Handmade ceramics,
created by Master Potters
here in the heart of Kent
Architectural Commissions
& Chimney Pots
Aylesford Pottery is one of the few independent potteries in the South of England that is able and has the facilities to take on special architectural commissions. Often it is through restoration architects desperate to replace handmade pieces which must follow an original design, as directed by English Heritage. Other architectural ceramics commissions undertaken include replacing old and damaged tiles for TFL for the London Underground network, removing, cleaning and re-installing historically important tiles at The Friars locally and countless chimney pots made to replicate broken ones on historically important buildings.
Artist & Potter Contracts
Aylesford Pottery produces many products under contract for other artists and potters. Perhaps you find you need help to small-batch produce your ceramic pieces in order to make enough to fulfil larger orders, or maybe you need to focus on decorating and glazing your ceramic pieces to make the most of your time as an artist. Aylesford Pottery can hand-make your design and finish with your maker’s stamp – Alan and Billy’s experience as production potters means they are consistent in quality, size, shape and weight when it comes to throwing and hand building. They will find the most efficient way of producing your shapes, whilst keeping the important handmade quality.
Hospitality Industry Commissions
Exquisite presentation and a unique, memorable setting are essential to every contemporary dining experience. Alan and Billy will help you design ceramic tableware which will set the tone for your food and enhance your brand. Not only will these ceramics be completely unique to your venue, they will also be robust and practical being made from high-fired stoneware or porcelain which are microwave, oven, freezer and dishwasher safe. Being completely handmade, each piece will have subtle differences and nuances, but because they are made by Master Potters the set will work and fit together harmoniously, being consistently made, and stack beautifully when not in use.
You will have a broad choice of ceramic materials to chose from, from wonderfully earthy clays through to sparkling white porcelain and everything in between. You can play with shape, size, scale, handles, embellishments and height. Then the fun really starts when looking at glazes, which can add depth of colour, decoration and texture – bold or subtle, the choice is yours. The chemical composition of the glaze is important, but so too is the application method which can make a huge difference to the feel of the finished pieces. Alan and Billy have a deep technical knowledge of glazes and can even design and mix a unique glaze for you – pure chemistry!
Ceramic Giftware
Aylesford Pottery can design and make a range of giftware especially for your gift shop. Themed around nearby tourist attractions and what makes your location truly individual, Aylesford Pottery could make anything from a series of coasters or mugs through to soap dishes, quirky signs and plant pots – exclusively for sale in your premises. Alternatively, we’re always looking for local stockists for our range of Studio Pottery. Local, handmade products sell well throughout Kent as customers seek more authenticity in their purchases.
Public Garden Sculptures and Water Fountains
Aylesford Pottery’s most notable installation is right on our doorstep, in the Peace Garden at the Friars. The terracotta water fountains add to the tranquillity of the Peace Garden with their simple cylindrical shape and the soothing sound of the water lapping against the clay. You will find the water features amongst the elegant planting and seating areas. A visit is very much recommended as part of your trip to Aylesford Pottery.