How to Decorate with Zellige Tiles: A Guide to the Hottest Trend in Home Decor

Zellige tiles are one of the hottest trends in home decor and interior styling for 2024. These handcrafted tiles add depth, texture, and color to any space, from kitchens to bathrooms to hallways. In this blog post, you will learn what zellige tiles are, where they come from, how to use them in different rooms, and how to choose the right shape, size, and color for your style. You will also discover the benefits of using zellige tiles, such as their durability, eco-friendliness, and uniqueness.

As imagined by Essence

What are zellige tiles?

Zellige tiles are a type of glazed ceramic tile that originated in Morocco. The word “zellige” means “small polished stone” in Arabic. Zellige tiles are made from raw, light-colored clay that is kneaded with water, shaped by hand, and then sun-dried. After an initial firing, the tiles are glazed in a wide variety of colors and shades. The final step is cutting the glazed tiles into various shapes and sizes, such as squares, rectangles, hexagons, or stars.

Zellige tiles are known for their variations in colors, tones, and shapes, which give them a unique and organic character. No two zellige tiles are exactly alike, which makes them ideal for creating a custom and personalized look in your home.

Where do zellige tiles come from?

Zellige tiles have a long and rich history that dates back to the 10th century. They were first used to decorate mosques, palaces, and fountains in Morocco and other parts of North Africa and Spain. Zellige tiles are an expression of Islamic art and culture, as they feature geometric patterns, floral motifs, and calligraphy that reflect the principles of symmetry, harmony, and beauty.

Zellige tiles are still handmade by craftsmen in Morocco, using traditional techniques and tools. The production process is labor-intensive and requires skill and patience. Zellige tiles are considered a form of art and a symbol of prestige and luxury.

How to use zellige tiles in different rooms

Zellige tiles can be used to decorate any room in your home, as they are versatile and adaptable to different styles and settings. Here are some ideas on how to use zellige tiles in different rooms:

As imagined by Essence

** Kitchen: zellige tiles can create a stunning backsplash for your kitchen, adding color and texture to your walls. You can choose a single color for a uniform look, or mix and match different colors for a more eclectic and vibrant look. You can also use zellige tiles to cover your kitchen island, countertop, or floor, for a more dramatic and eye-catching effect.

As imagined by Essence

** Bathroom: zellige tiles can transform your bathroom into a spa-like oasis, creating a relaxing and soothing atmosphere. You can use zellige tiles to cover your shower walls, bathtub, sink, or vanity, for a more elegant and refined look. You can also use zellige tiles to create a feature wall, a niche, or a border, for a more subtle and sophisticated look.

As imagined by Essence

**Hallway: zellige tiles can add interest and charm to your hallway, making it more inviting and welcoming. You can use zellige tiles to create a statement wall, a mural, or a mosaic, for a more artistic and creative look. You can also use zellige tiles to cover your floor, stairs, or baseboards, for a more cozy and warm look.

How to choose the right shape, size, and color for your zellige tiles

Zellige tiles come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, which gives you plenty of options to choose from. However, it can also be overwhelming and confusing to decide which ones are best for your space and style. Here are some tips on how to choose the right shape, size, and color for your zellige tiles:

** Shape: zellige tiles are available in different shapes, such as squares, rectangles, hexagons, stars, circles, or diamonds. The shape of your zellige tiles can affect the overall look and feel of your space, as well as the installation process. Generally, square and rectangular tiles are easier to install and create a more classic and orderly look. Hexagonal and star-shaped tiles are more difficult to install and create a more modern and dynamic look. Circular and diamond-shaped tiles are somewhere in between and create a more playful and whimsical look.

** Size: zellige tiles are available in different sizes, ranging from small to large. The size of your zellige tiles can affect the visual impact and the amount of grout lines in your space. Generally, smaller tiles create a more textured and detailed look, but also require more grout lines, which can be harder to clean and maintain. Larger tiles create a more smooth and sleek look, but also require less grout lines, which can make the space look more spacious and airy.

** Color: zellige tiles are available in a wide range of colors and shades, from neutrals to brights. The color of your zellige tiles can affect the mood and the energy of your space, as well as the contrast and the harmony with your other elements. Generally, neutral colors create a more calm and serene look, but also require more contrast and accent colors to avoid looking dull and boring. Bright colors create a more lively and cheerful look, but also require more harmony and balance to avoid looking chaotic and overwhelming.

As imagined by Essence

Benefits of using zellige tiles

Zellige tiles are not only beautiful and stylish, but also have many benefits that make them a great choice for your home. Here are some of the benefits of using zellige tiles:

** Durability: zellige tiles are very durable and resistant to wear and tear, as they are made from high-quality clay and glazed with a protective layer. They can withstand high temperatures, moisture, and stains, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor use. They can also last for decades, if not centuries, with proper care and maintenance.

** Eco-friendliness: zellige tiles are very eco-friendly and sustainable, as they are made from natural and renewable materials, such as clay and water. They do not contain any harmful chemicals or substances, and they do not emit any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or toxins. They also have a low carbon footprint, as they are produced locally and use minimal energy and resources.

** Uniqueness: zellige tiles are very unique and original, as they are handmade by craftsmen, using traditional techniques and tools. Each tile is different and has its own variations in colors, tones, and shapes, which give them a distinctive and organic character. They also have a rich and ancient history, which adds to their charm and value.

As imagined by Essence

Conclusion

Zellige tiles are a wonderful way to decorate your home, as they offer beauty, style, and functionality. They can add depth, texture, and color to any space, and create a custom and personalized look that reflects your taste and personality. They can also enhance your home’s value, as they are durable, eco-friendly, and unique.

If you are looking for a way to spice up your home decor and interior styling, zellige tiles are the perfect option for you.

And you are interested in learning more about Zellige tiles and how to use them in your home decor, you can sign up for our newsletter and get access to exclusive tips, ideas, and discounts. You can also contact us and hire our professional services to help you plan, design, and install your Zellige tile project. We have the experience, the expertise, and the passion to make your dream home a reality!