The Beauty of Imperfection: Zellige & Handmade Tiles – Explore The Timeless Charm Of Moroccan Zellige Tiles
Dated back to the 10th Century, Zellige tiles are a handcrafted clay tile originating from northeastern Morocco. The tiles are made by mixing water with locally sourced clay, filtered, moulded and chiselled, to become the vintage, individually unique tiles we love.
Why have Zellige tiles grown so popular over the last few years? These handmade tiles are amongst the most popular decorative tiles, and are being seen more and more in interior design. Let’s talk about why.
1
Timeless Beauty
One thing that sets Zellige tiles apart is their unique, timeless appeal. With a rustic yet contemporary look, it is impossible to tell in which era the tile belongs.
Handmade materials have a unique characteristic of individual charm. Because they are individually handcrafted, no two tiles look the same. This leaves room for imperfections and unique texture that creates a timeless and personalized design. The imperfections in Zellige tiles offer unique charm with variation in thickness, size, shape, and tone, as well as small chips and cracks throughout the tile. Rough edges and varying textures are what make this tile so unique and desirable.
Handcrafted, Zellige tiles are available in all different shapes and sizes, and each one is individually their own. Bringing age-old charm into the home, this is what makes the tile so timeless.
2
Craftsmanship
Handmade from start to finish, Zellige tiles use a centuries old process involving hand shaping, sun drying, and firing. In Morocco, this process is a well known art form, taught from a young age. The art of zellige traditionally starts during childhood, and it takes many years to become a true master craftsman.
This craftsmanship is a large part of why this tile is so popular. Not only is it a functional element in your home, it also acts as a work of original art. True craftsmanship is making a comeback after mass produced materials have dominated the industry for years. Human connection is valued now more than ever, and having a part of your home connected to community through personal handmade material is a perfect way to achieve it.
3
Colours & Textures
In a world dominated by beige and grey, Zellige and handmade tiles offer a wide range of colours to fit each design style. From earthy neutrals to a bold pop of colour, these tiles bring character and charm. With variations in shades, tones, and textures, Zellige tiles offer a contemporary spin on the classic mosaic look.
Traditionally, original Moroccan Zellige tiles were blue, green, and white, and although these are still popular today, other colours such as pink have become a growing trend in interior design.
Green: Sage, olive, and emerald green are all popular tones used in design. These tones foster a calming environment and bring a sense of nature to interiors
Blue: Blues are a common and versatile option offering both light and airy as well as dark and moody aesthetics.
White: Neutral colours such as white and cream are also a popular choice and a great way to keep a space neutral while bringing in character and interest.
The colours and tones used can dramatically alter the direction of your design. Using soft, muted tones creates a subtle and comforting atmosphere, whereas using a bright and bold tone can be used to create a decorative feature element.
4
Versatility
Not only do Zellige and handmade tiles offer versatility in tones, textures, shapes, and sizes, they also offer versatility in applications. Whether you are designing a bathroom or kitchen, residential or commercial, Zellige tiles offer an organic and handmade look that will elevate any space.
Bathrooms: Bathrooms are the most popular application for Zellige tiles, They are often used on shower walls or for a vanity backsplash. Bathrooms or powder rooms are a great way to incorporate handmade material into your interiors. The smaller space offers a way to add a decorative feature into an otherwise bland space, while keeping the cost to a minimum.
Kitchens: Zellige tiles are perfect for kitchens, whether commercial or residential. Kitchen backsplash is another popular application for handmade tiles and mosaics, and a great way to elevate and add depth to your space.
Exterior: A great way to bring interest to your outdoor space is with tiling. Using Zellige tiles to line your pool or create an outdoor bar feature is the perfect way to bring character to your exteriors, and create a beautiful outdoor entertainment space.
Cladding: Handmade materials can also be used to clad a fireplace or even furniture. Using a Zellige tile on a fireplace draws emphasis and creates a feature element in the space. Handmade tiles can also be used on table tops, around a vanity, or other furniture applications.
The beauty of Zellige tiles is that their unique imperfections and character creates space for versatility and creativity.
Bring the beauty of imperfection into your space with Moroccan Zellige tiles. Visit our showroom to check out our latest handmade tiles, and follow us on instagram @piastrellafloor for more design tips and inspiration!
