Why Santa Barbara’s Top Designers Trust Unity Tile Design
Authenticity, Detail, and a Feature-Worthy Finish
In a town known for its architecture, being featured in a local design magazine is no small deal. That’s exactly what happened when Unity Tile Design was highlighted for our work on a historic Santa Barbara estate renovation.
The project combined reclaimed Spanish terracotta, hand-painted Talavera, and curved staircase templating to create a space that looked lifted straight out of the 1920s—but with modern durability. This kind of craftsmanship is what sets us apart as a top local tile installer in Santa Barbara.
Looking to elevate your own space with timeless detail? Let’s talk.
What Makes Santa Barbara Tile Work So Unique?
It’s not just pretty tile and nice grout lines. Santa Barbara tile design is steeped in heritage and artistry. It requires an understanding of the local aesthetic and a respect for the materials that shaped it.
Here’s what you’ll find in many of the region’s most beloved homes:
- Reclaimed Spanish terracotta from past decades
- Hand-painted Mexican Talavera
- Mediterranean and Moorish accents
- Signature borders, risers, and arches
- Feature walls that tell a story
This is not the type of work you hand off to a general contractor or out-of-town crew. You need someone who knows the language of the tile.
Why a Local Tile Installer in Santa Barbara Is Key
Historic homes in this area are filled with quirks. Uneven surfaces. Curved stairwells. Wavy walls. Trying to do a clean install on those without understanding how the house was built? That’s a fast path to rework.
Our team at Unity Tile Design specializes in this kind of work:
- We hand-template difficult surfaces
- We custom-source rare or discontinued tile
- We know what needs to be sealed, floated, or waterproofed before anything goes in
- And we communicate clearly with your designer or GC throughout the entire job
Featured Project: Riviera Revival
Our recent magazine feature focused on a home in the Santa Barbara Riviera. The homeowners wanted to bring their 1928 patio back to life without making it feel overly polished or “new.”
Our solution?
- Found salvaged tile that matched the original build
- Installed decorative risers that looked like they had always been there
- Blended grout tones to keep the character intact
- Protected it all with a breathable sealer to allow the materials to age gracefully
The result: a patio that got neighbors talking and editors publishing.
Planning a Remodel? Read This First
If you’re thinking about adding traditional tile to your renovation, here’s what we recommend:
- Don’t go prefab
Authenticity matters here. Santa Barbara’s design language doesn’t come in a box. - Know your surfaces
Many older homes need extra prep. We can advise on whether a float coat, waterproof membrane, or leveling layer is needed before install. - Use a true local
A local tile installer in Santa Barbara understands not just the techniques, but the climate, materials, and construction style. That saves you time and keeps the vibe true to the area.
Why Unity Tile Design?
We’ve spent years honing our reputation as the go-to local tile installer in Santa Barbara. From Montecito to the Mesa, our clients come to us for projects that mix artistry with durability. Whether it’s a Mediterranean bathroom, Spanish courtyard, or tile-rich kitchen wall, we bring deep experience and a collaborative mindset.
And now that we’ve been featured in a local design magazine? We’re just getting started.
Let’s Talk About Your Project
Got a vision for your home that includes Santa Barbara’s signature tile work? Whether you’re looking for a custom mosaic layout, specialty tile sourcing, or full-scope install, we’ve got you covered.
Call Kerry today at 805-951-0226 and let’s turn your renovation into a conversation piece.
