Hand-painted Spanish tiles decorate the colorful entrance to the pantry in this Oxfordshire country home, Christopher Horwood
One wonders what the interiors of our homes say about our own innerworkings. A quaint 17th century farm surrounded by the usual gardens, stables and outbuildings. On a quiet gray English day, the place looks almost austere. Until we step inside.
A study in contrast or the English love of maximalist design
One of the key characteristics of the English country home decorator is a talent for creating spaces fit for maximum lounging. Though design is important, comfort is not secondary. Since the time of the Tudors, English country homes have become famous for their use of layered Turkish rugs, suzanis and other textiles to create that distinctly cosy atmosphere.
In fact, Country Life reports that Henry VIII himself “had been a great admirer of ‘Turkey rugs’ and, indeed, some of [his] most commanding images feature his well-appointed frame anchored to carpets from Ottoman Anatolia.”
Perhaps more surprising is a distinctly Spanish influence in this quintessential English country home.
The entrance of the pantry bears a mural in hand-painted ceramic Spanish tiles. Done in the traditional blue, the field tiles depict the classic motifs of Granada-style ceramics: fruits, flowers and birds.
Much of Spanish azulejo tile takes inspiration from the intricate geometric Hispano-Arab motifs including the Moorish penchant for all-over decoration, a kind of horror vacui that favored maximal ornamentation. Used in wainscotting, kitchen backsplash, stair risers and windows, decorative glazed azulejo tile has become a distinguish mark of Spanish and Spanish Colonial architecture and interior design.
Our Gorrión hand-painted ceramic tile is suited for interior and exterior decorations. Handmade in Spain, these tiles feature intricate patterns reminiscent of traditional Hispano-Arab designs.
Perfect for kitchen backsplash, kitchen floors, bathroom walls, patio floors, stairs and fireplaces.
Minimum order: 1 lineal meter
7 × 7 cm: 14 pieces
Colors available: We offer about 18 different colors including our traditional blue, green, purple, and yellow. To order a different color other than the one listed, please get in touch.
Production Lead Time: Kindly note, while we do hold some stock, many of our items are made to order. If out of stock, the production lead time is 4-6 weeks. For updates on current availability, please contact hello@casapletorica.com.
Our Gavilla hand-painted ceramic tile is suited for interior and exterior decorations. Handmade in Spain, these tiles feature intricate patterns reminiscent of traditional Hispano-Arab designs.
Perfect for kitchen backsplash, kitchen floors, bathroom walls, patio floors, stairs and fireplaces.
Minimum order: ½ square meter
Size:
20 × 20 cm (13 pieces)
15 × 15 cm (23 pieces)
Color: Green
Production Lead Time: Kindly note, while we do hold some stock, many of our items are made to order. If out of stock, the production lead time is 4-6 weeks. For updates on current availability, please contact hello@casapletorica.com.
Renovated in 2024 for a family of four, this Oxfordshire farm turned family home is a museum of modern design. While some rooms recall the cosy over-stuffed English cottage, others draw inspiration from the sunny Mediterranean coast.
When Spanish influence meets English sensibility
Below, a spacious room with white-washed walls and domed masonry shelves recall the sun-baked homes tucked into the volcanic earth of Lanzarote. Mixing quirky patterns with more sophisticated influences, the room is filled with a medley of furnishings that somehow play well together.
See our traditional Spanish tiles for more. For customizations, please get in touch.
