Posted in Minoli
25th April 2025
It’s always exciting to see our porcelain tile series installed in completed projects, and none more so than in this design-led redevelopment and restoration of a period property in the Oxfordshire countryside.
Of particular note is the purposeful use of one specific tile design across a number of different areas using the silk, polished and hammered finishes of Marvel Fior Di Bosco in 9 mm indoor and 20 mm outdoor specifications, creating visual alignment throughout the ground floor, patio and garage.
As part of the redesign of the kitchen, living areas, outdoor terracing and high-spec garages, the homeowner worked with Oxford based period building specialist Riach Architects, Interior Designer Catherine Willman and Kitchen Architecture – renown creators of sociable living spaces – to realise the substantial transformation and modernisation of this remarkable rural residence.
The kitchen and living areas were completely redesigned with a stunning glazed apex roofline to let sunlight flood into the cutting-edge cooking station and dining space, with top-specification appliances and a bar area fitted with a dedicated drinks cooler and temperature controlled wine storage.
Throughout, Minoli Marvel Fior Di Bosco has been installed on the floors in a soft Silk finish and generous 120/120 size, which are available from our UK stock for prompt delivery. The Silk surface delivers a subtle sheen to enhance the sense of space and light, and has also been fitted as bespoke-cut skirting boards, to complete the near-seamless finish.
Emulating the prestigious Tuscan marble, with glistening gold and striking white veining across a stormy, smoky background, Fior Di Bosco brings dramatic depth and perfectly complements the dark grey and natural wood kitchen units, as well as the beautiful Bengal cat!
Moving outside and providing continuity from inside to outdoors, the twin patios have been completed with the 20 mm thickness Fior Di Bosco porcelain pavers in coordinating 60/120 dimensions, specifically designed for exterior use with a Hammered surface and an elevated slip-resistance rating of R11.
The design theme is then continued across into the three-car garage, for which Fior DI Bosco in a gorgeous, polished finish was chosen. Again, in the 120/120 format, given the non-porous and durable composition of porcelain tiles, this material is ideal for vehicular traffic, being resistant to oil and easy to clean, as well as being extremely high load bearing when correctly applied to the right substrate.
At the threshold from the gravel driveway, bespoke cut treads have been crafted to deliver additional grip from the drainage channel to the high-shine flooring. The segway between gravel, to traditional Cotswold stone blockwork and then Marvel Fior Di Bosco porcelain is harmonious with complementary colourways and surface textures.
This project is the perfect example of how the latest advancements in porcelain tile and paving design can be imaginatively incorporated into period properties, providing modern and durable surface solutions that effortlessly combine with traditional materials and architecture.