light of the Mediterranean.
Mediterranean vibes and local heritage
PROJECT DETAILS
Photography: Product J.A. Partal Process: Marina M Luna
Work: Product design
Art Direction: Leblume & Carlos Jiménez
Reviving the eighties Costa del Sol aesthetics
The creative direction for this series draws from the nostalgic atmosphere of the eighties, specifically referencing the iconic aesthetics seen in the television show Verano Azul, which was filmed in Nerja. This period of the Costa del Sol was characterized by the widespread use of terrazzo floors. We reimagined this concept through the medium of clay, translating the random and textured feel of traditional terrazzo into a contemporary terracotta modular system.
A modular system of four terracotta tiles
The collection is built upon a simple yet versatile system of just four different terracotta tiles. By playing with these geometries and the various natural colors of the clay, the possibilities for creating unique terracotta floors are virtually endless. This approach allows architects and designers to tailor the flooring to the specific needs of each space.
Versatile layouts with endless compositions
The irregular structure of the pieces is intentional, designed to simulate the organic randomness of terrazzo. Beyond these specific tessellations, the modularity of the pieces allows for the creation of a wide range of patterns, from geometric arrangements with a vintage feeling to more classic compositions that incorporate subtle modern details.
Minimalist patterns using a single tile
In addition to complex arrangements, some of the most striking patterns within the collection can be achieved by utilizing just one of the four tile geometries. This highlights the minimalist strength of the design, providing a more uniform yet textured surface that fits perfectly in contemporary residential or contract environments.
The artisanal and technical process
The development of the Nerja collection highlights the synergy between technology and tradition. After the initial sketching phase, we utilized 3D printed molds for the prototyping stage to ensure geometric precision. The pieces are then handcrafted by artisans and left to dry for several weeks. Finally, they are fired for seven days in a traditional Arabian oven. This meticulous forty day process ensures the technical durability and aesthetic soul of every tile.
