Patterned tiles are tiles with various prints that, when put together, form a pattern that can go from an old-world/vintage to a modern looking, so it is a very versatile covering material. These tiles are usually made of cement or porcelain. The cement version is also known as Encaustic Cement tile, a hand-made decorative tile produced from cement, marble dust, and mineral pigments. The porcelain tiles are machinery-made and carry advantages such as stain resistance, more durability, and less expensive. On the other hand, Encaustic Cement tiles have that hand-made touch and uniqueness that a machine cannot replicate on a large scale.
The Inspiration Although patterned tiles have become very popular in the last couple of years, they have been around for centuries, commonly known as Moroccan and Talavera tiles.
What do Moroccan and Talavera tiles have in common? Even though Morocco and Spain are located on different continents; they share the same artistic style for hand-painted tiles. These milky-white glaze tiles – an influence of the Moorish culture, are also known as “Talavera Tiles,” after the Spanish ceramic center of Talavera de la Reina in Castilla de la Mancha, located in northern Spain.
The beauty and price of a hand-made product Like anything else hand-made, these artesian tiles have a high price tag, which shouldn’t be different given that you are actually buying an artwork. Its creator artist needs to be rewarded for his time, talent, and inspiration. These ceramic tiles have brilliant color combinations that have caught the eyes of many architects and interior designers worldwide as they create residential and commercial spaces. Although these hand-made tiles have an antique and vintage look, we often see these tiles being creatively used in contemporary areas.
The good news We have good news if you wish to decorate your kitchen, backsplash, bathroom, shower, floor, or walls on a budget! Today’s technology allows many manufacturers, especially Spanish ones, to reproduce these beautiful artesian designs at much more affordable prices.
Applications Patterned Floor Tiles are a perfect choice if you want to add décor to your floors and walls. Use these to cover the whole surface or as an accent to the tile installation. Mix and match other patterns, such as our distressed subway tiles, to create a beautiful and unique look.
Samples Once you have decided which tiles to get, choose the color and size that fit better with your project. Also, consider ordering sample swatches before committing to purchase large quantities since it is hard to represent their actual color on a picture. If you need inspiration, check these patterned tile design ideas.