Terracotta floor tiles add warmth, character, and a rustic charm to any kitchen. But choosing the right kitchen colors to complement terracotta tiles can be tricky. Get it right, and you’ll create a stunning, cohesive look. Get it wrong, and your kitchen can end up feeling disjointed and cluttered.
In this post, we’ll explore the best kitchen color ideas to pair with terracotta floor tiles. We’ll cover the most complementary colors, as well as some color schemes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to create your dream kitchen with terracotta floors.
What is Terracotta?
Terracotta is a type of earthenware clay that has been fired at a high temperature. It has a distinctive reddish-orange color and a slightly rough, unglazed texture.
Terracotta has been used in architecture and design for thousands of years, with examples dating back to ancient civilizations like the Babylonians and Romans. It was a popular choice for floor tiles, roof tiles, pottery, and sculptures.
Terracotta is durable, low maintenance, and heat resistant. It’s also a porous material, which means it can absorb moisture and stains if not properly sealed. Terracotta tiles come in a range of shades, from pale peach to deep rust.
Choosing Kitchen Colors for Terracotta Floors
When choosing kitchen colors to go with terracotta floors, there are several factors to consider:
- Undertones of the terracotta tiles: Determine whether your terracotta tiles have warm or cool undertones. This will help guide your color choices.
- Size of the kitchen: Consider the size of your kitchen. Lighter colors can make a small kitchen feel more spacious, while darker colors can add depth to a larger kitchen.
- Amount of natural light: Take into account the amount of natural light your kitchen receives. Lighter colors can brighten up a darker space, while darker colors can create a cozy atmosphere in a well-lit kitchen.
- Overall style and aesthetic: Think about the style and aesthetic you want to achieve in your kitchen. Are you going for a modern look, a rustic farmhouse feel, or something in between?
- Personal preferences: Ultimately, your personal preferences should guide your color choices. Choose colors that resonate with you and make you feel comfortable in your kitchen.
Complementary colors:
Here are some complementary colors that work well with terracotta floors:
- Neutrals like white, cream, beige, and gray: These colors create a clean and classic look that pairs beautifully with the warm tones of terracotta. They provide a neutral backdrop that allows the terracotta floor to take center stage.
- Blues, greens, and turquoises: These cool colors provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of terracotta. Opt for muted, earthy shades like navy, teal, or powder blue to create a harmonious balance.
- Yellows, oranges, and reds: These warm colors complement the reddish-orange hues of terracotta. They create a vibrant and energetic atmosphere in the kitchen.
- Metallics like brass, copper, and bronze: Incorporating metallic accents adds warmth and richness to the space. Use them for hardware, light fixtures, faucets, and accessories to elevate the overall look.
Colors to avoid:
While there are many colors that can work well with terracotta floors, there are a few colors to avoid:
- Bright, saturated colors that clash with the warmth of terracotta: These colors can create a visual clash and make the space feel overwhelming. Opt for more muted shades instead.
- Cool colors like purple and pink: These colors can create a jarring contrast with the warm tones of terracotta. It’s best to avoid them to maintain a cohesive look.
- Dark colors that make the space feel small and cave-like: While dark colors can add depth and drama to a kitchen, they can also make a smaller space feel cramped. If you have a small kitchen, consider using lighter colors to create a more open feel.
Neutral Kitchen Color Schemes
Here are some neutral kitchen color schemes that work well with terracotta floors:
White Kitchens
White kitchens offer a bright and airy look that contrasts beautifully with terracotta floors. They create a timeless and versatile backdrop for the warm reddish-orange hues. Pair white subway tiles with shaker style cabinets and brass hardware for a classic and elegant look. Add pops of color with accessories like colorful dishware or vibrant flowers to bring life to the space.
Cream and Beige Kitchens
Cream and beige kitchens provide a warmer alternative to white. These colors create a softer and more inviting vibe that complements the rustic charm of terracotta. Pair beige subway tiles with shaker style cabinets and bronze hardware for a cohesive look. Add texture with natural elements like wood and stone to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Gray Kitchens
Gray kitchens offer a cooler and more modern look that can be a great contrast to the warmth of terracotta floor. Pair gray subway tiles with flat panel cabinets and chrome hardware for a sleek and contemporary feel. Add warmth to the space with wood accents and brass fixtures for a perfect balance between cool and warm tones.
Blue and Green Kitchens
Blue Kitchens
Blue kitchens pair beautifully with the warmth of terracotta floors. Opt for muted, earthy shades like navy, teal, or powder blue to create a harmonious balance. Pair with white subway tiles, shaker style cabinets, and brass hardware for a classic and timeless look. Add pops of yellow for a cheerful and sunny vibe that complements the blue tones.
Green Kitchens
Green kitchens bring a fresh and natural feel to the space. Olive, sage, and forest green are great options to consider. Pair with white subway tiles, shaker style cabinets, and brass hardware for a cohesive look. Add natural wood accents for a rustic and farmhouse-inspired aesthetic that complements the terracotta floors.
Yellow, Orange, and Red Kitchens
Yellow Kitchens
Yellow kitchens create a bright, cheerful, and energizing atmosphere in the space. Pair with white subway tiles, shaker style cabinets, and brass hardware for a classic color combination. Add pops of blue to create a vibrant contrast. Use yellow sparingly as an accent color to avoid overwhelming the space.
Orange Kitchens
Orange kitchens offer a warm and inviting ambiance. Opt for muted, earthy shades like terracotta or pumpkin to complement the terracotta floors. Pair with white subway tiles, shaker style cabinets, and brass hardware for a cohesive look. Add natural wood accents for a rustic and bohemian vibe that enhances the warmth of the terracotta.
Red Kitchens
Red kitchens create a bold and dramatic statement. Pair with white subway tiles, shaker style cabinets, and brass hardware for a classic and timeless look. Add pops of green for a festive and holiday-inspired aesthetic. Use red sparingly as an accent color to avoid overwhelming the space.
Metallic Accents
Incorporating metallic accents like brass, copper, and bronze can add warmth and richness to the space. Pair with white subway tiles and shaker style cabinets for a classic and elegant look. Use metallic accents for hardware, light fixtures, faucets, and accessories to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to the kitchen.
Conclusion
In summary, terracotta floor tiles are a beautiful and timeless choice for kitchens. When choosing kitchen colors to complement terracotta floors, consider the undertones of the tiles, the size of the space, the amount of natural light, and your desired aesthetic. Neutral colors like white, cream, beige, and gray are always a safe bet, while blues, greens, yellows, and metallics can add a pop of color and personality. Avoid bright, saturated colors that clash with the warmth of terracotta and cool colors that can create a jarring contrast. By carefully selecting your kitchen colors, you can create a stunning and cohesive look that showcases the beauty of your terracotta floors.
