Crossville Tile Creates a Calm, Commanding Space
At first glance, the creation of a U.S. headquarters for Japan-based Keyence Corporation seemed a study in contrasts. The mission was to create an Asian-influenced facility with a light, open aesthetic that also conveyed the importance of the corporate headquarters’ location.
To achieve an understated yet bold outcome, the design team from Harley Ellis Devereaux (HED) turned to materials that were minimalistic in style yet would work together to make a compelling statement. Materials specified included glass, blackened steel, ash wood, and gauged porcelain tile panels from Crossville. Designer Max Garland explains that “Keyence needed an office that was grand but subtle and allowed for the efficiency”, noting that branding was also a vital objective.
“Crossville products were selected due to the superior aesthetics and coloration that fit the design palette,” says Garland. “The concept of a large format tile was introduced to match the client’s minimalist Japanese aesthetic. With fewer grout joints and a more monolithic look, we were able to achieve this.”
For elevator lobbies and reception area floor, HED specified Crossville’s Collection in Bianco—in both 1m x 1m and 1m x 3m formats, used as field tile, while the Perla color was used as accent. The rich, off-white path of Bianco, highlighted by Perla’s bright white, pulls eyes to the Keyence logo above the front desk.
Crossville’s Filo, Brina—in a 1m x 3m format—is also used in the space. “The Filo tile has a slight texture and truly enhanced the space without being overwhelming.” Garland notes Crossville’s sizes solved a major design challenges. “There was a strong desire to match wall grout lines with grout lines in the floor. By using both 1m x 1m and 1m x 3m tile, we achieved the exact look we desired.”
