A Spanish tile backsplash can add a dramatic pop of color and visual interest to any kitchen. Known for their bold colors, intricate patterns, and ornate decorative details, Spanish tiles create a look that is simultaneously rustic and elegant. Whether your style is traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, a backsplash made of Spanish tiles is sure to make a statement.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the unique patterns and vibrant colors that make Spanish tile backsplashes so special. We’ll look at the history and tradition behind these tiles, the varied styles and shapes available, and tips for designing and installing your own Spanish tile backsplash. Read on to learn more about how to incorporate this eye-catching element into your kitchen design!
What Makes Spanish Tiles Unique?
Spanish tiles, or azulejos as they are known in Spain and Portugal, have been produced in the Iberian Peninsula since the Moorish period. The word azulejo comes from the Arabic word az-zulayj, meaning “polished stone”. Traditional Spanish tiles are made from ceramic clay, hand-painted, and fired at extremely high temperatures to set the colors and create a durable, glossy finish.
These artisanal tiles came into widespread use during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. They were originally only found in palaces, churches, and other buildings of the wealthy elite. Over time, their popularity expanded to homes, restaurants, train stations, and other public spaces throughout Spain and Portugal.
One of the most distinctive qualities of Spanish tiles is the rich, saturated colors. Brilliant blues, vibrant greens, sunny yellows, deep reds, and earthy terra cottas are common. The colors and patterns are often inspired by the natural landscapes and flowers of the Mediterranean. Flamenco dancers, winding vines, geometric motifs, and coats of arms are other traditional design elements.
Beyond the color, handmade Spanish tiles have a beautiful old-world look and feel. Many patterns have a cracked or weathered appearance, adding to the rustic charm. The edges of each individual tile have subtle imperfections that give them character and depth. Their handmade origins make each wall or backsplash a true work of art.
Common Styles and Shapes
There are many styles and shapes to choose from when incorporating Spanish tiles into your design. Here are some of the most popular options:
Subway Tile Style
The classic subway tile shape is a popular choice for backsplashes of all kinds, including those made with Spanish tiles. Subway tiles are rectangular with a length twice as long as the width. Laying them in an offset brick pattern creates visual movement and interest.
Subway tiles allow you to create eye-catching geometric patterns like herringbones and chevrons. They also beautifully showcase decorative border tiles or inset medallions. The long rectangular shape lends itself well to mixing and matching colors too.
Square Tile Style
Going for a more traditional look? Square tiles are the way to go. Ranging from 4-6 inches, these tiles have equal dimensions on all sides. Laid in a grid pattern, square tiles create a classic backsplash look that pairs well with traditional kitchen styles.
Opt for square tiles with decorative patterns and colors to add Spanish flair. Accent tiles with carved details, painted motifs, or metallic hues are great for breaking up the squares with added visual punch.
Hexagon Tile Style
Hexagon tiles have six equal sides and create a unique honeycomb effect when installed. Mixing different vibrant hued hexagon tiles together results in an eye-catching mosaic pattern. For a more uniform look, choose hexagons in a single color.
Smaller 3-4 inch hexagon tiles are the norm, but large statement-making hexagons also exist. The six-sided shape reflects light beautifully, making glossy Spanish tiles shine. Hexagons can be aligned in neat rows or set in an offset pattern.
Irregular Handmade Tiles
One of the hallmarks of Spanish tiles is their handmade, irregular aesthetic. Moorish-inspired tiles often have an imperfect hand-cut appearance in interesting shapes like stars, loops, and octagons. Each tile is slightly different.
Embrace the irregular look by installing handmade tiles in an eclectic pattern. Use accents of cracked tiles or tiles with detailed reliefs and cutouts. This gives the backsplash surface visual depth and character.
Patterned Decorative Tiles
Decorative tiles with painted patterns, motifs, and designs are common in Spanish tilework. Floral tiles, nature scene tiles, tile murals, and more patterned options are available. Use these sparingly to punctuate a backsplash installation.
Decorative tiles lend themselves perfectly to creating a backsplash focal point, such as behind the range or around the window over the sink. They can also be used to tile a niche or frame the edges of a backsplash installation.
Vibrant Colors to Consider
From vibrant primaries to rich neutrals, Spanish tiles come in an array of colors inspired by the Mediterranean landscape. Here are some of the most popular options to liven up your backsplash:
Blue Tiles
- Deep cobalt blues
- Vibrant turquoise tones
- Soft seafoam hues
- Pretty periwinkle shades
Blue is one of the quintessential Spanish tile colors. From the ocean blues found throughout coastal towns to the varied sky blue tones across the country, Spain’s culture, architecture and style is heavily influenced by blue. Use blue tiles to create an elegant, refreshing backsplash.
Green Tiles
- Brilliant emerald greens
- Earthy olive and sage tones
- Pale mint and lime hues
Deep green colors reminiscent of lush ferns, citrus trees, and shrubbery are common in Spanish tilework. Green tiles paired with wood cabinetry immediately evoke a natural, organic look. Use sage tones for a subtle pop of color.
Yellow and Orange Tiles
- Vibrant tomato and terra-cotta oranges
- Sunny marigold and saffron yellows
Radiant yellows and oranges reflect the colors found in Spanish architecture, textiles, and foods. Use a mix of orange and yellow tiles together or combined with blues and greens for a vibrant Mediterranean style.
Red and Pink Tiles
- Rich cranberry reds
- Vivid pinks ranging from pastel to fuchsia
Deep red tones inspired by Spanish wines and Flamenco costumes make a dramatic impact. Softer blush pink tiles also have an authentically Spanish look. Use them alone or mix with terra-cotta and purple tiles.
Neutral Tiles
- Creamy whites
- Beige and tan tones
- Slate grays
- Chocolate browns
While bold colors may first come to mind, Spanish tiles also come in lovely neutral hues. Soft whites, warm beiges, grayish taupes, and espresso browns create a subtle Spanish vibe. Use them as a backdrop for brighter accent tiles.
Metallic Tiles
- Gold, silver and copper metallic finishes
- Iridescent and crackled glazes
Metallic tiles lend old-world charm and a touch of glamour. Use them sparingly as accents within colorful tile designs. Vintage inspired crackled glazes also mimic weathered Spanish tilework.
Design Tips and Ideas
Ready to design your own Spanish tile backsplash? Keep these tips in mind:
Select a Focal Point
A backsplash typically covers a narrow area, so choose one spot to be the visual focal point. This could be behind the stovetop, surrounding a window over the sink, or on the wall behind an open shelf display. Use special decorative or patterned tiles here.
Mix Vibrant Colors
The hallmark of Spanish tile is the mix of vibrant colors. Don’t be afraid to combine complementary hues like orange and blue or vivid purple and lime green. Create color blocks, borders, geometric patterns, or alternating colors.
Contrast with Cabinets
Pick tile colors that contrast or pop against your cabinetry and countertops. For example, vivid blue tiles enhance white cabinets while green tiles complement natural wood cabinetry. Don’t match your tiles exactly to your cabinet color.
Accent with Decorative Tiles
While most of your backsplash should use geometric pattern tiles, include decorative accents like hand-painted inset tiles, cracked reliefs, metallic mosaics, or carved shapes. Limit accents to 10-20% of the backsplash area.
Consider Open Shelving
Open shelves are on-trend and great for displaying colorful cookware. If your kitchen has open shelving instead of upper cabinets, be sure to tile the wall behind them to complete the Spanish style.
Complement with Other Materials
Don’t overwhelm the space by tiling from countertop to ceiling. Use complementary materials like wood or painted drywall above and below the focal backsplash area. Spanish tile mixes nicely with wrought iron, terracotta, and natural stone.
Include a Decorative Border
Frames your backsplash installation with decorative border tiles. Borders tie the design together and create visual harmony. Use colors pulled from the main backsplash tiles.
Installing Your Spanish Tile Backsplash
Once you’ve selected your Spanish tiles, proper installation is key for creating a cohesive backsplash that will last. Follow these best practices:
Select the Right Mortar
It’s crucial to select the right mortar designed for the weight and finish of your tiles. Consult with tile experts to determine the best option. This helps avoid cracks and other issues down the road.
Clean and Level the Surface
Thoroughly clean and sand the wall surface where tiles will be installed. Use a level to identify any uneven spots on the walls and use mortar to fill them in so tiles sit flush.
Apply Mortar and Tiles Correctly
Apply mortar generously using the appropriate trowel. Embed tiles firmly in the mortar, using spacers for consistent alignment. Don’t forget the decorative border tiles. Clean away excess mortar immediately.
Seal Prior to Grouting
Once mounted on the wall, apply sealant to the surface of the tiles before grouting. This prevents the porous tile from absorbing too much of the grout and staining.
Choose Complementary Grout
Choose grout in a color that complements both your tile colors and overall kitchen decor. Contrasting or matching the grout color impacts the look. Apply grout between tiles and clean excess.
Seal and Protect Finish
After grouting, apply sealant to all your lovely Spanish tiles to protect their finish from moisture damage and staining. Re-apply sealant yearly. Use caution when cleaning.
With proper installation your handmade Spanish tile backsplash will bring you joy for decades to come! The ornate details, vivid colors, and unique patterns will make your kitchen truly one-of-a-kind.
FAQs about Spanish Tile Backsplashes
What’s the difference between Spanish tile and Mexican tile?
While both Spanish and Mexican tiles offer colorful patterned ceramic tiles, there are some key differences. Spanish tile has a glossier finish, more saturated colors, and intricate Moorish-inspired patterns. Mexican tiles use brighter colors and simpler motifs in a more rustic, matte finish.
How much does a Spanish tile backsplash cost?
The cost of a Spanish tile backsplash ranges between $25-$50 per square foot installed. Handmade artisan tiles are more expensive. The total depends on the tile size, complex patterns, and intricate decorative accents. Simple subway tile patterns in smaller quantities are more affordable.
What tile can I use instead of Spanish tile?
Good budget-friendly alternatives to Spanish tile include cement tiles, high-fired ceramic tiles, porcelain tiles, or decorative glass subway tiles. These mimic the look at a lower price point. Printed decal tiles are another shortcut for a Spanish style look.
What backsplash goes with oak cabinets?
For oak cabinets, consider a backsplash using Spanish tiles in colors like sage green, deep coral, or indigo blue. Neutral creamy tiles with blue accents also complement the warm wood tone well. Avoid matching the oak cabinet color exactly.
What flooring goes well with a Spanish tile backsplash?
Natural stone and tile flooring complement a Spanish tile backsplash nicely. Options like slate, travertine, limestone, marbled porcelain, terracotta, and ceramic match the Spanish style beautifully. Hardwood floors in darker stains also pair well with Spanish tile.
Elevate Your Kitchen with Spanish Tile Backsplashes
With their bold colors, handcrafted artistry, and blend of rustic and elegant visual appeal, it’s easy to see why Spanish tile backsplashes have remained popular for centuries. If you’re looking to give your kitchen a colorful, one-of-a-kind focal point rich in old-world charm, Spanish tiles are the perfect choice.
Whether you prefer a traditional look with intricate patterns and square tiles or a more modern eclectic mosaic, vibrant Spanish tiles create an eyecatching statement. Give your backsplash personality with colorful designs and decorative accents. Complement your existing cabinetry and floors for a cohesive look that unifies your whole kitchen aesthetic.
With proper installation and care, a backsplash made of quality Spanish tiles will bring you joy for many years to come. Let this hallmark of Spanish culture and craftsmanship transform your everyday cooking space into a work of art. Your kitchen will become a conversation piece you can’t wait to show off!