Toronto, Canada-based industrial design studio Republic of II By IV has collaborated with Portuguese hand-made ceramic tile manufacturer Viúva Lamego on two new collections–Colinas and Marola.
“Collaborating with Viúva Lamego has been an honour,” says Keith Rushbrook, partner, Republic Of II By IV. “Their heritage of craftsmanship gave us a rare opportunity to explore sculptural, dimensional surfaces through the lens of tradition. These collections are as much about form and texture as they are about legacy.”
The partnership brings together an international design firm that produces a wide range of lighting, furniture and other products and a Portuguese ceramic brand founded in 1849. Colinas and Marola offer a contemporary interpretation that honours tradition, while engaging the spirit of the present, the two companies say.
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Colinas Collection
Inspired by the sculptural folds of pleated textiles, Colinas evokes the rhythmic layering of woven fabric and rolling hills. Its name—Portuguese for “small hills”—is reflected in the tiles’ subtly carved forms, where vertical and horizontal striations create a layered, dimensional surface, the companies say.. Offered in three modular formats (10x10cm, 10x20cm, and 20x20cm), Colinas allows for endless combinations and creative compositions.
“The result is a surface that feels fluid and tactile, catching light in soft gradients and shadowed relief,” Republic Of II By IV writes in a release announcing the introductions. “Suitable for both interior and exterior applications, Colinas brings a refined textural sophistication to hospitality, retail and residential environments alike.”
Marola Collection
Named after the Portuguese word for “wave,” Marola draws inspiration from the delicate lines left in sand as water recedes—each tile designed to evoke the feeling of a fossilized artifact. Its asymmetrical carvings and glaze-filled grooves create a rippling effect that comes alive in composition, forming soft, organic rhythms across large-scale surfaces.
“Crafted as a modular system in two tile formats (10x10cm and 10x20cm), Marola’s flowing patterns and bold simplicity make it ideal for serene architectural facades or immersive interior installations,” Republic Of II By IV says. “The result is a collection that feels both contemporary and timeless, expressive yet effortlessly restrained.”
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Both collections are crafted in porcelain at Viúva Lamego’s factory in Sintra, Portugal, using what the company calls “artisanal methods.”
“Available in a palette of white, green, blue, ochre and black, each tile reflects a balance of design precision and handcrafted imperfection—a tactile expression of both studios’ shared respect for artistry and innovation,” the company says.