If you have ever visited the southern part of India, you must have come across the beautiful low-level houses with verandas, intricately detailed designs, and several tall palm trees gushing with the wind. It looks and feels like a dream. A carefully built palette of serenity, beauty, and simplicity is all that the Athangudi tiles from southern India are known for widely. They can add that final touch to your house if you want to stick to a style developed from the cultural roots of South Indian artisans years ago.
What Are Athangudi Tiles?
Athangudi tiles are handcrafted and intricately detailed tiles that originated in the small village of Athangudi, Chettinadu region of Tamil Nadu. One can trace the history of these tiles back to the Indian pre-independence era when trade was being facilitated between India and western countries. The influence of the west was visible even in affluent Indian households, and the same was the matter when it came to the expensive west-manufactured tiles. But it was a hassle to get the western tiles replaced or fixed in case of damage. The availability and the expenses incurred against the western tiles were the two primary reasons that led to the development of the Athangudi tiles. These tiles have been handcrafted since then and are rich in colour and design. 
Material and Properties
Athangudi tiles do not incorporate ceramic, marble, or vitrified components in the making. Since these tiles are entirely handmade, they use eco-friendly materials that are readily available and don’t require the precision of a machine. Typically, locally sourced sand, cement, and natural oxides are used for preparing the tiles. The process is slow because multiple steps have to be performed, and all of them take a lot of time (about 10-12 days) and precision since the entire work is handmade. There is no use of any heat, fire, or unusual pressure to develop the tiles since no machines are involved in the whole process.
Athangudi Tiles Cost
The raw materials that are used in the making of the tiles are sourced locally, which makes the prices of Athangudi tiles extremely affordable, even for the middle-class man. But, at the same time, you must keep in mind that the rate of the tiles is not fixed at a specific price across all vendors. An intricate design will cost more than a simpler design. Simultaneously, if you get your Athangudi tiles customised, there can be an additional charge levied on the batch of tiles.
How to Maintain Athangudi Tiles?
Another attractive feature about the Athangudi tiles is that the more you use the tiles, the better they will look. So, if you want to make your tiles more lustrous and shiny, do a regular sweep and mop the floor occasionally with warm water and 10-15 drops of coconut oil. These colourful tiles will remain beautiful till the very end of time if you keep cleaning them regularly. They are non-slippery and give a smooth finish from the very beginning, but make sure that you maintain them if you want to make these exquisite tiles last!
How Are Athangudi Tiles Different from Other Tiles?
- Eco-Friendly – The raw materials involved in making Athangudi tiles are not harmful to the environment. There is no use of heat, pressure, or unwanted chemicals during the preparatory stages. Since no chemicals are involved in the process, there are no adverse effects on the climate.
- Insulated – Unlike other tiles that pick up the room temperature or the temperature it is exposed to, Athangudi tiles will never feel strikingly hot if you step barefoot on them. Your feet will always feel relaxed and comfortable if you use Athangudi tiles.
- Handmade – Anything that is handcrafted has its speciality and meaning. Over the years, Athangudi tiles have been created by the skilled craftsmen of Karaikudi. The art form has been passed across the generations to hold strong roots in history.
- Heritage – The Athangudi tiles are not just your standard set of tiles; instead, these tiles are beholders of history and rich cultural heritage in terms of the intricate designs and motifs.
The Popular Designs of Athangudi Tiles
1. Checkered Tiles
The classic checkered Athangudi tiles never go out of style. These tiles have the ability to give a unique look to your home with just a few changes here and there.
2. Floral Imprints
All the people of Chettinad have cherished the intricate floral designs on the Athangudi tiles over all these years. So, if you choose the floral imprints for your home, you are in for a treat. You can always play around with the floral designs and give them a hint of your own touch.
3. Geometrical Patterns
You will never get tired of the geometrical patterns. Imagine a few detailed, colourful geometric tile designs elevating the entire atmosphere of your house. Try them for yourself!
How to Incorporate Athangadi Tiles?
Athangadi tiles can be incorporated into your homes in several unique ways to make the space stand out.
You can use the versatile Athangudi tiles to elevate all corners of your interiors. While they look fabulous on floors, there are other spaces where the tiles can play their charm. Have a look!
1. Athangudi Tiles for Walls
Here is a refreshing idea if you’re looking for statement living room designs. Adorn your empty living room walls with rich Athangudi wall tiles. Their dazzling pattern will make a stunning accent wall in the living room and give the space a gorgeous dose of colour. 
2. Athangudi Tiles for the Bathroom
Create a unique and personalised bathing space with splendid Athangudi tiled walls. A minimalistic black-and-white or brown-and-white pattern will add sophistication to your bathroom without being too flashy. However, avoid using them on bathroom floors, as they can get slippery and dangerous.
3. Athangudi Tiles for the Bedroom
Plain Athangudi tiles make a stylish addition to a minimalist bedroom. So, enhance your bedroom designs with elegant Athangudi floor tiles. You can use vibrant colours for a personality-packed private space or choose traditional geometric patterns that bring in the old-world charm. 
4. Athangudi Tiles for Kitchen Backsplashes
Gone are the days of boring kitchen backsplashes. Add some flair to your kitchen with colourful Athangudi tiles. After all, it’s one of the most prominent rooms in your home and deserves consideration. An intricately crafted Athangudi backsplash will give you a kitchen you’ll never want to leave. 
Conclusion
Athangudi tiles are an indispensable part of the identity of the people of Chettinad, so much so that the Tamil Nadu government has declared Chettinad a heritage town. So, now that you know about the beauty, history, and timelessness of the Athangudi tiles, are you ready to incorporate these in your home? HomeLane has an extensive offering for all your home interior-related demands. Find the best of tiles and more right here!
FAQs
1. What Is Special about Athangudi Tiles?
Athangudi tiles are unique and reflect the beautiful culture and heritage of Chettinad, Tamil Nadu, the place of its origin. Unlike machine-pressed mosaic tiles, these are handmade over glass surfaces. Most Athangudi tiles are intricately detailed in traditional South Indian patterns and designs. Using locally available sand, cement, and natural oxide makes the tiles eco-friendly and sustainable. They are the hallmark of quality and beauty and can make any interior stand out.
2. What Is the Price of Athungudi Tiles?
Since the raw materials used in making Athangudi tiles are sourced locally, their price is quite economical. Athangudi tiles prices can range from Rs 60 to 65 per square foot, including the labour cost for laying them. But do note that the price is not uniform for all vendors. An intricately designed Anthangudi tile will cost higher than plain Athangudi tiles. You can also get the tiles customised for an additional charge.
3. How Do You Maintain Anthangudi Tiles?
Athangudi tiles are low-maintenance tiles that age beautifully, like a fine wine. The more you use them, the more sheen they get. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping is all they need to look their best. Use warm water with 10 to 15 drops of coconut oil to mop Athangudi tiles. The trick will keep its shine intact for years.
4. Do Athangudi Tiles Provide Any Benefits?
Yes, Athangudi tiles also possess some health benefits, apart from adding flair to your interior designs. They help reduce joint discomfort and protect the feet from heel fissures. Since the tiles are naturally insulated the way they are made, they keep the floors cool during summer, which is ideal for homes in hot regions. They’re suitable for all weather conditions, and you can use them indoors and outdoors.
5. Are Athangudi Tiles Durable?
Athangudi tiles are durable and can last for generations with little maintenance. You do not need to polish them repeatedly because their colour does not fade with time. Each tile undergoes a curing process where they are immersed in water for 8 to 12 days. This process gives them a higher strength and durability. Some Athangudi tiles are known to last more than a hundred years.
