Generations of Skilled Artisans
Founded more than fifty years ago by Brian Peebles, a master of terrazzo, tile and mosaic, City Ceramic Tile Centre was a long standing beacon of quality craftsmanship in the field of ceramic tiling in Edinburgh and beyond.
Born into the tile industry and eager to follow in his father’s footsteps, Creative Director, Craig Peebles started his apprenticeship at the tender age of 13.
Craig was sweeping up on-site for pocket money and beginning to learn the trade from a highly skilled team of Master Craftsmen.
Craig worked for his father during his teenage years and into his early twenties, serving a unique and comprehensive apprenticeship.
An education rooted in a time where skilled master craftspeople were to be highly respected. A time when it was commonplace to make and design your own tools and devise personal working practices. Brian’s expansive skills were mostly passed to him via post-war Italian immigrants who settled in Scotland. They had brought with them a truly fascinating blend of antique and contemporary skills that were honed over many years and passed down the line. Master to apprentice.
Their intricate knowledge of geometry was an integral part of their practice. Often using solely timber straight edges, plumb lines/string and a pencil to plan and execute ornate designs and layouts. Apparatus that would fit snugly into the hands of medieval workers rather than those from the 20th Century.
“Always two there are, no more, no less. A master and an apprentice.”
M YODA
On occasion, Craig was privileged to observe his father planning and setting out intricate tile layouts using only a pencil, a length of cotton builder’s line and a thin length of hardwood to use as a straight edge. No measuring tape or contemporary measuring, simply the most basic of rudimentary tools and using Pythagorus and Mid Line theorem amongst others.
Craig benefited from the tutelage of a man who as a young journeyman was tasked with setting out highly complicated layouts including intricate borders/designs and staircase geometry that would be taxing for some architects of the day. With modern reliance on Computer Aided Design, it’s easy to see where a future might exist where these practical skills are all but lost to history.
Simultaneously, Craig was building an extensive art portfolio leading to his admission and subsequent graduation from the prestigious Edinburgh College of Art with a BA (Hons) in Art and Design. Upon graduation from art school in 2000, Craig took his place at his father’s side and started to implement his craft. Four years later and with his father semi-retired, Craig succeeded Brian and he was joined by his (soon to be) wife, Emma who brought a kindness and openness to the showroom for many years.
In 2013, following the devastating and sudden death of Brian, Craig and Emma decided to rebrand the business. Frustrated by an increasingly challenging economic landscape and a decline in the overall standard of trades in Scotland, they decided to focus specifically on Craig’s enduring passion and talent for mosaic pavement floor tile design and conservation. Welby & Wright launched in May 2014 embarking on a quest to provide creative design and authentic installation using modern materials alongside an expert restoration service aiming to breathe life into historic floors across Scotland and further afield.
Fate had other plans for Craig. In 2019, a debilitating back injury forced him to reevaluate his career. While his passion for art and conservation remained unwavering, the physical demands of his work had become too much to bear. It was a bittersweet decision but Craig knew that he needed to prioritise his health and find a way to diversify his skills.
Welby & Wright Tileworks was born. With a passion for transforming spaces through the artistry of tiles, founder Craig Peebles, set out to revolutionise the industry by offering innovative and stunning designs that would elevate any interior or exterior. Drawing inspiration from a multitude of sources, such as pop culture, nature, architecture, and cultural heritage, Craig aims to bring creativity, functionality, and unmatched craftsmanship to all pieces and commissions.
From intricate mosaics to minimalist geometric patterns, Handmade Encaustic Tiles to bespoke commissions, Welby & Wright remains committed to exceeding client expectations and establishing themselves as the go-to consultancy for exceptional tile design.
Fancy…
Welby & Wright: Specialists in Victorian floor tiles and contemporary mosaic pavements.
Reproduction Encaustic tiles made in-house.
From bespoke home designs to public art projects, we guide you through the process.
Explore countless tessellating patterns and transform your space with our tailor-made designs.
Consult with Creative Director Craig Peebles for expert knowledge on tile making and design, CAD, layout plans, historical accuracy, conservation and more.
Book a Consultation
To take the first step towards achieving your dream floor, book a consultation with our expert.