Neutral cement tiles

The essence of architecture and the purity of the material captured in the mass. This is the promise of our collection of neutral cement tiles, where the timeless strength of the plain cement tile takes center stage. Choosing a plain gray, white, or black cement tile from Maison Carocim is not simply opting for a color; it's inviting into your home over 40 years of French craftsmanship, a history of mineral pigments, and a rare authenticity. Far from industrial uniformity, our neutral cement tiles resonate with a unique subtlety. Gray, white, or black transforms the space. They create atmospheres that are by turns minimalist, graphic, or profoundly elegant. For an iconic checkerboard floor or a contemporary kitchen backsplash, neutral cement tiles provide the perfect backdrop. At Carocim, every piece tells a story. That of our craftsmen, based on the precision of the gesture, and that of your projects, which we support with passion from our home in Aix-en-Provence.

The timeless elegance of plain, neutral cement tiles: a Carocim signature

A plain, neutral cement tile is an aesthetic statement, a choice for both architecture and materials. In its monochrome version, a neutral tone reveals its full power: it becomes a textured backdrop, capable of enhancing raw materials like wood, metal, or stone, and creating striking graphic contrasts. Our neutral cement tiles are the foundation of any décor. The intensity of our neutral cement tiles comes directly from their composition. We use only natural pigments, mixed with marble powder and cement. This mixture, which forms the color layer (a wear layer of approximately 5 mm), gives the plain cement tile its characteristic matte and velvety finish. This chromatic depth is the result of our expertise. Maison Carocim, renowned for its collaborations with leading designers and its involvement in exceptional projects (hotels, museums, luxury homes), applies the same high standards of quality to its plain models. Plain cement tiles (grey, white or black) thus benefit from the same rich pigmentation as our most complex designs.

Artisanal expertise at the service of the material

The unique character of a Carocim neutral cement tile lies in its handcrafted nature. The production steps have remained unchanged, perpetuating an art that emerged in the mid-19th century. In our Moroccan workshops, everything begins with the preparation of the colors. Our artisans, with their time-honored precision, create the perfect hues. For a plain cement tile, the metal mold is prepared. The first layer of colored mortar is then delicately poured. This step is crucial: it determines the visible surface of your neutral cement tiles. It is immediately followed by a layer of dry cement to fix the colors, and then a layer of gray cement mortar that ensures the tile's rigidity. The entire assembly is then placed under a hydraulic press. This handcrafted process guarantees that each neutral cement tile is subtly different. Slight variations in shade, a micro-vibration on the surface... This is the assurance of an authentic floor covering. It is this "helping hand" that architects and lovers of fine materials seek in our neutral cement tiles: a product that has a soul.

The depth of the pigments: the secret to an intensely neutral cement tile

The secret to a successful neutral cement tile lies in the quality of its pigments. At Carocim, we favor oxides and natural earths. Unlike glazed ceramic tiles, plain neutral cement tiles are colored throughout. The color is an integral part of the material, extending to a thickness of 5 mm. This gives it not only incomparable depth but also exceptional durability. Over time, the tile will only develop a patina, adding even more character. This mineral approach to color allows us to create intense neutral cement tiles: deep grays, matte blacks, pure whites, or ivory. The finish of our neutral cement tiles is always matte and powdery.

Two thicknesses for all your projects: floor and wall

Because each decorating project has its own constraints, we offer our plain neutral cement tile in two thicknesses:

• The 16 mm format (for floors): This is the traditional thickness, designed for exceptional durability. Perfect for living room floors, hallways, kitchens, or bathrooms. A 16 mm neutral cement tile floor is a lasting investment.
• The 10 mm format (for walls): Lighter in weight, this version is ideal for wall applications. It allows you to create a graphic kitchen backsplash, an accent wall in a bathroom, or an elegant wainscoting with a thinner, plain cement tile.

How to incorporate neutral cement tiles into your decor?

The neutral, plain cement tile is the foundation of any interior design. Its understated elegance makes it an ideal partner for all styles, from classic to contemporary. Our neutral cement tiles are incredibly versatile.

The checkerboard icon and structural flooring

In the kitchen, entryway, or bathroom, the checkerboard pattern is the most iconic use of our neutral cement tiles. Combining a solid black cement tile with a solid white one creates a graphic and timeless floor. A neutral gray cement tile floor (light or anthracite) offers a serene and contemporary base, ideal for large living spaces. It pairs perfectly with wood to warm up the atmosphere.

The perfect backdrop: backsplash and bathroom

In the kitchen, neutral cement tiles are perfect for a backsplash. A plain white or light gray cement tile brightens the wall while adding texture. A plain black tile creates a sophisticated contrast with light-colored furniture. In the bathroom, our neutral cement tiles (10mm or 16mm format) create a minimalist and architectural ambiance.

Carocim: Excellence in cement tiles for 40 years

Choosing Carocim means trusting a company dedicated to preserving and reproducing cement tiles. Located on the Puyricard plateau, near Aix-en-Provence, we are proud to perpetuate this tradition. Our expertise extends beyond handcrafting; it also lies in our work with archives. We are regularly commissioned for historical restoration projects, where we meticulously recreate lost patterns and colors. This research is what fuels the quality of all our products, including our range of neutral, plain cement tiles. This commitment to excellence has opened doors to the most prestigious French luxury brands. By choosing a neutral, plain cement tile from us, you benefit from this same level of excellence.

Installation and maintenance tips for your neutral cement tile

Cement tiles are a living material, porous by nature. To preserve their beauty for years to come, proper treatment is essential. After installation (using a flexible adhesive) and once the grout has completely dried, your neutral cement tiles must be protected. We recommend applying a pore sealer, followed by a water- and oil-repellent treatment. This step is crucial, especially for bathrooms or kitchen backsplashes. For routine maintenance, mild soap (such as Marseille soap or black soap) and clean water are sufficient. Acidic detergents and bleach should be avoided. A well-installed and properly treated plain neutral cement tile will develop a beautiful natural patina over time.

The authenticity of handmade for your project

Choosing a neutral, plain cement tile from Maison Carocim means choosing a surface covering with soul. It means preferring the subtle vibrancy of a handcrafted piece to the coldness of an industrial product. It means opting for a durable, mineral material and a deep color achieved through natural pigments. Whether your project is modern, classic, or eclectic, neutral cement tiles will bring that extra touch of character and architectural elegance that makes all the difference. Our neutral cement tiles are the epitome of the material.