A terracotta backsplash can add wonderful warmth and beauty to any kitchen. The earthy tones of terracotta tiles create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Pairing terracotta with terrazzo countertops or backsplashes makes for a stylish and timeless kitchen design. Let’s explore how a terracotta backsplash can embrace warmth and connect beautifully with terrazzo.
Why Choose Terracotta for Your Kitchen Backsplash
Terracotta backsplashes offer many benefits for today’s kitchens:
Natural Material
Terracotta is an ancient material made from natural clay. It brings an organic, grounded feel to the kitchen. The natural variations in terracotta’s colors and textures add depth and visual interest.
Warm, Earthy Tones
The burnt orange and red hues of terracotta tiles infuse warmth into the kitchen. Terracotta’s earthy tones beautifully complement wood cabinets and countertops. The colors evoke feelings of comfort and home.
Blends with Many Design Styles
From traditional to modern, a terracotta backsplash fits right in. The timeless, rustic nature of terracotta suits farmhouse, Mediterranean, Spanish colonial and other style kitchens. Terracotta also pairs nicely with contemporary kitchens.
Affordable Option
Compared to stones like granite, a terracotta backsplash is budget-friendly. Terracotta tiles are an accessible and cost-effective way to add style. Advanced DIYers can even install a terracotta backsplash themselves.
Low Maintenance
Once properly sealed, terracotta tiles are easy to clean and maintain. The tiles do not require special cleaners or polishing. Their durability makes terracotta a sensible, long-lasting choice.
Complementing Terracotta with Gorgeous Terrazzo
Terrazzo is a composite material poured into place or precast into tiles. It consists of marble, quartz, granite or glass chips set into a cementitious or resinous binder. When polished, terrazzo has an elegant, stone-like appearance.
Terrazzo’s sleek style and marbleized patterns beautifully contrast with terracotta’s organic shapes and earth tones. Together, the two materials create a stylish juxtaposition in the kitchen.
Here are some ways to combine terracotta and terrazzo for an eye-catching design:
Terracotta Backsplash, Terrazzo Countertops
Use terracotta on the backsplash, where its colors and textures take center stage. On countertops, opt for the understated sophistication of terrazzo. The stone-like patterns of the terrazzo complement the terracotta while acting as a neutral backdrop.
Terracotta Backsplash, Terrazzo Backsplash Accents
Install terracotta as the main backsplash material. Add geometric terrazzo tiles as an accent row or in a focal area like behind the range. This allows both materials to contribute their unique beauty.
Terracotta Subway Tile Backsplash, Terrazzo Tile Countertops
Classic white terracotta subway tiles laid in a brick pattern is a timeless backsplash choice. Couple it with precast terrazzo countertop tiles or poured terrazzo for durable, low-maintenance surfaces. The materials work together seamlessly for a clean, elegant look.
Terracotta Tile Backsplash, Terrazzo Sink or Integrated Sink/Countertop
Use terracotta tile on the walls as a backsplash. Select a terrazzo vessel sink or an integrated terrazzo sink/countertop. This configuration lets you enjoy both materials in a personalized way.
The options are endless for teaming terracotta and terrazzo together in the kitchen! Take inspiration from these ideas and get creative with your own design.
Selecting the Perfect Terracotta Backsplash Tile
With so many options for shapes, sizes, colors and finishes, choosing the ideal terracotta tile requires some thoughtful consideration. Keep the following tips in mind:
Colors
Terracotta backsplash tiles are available in various earthy shades of orange, red, brown and yellow. Decide whether you want a hue that pops or blends in. Look at color samples in different lighting.
Popular colors include:
- Warm sunset orange
- Deep oxblood red
- Subtle tan
- Natural clay red/brown
Shapes & Sizes
Common terracotta backsplash shapes include:
- Subway – classic 3×6” rectangular shape
- Hexagon – unique interlocking geometric shape
- Large format – 12”x24” rectangular tiles
- Mosaic – small squares assembled in sheets
Larger tiles convey modern or contemporary styling. Small mosaics and subway tiles suit traditional kitchens.
Textures & Finishes
Terracotta backsplash tiles come in various surface finishes:
- Natural – slightly rough, visible grain
- Honed – smooth, matte texture
- Glazed – shiny, sleek glossy surface
- Crackled – intentionally aged and weathered looking
Consider which finish best matches your design goals. Natural or honed work well in rustic kitchens, while glazed options bring reflective surfaces.
Complementary Materials
Visualize how your terracotta backsplash will look alongside other kitchen materials like cabinets, countertops, appliances and lighting fixtures. Sample tiles against the other elements. Ensure your terracotta choice complements the overall design.
Take the time to view tile samples and test combinations. This helps achieve a cohesive, polished look with your terracotta backsplash.
Design Inspiration: Terracotta Backsplash Ideas
Need inspiration for styling your own terracotta backsplash? Here are some gorgeous kitchen examples to spark design ideas:
Modern Farmhouse Kitchen
The warm orange terracotta subway backsplash ties together the modern farmhouse vibe of this kitchen. Crisp white Shaker cabinets, wooden countertops and pendant lighting play off the backsplash beautifully.
Bold Ombre Backsplash
This kitchen backsplash uses large format terracotta tiles in graduating shades of rich orange. The bold ombre design makes a statement behind the stove. Espresso cabinets and black granite countertops ground the look.
Rustic Outdoor Kitchen
Rough natural terracotta tile in sunset hues distinguishes this outdoor cooking space. The backsplash coordinates seamlessly with the stone countertops for an authentic rustic style.
Hexagonal Statement Backsplash
Interlocking terracotta hexagon tiles in varying earth tones create a mosaic-like backsplash. The unique shape and multi-colored palette catch the eye behind open whitewashed shelves.
Subway Tile Backsplash
Classic white 3×6” subway tiles laid in a herringbone pattern make a timeless backsplash choice. The terracotta tiles pair nicely with marble countertops and brass fixtures for a refined transitional look.
Get inspired by these chic examples, and create your own design using innovative terracotta backsplash tile ideas.
Installation Tips for Terracotta Backsplash Tile
Installing a terracotta backsplash tile project requires careful planning and execution. Follow these pro tips for proper installation:
Select a Professional Tile Setter
Due to the nature of the material, terracotta tile installation is best left to an experienced professional tile setter or contractor.
Prepare the Surface Properly
The substrate must be perfectly clean, smooth, and dry before applying tile mortar. Fill any holes or cracks in the walls to create an even surface.
Use Appropriate Mortar
Choose a polymer-modified mortar suitable for terracotta and the wall type. This creates a strong bond.
Double Check Layout
Dry lay the pattern and ensure the tile arrangement is correct before installing. Measure carefully to achieve even spacing and alignment.
Apply Mortar Correctly
Use a notched trowel to spread mortar evenly across the walls or back of each tile. Consistent mortar coverage prevents voids or cracks.
Maintain Clean Lines
Use tile spacers between tiles to maintain straight grout lines. Remove spacers before grouting.
Seal Before Grouting
Seal tiles with a penetrating sealer prior to grouting. This prevents stains from discoloring the tiles.
Grout with Care
Grout slowly and methodically. Use a rubber grout float to press grout evenly into joints. Avoid smearing.
Final Sealant
After grouting, apply a final coat of penetrating sealer to the tiles. This seals the surface and enhances stain resistance.
With proper planning and care, your terracotta backsplash tile can enjoy a long lasting lifetime in your kitchen.
Caring for a Terracotta Backsplash
Terracotta backsplash tiles are quite durable, but they do require some simple care and maintenance. Follow these tips to keep your backsplash looking beautiful:
Routine Cleaning
Use a soft sponge or microfiber cloth with warm water and mild pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or scrubbing.
Grout Cleaning
Clean grout with warm water and a specialized grout brush. For deep cleaning, use a grout steam cleaner.
Re-Sealing
Reapply penetrating sealer every 1-2 years to boost stain resistance and repel moisture.
Spot Treatment
Treat oil, grease or hard water spots immediately with a poultice or cleaner made for natural stone.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Prevent damage by steering clear of acidic or abrasive cleaners which can etch terracotta surfaces.
With simple care and maintenance, a terracotta backsplash will maintain its vibrancy and enrich any kitchen space for years to come. The natural material offers unmatched warmth, style and durability.
FAQs About Terracotta Backsplash Tiles
What are the best kitchen design styles to use a terracotta backsplash?
Terracotta backsplash tiles pair well with Tuscan, Spanish, Mediterranean, French country, and modern farmhouse kitchen designs. The earthy tiles suit these styles’ natural, rustic charm.
How do I cut terracotta tile?
Use a wet saw with a diamond blade to accurately cut terracotta tile. For small notches, a tile nibbler tool also works well. Make precise measurements and cuts to achieve the desired fit.
Can you paint a terracotta tile backsplash?
Yes, terracotta tiles can be painted to refresh the look or change colors. Use a bonding primer made for tile, then apply latex paint in your desired hue. Re-seal the tiles after painting.
How much does a terracotta tile backsplash cost?
On average, a terracotta tile backsplash costs $10-$25 per square foot installed. Factors like tile size, quality and labor impact the total project cost. Shop around for the best value tiles.
What tile sealer should I use on terracotta?
For a terracotta backsplash, use a penetrating natural stone sealer. Top options include Miracle Sealants 511 Porous Plus or Dry Treat Premium Impregnating Sealer. Apply per the manufacturer’s directions.
Bring Warm, Rustic Beauty to Your Kitchen with Terracotta Backsplash Tiles
A terracotta backsplash can infuse a kitchen with welcoming, earthy elegance. The natural material creates a cozy and stylish focal point when thoughtfully designed and installed. Terracotta tiles lend themselves beautifully to combination with other textures like sleek terrazzo countertops or backsplashes.
With proper selection, creativity, care and maintenance, a terracotta backsplash tile installation can be enjoyed for years to come. The organic, burnt orange hues bring unique character that feels at home in any space. Let terracotta tiles embrace your kitchen with natural warmth and timeless rustic charm.