What is Spanish Revival style?

Rediscovering the Timeless Appeal with Clay Imports Tiles

By Clay Imports

Spanish Revival style, with its rich history and timeless charm, is making a strong comeback in home design. Originating in the early 20th century, this architectural and interior design style draws inspiration from the Spanish Colonial era and Mission Architecture style, characterized by stucco walls, red-tile roofs, and intricate wrought iron details. Today, homeowners and designers are rediscovering the beauty of Spanish Revival, blending its classic elements with modern sensibilities. If you are about to make a renovation or just want to take inspiration, this article is for you!

• The Essence of Spanish Revival Style
• Bringing Spanish Revival Home with Clay Imports
• Desert Fields Tile Series
• Talavera Tiles
• Terracotta Floors
• Conclusion

The Essence of Spanish Revival Style

Spanish Revival is all about creating a warm, inviting, and elegant atmosphere. Key features of this style include:

• Stucco Exteriors: Smooth, white or light-colored stucco walls that provide a clean, timeless look.
• Terracotta Roof Tiles: Red or earthy-toned roof tiles that add a rustic charm.
• Arched Doorways and Windows: Graceful curves and arches that evoke a sense of history and craftsmanship.
• Wrought Iron Details: Decorative ironwork on gates, railings, and light fixtures that add an artisanal touch.
• Colorful Tiles: Vibrant, hand-painted tiles that bring color and personality to floors, walls, and backsplashes.

Design by Etch Design Group | Photo by Ryann Ford

Bringing Spanish Revival Home with Clay Imports

One of the standout features of Spanish Revival style is the use of colorful, patterned tiles. Clay Imports offers a stunning array of tiles that perfectly fit this aesthetic, allowing you to bring the essence of Spanish Revival into your home.

The handmade tiles we’ll discuss will exhibit some natural variations, which are inherent traits of natural materials like Terracotta. These variations in color, texture and sheen are not defects but rather a natural part of the product. We highly recommend ordering samples before making a final purchase to confirm and appreciate these natural variations in each tile.

Desert Fields Tile Series

The Desert Fields tile series by Clay Imports is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate subtle Spanish Revival elements while maintaining a modern design style. These solid color tiles are inspired by the natural beauty of desert landscapes, featuring warm, earthy tones and intricate patterns that add depth and character to any space. Here are some ways to use them:

• Kitchen Backsplash: Create a focal point in your kitchen with a vibrant Desert Fields tile backsplash. The bold patterns and rich colors will complement wooden cabinetry and wrought iron fixtures, enhancing the Spanish Revival vibe.
• Bathroom Floors and Walls: Transform your bathroom into a sanctuary with Desert Fields tiles on the floors or walls. Their durable, water-resistant nature makes them ideal for high-moisture areas, while their aesthetic appeal brings a touch of luxury.
• Accent Walls: Use Desert Fields tiles to create stunning accent walls in living rooms, dining areas, or entryways. The intricate designs draw the eye and add a layer of sophistication to your home.

Talavera Tiles

Another fantastic option from Clay Imports is our Talavera tile collection. These tiles are handcrafted and hand-painted, offering unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that are perfect for Spanish Revival interiors. Their vibrant colors and traditional patterns can be used in various applications:

• Fireplace Surrounds: Make your fireplace a centerpiece by surrounding it with Talavera tiles. The bright, lively designs will stand out against stucco walls, creating a cozy, inviting focal point.
• Outdoor Spaces: Enhance your outdoor living areas with Talavera tiles. Use them on patios, garden walls, or outdoor kitchens to bring a splash of color and a touch of Spanish charm to your exterior spaces.
• Stair Risers: Add visual interest to your staircase by applying Talavera tiles to the risers. This unexpected detail will catch the eye and infuse your home with character and charm.

Design by Kim Lewis for Frances Modern Inn | Photo by Andrea Shone

Terracotta floors

Finally, the rustic tone that natural terracotta floors bring is the final touch to your Spanish Revival Style. These tiles are made with traditional methods and are renowned for their natural, raw look that contributes to its characteristically unique and authentic charm.