By: Nigel F. Maynard
Spinneybeck, a company that specializes in architectural products and is credited with first introducing full-grain, aniline-dyed Italian leathers to North America in 1962, has introduced a new wall paneling system that draws inspiration from mid-century breeze block facades.
A collaboration with award-winning Norwegian designer Lars Beller Fjetland, the Quartile Collection is a series of 12-inch-square wood tiles that can be assembled together to create a striking wall paneling. The surface of each wood block has been milled to create a decorative surface that emphasizes the natural grain texture of wood.
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“Available in two designs, Quartile 1 and Quartile 2, this collection recalls the distinctive character of mid-century breeze block facades,” the company says. “Inspired by the patterns of these concrete ‘screen blocks,’ Lars reinvigorates the classic motif by replacing concrete with the inviting warmth of natural hardwoods and bringing its bold, statement patterns to today’s interiors.”
The wood tiles may be used independently, or they can be paired for unique patterns and layouts. Offered in six carefully selected wood species–beech, Douglas fir, maple, sapele, walnut, and white oak–the tiles are designed with a stepped edge that mimics a traditional grout line, a feature that not only adds visual definition, but also simplifies the installation process, the company says.
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Quartile marks the fourth collaboration between Spinneybeck and Fjetland. The company says these innovative designs blend the warmth and elegance of solid wood with contemporary design, transforming any space into a captivating environment.
To install, the tiles are directly glued to a clean and dry wall surface using heavy-duty construction adhesive. As is typical with solid wood products, tiles must acclimate to the space before installation and may expand or contract with changes in temperature and humidity over time. The products are made to order and certain lead times will apply, Spinneybeck says.
“I exclusively work with natural materials,” Designer Lars Beller Fjetland says. “It’s important to me that my designs can coexist with architecture, objects, and nature in a harmonious way. I strongly believe that this is the key premise for timeless design. I believe that it’s our responsibility as designers to create products that solve existing problems without creating new ones.”
