The lusciously handmade texture of Moroccan tiles offers a unique flair to your design project. Steeped in tradition and history, Moroccan tile is a highly skilled craft that requires years of training to master and produce. With their range of rich colors and intricate patterns, Moroccan tiles can add a bold pop of color or a subtle accent to any interior design scheme.
Moroccan Tiles: Why You Should Choose Them
Often referred to as Zellige or Zillij, Moroccan tiles are a highly sought after tile look that can be used in a wide variety of projects. From kitchen backsplashes to walls, floors, fireplaces, fountains and swimming pools, these gorgeous decorative tiles are a beautiful way to bring an Old World feel to any room. Made from natural clay, Moroccan tiles are crafted into a variety of geometric shapes and patterns that can be applied to plaster bases. These hand-crafted tiles are often a labour of love and are a true reflection of the skilled artistry that is Morocco’s hallmark.
To make a traditional zellige tile, the natural clay is collected from the local Fez area and then kneaded with water, hand-molded into specific forms and pre-dried naturally in the sun. Once the tile is ready, the master craftsman will use a series of tools to cut or chisel each piece into very precise geometric shapes that are then arranged into a mosaic pattern. The entire piece is then glazed and fired in a wood-fired kiln. Considering the amount of time and energy that goes into creating each individual tile, it is no wonder that they are so prized in the world of design and architecture.
While many modern Moroccan tile collections are created using ceramic, porcelain or glass, a select few are still made of the more traditional raw terracotta material. The advantage of these artisanal terracotta Moroccan tiles is that they do not require sealing and can be wiped down with ease to maintain a clean surface. However, if you are looking for a more durable tile option that will not need to be sealed, consider a glazed Moroccan tile.
In addition to a more durable surface, glazed Moroccan tiles also offer a rich colour and strong detail that can easily stand up to the rigours of everyday living. Unlike unglazed terracotta, the glaze on a glazed Moroccan tile is impervious to liquids and will not absorb moisture.
If you are interested in adding the beauty and elegance of Moroccan tiles to your home, Orientbell Tiles has a selection of authentic Moroccan tile designs that will enhance any space. Whether you want to create a dramatic impact with a Moroccan blue tile or introduce the look of traditional Moroccan tiles into your bathroom, we have a selection of styles and colours that will fit any design style and budget.
Using our exclusive TruLook feature, you can easily visualise how our Moroccan tile designs will look in your space before making your final decision. This allows you to experiment with different colour combinations and layouts before investing in a new tile style.