French accent

Right from the planning stage, it was obvious that the roof was going to play a key role in achieving the French Provene§al look. Designer Mark Wilson says Solerati, a company that has imported European-manufactured tiles for many of his projects, was a logical choice of supplier.

"Solerati has large-profile barrel tiles that are obviously well suited to this style of house, but I had something a little different in mind for this project," says Wilson.

What the designer proposed was the use of not one, but two of Solerati's traditional tiles. Marshall Burrowes of Solerati says Wilson chose a blend of two aged tiles Lucentum and Aitana.

"We felt a 60:40 ratio would best replicate the French Provene§al look envisioned," says Burrowes. "The idea was a first for our company, and with a roof area of nearly 900m², it certainly threw up a few challenges."

Burrowes says the roofing installers had to take care not to duplicate any patterns while laying dark and light tiles.

"While the aged, weathered appearance and large barrel profile of these tiles provided plenty of authenticity, the way in which they were laid was also a significant factor in the overall look."

Burrowes says that even though the tiles are aged to create an antique look, they also meet the current New Zealand E2 building standards.

Following on from the success of this project, Solerati has undertaken a number of similar tile blend projects for clients.

"Many of our clients want to create something a little different," says Burrowes. "We are inclined to say to them: if you can think it, we can do it."

For details, contact Solerati, 320 Ti Rakau Dr, East Tamaki, Auckland, phone (09) 271 7325. Email: info@solerati.co.nz. Website: www.solerati.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas