Article: Zellige Tile 101: The Complete Guide
Zellige Tile 101: The Complete Guide
Quintessentially Moroccan, zellige tile is nothing short of an art form. Not only are these tiles stunning and unique, but the process by which they are made is equally distinctive.
At Otto Tiles & Design, we're passionate about preserving the art of zellige tile.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what makes zellige tiles not just beautiful, but also incredibly versatile. We’ll also share inspiring ideas for how to use them in your home.
Of course, you’ll find plenty of practical tips along the way, too, as you dream about incorporating these beauties into your home. From installation options — both DIY and professional — to tile care and maintenance tips and where to buy zellige tiles, you’ll have everything you need to know to bring their artistry into your own home.
What Is Zellige Tile?
Zellige tile (pronounced zeh-leezh) is made from natural clay, shaped by hand, and kiln-fired before being coated in a glaze.
At Otto Tiles & Design, we like to say that zellige is crafted both by hand and soul.
Our zellige tiles are a tribute to ancient Moroccan artistry reimagined with a modern, curated edge. Master artisans in Fez use traditional methods passed down through many generations to hand-chisel and glaze each individual tile.
As such, they exude authenticity and soul. Their shimmery radiance adds warmth and an artisanal feel to a wide range of spaces.
Types of Zellige Tile
With zellige tile, every line, curve, and exposed edge tells a story of tradition, skill, and patience. The result? Perfectly imperfect surfaces that shimmer with rich tonal variation, depth, and warmth.
There are three main types of zellige tiles you can indulge in:
Plain (Solid) Zellige Tiles
To use the word “plain” in association with zellige tiles is almost a disservice, because they are far from boring or one-note — even in their solid-colour forms. No two tiles are ever alike — and that’s precisely the magic.
At Otto Tiles & Design, we have all the colours of the rainbow — from neutral tones like white, ecru, terracotta, dove, and oat to richly saturated hues like aubergine, citron, petrol green, Casablanca blue, mulberry, and so much more.
The plain zellige tiles are available in a 10cm x 10cm option, as well as bejmat. Bejmat is a type of zellige that is rectangularly shaped — generally 14cm x 4.5cm — and is known for being sturdier than traditional zellige tile. For that reason, you will sometimes see it used as a floor tile.
Mosaic (Meshed) Zellige Tiles
Otto Tiles & Design’s signature mosaic collections blend timeless geometry with bold, contemporary spirit — creating rhythmic compositions that elevate kitchens, bathrooms, fireplaces, and feature walls into spaces of soulful elegance.
From trapezoid and octagon shapes to stripes, squares, circles, and more — all in a range of colourways — mosaic zellige tiles are absolute eye candy.
Patterned Zellige Tiles
A work of timeless craftsmanship, Otto Tiles & Design’s patterned tiles are made using a rare and ancient technique.
Artisans first draw the design onto the glazed surface of the tile, then carefully chisel away the glaze by hand to reveal the terracotta beneath.
This reverse process — where the background becomes the clay body itself — creates a rich, textural contrast and a truly one-of-a-kind surface.
Then, this historic method is fused with a bold, contemporary design language. From minimalist geometrics to organic motifs like arches and sun rays, the hand-chiseled patterns breathe new life into ancient techniques, resulting in tiles that are raw yet refined, rustic yet modern.
Where Can You Use Zellige Tile?
Handmade zellige tile is incredibly versatile — much to some people’s surprise — and is suitable for a variety of spaces, both inside and outside your home, including:
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Walls
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Floors
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Backsplashes
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Wet areas like showers
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Fireplace surrounds
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Pools
Design Inspiration for Zellige Tile
When it comes to outfitting your home with zellige tile, you’re really only limited by your imagination. Start daydreaming about your space and get inspired by these creative ways that designers and homeowners alike have tapped into the transformative power of zellige tile.
Pastel Perfect
A zellige tile backsplash in a kitchen is one of the most popular ways to integrate this tile into a home. And while there’s certainly nothing wrong with the subtle luster of a white zellige tile backsplash, there are plenty of ways to turn up the volume, even just a bit.
Here, soft tones and handcrafted details undeniably make this kitchen a delicious joy. But the real star of the show is the Marrakesh Stripes Sea Salt zellige tiles that cover the backsplash, adding visual texture and pattern. This mosaic includes the picture-perfect pairing of Blush Pink Zellige, Dusty Pink Zellige, and Pale Blue Zellige.
Another moment for pastels comes in this charming kitchen — with playful pops of orange sherbet, complemented by White Arch Terracotta Zellige and Pink Arch Terracotta Zellige. The only thing missing? Slices of meringue pie, which would obviously fit right into this sweet scene.
Rich and Earthy
For another way to approach a zellige tile kitchen, try tapping into an earthier, organic side. Pair the richness of chocolate-toned cabinets with Ecru Zellige tiles on the backsplash and top it off with a soft, nude-pink wall. It’s the precise recipe for understated elegance. This colour variation of gray zellige tile offers so much warmth — and we love these tiles for it.
Mosaic Moments
Mosaic zellige makes for the ultimate, stare-worthy bathroom floor, offering an artisan-inspired, subtle pattern and a menagerie of soft tones. It’s a statement that whispers rather than shouts, but still makes such a big impact.
Here, Colourful Mosaic Zellige features an Ecru Zellige background colour punctuated by Pale Blue Zellige, Vintage Rose Zellige, Black Zellige, Aubergine Zellige, Ecru Zellige, and Forest Green Zellige pieces.
Blue Crush
Zellige tiles always add soul — and that is no different in this beautiful bathroom or this dreamy kitchen that features a variation of blue zellige tile. The petite kitchen space exudes a gentle vibrancy in the softest hue, thanks to Ice Blue Zellige adorning the kitchen backsplash and Bejmat Sage serving up the same refined mood on the floors.
Emerald City
This deep, emerald bathroom is a total gem — to say the least! Using jewel-toned Dark Green Zellige Tiles across an entire wall allows their colour variation to really shine and creates a beautifully unique look.
Nice Stripes
Wallpaper, who? Instead of papering those walls, tile them! Handcrafted zellige mosaic tiles are a uniquely beautiful option for floors — and walls — alike.
Here, the zellige mosaic tiles — specifically the Marrakech Stripes in Paprika — make a sun-drenched statement behind this café table. With Blush Pink Zellige, Black Zellige, Orange Zellige, and Pale Blue Zellige in the mix of this mosaic, it takes on the vibrant look of a handwoven textile.
Pattern Play
This dreamy vanity space features White Patterned Zellige for a beautiful wall design that’s perfectly complemented by modern fixtures and natural wood tones.
Zellige Tile Installation
When it comes to bringing your own space to life with zellige tiles, many people opt for a professional installation to ensure the best possible result. At Otto Tiles & Design, we can work with you to find an expert installer who specializes in the intricacies of zellige tile.
But for weekend warriors who have the do-it-yourself know-how — and the energy and time to invest in a project — here are some installation tips and tricks.
DIY Zellige Tile Installation Tips
To Prepare for Installation:
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You’ll want a good foundation to lay your tile. So, make sure the tile substrate is level, clean, dry, and free of oil, dust, or debris.
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If you’re using zellige tiles in a wet area — like a shower — apply a suitable waterproof membrane.
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If you have underfloor heating, make sure to turn the system off at least 12 hours before tiling begins to avoid any unwanted temperature fluctuations on the floor.
Pro tip: Consider ordering at least 15% more tile than your measured area to account for cuts, onsite selection based on colour and tone variation, and potential breakage (or mistakes!).
To Install Your Zellige Tiles:
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Make sure to use a flexible, high-bond adhesive that’s not just appropriate for the substrate but also for zellige tile.
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Install tiles with minimal spacing — ideally no more than 1 mm. Zellige tiles should be laid as closely together as possible. The maximum gap between them shouldn’t be more than 1 mm. As these handmade tiles are not precisely formed, there will always be small, irregular gaps between them, which must be filled with grout later.
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Apply a double spread (two layers) of adhesive. Using two layers of adhesive will give you greater control over the positioning of the zellige tiles. The adhesive or mortar should be about 3 mm thick. This allows you to achieve a pleasing surface without sharp edges. You can apply the adhesive both to the wall/floor and to the tile.
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Use a diamond blade wet saw for cuts, placing the tile face up. Make sure to wear gloves during installation, as tile edges may be sharp.
Pro tip: Blend tiles from different boxes to ensure a natural variation throughout the surface. Due to the colour variations inherent to the beauty of zellige tiles, it is recommended to lay tiles randomly selected from different boxes or batches. This will ensure that the overall effect is more homogeneous, with tiles of similar hue not all located next to each other.
To Grout Your Zellige Tiles:
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As the spaces between the tiles are tiny, you should use a very liquid and runny grout. A flexible, fine grout — such as Mapei Ultracolour Plus — is a good option. Always test grout on a small area before proceeding with the full application.
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As you start to apply grout, it’s best to work diagonally over the tiles in small sections of 2 to 4 square meters.
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Don’t let the grout sit on top of the tiles. Wipe off any excess quickly using clean water and a soft cloth or sponge to avoid staining.
Pro tip: As you are grouting, you may see slight gaps and edge variations in your tiles. Remember, this is natural and expected — and all part of the beauty of zellige.
To Seal Your Zellige Tiles:
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Use a high-quality penetrating sealant, such as Stonetech Impregnator Pro Sealer or Miracle 511 Porous Plus.
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Always follow the sealant manufacturer's instructions and test on a sample tile.
Pro tip: Unglazed zellige and bejmat tiles must be sealed both before and after grouting. Glazed zellige tiles do not require sealing.
Zellige Tile Care and Maintenance
The proper care for your zellige tiles is vital to ensure they continue to look their best year after year.
For regular, routine cleaning, use a soft cloth or mop with a pH-neutral detergent. Avoid using any harsh chemicals, bleach, or acidic cleaners, as this can strip and dull the luster of zellige. And definitely avoid using any machine scrubbers or abrasive tools.
It is always wise to test any other cleaning methods in an inconspicuous area of your installation.
Pro tip: Annual resealing of zellige tiles is recommended for high-traffic surfaces, showers, and other areas constantly exposed to water.
Where to Buy Zellige Tile
With this as your guide, it’s time to pick your zellige tiles, order your samples, and bring your vision to life!
Remember: With zellige tile, no two pieces are alike — and each one carries the soul of the artisan and the spirit of centuries-old Moroccan tilemaking, reimagined for today’s most inspired interiors. That’s why it’s so important to get your zellige tile from the best source with the biggest, most inspired collection.
Otto Tiles & Design is here to help you every tiled step of the way.
As an international brand known for its wide selection of zellige tile, Otto Tiles & Design elevates modern artisan craftsmanship with an innovative, design-forward approach.
In addition to statement-making zellige tiles, you can find other artisan bathroom tiles online and in the London showroom.
