Global Interiors: Why Designers Are Obsessed with Moroccan Zellige Tiles

Walk into a thoughtfully designed space be it a boutique hotel in Paris, a minimalist home in Los Angeles, or a luxury spa in Tokyo and there’s a good chance you’ll find Moroccan Zellige tiles catching the light. Designers around the world have fallen in love with these vibrant, irregular tiles, and it’s easy to see why. Zellige is not just a surface finish it’s an experience of craftsmanship, texture, and cultural depth.

Zellige tiles are handcrafted clay mosaics made in Morocco using centuries-old techniques. Artisans shape and glaze each tile by hand, often using natural pigments like indigo, saffron, and copper oxide. Once fired, the tiles are individually chiseled into shape. The result is an imperfectly perfect tile that reflects light in dynamic, unexpected ways. These subtle variations in tone and texture are what give Zellige its soul.

What makes Zellige particularly attractive to designers is its versatility. It can be used to create statement walls, intricate backsplashes, elegant bathroom surfaces, and even patterned floors. The tiles bring warmth and personality to both modern and traditional interiors. Whether arranged in a simple grid or an elaborate geometric pattern, they offer a level of authenticity that manufactured tiles simply can’t replicate.

There is also a growing appreciation for the story behind the material. In a world increasingly dominated by uniform, machine-made finishes, Zellige stands out as a celebration of human hands and heritage. Each tile represents the work of a skilled artisan, often working in small workshops in Fez or Tetouan, where the tradition of tile-making has been nurtured for generations.

For designers seeking materials that combine timeless beauty with meaningful origin, Zellige tiles check every box. They are durable, expressive, and rooted in a deep design tradition that continues to evolve. By choosing Zellige, designers are not just selecting a tile—they are embracing a legacy of Moroccan craftsmanship and bringing it into the global design conversation.