The warmth of ochre earth and the passion of a deep pigment captured in the material itself. This is the promise of our collection of red cement tiles, where the strength of the plain cement tile takes center stage. Choosing a plain red 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 earthy pigments, and a rare authenticity. In contrast to industrial uniformity, our tiles vibrate with a unique warmth. Red, whether terracotta, brick, burgundy, or leaning towards powdery pink, transforms a space. It creates atmospheres that are by turns rustic, warm, or profoundly sophisticated. For a striking entryway floor or a distinctive kitchen backsplash, red cement tiles are a timeless decorative signature. 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 power of a plain red cement tile: a Carocim signature
A solid red cement tile is a bold aesthetic statement, a choice for character and authenticity. In its monochrome version, red reveals its full power. It becomes a textured backdrop, capable of enhancing raw wood, warming up gray stone, or creating a striking dialogue with shades of green or blue. The intensity of our red cement tile comes directly from its 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 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 solid-color models. The solid red cement tile thus benefits from the same rich pigments as our most complex designs.
Artisanal expertise at the service of color
The unique vibrancy of a Carocim red cement tile lies in its handcrafted production. 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, custodians of precise techniques, blend the hues. For a plain cement tile, the metal mold is prepared. The first layer of colored mortar is delicately poured. This step is crucial: it determines the visible surface of the tile. It is immediately followed by a layer of dry cement to fix the colors, 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 red cement tile is subtly different. Slight variations in shade, a discreet "flaming," a micro-vibration on the surface... This is the assurance of an authentic covering. It is this "touch of the hand" that architects and lovers of fine materials seek in our red cement tiles.
The depth of the pigments: the secret to an intense red
The secret to a successful red cement tile lies in the quality of its pigments. At Carocim, we favor oxides and natural earths. Unlike glazed ceramic tiles, plain red 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 without ever altering its fundamental hue. This mineral approach to color allows us to achieve intense reds that are never harsh. Whether it's a brick red for a country house ambiance, a deep burgundy for a boudoir effect, or a warm terracotta for a Mediterranean interior, the finish is always matte and powdery.
Two thicknesses for all your projects: floor and wall
Because every decorating project has its own constraints, we offer our plain red 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 entryways. A 16 mm red cement tile floor is a lasting investment. The 12 mm format (for walls): Lighter, this version is ideal for wall applications. It allows you to create a striking kitchen backsplash, an accent wall in a bathroom, or an elegant wainscoting.
How to incorporate red cement tiles into your decor?
Plain red cement tiles are a fantastic decorating tool. Their apparent simplicity belies their great versatility, allowing you to create warm and characterful atmospheres.
Authenticity in the kitchen and bathroom
In the kitchen, red cement tiles work wonders as a backsplash. They bring a touch of authenticity, reminiscent of traditional terracotta tiles but with the velvety finish of cement. Paired with light wood or white furniture, they create a chic country atmosphere. In the bathroom, a red cement tile floor (16mm format) creates a warm and inviting ambiance. It goes perfectly with brass or copper faucets for a retro-industrial style.
Energizing a floor: flat or checkered pattern
Using a plain red cement tile for the floor is a bold choice. It can be laid flat for total immersion in the color. It's also the perfect partner for our other tiles. Consider the classic red and off-white (or black) checkerboard pattern for a kitchen or entryway with bistro charm. The architects we work with particularly appreciate plain red cement tiles for creating borders around a patterned "rug," thus structuring the space.
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 archival research. 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 solid red cement tiles. This commitment to excellence has opened doors to the most prestigious French luxury brands and allowed us to collaborate with designers on exclusive creations. By choosing a solid red cement tile from us, you benefit from this same level of excellence.
Installation and maintenance tips for your red 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 red 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 red cement tile will develop a beautiful natural patina over time.
The authenticity of handmade for your project
Choosing a plain red cement tile from Maison Carocim means choosing a floor covering with character. 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, red cement tiles will bring that extra touch of character and warmth that makes all the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Red & Purple Cement Tiles collection