
Casa Zubia: green tiles for a kitchen, blue tiles for a bathroom
The BRISA Arquitectura studio signs off on the renovation of a home that captures the Nasrid spirit of the Alhambra
This project stems from the client’s desire, in their own words, to “feel the Alhambra” in their home. Our contribution plays a central role in the renovation of this over-one-hundred-square-meter home, located at the foot of the iconic Andalusian monument, carried out by the BRISA Arquitectura studio: a green-tiled wall for the kitchen, a terracotta brick floor, and a bathroom adorned with blue glazed tiles that perfectly reflect the project’s original intention.
This is a remarkably coherent project, beyond our own involvement, which uses natural materials whenever possible and masterfully applies principles of vernacular architecture, as seen in the execution of the Mediterranean patio. Wherever you look, you’ll find wood, natural fibers, fired clay, and traditional whitewashed finishes.
Terracotta: The Ideal Material for a Kitchen
This isn’t the first (or second) time our glazed tiles have ended up on a kitchen wall. We’ve seen them in Parisian cafés, in countryside hotels across Portugal, and even at interior design fair stands. It’s no surprise—terracotta tiles are arguably the best wall covering option for a kitchen.
Physically, it’s a material that withstands temperature changes well, is easy to clean, and requires minimal maintenance. Aesthetically, it’s beautiful. The firing and glazing processes naturally produce tonal variations between tiles from the same batch. This creates a look that feels organic and authentic. It almost seems like each piece was hand-painted, with each undertone thoughtfully selected to complement the overall composition.
In this case, BRISA Arquitectura has cleverly illuminated the tile wall with a border of warm lighting, which, combined with the dark wood cabinetry and the natural brightness of the room, makes the space feel full of warmth—like a patch of fragrant greenery bathed in sunlight.
The advantages of a terracotta brick flooring in Granada’s heat
Anyone who’s spent a summer in Granada or its surroundings knows the value of a home that offers thermal comfort. There are many ways to achieve that comfort, but the only truly sustainable long-term approach is to find solutions that meet the need without ruining the planet (or our wallets). One such solution is using materials that help regulate temperature and humidity levels. Beyond its practical benefits, this type of flooring is a direct passport back to the Nasrid origins of Granada’s famous monument.
Blue toned tiles in the bathroom
The bathroom floor is covered with our Cuadrado 10 Azul Brisa mate destonificado tiles. Among our shades of blue, this is one of the softest. It’s a low-saturation blue that conveys calm and refinement—perfect for creating a serene, elegant atmosphere in a bright, light-filled bathroom.



