Terracotta Tiles have been around for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt, before becoming widely used across the Mediterranean. These small yet beautiful tiles have remained a favourite in interiors, known for their earthy and rich colour palette, elevating any space with rustic Mediterranean warmth. Terracotta effect tiles are also a popular choice, offering an authentic replica of terracotta tiles without the need to be sealed or treated. A question many ask when choosing terracotta tiles, is what colour goes with terracotta best? There are a few approaches you can take with the shades you choose; whether you want to contrast, complement, or soften the scheme.
Neutral Hues
When choosing what colours go best with terracotta, neutral hues are one of the most versatile options. Soft shades of cream, beige and ivory create a calm backdrop that enhances the terracotta’s rich earthy character. The Salamanca Cotto Décor tile is a perfect terracotta choice to compliment a neutral bathroom with the white gloss detailing adding a touch of elegance and a timeless charm. For a wonderful alternative to the traditional square is the Campello Cotto in a hexagon format which offers rich brown tones that pair perfectly with the Clay white metro terracotta effect tiles. Styling terracotta with neutral tones within the home works beautifully and can be layered with natural textures like linen to create a light and airy feel to kitchen floors, utilities, bathrooms and hallway floors.
Contrasting Colours
A favourite is to contrast with an opposite hue on the colour wheel, olive greens or blues work beautifully against the warm red and orange tones of terracotta. Introducing these shades into the room through walls, fabrics and cabinets brings character without overpowering the terracotta tiles. The Oliva Rojo terracotta effect pairs effortlessly with muted sage green cabinets and the popular herringbone tile format adds subtle character, while the Oliva Marron Hexagon with duck egg blue creates a soft contrast for a timeless choice.
Earthy Hues
If you’re wanting to embrace the natural warmth of terracotta, then earthy colours such as browns or reds are perfect to colour drench a room. The harmonious palette creates a cosy living area enhancing its rustic charm, as seen when combining earthy hues of red with Oliva Crema in a hexagon format. For smaller spaces, the Campello Bianco works wonderfully alongside Luella Claret Red, the warm colours of the terracotta and the deeper red of the elongated metro creates an intimate yet spacious bathroom.
Warm Woods
Terracotta and wood are both full of character, enhancing one another with their warmth, texture and timeless appeal. The rich tones of terracotta tiles sit beautifully alongside the natural grains of wood, bringing natural charm to any space. The Campello Rosato terracotta effect in a classic square format works wonderfully in a wooden kitchen, celebrating the look of natural beauty whilst bringing an enduring sense of comfort and authenticity to the home.
Soft Pink
Soft pinks are an increasingly popular choice to pair with terracotta, offering a beautiful way to introduce colour into the home. The gentle hues enhance the earthy warmth of terracotta, while bringing a fresh and uplifting feel to the space. Organic exposed plaster walls are seen to be on a rise and would work perfectly alongside Campello Bianco hexagon or square. The pink tones of the plaster and the red hues of the terracotta tiles creates a space full of warmth and character that feels both on trend and timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colours complement terracotta?
Terracotta pairs wonderfully with a range of hues, from soft neutrals like cream, beige and ivory, to warm woods, deep greens, and even muted pinks. Each colour enhances terracotta’s tones, creating a palette that feels inviting and full of natural charm.
What is the opposite colour of terracotta?
Terracotta sits in the red to orange spectrum, its opposite on the colour wheel is a shade of blue or green. Using these hues alongside terracotta introduces contrast and balance, making each colour stand out effortlessly.
Does grey go with terracotta tiles?
Absolutely! Soft greys offer a modern, neutral backdrop that complements terracotta’s warmth. Light grey walls or furnishings allow terracotta tiles take focus, while darker charcoals create a bold, contemporary contrast that feels elegant and refined.
What colour rug goes with terracotta tiles for a living room?
For a living room with terracotta tiles, consider rugs in soft neutrals, warm beige, or muted pinks to enhance the natural tones. Alternatively, deep greens, blues or even patterned rugs with terracotta accents can create a striking, layered look that adds character and depth to the space.
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We hope you have found this what colours go with terracotta post inspiring for your own home! If you are wanting more inspiration, read our blog on our guide to terracotta tiles. We invite you to visit one of our UK showrooms for large floor and wall displays as well as individual tiles and samples of our herringbone tiles. Alternatively, please feel free to contact us for any questions or advice!
