Should you use terracotta tiles in a bathroom? Designers weigh in on the enduring appeal of this age-old design

No bathroom is complete without tiles, and as homeowners continue to look for ways to add personality and character to their schemes, terracotta tiles are becoming a favored feature.

They are textured and warm, and add a timeless appeal to any design. But while they have long been favored in hallways and boot rooms, people are questioning whether they are a practical bathroom tile idea for a high-moisture space they are a porous tile.

But interior designers and bathroom experts assure that they are a perfect choice, proving to be as functional as they are stylish. So long as they are sealed and laid properly, they can be a really practical and durable choice. Here's everything you need to know about bringing terracotta tiles into your bathroom, with expert tips on making them the chicest feature in your scheme.

Should you use terracotta tiles in a bathroom?

Terracotta tiles have been around for centuries, making it a go-to material for a timeless design. Their biggest draw is the aesthetic benefits – warm and textured, they tick a lot of the biggest bathroom trends this year.

'I love the look of terracotta tiles in a bathroom to cultivate an earthy and organic modern look. They give off a sense of warmth and groundedness, which is perfect if you want your bathroom to feel spa-like and very nature-inspired,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

Terracotta tiles have always been favored in Spanish and Mediterranean homes because they add that beautifully textured finish and infuse bathrooms with a warmer, earthy hue that instantly makes them feel more inviting.

'In bathrooms, terracotta comes into its own. It softens hard lines, warms up white suites, and adds instant character, whether you're styling a sleek modern wet room or a clawfoot tub escape in a country cottage. Earthy browns are the color crush of the year, and terracotta delivers it with style and soul,' adds Grazzie Wilson, head of creative at Ca’ Pietra.

There's also an increased desire for terracotta bathroom tiles thanks to their versatility. We've mentioned their relevance in European interiors, but they also work beautifully in properties of different eras and styles.

'Terracotta is a material that connects your bathroom to nature and whispers of Mediterranean shores while still feeling totally at home in a Georgian townhouse or industrial conversion. With new shapes, patterns, and layouts making their way to the scene, terracotta is far from a fleeting trend,' Grazzie adds.

Terracotta tiles add something a bit different to your bathroom. It's a departure from the usual glossy or slab tiles that are a staple in many designs and offer a new opportunity to create a more unique bathroom design.

'When it comes to bathroom color pairings, terracotta is more versatile than you might think. Remember, it’s not just a material – it’s a color story in its own right. Those baked-clay tones sit beautifully alongside soft neutrals – think creams, butter whites, chalky beiges,' says Grazzie.

However, if you prefer colorful bathroom ideas, there are a few brighter, bolder shades that complement terracotta tiles. For example, shades of pink and red that lean into an earthier palette really allow the warmth of terracotta to shine.

'A deep, dramatic red or a bright, playful pop taps into that ‘unexpected red theory’ we love. Just make sure your red is either a few shades lighter or darker than your tile to keep it intentional,' she adds.

It's not just color palettes that you can experiment with here – as the trend for wood in the bathroom continues to dominate (with no signs of fading), you'll be pleased to hear that wood and natural materials are a perfect pairing with terracotta bathroom tiles.

'The warm tones in terracotta pair beautifully with natural woven materials like rattan, wicker, and cane. I think you could have really beautiful woven baskets for towels in a bathroom with terracotta tiles, and then tie the look together with a piece of woven statement lighting and a coastal-inspired mirror over the sink,' Kathy suggests.

Things to consider before introducing terracotta bathroom tiles

There's no denying the enduring visual appeal that terracotta tiles add to a bathroom, there are a few practical elements to consider if you want to bring this age-old material to your scheme.

'Terracotta tile can be used in bathrooms, but there are factors to consider when using it in a wet location. It is naturally a more porous material compared to other types of tile; as such, it needs to be properly sealed and requires regular resealing, at least once a year,' explains Kate Donahue, of Four Brothers Design + Build.

It's important to understand that it's not just the wear on the tiles themselves that can be a problem when inadequate sealing is done – the subsequent damage can be much more extensive.

If you feel wary about the upkeep, consider adding terracotta tiles to an area of your bathroom that comes into contact with a reduced amount of water – perhaps a feature wall or behind a vanity – essentially anywhere away from the shower.

'Bathrooms are high-moisture environments, and without adequate sealing, water can seep into grout lines, cracks, and porous materials like terracotta. This leads to mold growth, mildew build-up, subfloor damage, and even structural deterioration over time,' warns Grazzie.

'To make sure your terracotta tiles last, they will need to be sealed before being grouted and again after grouting. They may then need sealing every few years to ensure they last. However, as a natural material, they will patinate over time, but that is the beauty of them,' she adds.

Remember that there is a difference between damage and patina – if you choose terracotta tiles in your bathroom, do it knowing that they will wear over time to create a beautifully aged and lived-in look.

The verdict? Terracotta tiles are a great choice for bathrooms, adding warmth, texture, and a timeless design feature. It's all about introducing them with the right colors and textures – and ensuring you install and maintain them properly.

'Terracotta tiles work great in a bathroom and have longevity as they've been used for thousands of years! There are so many options now with painted, glazed, or bare terracotta so it really can work anywhere,' says Stefan Hurray, of BVA BarnesVanze Architects.

It's a classic material that you can be confident won't date. Have fun experimenting with colors, textures, and even your tile layout patterns and ideas.