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Decoration

Terracotta: 23 projects reference nature with the color

Discover how terracotta in decoration transforms spaces with its warmth and natural touch

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Apr 12, 2025, 8:28 AM

10 min de leitura
Toca Arquitetura - Estúdio Elã. Project of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2019.

Toca Arquitetura - Estúdio Elã. Project of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2019. (André Nazareth)

The terracotta, with its warm and welcoming tone, has been establishing itself as a strong trend in decoration. This color, which reminds us of the warmth of the earth and natural beauties, offers endless possibilities for application inside the home. From objects to coverings, terracotta touches the senses and adapts easily to different decorative styles.

What is the terracotta color and how to use it


The origin of the word terracotta refers directly to burnt earth, symbolizing its natural and warm hue. Composed of nuances between orange, red, and brown, the terracotta color adds depth and sophistication to any projects. Incorporating terracotta into the decoration can be an effective way to introduce a touch of coziness without losing modernity. Janaína Peserico – Casa Mó, projeto da CASACOR Mato Grosso do Sul 2021. One of the most popular ways to implement this color is through walls. Painting a single wall with terracotta can create an interesting focal point and add dynamism to the space. Moreover, this hue easily harmonizes with neutral colors like white, beige, and gray, providing a perfect and balanced feel without excess.
Black and terracotta mark the décor of this 110 m² male apartment. Design by Up3 Architecture. In the photo, living room with terracotta sofa, black bookshelf, and cement-like finish.

(Denilson Machado, do MCA Estudio/CASACOR)

Another way to adopt terracotta in the decoration is through furniture and accessories. Armchairs, cushions, rugs, and even works of art in this hue help create a inviting and soft atmosphere. In the kitchen, utensils and dishes in earthy tones can bring a sense of elegant and timeless rusticity. For those who wish to be a bit bolder, tiles and coverings in terracotta offer an irresistible natural appeal, especially on balconies, kitchens, and outdoor areas.

Projects where it works best


Wallpaper with an aged gradient effect is the highlight of this apartment. Project by Manoela Fleck. In the photo, living room with terracotta sofa, bench, and vase.

Projeto de Manoela Fleck. (Raiana Medina/CASACOR)

The versatility of the terracotta color in decoration allows its application in various types of projects, transforming everything from living rooms to intimate bedrooms with its warm touch. In living rooms, terracotta provides a cozy space, ideal for hosting visitors comfortably. Use the color on walls or in furniture like sofas and chairs, which become highlighted when mixed with neutral tones and natural materials like wood and natural fibers.
BC Arquitetos - Casa Magenta LG. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2023. In the picture, black bathtub, terracotta wall, and curtain.

BC Arquitetos - Casa Magenta LG. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2023. (MCA Estudio/CASACOR)

In the bedrooms, terracotta in bedding and curtains creates a relaxing refuge and fits perfectly into different styles, whether rustic or contemporary. In bathrooms, small details like vases or towels in terracotta renew the projects with little effort. Considering outdoor areas, this hue harmoniously integrates with the green of plants, creating an interesting contrast that refers to nature. Vases, sculptures, and even benches in terracotta stand out in gardens and balconies, providing a rich and stimulating visual experience.

Materials and textures that match


Romina Passos and Fabricia Nunes - Crafts Gallery. CASACOR Espírito Santo 2023 project.

Romina Passos e Fabricia Nunes - Galeria do Artesanato. Projeto da CASACOR Espírito Santo 2023. (Caio César/CASACOR)

Natural materials are excellent allies of terracotta in decoration. Wood, stone, and natural fabrics like linen and cotton enrich the visual and add authenticity to the projects. Mixing different textures with terracotta offers a visual complexity that elevates the design of the space. The rough touch of a brick covering or the softness of a linen rug contrasts perfectly with terracotta color, inviting the senses to a unique experience.
Gabriel Rosa - Sacred Earth Lavabo. CASACOR São Paulo 2024 Project. Gabriel Rosa - Sacred Earth Lavabo. In his debut at CASACOR, the architect was inspired by the tradition and spirituality of the Himba – inhabitants of northern Namibia and the last semi-nomadic people of Africa, they are deeply connected to the territory and their cultural references. Textures, earthy colors, handmade ceramics, geometric patterns, and natural materials orchestrate a sensory experience and bring the 27 m² lavabo closer to this culture that reveres ancestors, gratitude, and nature.

Gabriel Rosa - Lavabo Terra Sagrada. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2024. Gabriel Rosa - Lavabo Terra Sagrada. Em sua estreia na CASACOR, o arquiteto se inspirou na tradição e na espiritualidade dos himbas – habitantes do norte da Namíbia e último povo seminômade da África, eles são profundamente conectados com o território e suas referências culturais. Texturas, cores terrosas, cerâmicas artesanais, padrões geométricos e materiais naturais orquestram uma experiência sensorial e aproximam o lavabo de 27 m² dessa cultura que reverencia os antepassados, a gratidão e a natureza. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

For more sophisticated and avant-garde compositions, metals like copper and brass add a modern shine to the earthy warmth of terracotta. In outdoor projects, porous and rustic materials like ceramics and clay organically become part of the landscape. Knit or crochet fabrics in shades close to terracotta offer warm and personal touches. This combination of materials enriches the decoration and provides a kaleidoscope of sensations that harmonizes with the natural beauty of terracotta.

Inspiration with terracotta ceramics


The terracotta ceramics are a popular choice for those looking to incorporate this color in a practical and effective way. Rediscovered as a trend, terracotta ceramics are appreciated for their rustic beauty and their ability to warm the projects. Pots, plates, and vases in terracotta ceramics stand out in the kitchen and living room, functioning as both utilitarian and decorative objects.
Gabriel Fernandes - Casa Veredas Simonetto. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2024.

Gabriel Fernandes - Casa Veredas Simonetto. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2024. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

Using a terracotta ceramic in coverings, such as floors and walls, guarantees an impactful and lasting look, giving personality to the projects. The durability and resistance of ceramics make this material a smart and sustainable choice for those seeking beauty and functionality. Moreover, more artistic pieces, such as sculptures and decorative works, add a personalized touch and enhance the spaces.
Studio Lapinha Ada Penna Júlia Temponi Gabriela Melo Mariana Calixto Free Plan CASACOR Minas Gerais 2021 modular construction container garden decoration

Estúdio Lapinha. Ada Penna, Júlia Temponi, Gabriela Melo e Mariana Calixto - CASACOR Minas Gerais 2021 (Henrique Queiroga/CASACOR)

Regardless of the style or size of the project, terracotta in decoration stands out as a timeless trend that values the naturalness and comfort of the spaces. With its multifaceted applications, it transforms any project into a unique and inspiring space, attuned to the contemporary yearnings for integration with nature and visual hospitality. Discover the transformative power of terracotta and explore the endless possibilities that this color can provide to your home in the gallery below: [gallery-abril id="192433" type="slider" showtitle="undefined" data-restrict="false"] CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.