Saltillo Tile - The Timeless Terracotta

Discover the rich history and timeless appeal of Saltillo tile, from its origins in Mexico to its evolution as a beloved design element in modern homes.

What is Saltillo Tile?

Saltillo tile, a type of terracotta tile, originates from Northern Mexico, where artisans handcraft the locally sourced material. Made from natural clay, the tiles are shaped, sun-dried, and fired in kilns. Their color palette ranges from yellow and red to orange and brown, often with mixed hues depending on their positioning in the kiln. Each tile is unique, featuring natural textures, color variations, and sometimes even imprints of nearby creatures, like animal footprints—a testament to its artisanal production process.

Often referred to as "Mexican Saltillo tile," these tiles are available in glossy, semi-glossy, or unglazed finishes. Unglazed tiles require a sealer, and in some regions, Saltillo floors are traditionally stained at home using motor oil or other agents. This rustic, earthy aesthetic, combined with the durability of Saltillo tile, makes it a popular choice for indoor and outdoor spaces.

Where did "Saltillo Tile" get its name?

The name "Saltillo tile" is derived from its place of origin—Saltillo, a city in the northeastern part of Mexico. The region's rich clay deposits and favorable climate conditions have made it an ideal location for producing these tiles for centuries.

Saltillo has been a hub for terracotta tile production, and the city's name has become synonymous with this particular style of tile. The traditional methods used by local artisans have been passed down through generations, preserving the unique qualities of Saltillo tile that make it so sought after.

Shop saltillo tile at Architessa.

History of Saltillo Tile

The history of Saltillo tile dates back to the 16th century when Spanish settlers introduced the art of tile-making to Mexico. They brought with them techniques and styles from Europe, which were then adapted to the local materials and climate.

Over the centuries, Saltillo tile has maintained its traditional production methods while evolving to meet contemporary design needs. The process of handcrafting these tiles has remained largely unchanged, preserving the authenticity and rustic appeal that makes them a timeless choice for many homeowners.

Evolution of Saltillo Tile

While the traditional methods of making Saltillo tile have remained consistent, the design and application of these tiles have evolved significantly. Initially used primarily for tiled flooring, Saltillo tiles are now used in a variety of settings, including tiled walls, tiled backsplashes, and decorative accents.

Modern innovations have also introduced new sizes, shapes, and finishes, allowing for greater versatility in design. Despite these advancements, the core characteristics of Saltillo tile—its natural beauty, durability, and unique handmade quality—continue to be its most cherished attributes.

Saltillo is as much a look as it is a material. Many terracotta tiles & terracotta-look porcelain tiles mimic its unique appearance, offering even further versatility in design. Browse our terracotta tile & cotto look collections to see tiles with a similar look & warm rustic feel.

 Image Source: Demarais Interiors

How to Design with Saltillo Tile

Designing with Saltillo tile can add a warm, rustic charm to any space. Its natural tones and textures work well in various design styles, from traditional Southwestern and Mediterranean to more contemporary and eclectic settings. When designing with Saltillo tile, embracing its imperfections and variability is essential, as these qualities contribute to its unique character.

Consider using saltillo tile in tiled kitchens, tiled living rooms, and tiled outdoor patios to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The tiles also make beautiful saltillo tile backsplashes, saltillo tile floors, accent walls, and saltillo tile fireplace surrounds.

It may seem tricky to find an aesthetic that saltillo tile fits into nicely, but there is a handful that it can easily incorporate with. Here are a few design styles that you might see Saltillo installed:

• Bohemian 
• Craftsman 
• Farmhouse 
• Global Fusion 
• Mediterranean 
• Mid-Century Modern 
• Retro 

Learn more about tiles in these design styles in our  Style Guides

Saltillo Tile: Trendy or Timeless?

Saltillo tile's enduring popularity raises the question: is it trendy or timeless? The answer lies in its ability to adapt to changing design trends while maintaining its traditional appeal. Its rich history and handcrafted nature give it a timeless quality that transcends fleeting design fads.

While certain applications and styles may come and go, the natural beauty and durability of Saltillo tile remain a beloved choice for many homeowners. Whether used in traditional or modern settings, Saltillo tile continues to offer a warm, inviting aesthetic that stands the test of time.

Image: Artisan laying out saltillo floor tiles prior to installation & glazing

Saltillo Grout Lines

You have probably noticed the large grout lines shown in Saltillo photos. Saltillo tiles are handmade, which means they have natural variations in size and thickness, unlike machine-made tiles, which are sorted to have the smallest possible variations in size from piece to piece. This is called calibration, and you can read all about it in  Architessa's Tile 101.

Due to the natural variations in Saltillo tile, the average grout joint is 1/2" + thick. Large grout joints are now trending and you can read all about that in our  Expert Guide on Grout. 

Austin Meyer has a hand in our blogs, email marketing, photography, video editing. copywriting, SEO, and website design, amongst other things. Austin has both an eye for the big picture and little details, and wields creativity and positivity in everything he does. Outside of work, you can find him at the gym, climbing mountains, working on his car, or creating content for social media.