
In a recent episode of Fixer Upper: Welcome Home, interiors expert Joanna Gaines championed matte black terracotta tiles in the bathroom. Husband Chip couldn’t get on board with her controversial bathroom tile tip, but Joanna's bathroom idea went down brilliantly with their client.
In the second episode of the latest series, titled ‘Planting Roots in Waco’, the pair renovate the bathroom of their colleague John’s home. They opt for a sleek and versatile monochrome scheme for his bachelor pad.
There are white marble, hexagonal bathroom floor tiles, and the much-debated terracotta tiles painted matte black on the walls. These are laid directly above one another, in railroad style-columns, and cover almost every wall.
While laying the tiles, Chip complained about how expensive they were, arguing that they’re not that different from much cheaper subway tiles. ‘There’s no logical explanation behind buying tile that’s terracotta, that’s been painted matte black,’ he complains. However, Jo, who of course knows exactly what she’s doing, explains the many benefits of painted terracotta.
‘What you see in terracotta, that you don’t in subway, is subtle movement,’ Jo begins. ‘There is a texture difference, there is a finish difference’ and a ‘little bit of an irregularity that you can’t get with porcelain.’ That’s why in her eyes, it’s absolutely worth the extra money.
What’s more, the choice of pricey tiles perfectly matched John’s vision for his bathroom. When he saw the end result he admitted that he hadn’t been ambitious enough to ask for black terracotta, but that he absolutely loved it. ‘This is amazing, I can’t get over this,’ he says as he checks out the walls.
At Real Homes, we’re definitely going to side with Jo on this one, as the finished bathroom is just stunning. The black and white tiles inject personality while not overwhelming the space, and we think having the tiles run from floor to ceiling creates a real sense of luxury. It was a fairly dark space anyway, so embracing the darkness of the room makes a real impact.
Join our newsletter
Get small space home decor ideas, celeb inspiration, DIY tips and more, straight to your inbox!
What do you think? Too extravagant or inspired?
Millie joined Real Homes in early 2021 as a homes news writer. When she isn't writing about trends, makeovers and houseplant care, she spends her free time making tweaks to her rented flat in North London. Her next project is a very basic armchair reupholstering job to help create a cosy reading nook in her living room. She loves browsing antique centres, tending to her small front garden, and is never without some fresh flowers at home.
-
Amanda Seyfried's granny square blanket is everything we want this winter — here's how to style the cozy, retro look
Amanda Seyfried's granny square blanket, a DIY project, is cozy perfection. Here's how to style the retro look in your home
By Danielle Valente Published
-
8 of the best small bathroom shower curtain ideas
Discover these small bathroom shower curtain ideas to inject style and personality into your space. Everything from vibrant patterns to neutrals.
By Megan Murray Published
-
The Paris Hilton kitchen set is pink perfection — and so 'hot'
Have a look at our edit of the Paris Hilton kitchen set and other accessories from her Be an Icon line
By Danielle Valente Published
-
I'm obsessed with the Rare Beauty office — here’s how to copy Selena Gomez's office style while you WFH
Selena Gomez's Rare Beauty office is the stuff of dreams. Its feminine and chic aesthetic is envy-worthy, so we asked designers how to recreate the look.
By Danielle Valente Published
-
The Hello Klean showerhead made those bumps on my skin disappear — it currently has 30% off
See how the Hello Klean showerhead has transformed my hair and skin. Having initially been a bit skeptical of ads on Instagram, I can vouch for this eco-friendly accessory.
By Christina Chrysostomou Published
-
You won't believe this stunning five-bed family home used to be a tiny two-bed
Katie and Stuart went big with a double-story extension to create a dream space for themselves and their daughters
By Ifeoluwa Adedeji Published
-
The freestanding bath in this dreamy bedroom is sheer five-star luxury
Emma and Martin wanted a suite just like in an upscale hotel — mission totally accomplished.
By Ellen Finch Published
-
7 small bathroom vanity ideas to copy if you can't splash the cash
We curated seven small bathroom vanity ideas that are worth copying to keep cosmetics and your bank balance in check
By Christina Chrysostomou Published