carreaux

Carreaux is the plural form of the French noun carreau, meaning a tile or a square piece. In architectural and decorative contexts, the term designates individual tile units used for floors, walls, and pavements, most commonly in square shapes but also appearing in mosaics and patterned installations. The word also appears in broader design to describe checkered or plaid patterns, such as fabrics or textiles described “à carreaux.”

In tiling and construction, carreaux are produced in various materials, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, and cement. Ceramic and porcelain carreaux are fired and glazed to provide durability and color, while cement tiles, known as carreaux de ciment, are often handmade with intricate geometric or floral patterns and were particularly popular in 19th- and early 20th-century interiors. Contemporary uses range from traditional encaustic-style patterns to large-format, minimal tiles suited to modern spaces. Installation methods vary by material and design, but common considerations include substrate preparation, sealing for cement or porous surfaces, and matching grout color to achieve desired visual effects.

Pattern and style preferences for carreaux span from simple solid-color squares to decorative patterns and composites that echo historic markets or contemporary minimalism. In addition to tiling, carreaux also describes checkered patterns in textiles and fashion, where small or large squares create the familiar “à carreaux” look. The versatility of carreaux makes them a lasting element in architectural history and interior design.