Trendy terracotta treats

Terracotta dates back to the 14th century. Since then, it has remained true to its form while diversifying into many different things. Jayanthi S lists some ideas to use terracotta in our homes.

We, South Indians, have a special liking for terracotta. Be it indoors or outdoors, terracotta is preferred for home decor. The term terracotta is Italian for baked earth, and is one of the oldest art forms of India. Being waterproof and environment friendly, terracotta lends itself generously to be used in varied forms, for variety of purposes.

Available in tones of brown, orange, red, peach and yellow, terracotta items can transform even flat and unappealing interiors into spectacular spaces. To begin with, how about, terracotta figures for the living room?

Available in a wide variety of designs, shapes, sizes and colours, these figures are a pleasure to display in every conceivable corner. Especially famous are the terracotta bells that can be hung either against walls or near windows. And of course, terracotta pot-holders in ornamental shapes are appealing as well. So are terracotta wall tiles that are priceless gems of art on walls.

Terracotta pieces add to the aesthetic charm of any living place and there are no second thoughts about it. A simple way of doing it would be to place huge terracotta urns with flower petals floating in water — these can please our senses. Knife-holders, lampshades, candle stands, jars, pottery — you name it, and it’s available in terracotta. The very fact that it can weather any storm and survive any temperature, makes it ideal to be used anywhere in the house, indoors and outdoors.

Speaking of outdoors, there is no alternative to terracotta to beautify well-tended gardens — vases, birdbaths, planters, birdfeeders, the list can be exhaustive. Since these items are affordable, eco-friendly, biodegradable and scratchproof, they are all time favourites. They are also light in weight, easily portable and maintenance-free.
Terracotta finds its way into the kitchen too.

Not only does it look trendy, but is also considered healthy. No wonder, our ancestors used earthen pots to both cook and store water. In fact, during summer, drinking water stored in earthen pots is any day better than drinking it out of a plastic bottle stored in the refrigerator.

And, of course, our grandmothers will vouch for the taste of curries cooked in terracotta vessels. The ease of cleaning also helps the cause.

This down-to-earth medium of terracotta has invaded the bathroom too. All items of utility in the bathroom, from tooth brush holders and soap cases to soap dispensers and napkin holders are available in terracotta, which is also believed to kill water-borne bacteria naturally!

This wide appeal of terracotta is not new. It has survived centuries. While it was common practice to use terracotta tiles in Malnad and coastal regions of Karnataka for their slopy effect, for rainwater to flow down them easily, they are now being used for ornamental reasons in cities.

Houses with ‘A’ frames do not look beyond terracotta tiles for cladding. They are also used widely to clad the frontages of houses in designs that could put even a priceless piece of painting to shame.

Sometimes, terracotta tiles are incorporated into coloured patterns for ornate decorating styles.

Terracotta handmade designer decorative tiles are also immensely popular, with each tile depicting a particular theme. However, when they are used outdoors, they need to be treated with water sealing products to enhance their durability.

Terracotta for flooring is also fast gaining popularity owing to its durability, water-resistance and visual appeal. While most people prefer terracotta in warm browns, reds and oranges, there are also those who prefer it in a glazed finish with a metallic look, especially when used to enhance the look of interiors.

But, terracotta, irrespective of its colour and form, continues to rule. Three cheers to terracotta.