Our Designers Love Zellige Tile. Why You Shouldn’t Ignore This Trend
There are always going to be home trends that our design team hopes last forever (never leave us, wallpaper!) and others that we can’t wait to fade away (good riddance shiplap). And no matter how we feel, trends just come and go. There are a rare few, however, that hold a timeless appeal. Zellige tile, a handcrafted wonder from Morocco, is one such trend. With its rich history, unique aesthetic, and endless design possibilities, Zellige tile is gaining popularity with our clients and finding its way into many of our new projects. Here’s why our designer’s love it and how you can incorporate it into your home.
A Rich, Proven History
Zellige's use stretches back to 14th century Morocco. Crafted from natural clay and glazed in vibrant colors, these tiles have adorned palaces, mosques, and homes throughout the region. The word "zellige" itself comes from the Arabic term for "polished stone," hinting at the tile's enduring quality.
Beauty in Imperfections
Unlike mass-produced tiles, Zellige celebrates individuality, which we are all about! Each piece is handmade, resulting in variations in color, size, and even slight imperfections like chipping. Far from being flaws, these variations are the essence of Zellige's charm. They fill your space with a warmth and character that machine-made tiles simply cannot replicate.
A Spectrum of Style
Zellige tiles come in a vast array of shapes (like the very in-demand Star + Cross tiles shown here) and colors, from earthy tones and calming blues to vibrant greens and fiery reds. The ability to mix and match shapes and colors allows you to create a personalized look, whether you prefer a classic and understated palette or a bold and colorful statement work of art.
Beyond the Subway Stack
While Zellige excels in traditional layouts like herringbone or subway stacks, its versatility shines in more creative applications. We are getting “bolder” clients asking for more unique patterns such as basketweave, which adds a touch of elegance or double herringbone, which creates a dynamic visual effect.
A Touch of Luxury, Built to Last
Despite its delicate appearance, Zellige tile is surprisingly durable. The natural clay composition and glazing process make it resistant to heat, water, and everyday wear and tear. This ensures your Zellige masterpiece will continue to grace your home for years to come.
Incorporating Zellige Tile into Your Home
If you're captivated by the allure of Zellige tile, here are a few things to consider:
Embrace the Handmade Nature: Zellige tiles require a certain level of acceptance for their imperfections. They may not be perfectly uniform, but that's part of their unique beauty. Our designers harp on this and advise against using this tile if you want a streamlined, polished and perfect look.
Dry Laying: Due to the inherent variations, dry laying the tiles before installation is highly recommended. This allows you to visualize the final look and make adjustments for a cohesive design. Again, each tile is unique so mapping out each specific tile’s location and overall design gives you some control when imperfections are guaranteed.
Maintenance: Zellige tiles are relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and soft cloth will keep them looking their best.
Professional Installation: While some experienced DIYers might tackle a Zellige project, we highly recommend professional design and installation by someone who has worked with this specific tile. It will ensure a flawless and long-lasting finish and reduce product waste.
Zellige tile is more than just another design trend; it's a conversation starter and a testament to handcrafted artistry. So, if you're seeking a unique and characterful addition to your space, talk to the Marks-Woods design team about incorporating the beauty of Zellige tile into your home.
SEE ALSO: The Story Behind Our Award-Winning Remodeling Projects
