Hello from Barcelona! Today I walk the Rambla and the Gothic Quarter and see all sorts of beautiful Spanish tiles. There is so much Gaudi influence around me but also classical architecture in this region. I share pictures on my Instagram stories while touring the east coast of Spain.

In design, what we refer to as “Spanish tile” refers to a wide range of tiles with roots in Spanish or Mexican historical symbolism. Today they are made of ceramic, cement or clay. Each tile in combination with its neighbor creates a repeating pattern of geometric motifs and floral flourishes. Paired with white stucco, iron fittings, bright paint colors or wood textures, this old-world aesthetic will never go out of style.

Here’s a look at some upscale looks with Spanish tiles. Note that they can be bold and cover an entire floor or backsplash, or they can be used in smaller installations on islands or stair nosings or mantels to act as a subtle nod to Mediterranean style.

svz interior design

Tracy Lynn Studio

style me pretty

Development of wooden paths

Blackband design

kitchen design group

kitchen design group

ultracraft cabinets

Julia Chasman design

sophisticated interiors

kitchen design group

tile storage

Thompson custom homes

Tim Barber Architect

Santa Barbara Staircase Print

If you love the look but don’t want to commit to a permanent tile installation, consider wallpaper, stencils, bedding and table decorations to give you the look in a less permanent way.

Terracotta floral peel and stick wallpaper

Peel and stick wallpaper

pre-pasted wallpaper

tile stencil

blue spanish tile pattern panels

Melamine panels

spanish tile wall art