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Design by Annie Downing | Photo by Lindsay Brown -
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Design by Annie Downing | Photo by Lindsay Brown -
Design by Annie Downing Interiors | Photo by Lindsay Brown -
Cotto Sienna 6x6
Plan ahead with 10–15% extra tile to cover natural variation and keep your project running smoothly.
SPECS
SPECS
- Actual Size: 6 1/8"x6 1/8"
- Expected size variation: Approximately ±1/18" due to the handmade nature of the tile.
- Thickness: 1/2"
- Unsealed
- Smooth | Slip Resistant
- 1 sq.ft: 4 pcs
- V2 (Slight Variation) - Shade, Tone & Size
GROUT + TRIM
GROUT + TRIM
GROUT
Cotto is artisan-made, so slight variation in size and shape is expected. A wider grout joint helps accommodate this natural variation while keeping grout lines visually consistent.
Warm, neutral grout tones complement the natural clay, while contrasting colors create a more defined pattern.
- Recommended: Mapei Ultracolor Plus FA for a cleaner, more modern look
- Alternative: Mapei Saltillo Natural Gray for a more traditional look
- Recommended Joint: 1/4"–3/4"
Tighter joints can emphasize handmade size variation and may result in less consistent grout lines.
TRIM
- Bullnose → soft edge transitions
- Coping → stair edges or thicker transitions
- Miter Cut → clean 45° corners
- Exposed Edge → natural, unfinished appearance
SEALING + MAINTENANCE
SEALING + MAINTENANCE
Cotto arrives unsealed and must be sealed as part of installation to protect the porous clay and help prevent staining.
Use a penetrating sealer designed for terracotta. An optional top coat may also be applied depending on the desired finish and level of surface protection.
For routine care, clean with a pH-neutral cleaner and avoid harsh or acidic cleaning products that can affect the tile or sealer.
Always test sealers and cleaning products in a small, inconspicuous area before applying them to the full installation.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION
Due to its handmade nature, Cotto requires installation methods that account for natural variation in size, thickness, and surface character.
Review the complete installation guide before beginning your project for recommended preparation, setting, grouting, sealing, and finishing methods.
COTTO
Cotto Terracotta brings a more refined, grounded expression of natural clay. With a smoother surface and controlled variation, it offers warmth and durability with a more consistent, modern feel.
Cotto is crafted from natural clay using a pressing method that creates a denser, more uniform tile. Once formed, the tiles are kiln-fired to strengthen the material while maintaining its natural warmth.
This process results in a smoother, flatter surface than traditional Saltillo or terracotta pavers, making it more consistent underfoot. It offers natural slip resistance, but with less surface texture than more rustic terracotta styles.
Cotto arrives unsealed and requires sealing before and after installation.
Because it is denser than many traditional terracottas, Cotto absorbs less readily, but sealing is still required to protect against staining, moisture, and daily wear. The sealer selected will determine the final appearance, from a more natural matte finish to a subtle satin sheen.
Proper sealing is especially important in kitchens, bathrooms, covered exterior areas, and other spaces exposed to moisture or frequent use.
Cotto exhibits moderate variation with a more controlled and consistent appearance.
You can expect:
- Subtle variation in tone within a curated color range
- More uniform color distribution across the installation
- Slight variation in sizing and thickness with low deviation
- A smoother, flatter surface with limited texture
- Minor surface markings such as light indentations or handling marks
- Occasional small edge chips or slight irregularities
While more refined, variation is still present due to natural clay composition and kiln firing. These differences contribute to the material’s warmth without overwhelming the overall look.
Cotto Terracotta develops a more subtle patina over time compared to traditional or organic terracotta.
Due to its higher density and lower porosity, the surface is less reactive to moisture and wear, resulting in a slower, more controlled aging process. Depending on the sealer used and level of maintenance, the tile may gently deepen in tone or soften in appearance.
This makes Cotto a strong choice for spaces where you want warmth and natural character, with a more consistent long-term look.
Usage
Recommended
- Interior floors
- Bathrooms, sealed
- Kitchens & backsplashes
- Laundry rooms
- Mudrooms
- Entryways
- Decorative walls
- Fireplaces
- Covered patios
- Covered exterior walls
Use With Caution
- Showers, proper waterproofing + sealing required
- High-traffic wet areas
- Outdoor kitchens, sealed
- Exterior floors in mild climates
- Areas requiring frequent maintenance
Not Recommended
- Freeze-thaw climates
- Standing water, pools, or fountains
- Steam rooms
- Harsh chemicals
Recommended
- Decorative walls
- Retail feature walls
- Hospitality accent walls
- Restaurant walls
- Hotel lobby walls
- Office accent walls
- Fireplace surrounds
- Floors
- Covered exterior walls
- Commercial floors (mid to low traffic)
- Protected patio areas
Use With Caution
- High-traffic floors
- Wet commercial areas
- Covered outdoor commercial areas
Not Recommended
- Commercial kitchens
- Steam rooms
- Pools or fountains
- Freeze-thaw exterior floors
- Harsh chemicals
- De-icing salts
