Tomettes Anciennes: A Value Added for Your Interior
Rediscover the authenticity of old-fashioned tomettes
Visit Antique Reclaimed Terracotta are one of the most emblematic floors in Provencal architecture. Their handcrafted manufacture, original patina and terracotta nuances give each room a unique identity. These hexagonal or square tiles feature natural variations that reinforce their character. In heritage renovations, they restore the soul of the place, while blending perfectly with contemporary interiors in search of authentic materials.
Carefully sorted from recycled materials, tomettes retain their original shades and wear marks, a true testament to ancient floors. Their compatibility with different substrates and their ability to withstand the test of time make them an enduring material. Their presence immediately creates an aesthetic continuity between past and present, enhanced when combined with a natural stone flooring or solid wood flooring.
Technical characteristics of ancient terracotta
The antique terracotta is made from natural clays shaped by hand and fired at low temperatures. This traditional method produces a dense, breathable material. Its micro-porosity ensures excellent hygrometric exchange, contributing to interior comfort, particularly in older buildings. Chromatic variations result from the type of clay, drying time and kiln firing, giving red, orange or sandy hues typical of southern France.
Terracotta also preserves the memory of the tools and gestures used to shape it. These natural imperfections, far from being a defect, are on the contrary sought-after. They allow the floor to come alive. Some restorations incorporate decorative accents thanks to zelligesThis is the perfect way to create subtle contrasts between matte and glazed surfaces.
Formats, layouts and architectural coherence
Tomettes come in a variety of formats: traditional hexagonal, square, or sometimes rectangular depending on the region. The choice of module influences the visual rhythm of the floor and must be consistent with the size of the room, its openings and its orientation. A small-format tomette enhances the intimacy of a kitchen or hallway, while larger modules are ideal for large living areas. Shades can be homogenous or deliberately nuanced to evoke the spirit of antique floors.
For projects seeking contrasts, the junction between tomette and oak parquet creates an interesting dialogue between mineral and wood. This transition requires careful consideration of thresholds and joint alignment. In more traditional projects, terracotta tiles coexist naturally with stone facings or rustic paving.
Substrate preparation and good installation practices
The installation of a old-fashioned tomette requires a clean, stable and perfectly level substrate. Mineral levelling may be necessary to achieve adequate flatness. The choice of mortar must respect the breathable nature of terracotta. Regular laying, with an even bed and constant checking of levels, guarantees a long-lasting finish. Joints play an essential role in the final aesthetic: a fine joint enhances the module, while a more generous joint softens the variations in size characteristic of older pieces.
Preparation also includes sorting the tiles to even out the distribution of shades. Mixing several batches ensures a natural look. Before use, complete drying and initial protection are essential to stabilize the material.
Natural finishes and sustainable maintenance
Tile maintenance is based on simple, non-film-forming solutions. After installation, a linseed oil or natural wax finish nourishes the terracotta without clogging its pores. Routine cleaning is carried out with black soap, which gradually revives the color. For damp rooms, apply a breathable water repellent to limit water penetration while preserving the mineral appearance.
Occasional interventions, such as spot removal or restoration of old tiles, need to be carried out using suitable products. For personalized assistance, you can contact our experts via the page contact.
Reuse, recovery and heritage coherence
The use of recycled materials helps to preserve resources while enhancing the value of materials steeped in history. Each batch of tomettes is selected according to its condition, flatness and chromatic consistency. This approach guarantees aesthetic continuity throughout the entire floor. Some projects combine tomettes with antique parefeuille to create more graphic patterns or visual framing.
The origin, sorting and homogeneity of the series play a major role in the success of a renovation project. Samples are used to check the shade in situ before validation. This attention to heritage consistency is part of the Provence Matériaux Anciens philosophy.
Room-by-room applications and contemporary integration
In kitchens, tomettes offer excellent resistance and thermal inertia. In bathrooms, it is advisable to provide appropriate water-repellent protection and good ventilation. Living rooms benefit fully from the visual warmth of terracotta, especially when combined with a natural stone flooring or antique parquet flooring. Integration into modern architecture is natural: sober lines, clear volumes and raw materials enhance the presence of terracotta tiles.
Transitions between materials must be considered at the design stage, to maintain fluid continuity between spaces.
Français 
English