Encaustic Effect Tiles

With encaustic effect tiles, you can bring ornate heritage designs into your home. Made from ceramic or porcelain, these tiles have all the beauty of a traditional encaustic tile but without the upkeep. Perfect for adding character to floors, walls, find out everything you need to know about encaustic effect tiles.

 

What are encaustic effect tiles?

Encaustic effect tiles are essentially ceramic or porcelain tiles designed to look like traditional encaustic tiles; the glorious patterned tiles you see in old churches and courtyards or in Mediterranean villas. Encaustic tiles are named after a method of construction that involved inlaying clay of different colours onto the tile surface, meaning the pattern would be several millimetres deep and centuries of foot traffic would not wear away the design.

Encaustic effect tiles are just that, they have the same visual effect; intricate patterns, stunning colour combinations and all the nostalgic charm of heritage tiles. However, they are printed on or glazed (not inlaid) onto the surface of the tile. Due to this, encaustic effect tiles are much more practical, with good resistance to wear, water and stains. Best of all, they do not need to be sealed like traditional encaustic tiles do.

 

Which interior design themes suit encaustic effect tiles?

Encaustic effect tiles are a great option for adding immediate character into a space. They provide an intricate design detail, and incorporate an element of heritage. A number of different looks can be achieved with these tiles:

• Traditional and vintage: Ideal for period homes or spaces with classical detail, encaustic style tiles offer historic patterns which would suit Victorian hallways, Edwardian bathrooms or farmhouse kitchens.
• Boho chic: The colourful, mismatched look of encaustic tiles works perfectly for layered, free-spirited interiors. Use these tiles to balance bold furniture, global textiles and gallery walls.
• Modern heritage: Use bold encaustic patterns with modern finishes like brushed brass details, black accents or minimalist cabinetry to create a modern "new traditional" style that references the past but feels current.
• Mediterranean: Encaustic effect tiles are also ideal if you’re looking for a Spanish, Moroccan or other Middle Eastern finish. With ornamental detailing and earthy tones, encaustic tiles can bring sunshine and soul to any wall or floor.

 

Can encaustic effect tiles be used in a shower?

Yes, but tile type and placement are important. Encaustic effect tiles made out of ceramic or porcelain may be used in a shower (to an extent) and they are a perfect fit for walls and splash zone areas. These tiles are also water-resistant and easy to clean; they do not need to be sealed as traditional encaustic tiles would.

Just keep away from smooth or glossy encaustic effect tiles on your shower floor, as wet glossy surfaces may be slippery. For your shower floor, select matt finish, slip rated porcelain encaustic effect tiles that are rated for wet areas. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to see if the tiles are suitable for floors, make sure proper drainage and waterproofing are in place behind the scenes.