8 Zellige & Zellige-Inspired Tile Ideas

Handcrafted using centuries-old techniques (click here to learn all about the process), each authentic Zellige tile varies slightly in tone and surface texture, giving it its perfectly imperfect appeal. Read on for eight stunning Zellige and Zellige-inspired spaces that are sure to spark ideas for your next project, whether it’s a shower, kitchen, bath or fireplace.

1. Zellige Tile Shower Ideas

As evidenced by this gorgeous space designed by @forgegrove, Zellige tiles are perfect for creating understated elegance in your shower. The uneven surfaces of the Zellige White gloss tile add a tactile element to this space, and the sleek brass fixtures help elevate even more. The authentic materials and minimalistic look of this space give it an air of “quiet luxury.”

2. Go Neutral With Light Grey Tiles

The current trend toward mixing warm and cool neutral tones together provides timeless appeal. With its natural variations in coloration, the Zellige Light Grey gloss tile–shown here in this lush bathroom designed by Arias Home–fluctuates between cool and warm grey tones. The effect is a decidedly contemporary look using ancient techniques.

3. Zellige Tile Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

Perfect for a kitchen or bathroom backsplash, petite 2″ x 6″ subway tiles, shown here in the Zellige Dirty Blue gloss, are a new take on a classic design. The smaller format allows for more grout lines as well as more tiles per square foot, resulting in a beautifully undulating surface as the color and surface texture fluctuate from tile to tile. Shop this tile in all four vibrant colorways: Azul, Turquoise, Dirty Blue and Shamrock.

4. Use Square Tiles for a Neat and Orderly Design

This retro-favorite shape is making a comeback, and the handmade square tile–like the Zellige White gloss used in this chic kitchen designed by Fox Homes–demonstrates how this classic design can be made modern. Though the color scheme is monochromatic, there is a lot of visual texture in this kitchen backsplash. The glossy finish reflects light to highlight the subtle variations in surface texture from one tile to the next, and the wide grout joints accentuate the tiles’ handcrafted edges.

5. Use Handmade-Look Tiles for a Cost-Effective Alternative

If Zellige tiles aren’t in your budget, or if you want a slightly more uniform appearance, handmade-look tile, like the Riad White tile shown here, are a charming and cost-effective alternative. Mimicking the handcrafted look, these tiles feature slight variations in tone and surface texture and are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors. Shop our extensive assortment of handmade-look tiles to find the perfect match for your space.

6. Create a Handcrafted Hearth

A fireplace is a natural focal point; make it a standout with handcrafted Zellige tiles. This fireplace surround, designed by @daryakaras, features a charming checkerboard of Zellige in Alabaster and White gloss. The undulating tones add warmth and movement to this Craftsman living room.

7. Zellige Tile Bathroom Ideas

Another popular Zellige tile design is the Chabone Star and Cross tiles (shown here in Charcoal). By pairing Star matte tiles with Cross glossy tiles (or vice versa) you can create a subtle tile design that fluctuates with the play of light across the room. Traditionally used for floors, these tiles look stunning when paired with a subway or square Zellige wall tile (like the Zellige Alabaster gloss tile shown here).

8. Get Creative With a Star and Cross Checkerboard

The checkerboard rules aren’t written in black and white. This luxurious shower uses the Kasbah tile in alternating Terracotta Cross and Star Bone for a twist on traditional Moroccan design. The orange and white handmade-look tiles are complemented by the rust veining in the Pisa Oro wall tile, giving this space a cohesive and visually rich design. A similar look can be achieved using the Zellige Chabone Cross Charcoal and Star Bone tiles.

Inspired to add handcrafted charm to your space? Shop our wide assortment of Zellige and handmade-look tiles to find the perfect design. Or discover more design ideas on our Instagram and in our Customer Room Gallery where you’ll see our tile in real customers’ spaces.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi! I'm Eimile, Marketing copywriter. What I love about working at The Tile Shop is getting to see all the new design trends. I especially love bright, bold colors and retro designs. When I'm not writing copy, I'm usually reading a novel or taking a walk around my Minneapolis neighborhood.

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