Spanish Mediterranean Style with Cement Tiles: A Complete Guide for Timeless Interiors

The Spanish Mediterranean design style is more than just a trend—it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and artisanal beauty. From sunlit courtyards and rustic wood beams to terracotta hues and ornate tilework, this timeless aesthetic brings depth and elegance to any space. And at the heart of it? Cement tiles.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how cement tiles elevate Spanish Mediterranean interiors, how they compare to other tile types, and how to design stunning kitchens, bathrooms, and floors with handmade, patterned tiles from Original Mission Tile.

What Are Cement Tiles?

Cement tiles, also known as encaustic cement tiles, are handcrafted using a blend of cement, sand, and natural pigments. Unlike ceramic tiles, they’re not fired in a kiln but are pressed using hydraulic equipment and cured naturally. This creates a dense, matte-finished tile with deep color saturation and excellent durability.

Key Features:

• Handmade by skilled artisans
• Durable and long-lasting
• Naturally slip-resistant
• Eco-friendly production
• Available in endless pattern tiles
• Fully customizable

Why Cement Tiles Are Ideal for Accent Walls

Spanish Mediterranean interiors are known for bold, colorful accent walls—often seen in dining rooms, bathrooms, or entryways. Cement tiles offer rich, earthy tones and intricate patterns that fit perfectly with this aesthetic.

Best Accent Wall Applications:

• Fireplace surrounds
• Powder room feature walls
• Dining room wainscoting
• Stair risers
• Kitchen backsplashes with Moroccan tiles

Using patterned cement tiles creates a statement that blends craftsmanship and culture.

Wall vs. Floor Applications: Ideas & Inspiration

Wall Tiles:

• Use decorative tiles as a backsplash in Mediterranean-style kitchens
• Install floor-to-ceiling patterned walls in bathrooms
• Frame doorways or windows with patterned borders

Floor Tiles:

• Add elegance to foyers and entryways with custom mission tiles
• Install large format floor tiles in a bold Spanish-inspired pattern
• Use terracotta or cotto tiles in patios and sunrooms

Cement tiles are versatile and can transition seamlessly from floor to wall, creating a unified and immersive look.

Spanish Mediterranean: Modern to Rustic Styles

Modern House:

• Neutral-tone cement tiles with simple geometric patterns
• Pair with black iron lighting and whitewashed walls

Farm House:

• Rustic textures with vintage tile designs
• Use terrazzo tiles or weathered patterns for flooring

Ranch House:

• Bold earth tones like ochre, olive, and deep blue
• Ideal for kitchen floors, patio walkways, or bathroom feature walls

Rustic House:

• Antique tiles with hand-painted looks
• Use brass tiles or glazed Zellige tiles for layered depth

The versatility of cement tiles means they can reflect the past, feel right at home in the present, and last far into the future.

Custom Design Possibilities with Original Mission Tile

With Original Mission Tile, you can create custom tiles that reflect personal style, match historical patterns, or showcase branding in commercial spaces.

Custom Options:

• Choose your own pattern, shape, and color
• Incorporate logos, monograms, or family crests
• Add brass tile accents for sophistication

🎨 Explore the custom design studio to bring your vision to life.

Cement Tiles vs. Other Tile Types

Feature	Cement Tiles	Ceramic Tiles	Porcelain Tiles	Concrete Tiles
Surface Finish	Matte	Glossy or matte	Matte or glossy	Matte or textured
Handmade Appeal	✅ Yes	❌ No	❌ No	⚠️ Sometimes
Customization	✅ Full	⚠️ Limited	⚠️ Limited	⚠️ Limited
Slip Resistance	✅ High	⚠️ Depends on finish	✅ High	✅ High
Eco-Friendly	✅ Yes	⚠️ Varies	⚠️ Varies	✅ Yes
Cost	💲💲	💲	💲💲	💲💲

FAQs About Cement Tiles

Is cement tile expensive?

Cement tiles are more affordable than high-end natural stone or artisan ceramics, but they do cost more than mass-produced tiles. You’re paying for durability, artistry, and custom options.

What is tile cement called?

“Tile cement” usually refers to thinset mortar, the adhesive used to install tiles. It’s not the same as cement tiles themselves.

Do cement tiles need to be sealed?

Yes. Seal cement tiles before and after installation to protect against water and stains.

What is the difference between ceramic and cement tiles?

Cement tiles are handmade and cured without firing; ceramic tiles are factory-made and kiln-fired. Cement tiles have a thicker pigment layer and are more customizable.

Can you use cement tile in a shower?

Yes—with proper sealing, cement tiles are great for shower walls and niches.

What are the benefits of cement tiles?

• Handmade beauty
• Longevity
• Custom design flexibility
• Slip resistance
• Eco-conscious production

Where are cement tiles used?

• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Accent walls
• Floors (residential and commercial)
• Fireplaces, patios, entryways

What is the difference between tile cement and normal cement?

Normal cement is a construction material. “Tile cement” often refers to tile adhesive, not the tile itself.

Is tile cement the same as grout?

No. Tile cement (adhesive) bonds the tile to the surface. Grout fills the spaces between tiles.

Is cement the same as ceramic?

No. Cement is a mix of limestone and other materials. Ceramic is fired clay.

Is concrete tile the same as cement tile?

Yes—these terms are often used interchangeably.

Where to use cement tile?

Anywhere you want beauty and performance—floors, walls, showers, and patios.

Handmade Tile Process at Original Mission Tile

Each tile is made using a time-tested, artisan process:

1. A metal mold is created to hold the pattern.
2. Natural pigments are hand-poured into the mold.
3. A hydraulic press compresses the tile.
4. Tiles are cured for up to 3 weeks for strength and durability.

This process guarantees every piece is unique—perfect for Spanish Mediterranean design, where character and tradition shine.

Why Designers & Architects Choose Original Mission Tile

Professionals love working with us because we offer:

• Fast delivery of in-stock decorative tiles
• Expert support for custom tile projects
• Artisan quality and exceptional customer service
• Free sample kits to test colors and patterns
• Proven performance in commercial and residential designs

📞 Contact us to begin your project

Tips for Choosing Cement Tile Colors and Patterns

Design Tips:

• Match tones with surrounding architecture
• Use large patterns for wide floors; small ones for detail areas
• Contrast tile color with grout to highlight pattern
• Try blue, terracotta, or green for a Mediterranean palette

Always request samples and test them under natural light.

Bathroom and Kitchen Applications

Bathrooms:

• Patterned shower wall with Zellige tiles accents
• Statement floor with vintage tiles
• Bold vanity backsplash with Mediterranean florals

Kitchens:

• Warm floors with cotto tiles
• Decorative backsplash with Spanish patterns
• Tile wrapped kitchen island

How to Order from Original Mission Tile

Here’s how to bring your Spanish Mediterranean dream space to life:

1. Browse our online catalog for in-stock patterns
2. Design a custom tile in our tile studio
3. Order samples to see colors and finish in your space
4. Get support for layout and tile quantity
5. Place your order with fast delivery in the U.S.

🛒 Start at www.originalmissiontile.com

Final Thoughts: Design with Soul and Story

The Spanish Mediterranean style is rich with color, history, and artistry—and cement tiles capture its essence like no other material. Whether you’re designing a breezy kitchen, a romantic patio, or a spa-like bathroom, Original Mission Tile provides handcrafted beauty and durable performance.

Let your tile tell a story. Let it reflect your passion for culture, design, and tradition—one handmade piece at a time.