Terracotta is a type of clay once used in ancient Chinese, Greek, and Egyptian tiles, roofing, and pottery. “Terracotta” comes from the Italian phrase “baked earth”, and its color stems from its natural origin, ensuring each tile has a uniquely distinct look. These tiles have a stylistic charm that complements both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Keep reading to learn more about designing with terracotta tiles to add warmth to your home.
Benefits of Terracotta Tiles
Terracotta tiles are known for their sustainable, artisan-quality craftsmanship. This makes them perfect for indoor and outdoor spaces. Let’s explore the ways you can bask every area in your home with the timeless glow of terracotta.
Versatile
Terracotta can be used in any climate to promote a cohesive flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Transitional areas like hallways and entryways are sparsely decorated and overlooked, but terracotta tiles can revitalize them with rustic charm. Terracotta-tiled mudrooms can make for hospitable spots to greet guests while masking trekked-in dirt.
Contrary to popular belief, designing with terracotta tiles is not limited to Mediterranean styles. The warm comfort of Hygge interior designs beautifully complements earth-stained terracotta tiles. Sea terracotta meshes well with coastal interior designs and year-round beach retreats. Overall, high-quality materials like terracotta can be integrated into any style that suits you.
Historic and Sustainable
Tiles can be left untreated, or you can seal terracotta for increased durability and weather resistance. Sealed terracotta titles work especially well in high-traffic areas like patios, kitchens, and bathrooms. Unglazed tiles can create patina films that signify its virtuous return to down-to-earth aesthetics and comforting nostalgia. However, keep in mind that unglazed tiles must be routinely cleaned. Whether you embrace terracotta’s worn-in look or opt for glazed finishes, either option can be beneficial when creating a space that speaks to you.
On top of its sustainable qualities, these tiles can regulate indoor temperatures with their thermal heating properties – perfect for homeowners looking to reduce energy consumption. The possibilities are endless with terracotta, so let your creative outlet charge your design process.
Designing with Terracotta
Now that we’ve explored what terracotta tiles offer, let’s discuss how to incorporate these antique gems into your home.
Rustic Appeal
Designing with terracotta tiles promotes rustic minimalism and natural variation. Their rustic appeal evokes a sense of calmness away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
When highlighting your home’s natural architecture, consider pairing terracotta with raw materials like exposed brick, wooden beams, and animal hide. Alternatively, you can match French terracotta tiles with reclaimed wood dining sets to narrate a rich history of past and present artwork. To achieve a reclaimed aesthetic, you can place greenery in aged terracotta pottery to welcome Mother Nature indoors. Incorporating artistry and natural elements will imbue your home with a harmonious aura that seamlessly connects nature with your living space.
Blending with Contemporary Styles
Terracotta tiles mimic “lived-in” aesthetics that contrast beautifully with modern fixtures and glossy countertops. You can invigorate your kitchen with muted earth-toned backsplashes like sage, lavender, and orange to create an ethereal ambiance. You can further transform white-on-white kitchens into Malibu-styled retreats with cinnamon terracotta tiles, marble backsplashes, and exposed beams. Terracotta murals with subdued palettes and natural undertones can also envelop spaces in warmth. You can apply these design principles to bathrooms and bedrooms to create tranquil getaways.
Blending with Traditional Styles
Similar to rustic and contemporary styles, terracotta tiles are no stranger to traditional aesthetics. Traditional styles can enhance mood and establish a harmonious flow that pairs effortlessly with terracotta’s timeless beauty.
For example, Bohemian styles allow for unique ways to combine eclectic palettes and patterned textiles with terracotta’s natural radiance. Terracotta tiles with herringbone patterns can complement Bohemian aesthetics and psychedelic fabrics for a daring, avant-garde look. Those seeking a more traditional, minimalist design can elevate their space with sleek white and black furnishings and terracotta flooring.
Are you ready to embrace the warmth of terracotta? Contact us today to start your interior design journey.
