duktiles

Duktiles is a term used in architectural design to denote a modular tiling system composed of individual units engineered to interlock along their edges to form continuous surfaces. The system emphasizes ease of installation, repeatability, and the ability to vary surface texture through arrangement of unit geometries.

Units are typically square, rectangular, or tessellated polygons with interlocks such as clipped, tongue-and-groove, or dovetail joints. The joints are designed to maintain alignment while accommodating minor movement from thermal expansion or substrate irregularities. Surfaces may be finished in ceramic, porcelain, stone, or polymer composites, and can be colored or textured to create patterns.

Manufacturing methods include conventional ceramic tile production, 3D printing for prototypes, and modular fabrication for rapid deployment. Installation is modular: units are snapped or clipped into a grid or custom rack, enabling rapid on-site assembly and easy replacement of individual tiles.

Applications cover interior walls and façades in commercial, educational, and cultural spaces, as well as architectural installations and exhibitions. Advantages include reduced installation time, design flexibility, and potential for reversible or adaptable surfaces. Limitations include the need for precise tolerances for seamless joints and higher initial costs compared with standard tiles.

Because the term is not widely standardized, implementations vary and the concept remains primarily in design discourse.