Tile designed by ODD, inspired by the contemporization of traditional Spanish tilework, utilizing pure digital technology to create a parametric pattern.
Manufactured by Graiman, this tile was developed in alignment with the leitmotif of Casacor 2015: Spain. The design team at ODD aimed to avoid the temptation of relying on conventional motifs, instead pursuing a deeper, more thoughtful thematic approach—one that reflects on the inherent connections between architecture, art, and culture throughout Spanish history. This led to a conceptual focal point: the tile.

Tiles are a fundamental element in understanding Spanish art and architecture.
Introduced to Spain in the 7th century during the Muslim occupation, tiles became an essential feature of Arab-influenced architecture in the Iberian Peninsula, giving rise to the Mudéjar style. This artistic and architectural heritage has influenced everyday yet sophisticated objects such as Spanish and Portuguese ceramics.

This significant element provided an abstract model to explore. Through a process of deconstruction and geometric transformation, the design evolved beyond its traditional two-dimensional form into a three-dimensional expression. This dimensional shift allows the tile to create spatiality on its own, without relying on conventional architectural parameters such as structure or enclosure, which were previously considered distinct but essential components of tiled surfaces.

The resulting architectural concept takes shape as an organic geometry complemented by a Platonic solid (a cubic entrance box), generating a series of contrasts and dialogues both internally and with its surrounding environment. A chromatic contrast emerges between the "rugged" texture of the box and the glossy white tone of the inflatable form, reminiscent of traditional ceramic tiles. Additionally, a gravitational contrast is established between the solidity of the box and the lightness of the white spheres.

These design mechanisms foster a dynamic relationship with the surrounding space—the inflatable structure interacts with a tree in the courtyard, allowing the natural element to share its prominence with the installation, facilitating a seamless integration.

From a materiality standpoint, the pavilion is predominantly composed of recycled materials, an architectural value in itself, reinforcing a commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
In a world where objects have increasingly shorter lifespans and obsolescence accelerates, it is imperative to rethink material reuse—giving discarded materials a second life through thoughtful, subtle, and rigorous design. When applied with intelligence and precision, these repurposed materials have the potential to create both spatiality and architecture.