Traditional clay floors of vélez-málaga: history, sustainability and artisanal elegance

What are the advantages of terracotta flooring?

Terracotta or clay flooring provides high thermal inertia, ideal for underfloor heating and passive temperature regulation. As a porous material, it regulates environmental humidity (hygroscopicity) and, treated with natural waxes, offers a healthy, durable pavement with a timeless aesthetic.

The history of traditional clay floors (terracotta) in the Axarquía region, especially in Vélez-Málaga, is a legacy that dates back centuries. During the Andalusi era, almost all villages in the region had local tile factories (tejares) to produce tiles and clay slabs, reflecting a deep connection with the natural resources of the environment. Although today only a few tile factories remain in operation, this tradition has found new life in contemporary new construction and rehabilitation projects.

Detail of clay floor with herringbone pattern, showing natural tonal variation

From Alqatifa, we have recovered this ancestral practice, using it in our projects with an focus that prioritizes sustainability, 100% natural materials, and the health of applicators and end users. Here we explore the properties, advantages, and particularities of clay floors, as well as our unique approach to their execution.

Properties and advantages of clay floors

Fired clay floors offer unique characteristics that make them a sustainable and healthy option:

High thermal inertia: their capacity to store and release heat slowly makes them ideal for Mediterranean climates and underfloor heating systems.
Natural and healthy material: made of fired clay, the mud is a material completely natural and free of toxic compounds. In addition, its breathability regulates humidity, improving indoor air quality.
Sustainability and proximity: clay floors from Vélez-Málaga are local products, which reduces the carbon footprint and supports the region’s artisanal economy.
Timeless aesthetics: its earthy tones and artisanal texture adapt to traditional and modern styles, providing unmatched warmth.

Minimalist white staircase with fired clay steps, contrast between modernity and tradition Impeccable finish of rectangular clay floor in luminous interior Handmade clay tiles, unique texture under natural light Mediterranean living room with clay floor and white masonry furniture White spiral staircase with fired clay tread and black iron railing Overhead perspective of feet on clay floor, human connection with the noble material

A 100% natural approach

At Alqatifa, our commitment to healthy materials is reflected in every phase of the installation process:

Grouting with lime mortars: we avoid the use of commercial products with resins or toxic components, opting for traditional lime mortars, which guarantee the breathability of the material and respect the environment.
Protection with natural sealers: we opt for natural waxes and oils instead of chemical treatments to protect floors from stains and wear. These sealers not only preserve the authenticity of the material but also guarantee the health of those who apply them and end users. Unlike chemical treatments, natural sealers keep the hygrothermal properties of the clay intact, essential for its ability to regulate temperature and humidity.

This approach ensures that every project maintains a balance between sustainability, health, and tradition, from its installation to daily use.

Maintenance and care of clay floors

Clay floors are easy to maintain and, with certain care, can retain their beauty and functionality for decades:

Natural sealing: natural waxes protect the surface and maintain its breathability.
Regular cleaning: a mop or damp cloth is sufficient. For more resistant stains, we recommend warm water with neutral soap, avoiding aggressive chemical products.
Reapplication of sealer: in areas of higher traffic, the wax may need reapplication every 1-2 years.

Work in progress: rehabilitation in Ronda as an example of tradition and sustainability

At Alqatifa, we have incorporated clay floors in multiple projects. One of them is an ongoing rehabilitation work in Ronda, where we are installing 15x15 cm square tiles from Todobarro. This floor not only connects the space with the Andalusian tradition but also reflects our commitment to sustainability and natural materials.

Soon we will share more details about this project, including the execution process and the final result. Stay tuned to our next posts to discover how the clay floor transforms this space!

Artisanal rectangular clay piece, showing the beautiful irregularities of manual firing Rectangular format clay floor placed in herringbone pattern, geometric warmth Installer working on clay floor, applying lime mortar between joints Bare feet on 15x15 square clay floor, feeling the natural texture

Would you dare to install clay floors in your home?

The warmth, durability, and authenticity of clay floors make them a unique option for those seeking a healthy and sustainable design.

If you are thinking of a new construction or the rehabilitation of your home, traditional clay floors can be the key to a home with character and connection to nature.