For Etnia, a new encaustic tile collection for Mosaics Martí in Barcelona, designers Manuel Bañó and David Galvañ of Valencia- and Mexico City-based studio LaSelva turned to woven cane baskets for the motif inspiration.

Two hexagonal modules make up the versatile series: the first has an open pattern with layered lines running off the edges to seamlessly connect with adjacent tiles; the second variation features a closing line that allows for division or an end to the pattern, enabling the creation of blank areas, wayfinding corridors or a triangular kaleidoscope effect. 

Made by hand, the encaustic tiles are composed of a mixture of white cement, marble sand and natural pigments that is poured into a patterned mould, which is then topped with a second layer of cement and a third of sand. Custom colouring and combinations are available.