Terra Cotta: Old-World Staple Turned Modern-Day Trend
Find ways to incorporate this classic material into your home.

Don’t let the high-gloss, glaze-crazed tiles from the '80s frighten you — times have changed, my friends. Designers are steering clear of the glossy-tiled look altogether. Instead, they're opting for matte finishes that embrace the natural beauty of the earthenware tiles in almost every space.

Paul Brant Williger
Warm Welcome
You know what they say about first impressions — you only get one. But with a foyer like this, who needs any more than that? These rich, earthy tiles offer that sought-after, "lived-in" look and envelop the foyer with a warm wash of color. Practical bonus: Easy cleanup for any muddy boots, soaking rain jackets or sandy towels.

Hewitt/Garrison Photographers
Inside + Out
Terra-cotta flooring isn’t just easy on the eyes. It allows for easy, stylish transitions from the interior to the exterior of a home. Designer Bill Bocken uses earthy, terra-cotta tile to pave the way from the kitchen to the outdoor living space in this bright, white breezeway.

Paul Brant Williger
Lounge
Designer Paul Brant Williger shows the glamorous side of terra cotta in this posh Malibu home. Paul drapes a moody, purple rug over the terra-cotta tiles for a sophisticated touch and added dimension. Get the same luxe look in by layering a vibrant runner or jewel-toned area rug over a tiled floor.

Paul Brant Williger
Dine
White-on-white kitchens feel a bit sterile, no? I say time to spice things up. Take inspiration from these cinnamon-colored, terra-cotta tiles that bring effortless warmth into this airy, Mediterranean kitchen. Not to mention, the tiles complement the natural beauty of the exposed beams and bright, white marble backsplash.

Bill Stengel
Rest
Modern-meets-Mediterranean in this whimsical bedroom in Sante Fe, Calif. The design team at French and French Interiors freshen up the Old World tiles with a graphic polka-dot wallpaper and a sunny headboard. (Remind me again — why does everyone insist on carpet or hardwood in the bedroom?)

Bill Stengel
Wash Up
Excuse me as I drool over this eclectic bathroom, courtesy of French and French Interiors. This space is everything. Terra-cotta tile is a seamless complement to the pretty, painted Spanish-tiled shower and creates a stunning contrast against the moody, black clawfoot tub.

Jennifer Boomer/Getty Images
Use the Hue
If tiling seems a bit too involved for your taste, I hear you. Achieve the same warmth and dimension in your design by incorporating terra cotta's rich and distinct shade into your space. A little goes a long way. Add small, decorative pieces to your bookshelves, or copy designer Joanna Gaines with some classic, terra-cotta planters in your foyer.
How to Choose the Right Tile for Your Home
Learn all about the different types of tile and slabs that can be used on floors, walls and countertops including ceramic, porcelain, cement, marble and more. Plus, we’ll explain PEI rating, glazing and which tiles are easiest to install.