Material Genesis

3rd Rock began as a reflection on Earth as a geological body suspended within a far greater cosmic landscape. Rather than looking only at stone beneath our feet, the investigation considers the planet itself - its formation, movement and continual transformation over deep time.

The surface translates this perspective into porcelain, expressing the quiet relationship between geology and the cosmos.

Material Translation

Layered mineral movements, fractured veining and soft clouded formations drift across the surface without repetition. The composition follows the behaviour of sediment, pressure and erosion rather than decorative pattern.

The relief suggests matter settling into equilibrium, allowing the surface to feel both ancient and continually evolving.

Architectural Behaviour

3rd Rock absorbs light rather than reflecting it. Subtle variations in relief create gentle tonal movement throughout the day, giving walls and floors a quiet sense of depth and permanence.

Within architecture, the material establishes calm through restraint, anchoring a space without demanding attention.

Design Philosophy

Within plonc.’s Intra-Tile Architecture framework, 3rd Rock explores the relationship between architecture and planetary memory.

Rather than reproducing the appearance of stone, the work translates geological processes into inhabitable surface. It asks us to see architecture not as something separate from nature, but as a continuation of Earth’s own material history.

Material Character

3rd Rock is grounded and contemplative.

Its layered relief and restrained mineral palette reward close observation, revealing subtle depth as light changes across the surface. The material communicates permanence through quiet presence rather than visual spectacle.

Material Information

Format: 1200 × 600 × 9 mm

Finish: Matte porcelain with sculpted mineral relief

Colour register: Blanco and Light Grey

Material Availability

plonc. does not produce materials to saturate the market. Some works remain intentionally limited, allowing each architectural project to retain a sense of authorship and distinction rather than becoming visually commonplace. Currently available in Blanco and Light Grey.

Please contact the studio regarding current availability and project suitability

Design Authorship Registry

Design Title
3rd Rock Blanco (B) & Light Grey (LG)

Design Code
PL-T008 (B) PL-T009 (LG)

Collection
Designed Materials

Material Investigation
007

Date Authored
2020

Author
Noli Samson

Studio
plonc.

Country
Australia

Status
Available to order B & LG (Dark Grey Retired)