They're everywhere! Instagram decor feeds are full of them and if you scroll through Pinterest, you'll see even more! We're talking about those gorgeous patterned tiles that are all the rage right now! Interesting colors and patterns with a matte finish, they feel thoroughly modern. In reality, they are from the mid-1800's...first sited in Spain and are now seeing a major resurgence in the U.S. The process for cement tile is different from your basic ceramic and other tiles, they are not kiln-fired, but rather cured at room temperature. The color is pigmented rather than glazed which makes it porous...resulting in an old-world patina over time.
High-end tile suppliers have beautiful and unique selections and even the big box stores are carrying them...along with some less expensive "look-alikes." Of course, there are noteworthy pros and cons to using cement tiles with everyone from your local tile guy to the New York Times weighing in. What do you think? Have you used them in a remodeling project?
