5 minutes with tile guru Andy Shaw

Owner of Shaw Tec, who have been manufacturing terracotta and bespoke tiles locally since 1980

With so many of home ware products being imported, it’s rare to find a traditional art form such as the production of tiles, being made start to finish here in South Africa.

Shaw Tec tiles has been producing tiles locally since 1980, using clay from their smallholding in Greyton, and creating a range of traditional and contemporary floor and wall tiles that rival those of the top international producers. We catch up with owner Andy Shaw and find out more about his proudly South African business…

What was it that made you realise you wanted to spend your days making tiles?

When I took over my father’s clay and pottery business, I saw that there was a perfect opportunity to use the clay from our smallholding and produce handmade clay tiles. The business evolved from there and I have been making tiles since 1980.

Which is your favourite material to work with, and why?

I enjoy working with cement due to its versatility – the process to get to the finished product is simple yet very effective.

Is there a particular Shaw Tec tile that is your favourite?

Well I would have to say the terracotta tile, just due to it being the backbone of Shaw Tec. Our business was born from the manufacturing of clay, which then moved into the

manufacturing of clay terracotta tiles. Our current cement terracotta tile is as close as you will get to the original.

Biggest challenge you’ve come across in your business?

Going back to the early years of Shaw Tec, I would have to say our biggest challenge was the production process of making clay tiles. From excavating the clay, to firing the product it is a very labour and machine intensive process – it definitely gave me sleepless nights many years back.

What is a current tile trend that you are all for?

We are really loving the Hexagon trend at the moment, not least because of the increased interest in our product. We are seeing how architects and designers are using our full range to mix and match colours, creating amazing features within a space.

And one that you dislike?

I have always loved tiles with texture, character and an element of individualism. A sterile clinical look has never been my favourite.

Is there anything in particular that inspires your creative process?

I don’t think there is anything in particular, just knowing what you like and don’t like and being true to that.

For more information, visit www.shawtec.co.za