Inaugural Tile Competition Is Won By Angelique

Inaugural Tile Competition Is Won By Angelique. In a remarkable showcase of talent and innovation, Angelique Strijdom, a dedicated student pursuing her Advanced Diploma in Interior Design at the Faculty of Arts and Design, emerged as the winner of the inaugural Johnson Tiles student competition. Her winning tile design, titled LA Cement, is set to make waves in the marketplace, reflecting her creativity and dedication to the craft.
A Platform for Aspiring Designers
The competition attracted a vibrant group of nine aspiring interior designers, all eager to tackle real-world industry challenges while gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Launched earlier this year by the Department of Interior Design, in collaboration with Johnson Tiles, the competition aimed to provide its Advanced Diploma students with a unique opportunity to unleash their creativity and practical skills in a competitive environment.
Immersive Experience at Johnson Tiles
Participants were warmly welcomed at Johnson Tiles, a leading ceramic tile manufacturer in South Africa. Here, they were afforded the chance to conceptualize and manufacture their very own tile designs, diving deep into the intricate production process. This immersive experience allowed them to understand the complexities of tile design, from conception to final product.
Rigorous Evaluation by Industry Experts
Angelique’s triumph was the result of her design undergoing a thorough evaluation by a panel of five esteemed judges from Johnson Tiles. The judging panel included industry leaders such as Charl Viljoen (General Manager), Susan Oosthuizen (Marketing and Product Manager), Manny Sripershad (Global Sourcing Manager), Lennie van Rensburg (Product Commissioning Manager), and Steven Kruger (Sales Representative). Their expertise and discerning eyes ensured that the winner was chosen based on creativity, practicality, and overall design excellence.
The Inspiration Behind LA Cement
Strijdom’s award-winning design draws inspiration from the raw elements of nature, referencing sand, stone, and coal. This unique blend of materials provides a duality of ruggedness and serenity, resulting in a timeless aesthetic that captures the tranquil, sun-drenched hues of coastal and desert landscapes. The LA Cement tile embodies the essence of natural beauty while showcasing Strijdom’s innovative approach to design.
When reflecting on her achievement, Strijdom expressed her feelings of validation and motivation: “Winning this competition felt incredibly validating, especially when I realised that others recognized my hard work. It boosted my confidence as a young designer and gave me a sense of pride. This recognition has sparked a level of motivation to keep pushing myself to improve in my work.”
A Multifaceted Talent
Beyond her studies, Angelique Strijdom is not just a talented designer but also an accomplished South African athlete. She competes in various track events, including the exciting 4×400 meters relay, showcasing her commitment to excellence both in academics and athletics.
Johnson Tiles
Johnson Tiles has established itself as one of South Africa’s premier ceramic tile manufacturers, known for delivering high-quality tiles to a diverse clientele that includes individuals, contractors, architects, designers, and distributors. Their state-of-the-art production facilities, located in Olifantsfontein, Johannesburg, adhere to impeccable standards certified by ISO and SANS. This commitment to quality ensures that every tile produced embodies exceptional craftsmanship.
The Educational Impact
The partnership between Johnson Tiles and the Department of Interior Design not only elevates student learning experiences but also strengthens ties between academia and industry. The collaboration emphasizes the importance of practical application in design education, fostering a new generation of skilled designers ready to make their mark in the industry.
Conclusion
Angelique Strijdom’s victory in the inaugural Johnson Tiles student competition stands as a testament to the power of creativity and hard work. Her journey from concept to reality reflects the potential of young designers to shape the future of the interior design industry. As her LA Cement tiles prepare to hit the market, it is clear that this is just the beginning for Angelique—a talented designer and athlete poised for a bright future.