Header: Veronika Ronie Vozárová
Inspired by the traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles, the FARO collection is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Timeless design is made through a process of solid ceramic extrusion, turning recycled materials into functional furniture pieces.
Solid ceramic extrusion technique
The manufacturing process involves forcing a plasticised mixture through a shaped die to create continuous, uniform furniture pieces. Raw ceramic powder is mixed with water, plasticisers, and organic binders to create an easy-to-manipulate clay-like paste. The paste passes through a shaped die, after which the products are dried and fired. This labour-intensive technique results in the creation of unique forms, such as those that draw inspiration from the Portuguese tile tradition.
Inspired by Portuguese azulejo tiles
The designers Šimon Valovič turned traditional patterns and shapes from the Portuguese town of Faro and the local azulejo tiles into functional namesake furniture. The Faro collection consists of a side table and a chair merged into one multifunctional object that interacts with light, shadow and natural materials. A FARO chair made of stable, durable material becomes a table once coloured glass is placed on top.
By passing trought colored glass, the light transforms its appearance throughout the day, creating a constantly shifting sensory experience. Stoppers made of recycled evac material separate the glass from the base and prevent slippage. Additional stability of the top is ensured with carefully positioned protrusions on the chair’s bottom. The top comes in a round or square shape and several colour options.
Two-in-one: FARO Stools and tables
The Faro stools and tables can be used individually or as a set. The extruded ceramic base provides a comfortable seat, and the transformation into a table takes just a few seconds. Durable ceramic and recycled materials make the product resistant to weather conditions, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. FARO brings a breath of Portugal into a variety of spaces, including residential spaces, offices, cafes, restaurants, studios, as well as balconies, terraces and other outdoor spaces.
Award-winning design by Šimon Valovič
A student of Product Design at the Tomas Bata University of Zlín, Šimon Valovič, creates intricate designs individually or together with her brother Dávid Valovič. Prolific in ceramic, glass, and porcelain, the duo designed furniture pieces, vases, mugs, magnetised ferrofluid bowls and art objects.
Apart from the FARO furniture, the duo used the same solid ceramic extrusion technique to create Wavy Planter pots. Two sets of large ceramic modular pots are fully functional as a single unit without additional sources. Šimon Valović is the first Zlín University student to achieve an international award, having topped the competition with FARO, the Living room furniture winner at the SIT Furniture Design Awards.
Veronika Ronie Vozárová
FARO by Šimon Valovič combines minimalist aesthetics with practical function. Made of contradictions, the heavy ceramic with a gentle touch reveals its strength in harmony with the fragility of its materials.
