Douglas D. Ellington, Atlantic Terra Cotta Co. (manufacturer), Decorative Roof Tile, circa 1927, glazed terra cotta. Gift of the City of Asheville, 2001.26.03.87. Do you recognize this tile? It’s from the roof of the Asheville City Building, designed by architect, Douglas D. Ellington. You might not, because it is usually so far above the sidewalk! However, in the Asheville Art Museum’s new eatery, Perspective Café, you will be able see this tile AND view the roof of the City Building at the same time. You’ll see just how big this tile is up close.
For this decorative tile, Ellington was inspired by the natural beauty around Asheville. The yellow, leaf-like forms are likely to represent the local rhododendron plant, which Asheville natives and visitors enjoy in late spring or early summer.
