Quartile Modernizes a Mid-Century Motif
March 11, 2025
The Quartile Collection from Norwegian designer Lars Beller Fjetland recalls the distinctive character of mid-century breeze block facades. Inspired by the patterns of these concrete "screen blocks," Lars reinvigorates the classic motif by replacing concrete with the inviting warmth of natural hardwoods and bringing its bold, statement patterns to today's interiors.
Offered in six carefully selected wood species, these tiles are designed with a stepped edge that mimics a traditional grout line, adding visual definition while simplifying the installation process.
About Lars Beller Fjetland
Lars Beller Fjetland grew up amongst the mountains and fjords of the west coast of Norway, where he nurtured a lifelong fascination with the marriage of function with the finest natural materials. His core philosophy is to design products that achieve a sense of both timelessness and longevity through an immediate, honest functionalism in form and aesthetic. In 2016, Lars expanded Spinneybeck’s range of natural materials with a series of cork acoustic tiles and set in motion thoughtful product introductions with sustainability, once again, top of mind.
“I exclusively work with natural materials. It’s important to me that my designs can coexist with architecture, objects, and nature in a harmonious way. I strongly believe that this is the key premise for timeless design. I believe that it’s our responsibility as designers to create products that solve existing problems without creating new ones.”
Behind the Design
Inspired by the unique style of breezeblocks and mid-century modern architecture in general, Norwegian designer Lars Beller Fjetland breathes new life into this iconic motif with a contemporary twist―swapping concrete for the warmth of natural hardwoods and bringing the statement patterns indoors.
We caught up with Lars to chat through the inspiration behind the collection, his continued focus on using sustainable materials, and the designers/movements that have defined his aesthetic over the course of his career in product design.
“The aesthetic inspiration of these tiles stems from classic breeze block facades and the patterns found in this mid-century style of architecture. I fell in love with all the experimental three-dimensional designs and immediately started to explore how I could somehow reference these iconic building blocks product design.”
