Earth Meets Ease: The Quiet Power of Klay

In today’s overstimulated world, spaces that soothe the senses are more than a luxury – they’re a necessity.

After years of boxy minimalism and hard lines, designers and architects are now tuning into designs of the past, taking inspiration from retro aesthetics and even classical architecture that evokes a sense of nostalgia and calm. It’s a welcome offering of rounded furniture, earthy tones, and tactile spaces that are designed to nurture wellbeing and gently invite mental clarity. This shift is part of a deeper movement toward neuro-aesthetic design, an approach that recognises how environments shape our mood. Be inspired by Klay.

Grounded in Nature: Calm Starts with Klay

Klay’s terracotta products are rich in texture, allowing architects and designers a sensory foundation for creating spaces that ease the nervous system. Rooted in nature, Klay’s range creates a healing atmosphere ideal for supporting neuro-aesthetic design in hospitality settings. And the earthy tone of natural terracotta brings a rustic character, immediately making one feel welcome and comfortable in a space.

Shaping Restorative Hospitality with Terracotta

Perched on a hill in the scenic Elgin Valley, the guest house at Spioenkop Wines offers more than just a place to stay—it invites guests into a world where luxury meets landscape. Thoughtfully designed by Zarah Riley, the courtyard features Klay’s Single Pane screen blocks. This is a modern interpretation of Roman arches. The terracotta detail sets the tone for rest and reconnection in the great outdoors.

Inside, the same screen blocks continue the story in a spa-style wet room. Here, natural terracotta blends intimacy with openness, creating a shower experience that feels grounded and calming. The retreat wouldn’t be complete without a moment of indulgence—Spioenkop’s tasting room brings terracotta into play once more, this time with handcrafted wine racks. Made from clay, these sculptural elements help regulate temperature while adding rich texture to the space. It’s functional design with soul—elevating wine storage into a sensory moment that roots guests in the beauty of their surroundings.

Design with Klay: The Impact of Thoughtful Design

These thoughtfully designed spaces can reduce stress, improve cognition, and support mental health. When hospitality spaces prioritise mental wellness, guests notice. With Klay’s products, designers can create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also mentally nourishing.