Joanna Gaines' Unique Fixer Upper Flooring Choice Is Trending All Over In 2025

There's nothing that Joanna Gaines can't style, whether it's her gorgeous spring garden or trendy farmhouse kitchen. But one unexpected element that added so much storied charm to the home she remodeled in Season 1, Episode 3 of "Fixer Upper: Welcome Home" is finally becoming mainstream again: terracotta flooring. It's a timeless design that can immediately pull practically any room together with a homey, rustic feel. If you want your space to emulate European architecture, countryside homes, or a modern yet enchanting farmhouse, then terracotta might just be the floor upgrade for you.

A big part of the terracotta trend also comes along with home styles that seek to feel more authentic, lived-in, and organic. In the area of new build trends that can sometimes leave your home feeling a little too similar to everyone else's, terracotta flooring is a great way to add rustic charm to your space. It's earthy and unique, and though terracotta is typically a reddish-brown color, it is never bold enough to clash with other design choices. You can even seek out darker brown or grey terracotta if you're interested in a look that's more similar to stone or cement. 

Joanna Gaines has remodeled homes with mostly terracotta flooring and homes that have multiple rooms with matching flooring. Kitchens, dining rooms, and living areas are all common options for terracotta floors. Don't forget that you'll likely need to continue your tiles throughout the full space if you're working with an area that has an open floor plan — or you can choose a more intentional look and create a boundary for your open concept area with terracotta tiles.

You can find terracotta tiles for $2 to $3 per piece. The final cost will be determined by the tiles you pick and the amount of space you have to cover. The average cost for floor installation is $2,000 to $4,500. You might be able to save a little bit on labor and materials if you opt to install terracotta tiles in a smaller space, such as a small dining room or breakfast nook. Luckily, there's plenty of beautiful styles for terracotta tiles in your home. While some experienced DIYers might want to tackle a terracotta project on their own, hiring a professional to help with installation will ensure that your tile is installed and sealed properly, and can also prevent tile breakage. Additionally, a professional can help you determine what type of terracotta and sealer is needed for the space you're working with.

Terracotta tiles are usually not very difficult to keep clean, as long as you do it properly. Because they often have small nooks and pores, you may want to put in a little more maintenance than you might with other types of tile, but a vacuum and a damp cloth is enough to keep them looking good; no harsh cleaners should be used. Instead, use a mixture of warm water and white vinegar. The best way to ensure they stay clean and don't soak up spills in the future is to seal them. Because terracotta is so porous, these tiles can collect stains easily when they're not sealed. 

The only other downside with terracotta is that some tiles may chip or break when something heavy falls onto the floor. Those who are focused on sustainability will be pleased to learn that terracotta is an eco-friendly choice; made from clay, terracotta is environmentally friendly and long-lasting. Additionally, terracotta emits no VOCs, which is a great choice for those hoping to keep their homes chemical-free; just make sure to choose a low- or no-VOC sealant to pair with your new floor tiles.