Learn Cement Tiles

The cement tiles entered interiors in the 19th century and have since imposed their uniqueness across cultures. The history of cement tiles started in France around 1850 where the outstanding durability and aesthetics of this floor covering led to rapid development all over Europe and the rest of the world. 

In Morocco, the close relationship with France and their shared passion for architectural design led to unique creations around the concrete tile. Thanks to a hydraulic-press technique that dates from 150 years ago, very little energy goes into the production of these tiles, consuming almost no power to manufacture.

Popham Design

Popham Design is our exclusive partner for cement tiles. Started in 2007, Popham develops and produces handmade concrete tiles embellishing interiors all around the world – from San Francisco to Sydney. Over the years, Popham has improved the process, making the tiles thinner, stronger and less permeable. The sand, commonly used as a cheaper aggregate, has been replaced by marble powder creating a solid tile, and magnifying the pigments.

Sustainable

Popham Design takes great care in ensuring that their products contain no lead or harmful toxins. Therefore, the concrete tiles are ideally suited and safe to both residential and commercial applications and perform very well when partnered with radiant heat or moisture. Ninety per cent of the materials used to create the concrete tiles are sourced in Marrakech and air-dried naturally to save energy. Reclaimed water is used in the cement mixture and wherever possible, greywater is used to run the factory.

Sustainable

Popham Design takes great care in ensuring that their products contain no lead or harmful toxins. Therefore, the concrete tiles are ideally suited and safe to both residential and commercial applications and perform very well when partnered with radiant heat or moisture. Ninety per cent of the materials used to create the concrete tiles are sourced in Marrakech and air-dried naturally to save energy. Reclaimed water is used in the cement mixture and wherever possible, greywater is used to run the factory.

Handmade

Looking at one tile and the imperfections seem unacceptable. Looking at a tiled wall or floor and we soon realise the handmade quality with subtle colour variations are what give the installation depth, movement and charm. Popham Design doesn’t try to erase the hand of the artisan; they celebrate it. Opia Design is the proud distributor of Popham Design in South Africa. For their full range visit their website: pophamdesign.com

Our Cement Tile Collection

SHOP ALL CEMENT