Authentic 18^th & 19^th Century French Terracotta Flooring

Antique French terracotta floor tiles are reclaimed, centuries-old tiles originally crafted by hand in historic French kilns. These tiles – often referred to as reclaimed cotto tiles or vintage terracotta floor tiles – were made from local clay and baked in traditional wood-fired ring ovens. The result is an authentically rustic flooring material that carries the charm of 18^th and 19^th century French farmhouses, châteaux, and monasteries. Each tile bears the hallmarks of old-world craftsmanship: slight irregularities, gentle wear, and a rich patina developed over decades of use.

De Opkamer specializes in discovering and salvaging these antique handmade French terracotta flooring tiles from historic buildings across Europe. We carefully reclaim terracotta floors slated for demolition, ensuring each piece remains intact. By preserving these cultural treasures, we give new life to antique tiles that would otherwise be lost. The result is a sustainable, one-of-a-kind flooring option that brings authentic French country character into contemporary homes.

Warm Earthy Colors & Classic Sizes

The beautiful hues of antique terracotta are entirely natural – the clay composition and iron content of the soil determine each tile’s color. Higher iron levels in the clay produce the classic warm red and orange terracotta tones, while clay with lower iron yields softer hues of yellow, ochre, or even off-white. Traditional firing methods in wood-burning kilns also contribute to subtle color variations: tiles placed closer to the fire turn a deeper red, whereas those fired at cooler spots emerge in lighter shades. The result is a palette of warm earthy colors ranging from salmon-orange and brick-red to faded yellow and beige, each tile imbued with unique tones.

Our antique terracotta floor tiles come in a few time-honored formats that suit both rustic and elegant layouts. The most common square sizes are approximately 16 × 16 cm, 20 × 20 cm, and 22 × 22 cm. These classic dimensions were standard in French farmsteads of the 1700s–1800s. The tiles are typically about 2–3 cm thick, giving them a substantial heft and durability. In some regions, you may also find other shapes – for example, the small hexagons known as tomettes or the rectangular parfeuilles – though on this page we focus on the traditional squares. Every reclaimed tile is cleaned of old mortar and lime deposits, then sorted by size and color tone. This careful sorting ensures you can select a uniform batch for your project, or creatively mix shades to achieve an authentic, aged look.

Expertly Reclaimed & Our Vast Collection

With decades of expertise, De Opkamer has become a leading authority in sourcing and supplying antique terracotta tiles. Over the years we have built one of the world’s largest collections of reclaimed terracotta flooring, with roughly 3000 m² of antique tiles in stock. Our team travels across France and neighboring countries to find intact terracotta floors in old barns, country estates, and abbeys. Each discovery is handled with great care: tiles are lifted by hand during demolition to preserve their integrity, then transported to our workshop for meticulous cleaning and grading.

After reclamation, we remove any residues and gently clean the tiles without damaging their aged surface. We then categorize the tiles by type, size, and coloration. This means whether you need a large batch of matching antique French floor tiles or a specific color blend, we can accommodate your request. Our broad inventory spans various regional styles and origins. For example, we stock reclaimed antique terracotta tiles sourced from rural French cottages, antique farmhouse floor tiles with the classic red-orange hue, and even old Dutch tiles known for their deep orange color and 22 × 22 cm format. We also carry rare old French terracotta tiles in white-beige and yellow tones (often called blanc/jaune) from select historical batches. Each lot of tiles is unique – once a batch from a particular French chapel or farmhouse is sold, it cannot be replicated. By maintaining a large and diverse stock, De Opkamer ensures that architects, interior designers, and homeowners can find the perfect antique terracotta tiles for any project, big or small. Browse our selection of antique French tiles to discover the history and character that suits your space.

Modern Benefits & Uses of Reclaimed Terracotta

Antique terracotta tiles are not only treasured for their history and beauty, but they also perform exceptionally well in modern homes. Here are some of the key benefits and reasons high-end clients and designers choose reclaimed terracotta flooring:

• Timeless Aesthetic: The rich patina and slight imperfections of antique tiles create a warm, lived-in look that new materials cannot imitate. They imbue any space with historic character and timeless elegance.
• Warmth & Comfort: Terracotta’s natural thermal properties make these tiles ideal for underfloor heating. The dense, clay material absorbs heat gently and releases it slowly, keeping your floor comfortably warm. Even without heating, the tiles offer a warm ambiance underfoot, especially in sunlit rooms.
• Durability: Having already lasted for centuries, antique terracotta tiles have proven their strength and resilience. They were originally crafted to endure daily use in farmhouses and châteaux, so they can certainly handle modern foot traffic. With proper installation, these reclaimed tiles will continue to grace your floors for many decades to come.
• Sustainability: Choosing reclaimed tiles is an eco-friendly decision. By reusing existing materials, you reduce the demand for new manufacturing and prevent historical materials from ending up as waste. This makes antique terracotta a sustainable flooring option that contributes to circular reuse of building materials.
• Versatile Design: Antique French terracotta tiles complement a range of interior styles. Of course, they are perfect for rustic country-style or farmhouse interiors, where their aged look enhances the authenticity. But designers also love to incorporate them as a contrasting feature in contemporary or minimalist spaces – for instance, pairing sleek modern cabinetry with a heritage terracotta floor. The tiles’ neutral, earthy tones blend well with other natural materials like wood beams, stone fireplaces, or plaster walls, offering great versatility in design.

Thanks to these benefits, reclaimed terracotta flooring has found its way into luxury kitchens, wine cellars, entryways, living rooms and even boutique hotels seeking a distinctive style. The tiles bring a sense of warmth and soul to any room, whether it’s a rustic French country kitchen or an upscale modern foyer. High-end customers appreciate that no two installations are exactly alike – an antique terracotta floor is a conversation piece that adds both value and storytelling to a property.

Design Inspiration & Applications

Interior designers and architects worldwide are incorporating antique terracotta tiles into diverse projects. In a traditional setting, these tiles can be laid in a classic grid or diagonal pattern to recreate the ambiance of a Provençal farmhouse kitchen or an Italianate wine cellar. Pair them with reclaimed wooden ceiling beams, wrought-iron fixtures, and rustic cabinetry to complete the countryside look. For a more refined country manor style, you might use the pale ochre or white-beige terracotta tiles (from old monasteries or manor houses) to brighten a room while still retaining a sense of history.

Surprisingly, antique terracotta can also shine in contemporary designs. Many interior designers use these aged tiles as a bold flooring choice in minimalist or modern spaces – the subtle color variation and texture of the terracotta provide an organic contrast to sleek lines and modern materials. For example, a clean-lined white kitchen gains warmth and character with a floor of salvaged French terracotta squares. In open-concept living areas, an expanse of antique terracotta flooring can anchor the space, adding texture and visual interest that complements modern furniture. The key is balance: the tiles introduce a tactile, historical element that prevents a modern interior from feeling too cold or sterile.

Exterior and special uses: In milder climates, reclaimed terracotta tiles can even be used for covered patios, garden rooms, or courtyards, lending an Old World charm to outdoor living spaces. (If using outdoors, ensure the tiles are laid with proper sealing and that freezing conditions are not a concern, as antique terracotta is porous.) Additionally, designers have used these tiles as accent pieces – for instance, as a decorative border in combination with stone flooring, or to line the walls of a wine cellar for a Mediterranean touch. The possibilities are endless, limited only by imagination and the desire to incorporate genuine history into the design.

Care & Maintenance of Terracotta Floors

One of the advantages of antique terracotta is that it has already aged beautifully and can be maintained with relatively simple care. To keep your terracotta floor looking its best, we recommend the following:

• Sealing: After installation, it is advisable to seal the terracotta tiles to protect them from stains and moisture. Because terracotta is a naturally porous material, a penetrating sealer or a traditional wax finish will fill the pores while allowing the tile to breathe. Sealing enhances the color and patina and makes routine cleaning easier. Depending on usage, reseal the floor periodically (every few years) to maintain protection.
• Cleaning: For daily or weekly cleaning, simply sweep or vacuum the floor to remove grit and dust. When mopping, use a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners (never use acid on terracotta, as it can etch the surface). A damp mop with warm water and a gentle soap is usually sufficient to lift dirt. Thanks to their aged finish, antique terracotta tiles tend not to show small stains or dirt as readily as new, unaged tiles.
• Care for Grout: Use a suitable grout during installation (ideally a color that matches the tiles for an authentic look). A flexible adhesive and grout are recommended especially if using underfloor heating, to accommodate slight thermal expansion. After installation, the grout lines can also be sealed to prevent discoloration. If any grout becomes dirty over time, it can be gently scrubbed with a soft brush and mild cleaner.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: While sealed terracotta is relatively resistant to spills, it’s best to wipe up any standing water or liquids promptly. In high-moisture areas (like a bathroom or entryway), ensure adequate sealing and use mats or rugs to catch excess water. This will keep your terracotta floor in prime condition and prevent any long-term moisture staining.

With these basic maintenance steps, your antique terracotta floor will continue to mature gracefully. In fact, minor wear over time often enhances the character of the tiles even further. Should an individual tile ever become damaged (for example, cracked due to impact), one advantage of having a stock of reclaimed tiles is that you can replace it with a matching antique piece. Overall, the upkeep for reclaimed terracotta is straightforward and rewards you with a stunning floor that improves with age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are antique terracotta tiles suitable for underfloor heating?

Yes. Antique terracotta tiles are an excellent choice for underfloor heating systems. Their substantial thickness and high thermal mass allow them to absorb and radiate heat evenly, helping to keep rooms warm efficiently. As long as they are installed with appropriate flexible adhesives (to accommodate slight expansion and contraction), these historic tiles perform beautifully with modern radiant heating.

Do reclaimed terracotta floor tiles need to be sealed?

We strongly recommend sealing reclaimed terracotta tiles after installation. Terracotta is porous, so applying a quality sealant or wax finish will protect the tiles from stains and moisture. Sealing also enhances the tiles’ natural colors and makes day-to-day cleaning easier. Once sealed, maintenance is simple: regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a gentle cleaner will keep the floor in good condition. It’s wise to re-seal the floor every few years to ensure continued protection.

Can I use antique terracotta tiles in a modern interior design?

Absolutely. Antique French terracotta can add wonderful contrast and warmth to modern interiors. Designers often pair these rustic, aged tiles with contemporary elements – for example, sleek cabinetry, glass, and metal – to create a balanced, eclectic look. The neutral earthy tones of terracotta work well with modern color palettes, and the tiles’ texture prevents a modern space from feeling too sterile. The result is a unique blend of old and new: a modern interior grounded by the timeless character of centuries-old tiles.

Where do reclaimed terracotta tiles come from?

Reclaimed terracotta tiles are usually sourced from old European buildings, especially in France. Many of our tiles came from 18^th and 19^th century French farmhouses, village homes, and even estate properties that were being renovated or demolished. De Opkamer locates these sites and carefully salvages the terracotta flooring before the buildings are altered. In some cases, we also reclaim tiles from historic Belgian, Dutch, or Italian properties. Each tile in our collection has a genuine heritage – a real backstory as part of an old floor in a rustic kitchen, stable, or salon decades (or centuries) ago.

Why choose reclaimed antique terracotta tiles over new terracotta tiles?

Reclaimed antique terracotta offers an authenticity and character that new tiles cannot replicate. Each antique tile has a natural patina, color depth, and slight wear that only comes from age and use – giving your floor a soul and warmth straight away. In contrast, newly made terracotta, even if hand-crafted, will take years of living to develop similar character. Additionally, using reclaimed tiles is environmentally friendly: you’re recycling existing materials rather than consuming resources for new production. Finally, there’s an element of exclusivity and history – you are installing a piece of heritage in your home. For high-end projects that value uniqueness, sustainability, and storytelling, antique terracotta is the superior choice.