This trend effortlessly combines modern design sensibilities and age-old charm.
Kelly Christine Photography; Design by Gilded Heights
Our most-loved Southern homes mix old and new elements.
We see this in ourlove for antiquesand traditional decor mixed with contemporary amenities.
Credit:Kelly Christine Photography; Design by Gilded Heights
That’s why so many homeowners and designers are embracing zellige tile.
We see these tiles gracing backsplashes, embellishing showers, adorning fireplaces, and more.
It’s a really classic, handcrafted look that has atimeless qualityto it, Butcher says about zellige tile.
*Credit:@WYCDESIGNS_*
We started importing it and as a designer, I find it to be so multifaceted.
Heres what you oughta know about the newest trend bringing age-old charm into the home.
Aubrey Butcheris the owner of Dallas, Texas-based online boutique and design consulting companyGilded Heights.
Credit:Allison Elefante Photos; Both Minds Design
She also is co-owner ofRiad Tile.
Loree Beth Harrisis co-founder of home design companyBoth Minds Design, which serves Middle Tennessee.
@WYCDESIGNS_
What Is Zellige Tile?
Green zellige tile fireplace in Butcher’s living room.Credit:Aubrey Butcher
Hailing from Morocco, zellige tile is handmade from clay and incredibly popular across the region.
These tiles are glazed and can be made in a variety of shapes, thicknesses, and colors.
No two tiles are exactly the same, but thats what makes them so uniquely lovely.
Credit:Allison Elefante Photos; Both Minds Design
Simply put, these tiles have been tested by time and passed with flying colors.
Zellige tile predates any ceramic or porcelain tile that’s ever been made.
It predates any interior design elements that we’re incorporating now and that speaks volumes.
Credit:Allison Elefante Photos; Both Minds Design
How Expensive Is Zellige Tile?
The same characteristics that make zellige tile unique also increase the cost.
The tiles are made by hand using clay only found in Morocco, and production requires skill.
Then the tiles travel long distances.
Mass-produced machine-made zellige costs around $10 per square foot.
Glazed ceramic tile can cost $2 to $15 per square foot.
The versatile material can be installed in different colors, shapes, sizes, and patterns, as well.
This way, they can be implemented to suit each home and homeowner.
I really don’t see it as material going away anytime soon, explains Butcher.
How Durable Is Zellige Tile?
In addition to the appearance, the clay material has longevity, too.
Zellige tile is incredibly sturdy, heat-resistant, and water-resistant despite its delicate sheen.
When installed, the tiles varying thickness and slight tonal disparities create dynamic texture.
Welcome these irregularities and add instant personality to any space.
In contrast to cement or porcelain tiles, glossy and fluctuating zellige tiles shimmer animatedly on any surface.
There’s really not anything that I don’t love about them, says Harris.
Designers have also found that zellige tile is a wonderful way to elevate a well-loved but undoubtedly overdonesubway tile.
Use zellige tile to instantly upgrade this linear look while still keeping all the best classic elements.
Every single tile is hand-cut and chiseled by an artisan, so you get some variation to it.
They’ll upgrade any room on surfaces from showers to fireplaces.
Once you decide on a location, the design potential is nearly limitless.
Start by considering the three main choices: color, shape, and alignment.
Be even more daring by going with two or more colors tocreate a pattern.
For something funkier, a more complex shape like a hexagon will certainly add spice to the space.
Seal tiles for easier maintenance and to prevent stains and wear.
Dont use harsh cleaners on the tiles because they can damage the glaze.
Some gentle, non-abrasive soap and a soft cloth should do the trick.
Designers inform us that there can often be confusion around the practical parts ofthis trend.
Not everyone will, and thats okay.
I set the expectation with clients that zellige tile is a piece of art, says Butcher.
Use a waterproof grout and seal the grout joints.
Since the glaze used on these tiles can be porous, the tiles can stain.
Sealing the tiles makes them stain-resistant.
Wipe up any spills right away to prevent staining.
Reseal the tiles every few years or as recommended by the brand of sealer.
