What Luxury Homeowners Need to Know Before Renovating

In Santa Barbara, tile isn’t just part of the architecture—it is the architecture. Look around. From sunlit stair risers to terracotta walkways and custom arched fireplaces, the homes here don’t just rely on tile for function. They use it to tell stories. And that’s what makes unique Santa Barbara tile design so special. But recreating that classic Santa Barbara aesthetic in a modern renovation? That takes more than good taste. It takes experience. Knowledge of local tradition. And an installer who knows how to make historic detail feel fresh—without losing its roots. At Unity Tile Design, this is our specialty.

What Makes Santa Barbara Tile Design Unique?

There’s a distinct look and feel to homes in this region—and it goes far beyond Spanish-style roofing.

  • Hand-painted Talavera from Mexico
  • Reclaimed or antique Spanish terracotta
  • Moorish and Mediterranean motifs
  • Decorative borders, risers, and inset medallions
  • Feature walls built to age beautifully over time

This design heritage dates back more than a century, and homeowners renovating in Santa Barbara or Montecito are often seeking that same warmth, texture, and authenticity in their projects today.

Why the Right Installer Matters

Here’s the truth: not every tile installer can handle this type of work. You’re dealing with imperfect materials. Irregular shapes. Hand-cut tiles. Curved staircases. Surfaces that have seen decades of weather, wear, and settling. Installing it all to look timeless (not trendy) means you need an expert who understands the entire lifecycle of a tile project—from sourcing to sealing. That’s what we do at Unity Tile Design.

Real-World Example: Montecito Patio Restoration

A recent client in Montecito wanted to restore their outdoor patio using reclaimed Spanish tile and traditional Talavera risers. Our job? Bring the historic tile back to life—without losing its charm or mismatching modern materials.

We:

  • Sourced hard-to-find reclaimed terracotta
  • Templated curved stair faces by hand
  • Matched the grout tone to original color palettes
  • Sealed the final surface for maximum protection and natural patina

The result? A fully updated outdoor living space that looks like it’s been part of the home since the day it was built.

Planning a Renovation? Here’s What You Should Know:

If you’re considering unique Santa Barbara tile design in your remodel, here are three things we recommend:

  1. Go custom. This is not the place for off-the-shelf options. Whether it’s handmade or reclaimed, your tile should reflect the era and story of your home.
  2. Prep your surfaces. Historic homes often need subfloor adjustments or moisture-proofing to handle tile properly. Don’t skip this.
  3. Partner with a local expert. We don’t just install tile—we collaborate with you, your designer, and your builder to make sure it’s done right, from the first tile to the last.

Why Choose Unity Tile Design?

We’re more than just installers. We’re partners in preserving and elevating the legacy of Santa Barbara homes. Whether you’re restoring a Spanish Revival estate, updating a Mediterranean kitchen, or dreaming of a tile-rich pool terrace, we’re here to guide you through the process—with craftsmanship, respect for tradition, and a sharp eye for detail. Let’s make your renovation something truly timeless.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Whether you’re sourcing a local mosaic artist, trying to spec handmade tile, or need someone to coordinate a complex multi-surface install, we’re ready to help. Reach out, and let’s create something that stops people mid-stride. That’s where we come in. Call Kerry Today! 805-951-0226