Arabesque Cement Tile Pattern Repertoire Grows

By Bill Buyok, Avente Tile

For January, I continue to welcome 2015 with our newest tiles. Today I showcase three new patterns in our ever-popular Arabesque cement tile line which is part of our curated Spanish tiles honoring traditional tile-making techniques, patterns, and colors.

What I like about the first two lines is you'll find both a large format appropriate for floors or large walls, as well as a smaller, mini-format that scales down well for a backsplash, small entry or hearth. These two new patterns are called Varona and Villatoro. Their names pay homage to Medieval Spanish castles. Can't you just imagine kneeling down in front of Queen Isabella on one of these patterns?

Varona is a new Arabesque pattern. Shown here in Normandy Cream.

Villatoro in Tuscan Mustard with a textured, limestone finish.

These scaled line drawings show the full-size Villatoro compared to the mini.

Villatoro Mini pattern uses 5"x8" and 5"x7" pieces

Villatoro pattern uses 7"x11" and 7"x10" pieces

Finally, the last new Arabesque pattern is Zafra. This large format measures nominally 8"x10" and is ideal for adding pattern to a master bath, larger powder room or living room floor.

Zafra is a new Arabesque pattern, shown here in Charcoal Gray

Quick Reference to Spanish Arabesque Tiles

The Arabesque collection pays homage to a deeply rooted and rich heritage of traditional Moorish and Spanish tiles that feature interlaced geometric patterns. With their nuanced curves and unusual geometric shapes, these Spanish tiles are sophisticated and charming. Choose from traditional bisque colors to create Old World charm, or use a contemporary shade such as off-white and grey. Spanish Arabesque Pavers are made to order and hand-crafted from cement in the USA. To start, select a shape, then choose a color from the Paver Color Palette. Blends and textures are also available.

Our Rustic Pavers are a unique line of Spanish floor tiles that can also be used on the wall. Look to our Rustic Paver collection if you desire square and rectangular formats (from 2"x2" to 16"x16") with a rustic feel. Not all tiles will be the exact same shape, as color variation is part of this collection's allure. Exquisitely designed and manufactured in the USA, Avente's made-to-order Spanish Pavers are hand-crafted using cement.

These Spanish Floor Tiles in classic shapes create a rustic look similar to what you'd find in traditional clay bisque tiles and pavers from Spain and Mexico. Once you've selected the size, then choose a color from the Paver Color Palette that offers classic clay bisque colors, as well as softer, contemporary shades. Blends and textures are also available.

New Arabesque Pattern Designs in Cement Tile

                                                — Written by Bill Buyok, Avente Tile

As we explore pattern and tile design this month on Tile Talk, I’d like to start by introducing some of our newest Arabesque cement tile patterns. Arabesque is a unique line of Spanish floor tiles or pavers that can also be used on walls, too! The collection pays homage to a deeply rooted, rich heritage of traditional Moorish and Spanish tiles that feature interlaced geometric patterns.

Malaga Spanish Paver in Charley Brown

Patterns are decorative designs on the surface of materials that usually have a repeating design motif. When you see pattern from afar, the motifs become so small that you no longer see them as single elements; rather, you perceive them as texture. Take a look at this pattern. Can you see texture? This is an example of "visual texture." It refers to an implied sense of texture or depth created through the use of artistic elements of line, shading and color.

Medina Spanish Paver in Assorted Grays

Patterns can also utilize a non-repeating design motif, as seen below. Although the shape repeats, the random color of this Saltillo-looking color makes the pattern very playful, sophisticated, and fun!

Safi Arabesque Spanish Paver in Artillo

While pattern refers to recurring visual events or motifs, they can exhibit visual texture, as well as true texture. Texture refers to the tactile quality of the surface - what you feel when you touch the tile. One of my favorite colors, Normandy Cream, uses a variety of texture and hue to create an antique look.

Arabesque Tangier Pattern in Normandy Cream

I hope you have enjoyed a quick look at some of our newest Arabesque Cement Tile Patterns, and how they can play with patterns while introducing texture.

Arabesque Paver Tiles are Different

Our Arabesque Paver Tiles differ from traditional cement tile. They are made with a soft mold. Traditional patterned cement tiles are made the old way with a steel mold and the color layer is only in the top 1/8" of the tile, whereas Arabesque Paver Tiles have true through-body color.

The texture, feel and style of the tiles is also very different, including the color. While both tiles are handmade and will have some variation, classic cement tiles have a more traditional, slightly formal, sophisticated look that works well for creating a multi-color pattern using the face of the tile. The cement Arabesque Pavers have a rustic feel with a softer defining edge, and have only one color throughout each tile.

With so many sizes, shapes, and colors to choose from, this is one tile you can't get enough of! Handmade rustic cement tiles can be used on floors, walls and both interior and exterior locations - even those subjected to freeze/thaw cycles.

Benefits of Arabesque Cement Tile

1. Handmade appearance for a rustic look.
2. True "through body" color. You can't scratch, cut or remove the surface color layer.
3. Rated for freeze/thaw cycles.

How to Buy Arabesque Pavers

Follow these easy steps to make sure you find the right tile for you!

1. Pick a color. With over 50 different color and blends, it's easy to find a color that works with your design scheme. Choose from our Classic, Premium, or Signature colors and blends. Make sure to use the Paver Palette Colors.
2. Add texture, if you want. Tiles comes with a standard smooth finish; but, additional textures are available to create a weathered, antiqued patina. Textures are listed below the Paver Palette Colors.
3. Find a format and size. You'll find prices, sizes, shapes and colors for our Arabesque Cement Tile! We have octagons, hexagons, pickets and more! Looking for shapes that are rectilinear? No problem! Square and rectangle formats are available from 2" to 14". You'll find prices, sizes, shapes and colors in our Rustic Paver Price List.

Alluring Arabesque Spanish Cement Tiles

With their Moorish and Spanish influences, Arabesque designs and patterns have remained timeless and always in fashion (think Boho chic and the California missions). The same philosophy also applies to the time-tested look and durability of handmade cement tiles, in this case, Arabesque cement tiles.

The geometrically inclined Arabesque pattern, part of Avente Tile’s extensive cement tile collection, pays homage to the rich look of classic clay bisque tiles that have been used throughout Spain, the Mediterranean, and northern Africa for centuries. With Arabesque, homeowners, designers, architects and specifiers have the distinct advantage of a broader color palette, coupled with a variety of sizes and shapes that are adaptable to any décor and environment.

Arabesque Spanish Cement Tiles are available in 30 colors and two blends. The colors are available in two styles: solid or flash. The Rustic Spanish Paver color palette includes classic bisque colors in terracotta, red and brown that provides traditional style. The Classic style takes its cue from clay bisque that would be historically used to make Saltillo tile, brown Spanish pavers, and red clay tiles. For a more contemporary look, you can choose from Avente’s extensive collection of 24 colors with the Premium color palette, which includes subtle greys, green, plum, rust and tan.

In addition to their flexibility to adapt to any design need, Avente Tile’s Arabesque Spanish Cement Tiles are also good for the environment. How, you may ask?

• Manufactured in the USA. 
• Made using a high percentage of locally sourced materials. 
• Cement used for producing these tiles is supplied by an Energy Star Certified factory.

Handmade Arabesque Cement Pattern Details

In 2012, when Avente first introduced its Arabesque cement tile line, the made-to-order collection featured eight patterns. Now, with seven new patterns, the handmade collection boasts 15 rustic Spanish tile patterns. Let’s look at these additions.

Arabesque Conche Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

The Conche Spanish tile pattern is reminiscent of fluidity and movement.

Arabesque Durango Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

The Durango pattern, with its crescent-shaped indent, boasts its Moorish tile background.

Arabesque Hexagon Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

The handmade Hexagon series offers flexibility with its classic geometric beauty.

Arabesque Octagon and Dot Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

The conforming, yet non-pretentious Octagon and Dot Arabesque tile pattern. 

Arabesque Pata Grande Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

With its flirty convex shape, Pata Grande is adaptable to any Spanish tile design or concept.

Arabesque Pickets Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

It's easy to see why the Pickets cement tile series is popular with its various sizes and formats.

Arabesque San Felipe Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile

San Felipe touts the curves and angles synonymous with Arabesque tile patterns.

It's hard to resist the rich history and traditional patterns of these handmade creations!

Lastly, although the Arabesque Spanish Paver Handmade Cement Tile collection is rated for freeze/thaw cycles, Avente Tile offers extensive insight and information on the installation, sealing and maintenance of these tiles. If you have any questions, they are always more than happy to help!

- Written by Arpi Nalbandian, Tileometry

Create a Spanish Tile Design with Rustic Pavers

A beautiful floor tile design really makes a tremendous statement in your room. There is so much more to a floor than the tile itself. The pattern or layout of the floor tiles along with the accent tile will change both the look and the feel. It’s definitely a case where the sum is greater than the parts.

The Spanish Floor tile are placed On Point to make this hall seem grand.

I’ll share some inspiring floor tile designs that will help you plan your own project. Learn how to use traditional patterns and designs to create your own unique floor tile layout. Don’t be afraid to get creative – I recommend getting several square feet of the tiles that interest you. Try different tile formats and/or shapes in various layouts. Add smaller dot or accent tiles for color and texture. The tile layouts in today's post are primarily used for tile with rectangular or square shapes. If you are thinking about using arabesque patterns or other shapes like a hexagon or octagon, then stay tuned. We'll discuss those tile layouts in an upcoming post.

Tips for Floor Tile Design

Before you select your tile, think about how you might like to lay it out. Choose a tile that is available in many different shapes to give you the most flexibility. Our Rustic Paver formats are available in these shapes and are made to order.

Rustic Cement Tile Paver Formats and Sizes

Choosing a floor tile can be intimidating because the choices are expansive. Focus only on the room (patio, bathroom, kitchen, and sun room) where the tile is being installed. Follow these steps, and deliberately choose:

• Tiles appropriate for the application or use (residential floor, swimming pool sideboard).
• A theme for the room (such as, mid-century modern, Spanish Revival, or seashells for the bathroom, chickens for the kitchen).
• A color scheme. Focus on a main color and one or two accent colors.
• Design elements that support or work with your theme and color choices (crackle tiles for a rustic look, hand-painted tiles for a Spanish home, blue pool tiles).
• A floor tile layout. Start with a look or pattern you like from those below, or you can view even more Tile Paver Patterns online.
  

Common Floor Tile Design Layouts

Grid or Straight lay. This straight-forward tile showcases the beauty of the tile.

12"x12" Rustic Pavers (Hermosa Blend) on a Straight Lay or Grid.

Brick, Running Bond or Offset. Tiles are offset by half the width of the tile. Works with rectangular and square formats. This is a nice way to blend tiles of different color.

Rustic Spanish Pavers (Cotto Dark) in a Running Bond Layout

Diagonal or On Point. Tiles are set at a 45-degree angle to the room walls. This layout will generally give the room a larger feel.  Mix with a grid layout to provide interest between rooms or transitions where the same color tile is being used.

Heritage Cement Tiles (Fire Brick Red 8"x 8") Placed On Point.

Checkerboard. Tiles in two alternating colors are placed straight or on point. Traditionally done with black and white or other high contrast colors.

Checkerboard  Layouts Use Tiles in Two Alternating Colors.

On Point with Dots. Field tiles are notched for small dot tiles. The dots are accent tiles that can be placed on a regular pattern or randomly.

Spanish Floor Tile On Point with Accent Dots

Spanish Tile Dot with On Point Paver Layout

Hopskotch or Pinwheel. A small square tile is surrounded by four larger ones on each side. Only specific ratios of tile will for this layout Works well for plain tile or incorporating decorative tiles with an accent.

A Pinwheel Layout Using Spanish Tile as Accents.

Create your Design with Rustic Pavers

Our Rustic Cement Paver Tiles are the perfect choice if you want to create a stunning floor design using patterns. You’ll find both Classic and Premium colors. Classic color pavers have the same appearance as clay bisque tiles and offer the look and feel of tile floors found in Mediterranean climates. Premium Color pavers include both bisque and more contemporary colors.

• Chose a color from the Paver Color Palette
• Choose a shape or format. Our Rustic Pavers are available in the formats shown above.
• Choose a Tile Paver Pattern
• Choose an accent tiles. Our Malibu, Spanish, Portuguese or Barcelona lines are great choice.

Start designing a rustic paver layout today to create a unique and stunning floor. Click the link below to view our catalog of Rustic Paver colors, formats, and options, or call us at 888.739.4972 (Toll Free). We are open 9 AM - 5 PM PST, Monday through Friday.

Arabesque & Spanish Cement Tile Designs to Love

Together with Arabesque Spanish floor tiles, our hand-painted La Merced ceramic tiles (from our Barcelona collection) reveal a warm and friendly surrounding.

Avente Tile is happy to announce that our extensive collection of line of Arabesque Spanish Cement floor tiles and pavers have been expanded to include several new patterns. With these additional options, the classic time-tested look, durability and craftsmanship of these traditional handmade cement tiles is sure to flawlessly adapt to any décor and environment.

By using our Arabesque Spanish Cement Tile in your next project, you'll feel good knowing your choice is also good for the environment. Manufactured in the USA, this collection is made using a high percentage of locally sourced materials, minimizing transportation impact. Moreover, the cement used for producing these tiles is supplied by an Energy Star Certified factory.

All tiles within this collection, which pay faithful homage to a deeply rooted and rich heritage of traditional Moorish and Spanish tiles, measure 3/4"-thick in nominal thickness. Available in traditional colors as well as softer, contemporary shades, Arabesque Spanish Cement Tiles are sure to enhance any setting where they are used.

Our commitment to you is the continued quest for excellence. So, how can we help you with your cement tile needs today?

Featured Cement Tile

Conche	Durango
Hexagon	Octagon and Dot
Pata Grande	Pickets
San Felipe

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Pinterest: Leaves of Change

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." — John F. Kennedy

With Autumn in full swing, our Pinboard selections for this month reflect upon both the seasonal change, and the room in our homes that will garner the most use and attention, .the kitchen! With Thanksgiving just around the corner, and all the wonderfully delicious cooking this holiday entails, we thought we should pay homage to this high-traffic area where your guests will undoubtedly love to chat, eat, or lend a hand!

As the warm breezes transform into bone-chilling winds, rain and snow, you can hold onto the warm feelings this season emotes with our Leaf Imprint Ceramic Tiles or with our various collections of handmade cement tiles, such as Classic Cluny, Classic Chantilly A, or our Mission Trebol B.

From all of us at Avente Tile, we wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Inspired? Then visit our pages on houzz.com, our boards on Pinterest, and browse through dozens of our Ceramic Tile Design Ideas portfolio page where you can find a large collection of projects showcasing our handmade and hand-painted ceramic tile, cement tile, decorative tile, mosaic tile, and so much more. Let us know how we at Avente Tile can assist you!

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Fall for our new Cement Tile Colorways

Fall in love with our latest cement tile colorways! Stocked in limited quantities with just enough for that residential project you want completed before the holidays! For contemporary installations, consider our Hex pattern with its classic Escher pattern and colors. For a traditional style, lay medallions of Bruselas in a field of plain tiles. Bright, but muted, our cheery Neiba is both tropical and cool. Whatever your taste, these colorways provide fresh ideas to our favorite, old friend, cement tile.

Bruselas 8x8 Cement Tile In Stock! 78 Pieces	Neiba A 8x8 Cement Tile In Stock! 171 Pieces
Hexagon 7x7 Hex Cement Tile In Stock! 185 Pieces	Romana 4x4 4x4 Cement Tile Made to Order

Need cement tile fast? Check out our In Stock Cement Tile or call to see how we can help.

Tiles with a Classic Spanish Touch

New Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tiles Offer Classic Spanish Touch

Similar in their hand-crafted workmanship to our line of Arabesque Spanish Cement Tile, our Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tile collection pays homage to its Moorish and Spanish tile roots with deep, rich colors and intriguing geometric shapes. The clay Arabesque tiles pictured above are from Aljafería Palace, a fortified medieval Islamic palace built during the 11th century in Zaragoza, Spain. As you can see, hand-crafted clay bisque tiles are truly timeless elements.

Further adding to its inherit rustic appeal is the fact that our decorative, hand-painted Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tile is produced using a classic extruded red clay body. Using this method of production only enhances this collection.s appeal.

Manufactured in the USA, these high-fired classic terracotta tiles offer unsurpassed flexibility as they can be customized for any décor need with traditional unglazed bisque colors, glazed bisque colors, glazed blends, and more than 50 studio glazes.

Clay Arabesque Tile: Alcazar	Clay Arabesque Tile: Aragon	Clay Arabesque Tile: Leon
Clay Arabesque Tile: Mudejar	Clay Arabesque Tile: Sintra	Clay Arabesque Tile: Zaragoza

From contemporary to rustic, our Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tile collection is sure to fit any need in any setting whether it.s for walls or floors, indoors or outdoors. There are 6 designs within this collection. Our online product catalog details the available styles, tile sizes, shapes, formats, color, and price for each design. Remember, each piece is handcrafted, therefore, please expect to receive them within 4 to 6 weeks from the time your order is placed.

Lastly, by using our Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tile in your next design project, you'll feel good knowing your choice is also good for the environment. Along with being made in the USA, this collection is made using clay sourced from California and includes 33% recycled post-industrial content.

Our Ceramic Tile FAQs section should help answer any questions you may have. If not, please feel free to call our office at 888.739.4972.

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Project Pick: Cadiz Tiles Add Warmth to Maine Coastal Kitchen

Spanish ceramic tile conveys warmth and instills Old World ambiance in any environment. With centuries-old tile designs, our versatile Spanish ceramic tile collection includes borders, corners, large decorative tiles and accent dots.

It.s because of its inherit versatility and stunning colors that homeowners Buck and Marsea Ryan chose our hand-painted 6"x6" Cadiz Spanish Ceramic Tile series for their kitchen backsplash.

The Ryans, who live by the Maine coast near Acadia National Park, chose the vibrancy of Cadiz to add much-needed focal points to the white tile backsplashes behind their oven and kitchen sink. We think the unexpected pops of color and patterns have added interest and energy to these spaces!

You can read the complete story about this project on our Avente Tile Talk Blog.

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Pinterest: Celebrating Spring

"He who does not travel does not know the value of men." --. Moorish proverb

Spring is definitely in full-swing with an energy like no other season. For this month.s Pinterest focus we chose our boards that focus on the color orange for vivid exuberance, and of course Spain for highlighting the unveiling of our new Clay Arabesque Ceramic Tile colelction.

With that energy comes the overwhelming urge to remove the layers of wear and tear that have compiled over the years.
It.s time to take on a project that has been set aside for years. Now is the time for renewing not only your home and living areas, but also a time to renew one.s appreciation for the little things.

Whether you embark on a small or large project, Avente Tile is here to help you any design goal, and for any budget. Our extensive Design Ideas gallery features a large collection of projects that incorporate our handmade and hand-painted ceramic tile, cement tile, decorative tile, mosaic tile, and so much more. So, how can we help you?