In June 1996 a classical pianist lay down the baton at the final performance of a musical she directed at Mmabana Arts and Cultural Centre.  Inspired by the multi-dimensional environment, she decided to create a different “coat of many colors”.  Under the umbrella of the Department of Trade and Industry, custom tile designs were conceptualized and together with a BEE- partner, Cote-a-Cote serviced housing developments with window sills from Kroonstad across the Free State.

Today, the heartbeat and factory of Cote-a-Cote hand made tiles is situated in a town halfway to anywhere in South Africa where a tribe of true artisans, empowered locals and skilled stonemasons work side-by-side to produce a kaleidoscope of terracotta, clay, ochre and stone products.

Embracing landscapes in- and out of doors, Smithfield showcases the ethos of Côte-à-Côte.

“We value authenticity, realness and ingenuity above all else.”

“We value the dignity and grace of hand made lives, stitch-by-stitch, note-for-note, tile-by-tile.”

“We value people finding their own tune and expressing themselves with the tools at hand.”

“We value the cultural landscape we find ourselves in in South Africa today.”

The identity of our brand speaks for itself.