Terracotta Allure: Rustic Retreat For Your Home
If I had to choose one of my top 5 tones to add to a space, generally I would say terracotta because of its warmth. We typically see terracotta come in the form of planters or pots for flowers. There are many ways to pair this specific tone and I love coming up with different ways to incorporate this in projects.
With such a cozy earth tone and classic appeal, terracotta has gained popularity as a material for interior design.
This adaptable material can shape your living space into a lively, Mediterranean-inspired oasis or comfortable, rustic sanctuary. Execution is ultimately everything. I’ll highlight some useful tips and ideas to inspire.
Understanding Terracotta
The word “terracotta,” which translates to “baked earth” in Italian, refers to a ceramic substance made of clay that has been utilized for ages by many different cultures for ceramics, sculptures, and architectural features. It is valued for its cozy, reddish-brown color and unpolished, natural feel.
Clay is shaped into terracotta objects, dried in the sun, and then fired in a kiln. Terracotta’s characteristic hue and durability are the results of this procedure. It adds a bit of nature inside when utilized as interior design.
Historic Value
With roots in ancient civilizations, terracotta has a long and illustrious history. Terracotta was used to make elaborate sculptures, roof tiles, and amphorae for holding food and wine in places like Greece and Rome. Its continuing appeal is highlighted by the usage of it in architecture and art.
What Colors Pair Well with Terracotta
In my opinion and through experience, a foundation of terracotta and pink can be used to create a variety of lovely designs. Utilizing similar warm hues from our color wheel, such as cozy yellows or stronger fall reds, this will heighten the cozy effect.
Additionally, you may include a green by using the opposites on the color wheel. Having said all of that, I have also seen similar colors utilized to great effect with brilliant cobalt blue, which defies all design conventions but undoubtedly makes a statement. If you are daring enough, then absolutely explore to design a room you adore.
How to Use the Tone
If you want to establish a specific zone in your space, utilizing a layered geometric color block design or layering terracotta with another color together on a wall would be effective. These colors could potentially be used to experiment with illusion.
If you are fortunate enough to have high ceilings, consider using blush pink as your primary wall color and terracotta on the ceiling, dragging it down a little bit onto the walls to resemble a picture rail.
If your ceilings are lower, you might want to think about painting the lower half of your walls a richer, darker terracotta while painting the upper portions of the wall and ceiling a softer blush in order to create more space above you.
Consider creating a painted horizon line around the space using an accent color, like green, and of course incorporate it into the accessories.
Which rooms work best with terracotta?
Bathrooms are an easy choice because the terracotta tile may be used on the floor or walls rather than a wall color. When there is a dado rail or other obvious architectural division, using one with the other is usually relatively simple.
Terracotta would be fantastic for designing a particularly cozy bedroom or intimate area because it tends to be on the warmer side of the color spectrum.
An area utilized for eating and socializing, like the kitchen or dining room, would benefit from the sensory stimulation that reds and oranges provide.
It would be a squandered opportunity if additional surfaces like ceilings, woodwork, and furniture weren’t used to provide more levels of color. People frequently spend a good amount of time mulling and deliberating over the color of the walls while ignoring the other surfaces, which make up a significant amount of the space.
No white woodwork or ceilings exist in my own space because they either serve as elements in and of themselves or are seamlessly merged with the walls.
Suggestions For Maintenance
Dust frequently: Terracotta is prone to dust accumulation, so frequently clean it down using a soft cloth.
Terracotta used outside should be sealed to keep the elements from damaging it.
Avoid Using Harsh Cleaners: To clean terracotta, use gentle, non-abrasive cleaners.
Decorating with terracotta is a classic option that can infuse your house with warmth and personality. Terracotta may be a flexible complement to any interior design motif, whether you’re striving for a rustic, Mediterranean, or bohemian vibe.
To make your design more unique, keep in mind to pick the perfect items, experiment with color schemes, and think about DIY projects. Your terracotta decor will enchant and delight for years to come should you take good care of it.
