While all fireplaces have a cozy familiarity and warmth, there's something about a period feature steeped in history. Whether it's a midcentury marble hearth or a Victorian fireplace with ornate molding, a fireplace's appeal lies in its story.
I can name countless fireplaces I have long envied, but when I first laid eyes on the late Diane Keaton's Spanish revival style home with a vibrant hearth at its center, I had never been more convinced of the power of a vintage tile. Adorned with Mexican Talavera tiles, the feature comes alive through color and pattern.
The fireplace isn't short on style or sentiment. Featuring tiles lovingly collected by Diane with the help of interior designer Stephen Shadley, it's a focal point that's remained with me since I first saw it.
Shop the Look
Diane's Spanish-style fireplace features an impressive collection of vibrant Mexican tiles. If you're looking to give your hearth some impact or you want to give another area of your home some character, you can recreate the look with these vintage-inspired tile ideas.
Featuring a vibrant floral design, these Mexican tiles are a classic pattern that will give a backsplash, bathroom floor, or fireplace character and charm.
This artisan-quality planter has an organic shape and feel to add some texture and interest to any fireplace corner, entryway, or patio. Just add your favorite greenery and enjoy the actress-inspired aesthetic.
A classic blue and white floral pattern, this set of Mexican tiles is a timeless choice that will never date. Scatter them on an entryway floor or around your heart for a dose of character.
Perfect for storing cactuses, this terracotta planter is one of the most versatile containers you can choose. It looks perfect by a fireplace while also making a Spanish Revival statement in your entryway, living space, or even on your porch.
Painted with earthy tones, these floral tiles are inspired by antique designs. Delicately illustrated, they'll transform any feature into a focal point steeped in history.
This terracotta option would look right at home in a Spanish Revival home like Diane's. It might be slightly too oversized for a regular fireplace area, but you can still get the look by placing it on the side of your fire or somewhere else in your living room.
Diane's fireplace is undeniably a statement. Woven with primary colors and uniquely ornate patterns, it's a true feast for the eyes. While the Spanish-style architecture of the home edges on the earthy, rustic side, the tiles bring a refreshingly vibrant contrast to the period feature.
Providing visual interest, the tiles draw the eyes to the room's center and encourage you to gaze at its intricate façade. Despite the array of tiles, each one has a unique charm. From bold floral patterns to intricate paisley motifs, they have a distinct power that shines even brighter when paired in a collection.
Dusti Jones, Interior designer at Dusti J Design, explains, 'Mexican Talavera tiles are a deeply historic tile that requires months of creation and testing before it is sold. Tiles have origins in Spain and Puebla, Mexico, but are especially popular in southern states in commercial and residential design. Since these tiles are loud in color and pattern, it is important to consider the areas these tiles will be used to ensure they are in a space where they can sing.'
She adds, 'It is important to designate defined areas to allow the tiles to have a place to show off, like a fireplace surround, a foyer flooring or accent wall, exterior entrance stair toe kicks, the back of an island, wall of a bar, or even a powder bathroom. What creates a masterfully styled space with Mexican Talavera tiles is the balance of color and neutrals. Visual balance is essential to consider in the area where the vibrant tile lives, by creating a backdrop of calmness through simplicity and quiet surroundings. It would be very easy for these tiles to make a space feel busy and overwhelmed with pattern and color, but focusing on a complimentary neutral and limiting the surrounding palette to two, possibly three colors, will help make the home feel cohesive and considered.'
Balanced by rustic pots (like this Terracotta 'Indian Pot' by Bauer Pottery from 1st Dibs), the living room's transitional feel is evident. The space is sympathetic to the rustic architecture, but features new elements, exuding homely charm while still feeling quietly elevated.
Diane's fireplace will forever live in my mind. Adorned with one-of-a-kind Mexican tiles lovingly collected by Diana and Stephen, it's a lesson in fusing style with story.
