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Moroccan tile is one of the latest tiling trends; have you ever heard of it? Also known as ‘Moroccan tiles’ or Zellige, this tile has invaded all trendy interiors and decorations. With its various colors, these handcrafted tiles have a unique charm that makes our interiors warmer and more soothing.
If you plan to install the tiles of the moment in your home, there are a few points you should consider.
What is Moroccan tile?
Moroccan tiles, or Moroccan tiles, are terracotta tiles born in Fez in Morocco. Zellige tiles can be reminiscent of subway-type tiles but are more often square than rectangular. In making Moroccan tiles the old-fashioned way, natural clay is mixed with water, shaped by hand, dried, and then baked. The artisans then apply an enamel only on the front face. Genuine Zellige should be made from clay free of lime and iron, which can damage tiles.
Worthy of the most splendid palaces of the Orient
The facades, the floors, the colonnades… all the palaces, mosques, or the most beautiful fountains of the Orient are covered with it. This simple clay tiling covered with handcrafted enamel has made it possible to create the most beautiful tiling compositions in Morocco and around the Mediterranean. First baked in the oven and then delicately cut into different patterns, Zellige allows infinite freedom of creation.
Tiles against uniformity
Tiles are all different, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. If your Moroccan tile is uniform, then you know they are not authentic. This irregular and timeless appearance is the charm of Zellige, which is reminiscent of the principle of mosaic.
For matte lovers, beware: these tiles can be pretty shiny. In fact, these tiles are known for their shine and luster, which come from the way their translucent glaze comes in a lot of different, very different shades. But some Moroccan tiles have a matte finish and don’t shine.
With or without matt varnish?
“Glossy” finishes will be more luminous, resulting in a shimmery, watery result. A non-gloss finish is more matte. This is a personal preference, and the finish you choose will depend on the type of look you want for your project.
On the color side, you are served! The other great asset of Moroccan tile is its infinite color palette. Suppose each color has a historical meaning, in addition to the variations in brightness between each tile. In that case, the harmony of all the colors will make your layout unique.
Blue and green tones
Significantly influenced by the Mediterranean arts of antiquity, such as Byzantine, Arab, Persian or Roman art, the Moroccan tile fits perfectly into an oriental or Mediterranean-type decoration. The roughness of the materials and the bright colors of these Moroccan tiles give them all their charm. You can put them anywhere in your home!
Where is the Moroccan tile?
Moroccan tile is used to dress all types of walls: kitchen, bathroom, living room, bedroom, interior, and exterior. Its unique appearance really adapts to all environments and decorations. The Zellige can also be laid on the ground. Still, its non-uniform relief aspect can surprise the walker and sometimes retain water or dirt. However, this is not an obstacle because it is appreciated, just like the mosaic or the pebble floor, for the massaging sensations in an Italian shower, for example.
Moroccan tiles in several colors
Moroccan tile, whether a splashback or a simple floor or wall covering, adds a lot of color and energy to a room. A suitable epoxy joint keeps water out of the layout when the tiles are together edge to edge. This tile is ideal for wet places, like the bathroom, kitchen, or outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Moroccan tile called?
Traditional Moroccan tiles are known as zellige (also written as zellij or zellidj). Zellige is a terracotta tile hand-glazed in various colors to create intricate patterns and mosaics from geometric shapes. The tiles are frequently used to embellish walls, floors, and fountains. They are an integral part of the architectural heritage of Morocco. The term “zellige” is derived from the Arabic for “small polished stone,” The art of creating zellige tiles has been practiced in Morocco for centuries.
What is Arabic tile called?
Arabic tiles are called “Islamic tiles” or “Moorish tiles.” These tiles are a prevalent decorative tile in Islamic architecture, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. Similar to Moroccan zellige tiles, Arabic tiles frequently feature intricate geometric and calligraphic patterns. The tiles are typically made of ceramic and glazed in a variety of hues, creating a decorative effect that is joyful and colorful. Mosques, palaces, and other public structures are frequently embellished with Arabic tiles, which play a significant role in Islamic art and architecture.
What are the different types of Moroccan tiles?
There are numerous varieties of Moroccan tiles, each with its characteristics and applications.
Zellige is a handmade, glazed terracotta tile used to construct intricate mosaics and patterns. Bejmat tiles, on the other hand, are handmade rectangular clay tiles commonly used to create a plain, rustic appearance.
Tadelakt, a form of lime plaster, is frequently used to waterproof walls and floors, sometimes combined with zellige tiles for a seamless surface.
Cement tiles, also known as encaustic tiles, are decorative tiles made from cement, sand, and pigments, often featuring intricate patterns and designs.
Fassi tiles, produced using traditional methods in Fez, are renowned for their intricate patterns and vivid hues.
These tiles, with their intricate designs and patterns, are an integral part of Morocco’s cultural heritage.
What are some facts about Moroccan tiles?
Here are some intriguing tiling-related facts about Morocco:
- Islamic art and architecture frequently inspire the intricate geometric patterns on Moroccan tiles.
- The art of creating Moroccan tiles has been handed down through generations of artisans for centuries.
- Typical Moroccan tiling techniques include hand-cutting and hand-glazing, making each tile distinctive.
- Blues, greens, and yellows predominate in the palettes of Moroccan tiles, which are typically striking and vivid.
In addition to their decorative function, Moroccan tiles are frequently used to create impervious surfaces on walls and floors.
- Mosques, palaces, and private residences frequently employ Moroccan tiling.
- The most well-known Moroccan tile is zellige, a handcrafted, glazed terracotta tile cut into geometric shapes and used to create intricate mosaics and patterns.
- The city of Fez, which has a long history of tile-making and is home to numerous tile-making workshops, is frequently associated with Moroccan tiles.
- Moroccan tiles are frequently used to add a touch of exoticism and color to the interiors of residences and other spaces.
Recently, there has been an increasing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable tile-making techniques. Some Moroccan tile-makers now use recycled materials and eco-friendly glazes.