In a world shaped by flawless, uniform surfaces, Azekura takes a different approach, allowing the process to remain visible. Striations, marks, lines, and subtle shifts in color are not flaws to be corrected, but elements to be embraced. This is the story of a tile where the surface finish itself takes center stage.

■ Tiles That Convey Warmth and Character

Azekura is a ceramic tile defined by material honesty and surface expression. Formed from a clay-rich body with natural pigments and fired without glaze using traditional methods, it allows the inherent color of the material to come through. Subtle shifts in tone and fine surface irregularities give each piece depth and presence, echoing the qualities of handcrafted ceramics.

With its understated color range and tactile texture, Azekura adapts effortlessly to a wide range of interiors, from traditional Japanese spaces to Mediterranean-inspired designs, always highlighting the natural beauty of the material while drawing from multiple design traditions.

This tile is available in five colors and two formats, with three surface options—brushed, scratched, and lined—designed to create a rich interplay of texture. Each piece features natural color variation, adding depth and character to any space.

■ A Surface Finish Rooted in Tradition

Crafted in a historic factory in Tajimi, Azekura follows a time-honored production sequence. Raw materials are blended into a clay body, brought to the proper moisture level, and extruded into shape. The surface is then finished and cut before the tiles are fired in a traditional kiln.

The surface finish is offered in three distinct options: brushed, scratched, and lined.

Brushed
The brushed finish is created using a carefully selected brush, an essential tool chosen by the artisans. Each piece is worked by hand, with controlled movements that produce organic, one-of-a-kind patterns.

Scrached
The scratched surface is formed by drawing the tile beneath a nail, creating intentionally roughened markings. By carefully adjusting both the depth of the incision and the spacing between the nails, the surface develops a layered texture with rich visual nuance.

Lined
The lined finish is created using a custom nozzle fitted with a serrated blade at the tip of the forming machine. As the clay is extruded through the nozzle, the blade shapes continuous linear patterns across the surface.

■ Summary

Azekura is an unglazed ceramic tile formed from a clay-based body and fired using traditional methods, resulting in surfaces rich in texture and natural color variation. Offered in a range of formats, colors, and finishes, each tile displays subtle nuances that add depth and a sense of material authenticity. A thoughtful choice for projects that value tactile quality, natural variation, and refined detail.

Note: This article has been reviewed using ChatGPT.