Star and Cross Tiles: Design Your Dream Home with Timeless Cement Patterns
If you’re just beginning your journey into interior design or looking to remodel with lasting charm, star and cross tiles may be your new favorite discovery. Their geometric elegance and old-world roots offer more than just beauty—they introduce a timeless, architectural quality to any space. When crafted in cement, these tiles become a perfect harmony of durability and artistry.
Whether you’re renovating a kitchen, styling a bathroom, or laying a statement patio, star and cross tiles offer sophistication and longevity. In this guide, we’ll show you how to use these stunning tiles throughout your home, why cement tiles stand above the rest, and where to buy artisan-quality star and cross tiles online.
What Are Cement Tiles?
Cement tiles—also called encaustic tiles—are handmade using a mixture of cement, sand, marble dust, and mineral-based pigments. Unlike ceramic or porcelain tiles, the color isn’t glazed on but embedded in the surface, resulting in rich, lasting designs.
Key Features of Cement Tiles:
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Handcrafted for individuality and depth
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Matte finishes that soften room lighting
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Customizable patterns, including fish scale, star and cross, and Moroccan styles
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Long-lasting durability with proper sealing
Studio Cement Tile offers a wide selection of in-stock, ready-to-ship artisan tiles perfect for new builds or remodeling.
Why Star and Cross Tiles Are a Designer Favorite
Rooted in centuries-old Moorish and Mediterranean architecture, star and cross tiles are uniquely shaped to interlock—creating intricate, repeating patterns that evoke timeless design. Today, they’ve made a strong comeback in high-end residential and commercial interiors.
Here’s why designers love them:
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Architectural impact: No tile layout feels more structured and refined
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Endless color combinations: Contrast dark stars with light crosses for a dramatic look
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Versatility: Use them on floors, walls, kitchen backsplashes, and even patios
They blend seamlessly with both classic and contemporary themes, making them ideal for rustic houses, cozy farmhouses, or modern ranch homes.
Cement Tiles vs. Other Tile Options
When it comes to selecting the right tile for your project, it’s essential to understand the differences:
| Tile Type | Look & Feel | Ideal Uses | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cement Tiles | Matte, artisanal | Floors, walls, patios | Durable, eco-friendly | Needs sealing |
| Subway Tiles | Smooth, glossy | Kitchens, bathrooms | Affordable, classic | Lacks texture |
| Brick Tiles | Rustic, uneven texture | Accent walls, fireplaces | Rustic charm | Not ideal for wet areas |
| Porcelain Tiles | Glossy, uniform | High-moisture areas | Water-resistant | Less design variety |
Verdict: For homes seeking lasting style and warmth, cement tiles—especially in star and cross designs—offer the best of both worlds.
Where to Use Star and Cross Tiles in Your Home
Kitchen Tiles
Use star and cross tiles for:
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A backsplash that adds bold geometry
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Flooring that ties modern cabinetry to a vintage layout
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An island surround for a designer-grade finish
Bathroom Tiles
In bathrooms, these tiles transform:
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Shower walls into artwork
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Small powder rooms into elegant escapes
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Vanity backsplashes with personality
Living Room Tiles
Apply them to:
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Fireplace surrounds
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Accent walls or tile “rugs”
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Flooring paired with neutral furnishings
Patio & Outdoor Use
Star and cross cement tiles are excellent outdoors when sealed:
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For Mediterranean-style patios
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As outdoor kitchen flooring
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Around pools or fountains for visual drama
Interior Styles That Pair Perfectly with Star and Cross Tiles
| Style | Tile Colors & Patterns |
|---|---|
| Farmhouse | White crosses with muted blue or terracotta stars |
| Ranch House | Charcoal and taupe mix for earthy sophistication |
| Modern House | Black-and-white minimalism with graphic contrast |
| Cozy House | Soft pastels for warmth and comfort |
| Rustic House | Warm reds, ochres, and sand-tones |
These tiles offer enough flexibility to lean vintage or modern depending on your color choices.
Cement Tiles for Renovation vs. New Construction
Whether you’re restoring an old home or designing a brand-new space, cement tiles fit in seamlessly.
In Renovations:
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Easily upgrade older surfaces with custom patterns
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Add visual weight to smaller rooms
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Increase resale value
In New Construction:
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Set a consistent tile pattern and style throughout
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Work them into flooring plans early for best layout integration
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Avoid long lead times with Studio Cement Tile’s in-stock inventory
Handmade vs. Machine-Made Tiles
Handmade tiles offer:
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Slight variations for depth and authenticity
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Artisanal beauty that mass-produced tiles lack
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Cultural and historical resonance
At Studio Cement Tile, each piece is crafted by skilled artisans, especially our star and cross collections, ensuring top-tier quality and design consistency.
Choosing the Right Tile Pattern, Color & Layout
When working with star and cross tiles:
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Contrast the two shapes for impact (dark star, light cross)
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Use monochrome for modern looks
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Consider border tiles or trim to frame your layout
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Try them in open floor plans to define space naturally
Need inspiration? Browse Studio Cement Tile’s collection of star and cross layouts and color palettes.
Cement Tile FAQs
Is cement tile expensive?
Cement tiles cost more than ceramic initially but offer superior longevity, craftsmanship, and resale value.
What is tile cement called?
It’s typically known as thinset mortar, used to bond cement tiles to surfaces.
Do cement tiles need to be sealed?
Yes, sealing is crucial for water resistance and stain protection.
What is the difference between ceramic and cement tiles?
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Ceramic = glazed, printed surface
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Cement = hand-pigmented, matte surface with thicker structure
Can you use cement tile in a shower?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s properly sealed and cleaned regularly.
What are the benefits of cement tiles?
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Highly durable
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Custom patterns and styles
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Sustainable materials
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Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Where are cement tiles used?
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Kitchens, bathrooms, living rooms, patios, restaurants, hotels—virtually anywhere!
What is the difference between tile cement and normal cement?
Tile cement (thinset) is a special adhesive designed for bonding tiles. Normal cement is more structural.
Is tile cement the same as grout?
No. Tile cement adheres tiles, while grout fills gaps between them.
Is cement the same as ceramic?
No. Cement is a poured, pigmented material; ceramic is clay-based and kiln-fired.
Is concrete tile the same as cement tile?
Yes, the terms are often used interchangeably.
Where to use cement?
Use it in wet areas, flooring, backsplashes, accent walls, and outdoor environments.
The Pros and Cons of Cement Tiles
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Long lifespan (50+ years) | Requires sealing |
| Handcrafted and customizable | Slightly heavier than ceramic |
| Eco-friendly materials | Initial cost is higher |
| Matte finish = slip-resistant | Not ideal for DIY beginners |
| Versatile for any room or style | Sealing needs maintenance |
Why Choose Studio Cement Tile for Star and Cross Tiles
Studio Cement Tile offers:
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Hundreds of star and cross tile options
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Competitive prices with in-stock availability
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Handmade artisan quality
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Ideal for homeowners, designers, and contractors
👉 Browse star and cross designs now at www.studiocementtile.com
Designer + Architect Testimonials
“We specify Studio Cement Tile in most of our rustic and modern farmhouse builds. Their star and cross tile line is unmatched.”
— Liam B., Architect
“Our clients love the handmade charm of these tiles. The geometric design always sparks conversation.”
— Sophie R., Interior Designer
Conclusion: Let Star and Cross Tiles Lead Your Home Design Journey
Timeless, bold, and versatile—star and cross tiles made from cement deliver everything you want in a statement piece for your home. Whether you’re planning a total renovation or starting from the ground up, these tiles bring elegance, durability, and artisan craftsmanship into every room.
Explore star and cross patterns, pick your palette, and bring your dream space to life today.
👉 Start at www.studiocementtile.com
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