Tile for Days
Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival homes can be found throughout California. One of their unique attributes is the use of Spanish and Mexican tiles used to enhance walls, floors, staircases and accent decor with vibrant hues; giving the space a sense of antiquated style and culture .
Talavera Tile
Brought to Mexico by the Spanish in the first century of the Colonial Period, Talavera is a beautifully vibrant tile that uses a mixture of Italian, Spanish and indigenous ceramic techniques. Perfect for rooms big and small, this tile quickly elevates even the most basic of color palettes.
To add extra spice to my childhood home, My mother lined our front entryway french doors with bold cobalt blue Talavera tiles; giving a sense of serenity and cooling in the harsh desert heat of Arizona.
Saltillo Tile
A type of terra cotta, these tiles originate from Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. Saltillo tiles can vary in color and shape and are popular among homes in warmer climates. Left unsealed, Saltillo scuffs easily. Sealed and properly maintained, these bad boys shine!
Saltillo tiles often have “imperfections” — like the dog footprints you see here. I like to think they give each tile character and remind me that the tiles were not created by a machine, but by hard working men and women who created each and every one of them.
Terra Cotta Roof Tiles
Terra Cotta roof tiles are a prominent sight among Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial architecture. These tiles have several advantages over other roofing materials:
- They last two to three times as long as asphalt or wood shingling
- They are among few roofing materials that are fire resistant
- Due to their density and shape, Terra Cotta roof tiles provide a greater layer of insulation — saving energy!
If that’s not enough to sway you into loving this Spanish Colonial staple…
4. Terra Cotta roof tiles can withstand damage from storms, animals and insects and require far less maintenance than the alternatives
5. They are also among the most environmentally friendly as they’re made of clay — an abundant natural resource.
Visit my website
