The original material
Traditional encaustic tile gets its pattern from different colors of clay or cement in the tile body. Churches and public buildings used geometric versions through the medieval and Victorian periods.
Modern patterned tile
Many products sold under the encaustic name now use printed porcelain to create a similar pattern. Porcelain changes the maintenance needs and gives manufacturers a wider range of repeatable designs.
Floors, fireplaces, and backsplashes
Patterned tile works on powder room floors, laundry floors, fireplace surrounds, and kitchen backsplashes. Lay out several boxes before installation so repeated motifs and shade variation look balanced.