What Are Heritage Tiles?
Heritage tiles continue the timeless tradition of artisanal tile-making. Going back thousands of years, many cultures worldwide have unique ways of creating handmade tiles. While many tiles today are made using the modern method, we still love the endurance of traditional heritage tiles. Heritage tiles preserve the art and design of tiles and are a useful way of adding an artisanal element to interior design.
Spanish tiles, delft tiles, and European church tiles are some of the few examples of heritage tiles that continue to be made today. Mediterranean artisanal tiles from Spain, Portugal, and Morocco are typically distinguished by their bright use of colors, particularly blue, white, and yellow. In contrast, medieval church-style heritage tiles commonly found in northern Europe are characterized by their intricate, interwoven designs and richer hues.
Where To Install Heritage Tiles
Since heritage tiles are crafted using traditional methods and typically handpainted, they are more delicate than typical ceramic tiles. Therefore, we recommend installing heritage tiles on walls or low-traffic flooring areas. Glazed heritage tiles may be installed in showers or other wet areas, as their glazed finish provides moisture resistance.
Heritage Tile Design Concepts
1. Blue and White Spanish Tiles
There’s something so vibrant and joyful about traditional Spanish tiles. These patterned blue and white tiles continue the traditional design of tiles found throughout Spain and Portugal. This tile design looks incredibly as a backsplash for country kitchen designs and pairs nicely with white color schemes.
2. Hand-Painted Vintage Heritage Tile
The relief design of these heritage tiles adds texture to bathroom walls and kitchen backsplashes. The saturated tones are a great way of adding a subtle touch of color without overwhelming spaces.
4. Medieval Church Artisanal Tiles
These alluring hand-painted tiles are inspired by Old English medieval church tile designs. The saturated tones of the tile add depth and richness to spaces. We love the look of this tile for accent walls or bathroom wall installations.
5. Dutch Delft Tiles
Embracing the tradition of Delft tiles is a great way to instantly bring some joy into your home. The charming picturesque scenes are delicately hand-painted with incredible detail. They are a stunning choice for kitchen backsplash tile designs.
6. Vibrant Mediterranean Heritage Tile
These stunningly vibrant Mediterranean heritage tiles are the ideal choice for anyone who loves color. The interlocking designs create a pleasingly symmetrical pattern that creates harmony in spaces.
7. Classic English Country Tile
These classic English country-style tiles are timeless for good reason. Their soft palettes and delicate floral designs imbue spaces with a pleasing, open atmosphere. They add a lightness to kitchen spaces and work well with white walls and wooden cabinets.
8. Blue and Yellow Portuguese Artisanal Tiles
If you ever visit Portugal, then you will be struck by the vibrant and striking artisanal tiles that are common throughout the country. These bold tiles are inspired by the tradition of Mediterranean tiles. Their circular patterns create the illusion of an open, large space. They are an ideal choice for kitchen tile flooring and entryway tile floors.
9. Neutral Textile-Pattern Artisanal Tiles
If you are seeking an alternative to the more vibrant heritage tiles on this list, then consider these understated, neutral artisanal tiles. Their patterns are inspired by traditional Portuguese textile patterns with natural color palettes. These tiles are a great choice in nature-inspired spaces with soothing colors.
10. Traditional Japanese Pattern Tiles
Last on our list is an utterly unique type of heritage tile. These tiles take inspiration from patterns found in traditional Japanese textiles. Their symmetrical, interlocking designs are ideal for minimalist spaces. The tiles are a beautiful choice for bathroom and shower installations.
Conclusion
Heritage tiles are a name given to traditional artisanal tiles that have a rich history throughout the world. Country Floors has a long history of artisanal tile-making and is renowned among homeowners and interior designers alike. Browse our collection of hand-painted ceramic tiles online today.