Tiles

Encaustic tiles, where the colour is not in the glaze but right through the tile, were widely used for paths, verandahs and floor surfaces. They were generally produced in earth colours and laid in geometric patterns, and are very hard wearing. Exterior glazed tiles were used on walls in entranceways and as decorative panels, often painted to form complete naturalistic scenes. They were also sometimes used on the risers of steps leading to entrances, and where there are many steps the effect can be showy indeed. Internally they were used in fireplace floors and surrounds as fireproof decoration. Their use in kitchens and bathrooms begins during this period.