ABSTRACT
In Hong Kong brutalism is hidden beneath tiles. Instead of exposed concrete, small and colorful ceramic tiles protect the facades from extensive water intake in this subtropical condition. While a limited number of studies investigated the modular coordination of square mosaic tiles on building facades, little research went into the sudden shift to ever larger and rectangular tile formats. Preceding studies investigated the technical shortcomings of small tiles and adhesive methods as well as specific safety concerns in high rise construction. In contrast, this paper compares several tile types to assess their peculiarities from an architectural standpoint. From the sudden rise and their subsequent diversification to the gradual decline of tiles as building enclosure on Hong Kong's facades, the findings portray the close relationship between the building industry and the architectural practice.
