Ceramics

Ceramics  

At Form & Refine, we offer an exquisite selection of ceramics that blend timeless Nordic design with the rich craftsmanship of Portuguese pottery. Our collection features handcrafted stoneware, including vases, pitchers, and other decorative ceramics designed for modern living. Each piece is made with sustainable materials, ensuring durability and an aesthetic that complements any interior. 

The Alcoa Pitcher – A Pitcher with a Clear and Simple Form 

The Alcoa pitcher stands out for its clean, minimalist design, perfect for contemporary dining and display. This ceramic pitcher features a simple yet functional handle, making it easy to pour while offering a signature look that reflects both form and function. The exterior of the pitcher is finished with a matte grey glaze, while the interior has a high-gloss grey finish, creating a subtle contrast that enhances its modern aesthetic. 

Crafted from fine white clay sourced from the Alcobaça region of Portugal, the Alcoa pitcher is the perfect balance between the rugged beauty of natural materials and the precision of modern design. The region’s long-standing tradition of pottery-making is evident in the meticulous craftsmanship of each piece. 

The Alcoa Vase – A Vase with a Clear and Simple Form 

The Alcoa vase shares the same minimalist form as the pitcher, making it an ideal companion piece. Its elegant and simple design allows it to seamlessly blend with any home decor, whether displayed on a dining table, shelf, or windowsill. With a matte exterior and glossy interior, the Alcoa vase creates a striking visual contrast while maintaining a refined, understated elegance. 

Perfect for floral arrangements or as a standalone sculpture, the Alcoa vase exemplifies timeless ceramic design that can easily elevate your space. Its versatility and durability make it an excellent choice for any modern interior. 

In Praise of Ceramics 

Ceramics have a unique ability to combine beauty and functionality. At Form & Refine, we celebrate ceramic design for its timeless appeal, tactile nature, and exceptional durability. The Alcoa ceramics collection, inspired by Nordic design traditions, is crafted using the finest white clay from Alcobaça, Portugal, where pottery has been a cultural tradition for centuries. 

Portugal’s deep connection to ceramics can be seen in the handcrafted tiles that adorn buildings throughout the country. With the Alcoa collection, we bridge the gap between traditional techniques and contemporary design, offering ceramics that are not only functional but also aesthetically captivating. 

Stoneware – A Durable, Rugged, and Beautiful Material 

Our Alcoa ceramics are made from stoneware, a highly durable material that is both waterproof and tactile. Fired at high temperatures, stoneware is denser than other forms of ceramics, making it more resistant to chips and cracks. Its natural texture is complemented by smooth, glossy interiors that create a sophisticated contrast in each piece. 

Stoneware’s organic texture and long-lasting durability make it an ideal material for everyday use. Whether for serving, decorating, or as a focal point in your home, stoneware ceramics offer both beauty and functionality. 

A Product of Portugal – Authentic Craftsmanship and Tradition 

The Alcoa ceramics collection is produced by a small, skilled pottery workshop in the Alcobaça region of Portugal, renowned for its fine white clay and rich history of ceramic production. Combining traditional methods with modern technology, such as 3D printing, the artisans create ceramics that reflect both contemporary design and centuries-old techniques. Each piece is handcrafted and carefully finished, ensuring that every Alcoa pitcher and vase is a unique work of art. 

Partners in Pottery – Craftsmanship Passed Down Through Generations 

Our partnership with the pottery in Alcobaça allows us to support traditional ceramics craftsmanship while embracing modern design innovations. The Alcoa ceramics collection is a true reflection of this collaboration, merging the finest craftsmanship with a minimalist aesthetic. The artisans’ knowledge and passion for their craft have been passed down through generations, resulting in pieces that are both beautiful and functional. 

The Material – Stoneware and Its Timeless Appeal 

Clay has been used by humans for over 20,000 years to create durable pottery. The Alcoa collection is made from stoneware, a material known for its density, durability, and waterproof properties. Stoneware is fired at higher temperatures than earthenware, giving it greater strength and making it perfect for both decorative and practical uses in the home. 

Stoneware ceramics are less porous than earthenware and provide a smooth, refined finish, making them easy to clean and maintain. The durability of stoneware ensures that each piece in the Alcoa ceramics collection will stand the test of time, both in terms of its aesthetic appeal and functionality.