4 Reasons Zellige Tiles Are Taking Over Interiors Right Now (and How to Use Them in Your Space!)

Zellige tiles, originating from Morocco, are gaining significant popularity in interior design due to their unique aesthetic that embraces imperfections and color variations. These handmade tiles, typically square but available in various shapes, offer an individual finish to each piece because of the glazing process, leading to a wide array of color nuances. This distinctiveness allows them to evoke a sense of exotic holiday escapes while simultaneously adding depth and texture to spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms. According to Lucy Kenna, Brand and Marketing Director at Claybrook, the inherent charm and timeless design of Zellige tiles make them versatile for various interior schemes, ranging from Mid-century Modern to English cottage styles. Their ability to blend seamlessly into diverse aesthetics contributes to their growing appeal. Furthermore, these tiles offer an element of escapism, providing a connection to distant Moroccan shores, which is particularly appealing in times when travel might be limited. For optimal styling, several expert tips are recommended. Damla Turgut, Founder of Otto Tiles & Design, suggests installing Zellige tiles in a traditional manner with minimal to no gaps to achieve the best visual effect. While specific pattern rules are not mandatory, a grid pattern is often recommended as it strikes a balance between contemporary and classic styles. The durability of Zellige tiles makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, allowing for textured and personalized surfaces. Grazzie Wilson, Marketing & Creative Manager at Ca' Pietra, emphasizes the importance of pairing Zellige tiles with rustic accents to highlight their natural variations and authenticity. Examples include incorporating vintage bar stools in a kitchen or a freestanding tin bath in a bathroom. Conversely, Louisa Morgan, Creative Director at Mandarin Stone, advises curating a minimalist wider scheme around the tiles. This approach ensures that the tiles remain the focal point of the interior, with surrounding elements like sanitary ware, fixtures, and fittings kept in simple forms and neutral shades. When selecting Zellige tiles, it is crucial to choose designs that exhibit an authentic finish to truly capture the traditional Moroccan ambiance. This authenticity stems from traditional production methods, where tiles are handcrafted from natural clay, air-dried, glazed, and kiln-fired. This process results in the unique, irregular finish and rich, glossy, colorful enamel that accentuates the natural tonal qualities and surface patterns of the tiles. Beyond interior applications, Damla Turgut also suggests extending Zellige tiles to outdoor spaces like patios, creating exotic courtyard-like environments reminiscent of her home country, Turkey. By following these expert recommendations, homeowners can effectively incorporate Zellige tiles to transform their living spaces into captivating and personalized sanctuaries, celebrating their inherent imperfections and vibrant color palettes. #ZelligeTiles #InteriorDesign #TileTrends #MoroccanDecor #HomeDecor #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #RusticAccents #MinimalistDesign

Zellige tiles, characterized by their glossy finish, rich texture, and handcrafted imperfections, have transitioned from a trend to a timeless design element. These tiles offer a unique depth and character that cannot be replicated by machine-made alternatives. Traditionally favored for kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls, designers are now exploring innovative applications throughout the home. This article presents ten creative ideas for incorporating zellige tiles, showcasing their versatility and enduring appeal. One application involves using zellige tiles to create striking vertical stripes in a bathroom shower. Nicky Mudie of Violet & George employed a soft blue glaze combined with polished plaster, accented by chocolate brown and oxblood tiles, to introduce a bold and graphic element in a playful manner. This approach transforms a functional shower into a statement piece, adding drama and character to a contemporary design. Another innovative use is making a fireplace a focal point. Amy Dublin-Nash of Lisa & Leroy utilized zellige tile to anchor a narrow room, appreciating its handmade feel and how light reflects off its glossy surface, creating visual dimension. Rather than a bulky mantel, the zellige wraps the fireplace in texture and warmth, conveying elegance and intrigue without overpowering the space. Zellige tiles offer a fresh alternative to traditional subway tile backsplashes. Jennifer Acito of Dama & Wood selected them for a kitchen backsplash to provide an elevated, traditional-leaning look that grounds pink millwork. The handmade tile's uneven lines and tonal variations introduce warmth and texture, resulting in a timeless yet modern backdrop that balances the color palette with sophistication. Color-blocking a shower with zellige tiles can create both a focal point and a functional anchor. The Brownstone Boys design team used shifts in color and texture to define zones, counterbalancing narrow room proportions and drawing the eye. Jordan Slocum notes that this approach creates visual drama while maintaining a restrained palette and clean lines, resulting in a modern classic look that is sculptural and integrated into the home's design. Extending zellige tile beyond the backsplash to cover entire kitchen walls creates a bold, full-coverage effect. Amy Vroom of The Residency Bureau wrapped a Seattle kitchen in rich green zellige, using its texture and warmth to soften the overall look and introduce a handcrafted element. This creates a cohesive, dramatic space that is modern, polished, warm, and unique. In bathrooms, zellige tiles can form a statement wall. Erika Marini of Fixe Design House created a deep zig-zag design behind a vanity, adding graphic impact and aligning with a Mediterranean-coastal aesthetic. This layered and lively yet refined result makes the bathroom suitable for both children and as a stylish lounge space. Zellige tiles can also line floating shelves for a bold and cohesive feature. Abbie Naber of a.Naber Design used cobalt blue zellige in a color-drenched kitchen, ensuring the richly-hued walls were free of tile to allow the shelving detail to stand out and connect to a tiled bar top. This monochrome approach creates a playful, hacienda-inspired look. Framing a shower with a checkerboard border provides a playful twist to classic zellige. Ashley Chavis of Grant & Little used this pattern as a signature element, adding whimsy without overwhelming the space. This detail maintains a textured, organic, and timeless aesthetic. Adopting a tone-on-tone look with zellige tiles creates a dramatic effect. In a Madrid primary bathroom, custom ZIA tiles in layered earth tones provide depth through subtle variations in size, tone, and texture. Richy Almond of Lind + Almond highlights how these variations make the surface tactile and alive, achieving a modern yet traditional feel. Finally, creatively cutting zellige tiles for a standout backsplash can reimagine traditional patterns. Designers for a kitchen backsplash cut zellige tiles into irregular shapes to create a dynamic zig-zag effect, rather than a strict grid. Holly Vaughan of Vaughan Design and Development explains that using soft greens and off-whites balanced the bold pattern with apple-colored cabinetry and pink-paneled walls, enhancing movement in the glossy, handcrafted surface. #ZelligeTiles #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #TileIdeas #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #FireplaceDesign #TexturalTiles #HandcraftedTiles

The article discusses the emerging interior design trend of 'groutless' tiling for 2025, which emphasizes a seamless, textural aesthetic by minimizing visible grout lines. This trend focuses on the tiles themselves, creating an uninterrupted surface that is gaining popularity in modern home decor. While appearing groutless, the technique actually involves applying grout behind the tiles, ensuring a smooth finish without any visible lines that might disrupt the visual flow. Design experts attribute the rising demand for groutless tiles to their clean and timeless appeal. Louisa Alice, Creative Director at Mosaic Factory, highlights the desire for a uniform and streamlined look. Grazzie Wilson, Head of Creative at Ca' Pietra, elaborates on how this aesthetic provides a sense of continuity and makes a significant visual impact, particularly in spaces like wet rooms or open-plan areas where a flowing design is crucial. She also notes its synergy with current trends like 'tile and stone drenching,' which aim to create immersive, monochromatic surfaces. Achieving the groutless look requires careful material selection and precise installation. Zellige tiles are recommended as an ideal choice for this style due to their handmade irregularities, which naturally result in minimal joints even when grouted. For an even more seamless effect, zellige tiles can be left completely ungrouted, though this approach necessitates consideration of the tile type, surface, and setting to prevent chipping or damage from movement and expansion. The unique character of zellige tiles, when laid in this manner, can create a striking feature wall that adds texture and visual interest to a space, as demonstrated in a featured bathroom design. Beyond aesthetics, the groutless trend offers practical advantages, notably easier maintenance. The absence of visible grout lines means fewer crevices for dirt and grime to accumulate, simplifying cleaning and upkeep, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. This functional benefit, combined with its sophisticated appearance, makes the groutless tile trend a compelling choice for homeowners seeking both style and practicality. The article concludes by emphasizing that with the right materials and meticulous attention to detail, this trending look can be recreated to achieve a timeless and impactful design. #GroutlessTile #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ZelligeTiles #ModernDesign #SeamlessAesthetic #TexturalEffect #HomeImprovement

The article explores the evolving trends in tile design, particularly in the context of kitchen and bathroom backsplashes and surfaces, moving beyond the ubiquitous subway tile. While acknowledging the classic appeal and widespread adoption of subway tiles, the piece delves into alternative materials and installation methods that designers predict will gain prominence. The enduring popularity of subway tiles is attributed to their simple, geometric form and ability to add a polished look to various spaces. However, with their saturation across interior design, there's a growing interest in new options. Five experienced designers were consulted to identify the next major tile trends. One significant alternative highlighted is Zellige tiles, handmade Moroccan terracotta tiles. These tiles are recognized for their inherent character, rippling textures, and slightly elevated aesthetic compared to standard subway tiles, despite sharing a simple, geometric foundation. Designers suggest their use on vertical surfaces and in low-traffic areas, noting their old-world charm and appealing shapes. Another trend involves the use of solid natural stones. While subway tiles retain a place, especially for budget-conscious renovations, there's a noticeable shift towards natural materials. The simplicity and aesthetic appeal of solid marble slab backsplashes in kitchens are specifically mentioned as a desirable alternative. This trend emphasizes organic textures and a connection to natural elements. Sheet glass is presented as a contrasting option to traditional tile. This involves installing sheet glass over colorful wall treatments like wallpaper or paint, allowing the underlying design to show through. This approach offers a way to introduce more personality and fun into homes, moving away from conventional tiling methods. An example cited is a guest bathroom shower where glass was used to preserve old wallpaper and plaster, demonstrating its versatility. Finally, for those not ready to completely abandon subway tile, a reinterpretation of its installation is suggested: vertically stacked subway tile. This method involves a shift from the traditional staggered brick layout to a vertical arrangement, which can accentuate ceiling height, especially when paired with exaggerated, narrow tiles. Additionally, a preference for matte finishes over traditional glossy glazes is noted, indicating a subtle yet impactful evolution in how classic subway tiles are perceived and utilized. These trends collectively point towards a desire for more texture, natural elements, unique finishes, and innovative installations in contemporary interior design. #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #ZelligeTiles #NaturalStone #SheetGlass #SubwayTileAlternatives #HomeDecor #DesignInspiration #RenovationIdeas

This article delves into the evolving landscape of kitchen tile trends for 2025, highlighting styles that are gaining popularity and those that are falling out of favor, according to insights from interior designers. The overarching theme emphasizes a shift towards embracing imperfections and natural aesthetics in kitchen design. Among the trends on the rise are natural stones and earthy tones. Interior decorator Floss Kelly notes a significant movement towards materials like marble, slate, and terracotta. These materials, characterized by their inherent textures and diverse colors, contribute to a warm, inviting kitchen environment. The appeal lies in their timeless elegance, durability, and uniqueness, as no two pieces of natural stone are identical. Zellige tiles are also emerging as a prominent trend for 2025. Jennifer Verruto, founder and CEO of Blythe Interiors, praises these hand-crafted Moroccan tiles for their distinctive texture, subtle color variations, and artisanal look. Their "perfectly imperfect" quality, stemming from varying thickness, shape, and glaze, adds character to a space. However, due to their non-uniform nature, expert installation is typically required. Additionally, 3D tiles are gaining traction as a simple yet impactful way to introduce organic movement and character into a room. Verruto suggests their use on a dining room or entry wall to create a significant visual statement. The article also addresses the enduring presence of subway tiles, noting that while they will likely remain a classic, variations are becoming popular. Designers are seeing a creative influx of hand-pressed looks, different sizes, colors, and shapes, and playful layouts such as vertical stacks, double herringbone, or basketweave patterns, offering an elevated twist on the traditional design. Conversely, several kitchen tile trends are on their way out. All-white, monochromatic, and minimal tile designs, once popular for their calming aesthetic, are losing favor. Designers observe a shift towards bolder tiles, color-drenching, rich textures, and invigorating patterns, as homeowners seek more expressive design choices that are still balanced with simplicity and minimalism. Busy backsplashes, including shiny metallics and glass, are also declining in popularity. Kelly Marohl, an interior designer at Neutral Home Design, indicates that homeowners are increasingly opting for marble slabs as backsplashes, extending them either halfway up to a ledge or all the way to the ceiling, offering a softer and more cohesive look. As a budget-friendly alternative, marble contact paper is suggested. Finally, traditional subway tile backsplashes are becoming less common as homeowners desire more distinctive and personalized kitchen elements. Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell, mentions that hexagonal or larger-format tiles are perceived as more contemporary. While variations of subway tiles, such as colored or gradient options, are still appreciated, the classic white brick-lay pattern is seeing a decline in demand. #KitchenDesign #KitchenTileTrends #InteriorDesigners #NaturalStone #ZelligeTile #3DTiles #SubwayTileVariations #KitchenRenovation

Subway tile, while a classic choice for home interiors, has numerous exciting alternatives for those seeking to diversify their design. Interior designers offer insights into a variety of tile options that provide unique textures, aesthetics, and practical benefits. One such alternative is metal tile, which, despite its name, is crafted from handmade ceramic and finished with a metallic glaze, offering a glamorous and subtly reflective surface. Designer John McClain highlights its sophisticated appeal. Terrazzo is another option that adds a delightful and trendy touch. Tali Roth suggests terrazzo as an effective way to streamline small spaces, especially when applied extensively to both walls and floors, creating a cohesive and vibrant look. For individuals who prefer minimal grout lines and a seamless appearance, quartzite presents a solution. Marie Flanigan advocates for extending the counter slab up the wall instead of using traditional tile, resulting in a clean and unified backsplash. Brick offers a rustic yet industrial and classic aesthetic. Bria Hammel emphasizes that both brick tiles and actual bricks contribute significant texture and warmth to a space. For those drawn to global influences, star and cross tiles provide a subtle nod to Spanish and Moroccan architecture. Courtney Thomas notes that these tiles, particularly in softer color combinations, introduce movement without overwhelming the design. Zellige tile, a traditional Moroccan option, is celebrated for its organic texture and character. Studio Life.Style recommends using zellige in a rectangular vertical layout to achieve a contemporary and unexpected feel. Mosaic tiles, especially graphic and high-contrast varieties, are championed by Laura Umansky for making a bold statement, serving as a clear departure from basic white subway tiles. Field tile, also known as porcelain tile, when chosen with a whimsical cut, can emulate the feel of subway tile while adding an edgy dimension. Caitlin Murray describes this as a "subway style with a twist—both classic and unexpected." Ceramic hex tiles, particularly those with a layered glaze, offer an earthy texture and an aged appearance. Cathy Bailey of Heath Ceramics points out that these tiles provide character and detail without dominating the kitchen's overall design. Finally, cement tile is lauded for its durability, eco-friendliness, and aesthetic appeal. Hand-painted cement tiles, as demonstrated in a powder room by Jade Joyner of Metal + Petal, exemplify its cool and artistic potential. These alternatives showcase a broad spectrum of design possibilities beyond the conventional subway tile, allowing for personalized and distinctive interior spaces. #TileAlternatives #HomeDesign #InteriorDecor #KitchenBacksplash #BathroomTiles #Terrazzo #Zellige #MosaicTiles #DesignTrends

The article explores the emerging trend of extending fireplace tiles from floor to ceiling, transforming fireplaces into statement-making focal points. This design approach is presented as an evolution from traditional fireplace tiling, which typically involves a neat line of tiles around the hearth. The author suggests that while feature walls may be considered outdated, feature fireplaces are gaining popularity due to their ability to add texture, color, pattern, and character, thereby enhancing the coziness and visual interest of a living space. Designers Bo Shepherd of Woodward Throwbacks and Jessica Helgerson are featured, providing insights into how they implemented this trend in their projects. Bo Shepherd discusses a Breckenridge project where a floor-to-ceiling installation of 4x4 cindered olive zellige tiles was used for a fireplace. The choice of zellige tiles, known for their raw texture and subtle sheen, aimed to ground the space and interact beautifully with natural light. The design also incorporated a built-in bench around the hearth, creating a tactile gathering spot. This example highlights the use of rich, textured tiles to create a central, earthy yet elevated aesthetic. Jessica Helgerson's project involved transforming a rundown 70s house by reimagining a central chimney breast with blue-green tiles. This dramatic tiled fireplace served as a powerful visual divider, proportioning a very long room into distinct kitchen and living areas. Helgerson emphasized the bold contrast of the shiny, blue-green tiles against soft, warm golden wood, demonstrating how this design choice can create a whimsical focal point that enlivens the space without overwhelming it. The article also showcases an example from Roman Alonso of Commune Design, who used fine mosaic glass tiles to create a striking mural around a fireplace in a midcentury modern living room. This approach is likened to using a tiled mural as an alternative to wallpaper, giving the fireplace a grander status. The floral motif of the glass tiles was specifically chosen to reflect the natural surroundings and complement other decorative elements in the room, such as a Christopher Farr rug with a Cactus Flower pattern. This illustrates how tiled murals can introduce intricate patterns and connect the interior to its environment. Another example, from interior designer Anna Haines, demonstrates the application of burgundy zellige tiles from floor to ceiling in a traditional living room. Haines aimed to create a strong focal point that also functioned as an artistic backdrop, adding depth and character. The handmade zellige tiles, with their subtle variations in color and natural irregularities, contributed an organic and almost sculptural quality to the wall. To ensure cohesion, antique furniture and aged brass fittings were integrated, complementing the patina of the tiled wall. Overall, the article advocates for this floor-to-ceiling tiling trend as a superior alternative to traditional feature walls or paint. It emphasizes the versatility of tiles in adding texture, color, and character to various living spaces. The author encourages readers to consider applying this concept beyond fireplaces, suggesting its use behind beds or in alcoves, anywhere a more unexpected and textured design element might be desired instead of wallpaper. #InteriorDesign #FireplaceTiles #LivingRoomDecor #HomeRenovation #TileTrends #ZelligeTiles #MosaicMural #DesignInspiration #ArchitecturalFeatures

Zellige tiles, a traditional Moroccan clay product, continue to be a popular choice for modern bathrooms due to their unique, irregular, and handmade finish. This artisanal quality lends a rustic charm and confident aesthetic that is highly sought after in contemporary interior design. While often associated with a glossy finish that reflects light and adds movement, zellige tiles are also available in unglazed, matte versions, offering a more natural and soft texture. The versatility of zellige tiles extends beyond simple application. Designers are exploring creative layouts and patterns to enhance their visual impact. For instance, using a basketweave pattern can amplify the texture and tone, with the glossy surface creating a dynamic interplay of light. When employing such bold patterns, a tight color palette can prevent visual clutter and maintain a serene atmosphere. Another innovative approach is incorporating striped tiles, which not only add a significant visual punch but can also create an illusion of increased width in a room, particularly when laid horizontally. For maximum effect, high-contrast colors are favored, while tone-on-tone stripes offer a subtler, more sophisticated look. For those who fully embrace the aesthetic, 'tile drenching' involves covering entire surfaces—floors, walls, and even ceilings—in zellige tiles. This creates an immersive, cocooning effect, transforming a bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary. When executing this, it's crucial to select a cohesive color palette and match the grout to the tiles for a seamless and impactful finish. The inherent unevenness of zellige tiles also provides practical benefits, such as improved slip resistance on floors, making them a safe choice for wet areas. Recognizing the challenges associated with authentic zellige, such as difficult installation and higher costs, the market now offers porcelain and ceramic alternatives. These 'fake' zellige tiles mimic the tonal variation and handcrafted look but come with the advantages of durability, low maintenance, and easier installation, removing the need for specialized tilers or frequent resealing. When opting for these alternatives, it's advised to choose products with natural-looking shade variations and intentional imperfections to retain the authentic aesthetic. Beyond gloss, matte zellige tiles are gaining traction for their velvety, slip-resistant finish, making them ideal for bathroom flooring. These provide texture without the sheen, contributing to a mellow, sunbaked ambiance. Sealing matte zellige is crucial for maintaining its appearance and moisture resistance. Customization is another significant advantage; designers can commission handmade zellige tiles to match specific color palettes, finishes, and sizes, allowing for truly personalized bathroom spaces. This bespoke approach enables the integration of unique elements, such as floor tiles custom-sized to complement vintage decor. Traditional patterns like checkerboard flooring also receive a modern update with zellige tiles. The glossy, hand-cut nature of zellige adds a fresh twist to this classic, bouncing light and introducing texture. Combining a neutral color with a bolder hue in a checkerboard pattern can define distinct zones within a bathroom. Embracing the imperfections of zellige is key, especially in older homes with uneven surfaces. Their irregular profile blends seamlessly with existing architectural quirks, enhancing the character of the space. Finally, zellige tiles are excellent for injecting vibrant colors into a bathroom, with their signature glaze making hues appear richer and more dynamic. They can also be used to tile vanities and countertops, creating cohesive and stylish focal points. Despite their charm, zellige tiles have disadvantages, such as variations in tone and surface due to their handmade nature, and poor heat conductivity, making them less suitable for underfloor heating. Ultimately, zellige tiles celebrate craftsmanship and individuality, offering a timeless and soulful design element for bathrooms. #ZelligeTiles #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #TileTrends #HomeDecor #MoroccanTiles #DesignIdeas #BathroomRenovation

Tiles have been an integral part of home aesthetics and functionality since ancient times, evolving from simple functional elements to significant design features. Given that tiles represent a substantial investment in home renovation, understanding emerging trends is crucial to ensure a contemporary and lasting design. House Digest consulted eight interior design experts to identify the tile trends expected to dominate in 2025, revealing a shift away from the minimalist designs of the previous decade towards warmer tones, rich textures, and nature-inspired aesthetics, while also emphasizing sustainability. One prominent trend is the embrace of textured tiles that evoke natural materials. This move is influenced by the 'organic luxe,' 'quiet luxury,' and biophilic interior design trends. Consumers are seeking depth, warmth, and dimension in their spaces, leading to increased demand for materials like clay zellige, terracotta bejmat, terrazzo, encaustic cement, marble, and natural stone. Zellige tiles, with their imperfect handcrafted quality, are popular for accent walls and backsplashes, especially in wet areas, while more wear-tolerant bejmat tiles are favored for flooring. Terrazzo and cement tiles are being used to create seamless, artisanal focal points in minimalist designs. Nature-inspired colors are also becoming ubiquitous. Interior designers are drawing inspiration from elements like clay, dirt, rocks, and plants, reflecting a broader preference for earthy tones that convey calm, warmth, and coziness. Soft beige, earthy clay, taupe, and various green hues are expected to play a significant role in kitchen and bathroom designs. These versatile earth tones can be integrated into diverse architectural styles, from traditional to modern. Monochromatic palettes are recommended for a contemporary or spa-like aesthetic, with shades like mocha mousse, cream tan, and sirocco creating inviting atmospheres. Deep green tiles are being used for bold statements in showers or backsplashes, offering an elevated yet grounded feel. Artisanal and handmade tiles are making a strong comeback, valued for their unique character, subtle variations, and the craftsmanship they represent. These tiles add soul and authenticity that mass-produced options cannot match. They align with holistic and sustainable living trends and are suitable for Mediterranean, organic modern, bohemian, or rustic interiors, adding warmth to kitchens, bathrooms, and feature walls. While more expensive, designers suggest incorporating them strategically, such as in borders, focal points, or intermingled within simpler tile fields to manage costs. Alternatively, DIY options like using paint pens on white tiles can mimic the handcrafted look. Large-format printed tiles are gaining traction, especially in recreational spaces. These tiles combine the expansive feel of large formats (fewer grout lines) with artistic, high-impact visuals, creating seamless, mural-like designs. They are ideal for making a statement, particularly in pool house cabanas and outdoor retreats, often featuring foliage and tropical patterns to create spa-like sanctuaries. Beyond aesthetics, their fewer grout lines also make them easier to clean. Tumbled stone tiles, both real and imitation, are seeing a resurgence, particularly in warm tones. This reflects a broader shift away from the once-dominant gray and white palettes towards more organic textures. Materials like tumbled marble and travertine, reminiscent of 1990s styles, are returning, with beige, tan, and cream tones being especially popular. These distressed tiles are suitable for rustic or Mediterranean designs and provide excellent traction, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Advances in porcelain technology now offer stone-effect tiles that mimic the aesthetic of natural stone with added durability and ease of maintenance. Checkerboard tile floors are being updated with bolder colors and marble finishes. While always a classic, 2025 sees them reinvented with adventurous color combinations like deep navy and cream, sage and terracotta, or burgundy and blush. Marble checkerboard patterns, especially in classic white and black, are versatile and can be used in various areas, from mudrooms to master baths. For those who prefer different patterns, herringbone or mosaic designs in marble are also popular. Creative layouts for classic tiles are another key trend. Instead of replacing existing subway tiles, homeowners are encouraged to experiment with patterns like vertical stacks for long, narrow tiles to emphasize wall height, or mixing sizes and alternating directions. These innovative layouts add personality and sophistication without requiring high-cost materials, working well with both modern and transitional interior styles. Finally, 'tile drenching' is emerging as a popular method for creating luxurious experiences. This involves covering an entire room, from floor to ceiling, in tiles, sometimes extending to shower stalls and basins. Large-format tiles or full slab tiles are often used to create a fluid, continuous, and dramatic look, particularly suitable for spa-like bathrooms. While a significant investment, starting with a powder room can be a good way to experiment with this trend, mixing finishes and patterns for a nuanced yet seamless effect. Recycled tiles are also gaining traction as sustainability concerns grow. Manufacturers are reprocessing post-consumer waste like glass or porcelain into new tiles, reducing landfill waste. These recycled tiles offer unique visual interest and are suitable for eclectic spaces, mirroring local heritage. They are durable and can be used in various applications, from floors to wet areas and outdoor spaces, providing both style and environmental consciousness. #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #EarthyTones #ArtisanalTiles #LargeFormatTiles #TexturedTiles #TileDrenching

Zellige tiles are gaining popularity in kitchen design due to their handcrafted beauty, depth, texture, and movement. While often used for backsplashes, designers are exploring innovative applications that go beyond traditional usage. These five design ideas showcase how zellige tiles can transform a kitchen space. One approach involves extending zellige tiles beyond the typical backsplash area, such as onto the cooker hood. This method, demonstrated by designer Gillian Segal, aims to emphasize the tile's natural variations in tone that might be overlooked in smaller applications. By covering larger surfaces like the hood fan, backsplash, and sconces with the same material, the design creates a cohesive and visually quieter area, allowing other key kitchen elements like lighting and bold stone accents to stand out. This technique streamlines the kitchen's aesthetic, adding richness and an organic feel through the tiles' texture. Another innovative idea is color-matching zellige tile backsplashes to cabinets, particularly in two-tone kitchens. MeetWest studio implemented this by extending sage green zellige tiles to match the upper cabinets and backsplash. This strategy not only breaks the visual weight of darker lower cabinets but also connects the indoor space with the natural elements outside, creating a sense of spaciousness and lightness, especially when paired with darker countertops and terracotta flooring. This design choice highlights the tiles' unique, earthy glaze and dimensional qualities, making each tile distinctive. A third concept focuses on creating impact through mixed-color zellige tile backsplashes. In a century-old property, architectural designer Britney Groneck used five different hues of green, deep brown, and maroon zellige tiles to create a random, impactful pattern in a kitchen backsplash, particularly in an area with abundant natural light. This method adds significant depth and movement to the space, elevating it with a modern yet timeless look. The handcrafted nature and unique sheen of the tiles make them a focal point, perfectly suiting the home's character. A fourth idea challenges conventional tiling boundaries by extending zellige tiles across an entire wall, from counter to ceiling and even onto adjoining walls and above cabinets. Liljencrantz Design showcased this in a white kitchen, using off-white zellige tiles to go beyond the practical function of a backsplash. This unconventional application transforms a simple kitchen into an incredibly special space, emphasizing the tiles' aesthetic contribution rather than just their protective role. Finally, chunky grouting with zellige tiles introduces a new trend that highlights the irregular beauty of the tiles. This approach creates a secondary, graphic pattern that adds a bold feature to the splashback. Ginger Curtis of Urbanology Designs notes that oversized grouting is surprisingly practical and easier to clean than fine grout lines. This design choice offers a different visual aesthetic, allowing for creative exploration of tile layouts and emphasizing the unique character of zellige tiles in kitchen design. #KitchenDesign #ZelligeTiles #HomeRemodel #InteriorDesign #TileBacksplash #KitchenInspiration #ModernKitchens #DesignTrends

Tile serves as a primary protective layer for walls, floors, and ceilings in humid bathroom environments, while also offering significant aesthetic potential. Designers utilize a diverse range of materials, shapes, sizes, colors, and patterns to create various bathroom styles, from dramatic to serene. This article explores how different designers incorporate tile to elevate bathroom spaces. Emily van der Linde of Lacquer Design aimed for a modern and elevated coastal look in a client's beach home, integrating zellige and cement tiles. Zellige tiles, known for their handmade texture and light reflection, evoke seashells and sea glass, used extensively in the primary bathroom's wet room around the freestanding tub and shower to create a calm, serene atmosphere. Cement tiles, valued for their functionality in wet areas, are laid in a herringbone pattern on the floor and tub platform. In a guest bath, printed cement floor tiles with a flora persona become a focal point, reflecting the home's tropical surroundings, complemented by zellige wall tiles behind the vanity and in the shower. Van der Linde notes the growing trend of viewing tile as an artistic medium, with artisanal hand-painted and hand-printed tiles transforming spaces. Rima Nasser of TEW Design Studio frequently incorporates color into her bathroom designs, moving away from all-white spaces. She uses tile to enhance perceptions of space, making small bathrooms appear larger or low ceilings taller, and utilizes reflective finishes for brightness. In one award-winning project, Nasser used an abundance of colors, including royal blue doors, green walls, and a salmon-colored 'frame' that highlights an emerald green wet room. Ceramic tiles in emerald, laid in a herringbone pattern, clad the wet room walls, niches, and a built-in planter, with an arched entrance also tiled in the matching colorway. In another primary bathroom, black and white porcelain tiles with unique, unrepeatable patterns create a graphic focal point in a super-sized shower, reflecting light and adding visual interest to a formerly outdated space. Lauren Brandwein of Rock House Design employs tile to establish the overall tone of a space, whether minimalist or maximalist. For a primary bathroom addition to a Spanish bungalow, her clients desired a bold, modern Mediterranean, and eclectic aesthetic. This was achieved using contrasting black and alabaster cement tiles on the floor in a classic Moroccan star and cross motif, extended into a wet room. The wet room also features white marble with green veining and green and white mosaic tiles that create an ombre effect, along with dimensional ceramic tiles in a deep emerald green behind the tub. Brandwein highlights the use of natural living materials like cement, clay, and glass tiles, appreciating their ability to patina and add charm, and the effective combination of various tile scales to create a layered, maximalist style. Alida Coury of Alida Coury Interiors focuses on texture and incorporates deeper, saturated tones and increased use of tile on walls and ceilings to create a curated, high-end feel. In a primary bathroom renovation, she used white fluted ceramic tiles on the shower walls to provide texture and an 'edge,' echoing the fluted vanity and freestanding tub. This choice maintains an open and airy spa-like atmosphere while introducing dimensional features. Coury pairs these textural tiles with classic marble for timelessness, which is used for the shower bench, bathroom floor, vanity top, and backsplash. The mix of polished nickel plumbing fixtures with modern matte black lighting and hardware creates a balance between modern and timeless elements. Kristen Harper and Michelle Flores of Remodel Boutique emphasize the role of color in their design/build projects, using it to elevate spaces and enhance happiness. In one primary bathroom renovation, they mixed multiple shades of blue with graphic black and white cement tile to transform an awkward attic space into a functional and inviting bathroom. A dramatic accent wall behind the freestanding tub, clad floor to ceiling in 8"x8" Tulum cement tile in Pacific Black and Pacific White, becomes a focal point. The graphic tile's pattern accommodates the wall's angles, making the design intentional. Neutral subway tile in a vertical herringbone pattern on adjacent walls complements the bold accent, protecting against humidity and reflecting light to create an illusion of height and a more dynamic space. #BathroomDesign #TileTrends #InteriorDesign #ZelligeTile #CementTile #ColorBlocking #TexturedTile #WetRooms #HomeRenovation

The Decorator's Address Book series, specifically in its October edition, focuses on identifying the top tile suppliers for kitchen renovations, a common challenge given the vast array of options from shiny zellige to retro patterns, sleek modern slabs, and handmade mosaics. Tiles are not just practical for preventing splashes and spills but also serve as a crucial element for introducing color, texture, and print into a kitchen space, making their selection a significant design decision rather than an afterthought. To assist homeowners and designers, this article compiles recommendations from expert interior designers on their preferred tile stores and suppliers. Several leading tile suppliers are highlighted for their unique offerings and customer service. Zia Tile is favored by designers like Abbie Naber and Luis Carmona for its wide variety, versatile neutral zellige tiles that offer timeless appeal, and exceptional customer service. Carmona specifically notes Zia's muted tones and slight matte texture, making their tiles suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, including outdoor kitchens and fireplaces. Fireclay Tile is another highly recommended vendor, praised by Mollie Ranize and Rebecca Ward for its extensive range of specialty products, including unique hand-painted tiles that add distinct color and texture. Ward also appreciates Fireclay's commitment to sustainability as a B Corp and their custom color program, which allows for precise color matching, enhancing design cohesion. Dijana Savic-Jambert further emphasizes Fireclay's outstanding quality, durability, and sustainable practices, including their use of Health Product Declarations (HPD) to ensure product transparency. Akdo's Kaleidoscope collection is singled out by Young Huh for its playful patterns and timeless black and white options, which offer designers flexibility for creative manipulation. Tile Bar is noted by Rebecca Ward for its comprehensive selection of staple and unique tiles, coupled with excellent customer service, fostering strong relationships with designers. Ann Sacks is recommended by Andrea Lackie for its diverse range, including natural stone, patterned ceramic, and durable porcelain tiles, along with reliable customer service. For readily available classic options and designer collections, The Tile Shop is a go-to for Briana Gershenzon, who highlights their Royal Satin marble for kitchen backsplashes. Nemo Tile + Stone is valued by Arianna Rosenberg for its durable and well-stocked products, particularly their elongated subway tiles from the Bond line in Cotton, which offer texture and depth while maintaining a neat appearance. Floor & Decor is identified as a secret resource by Briana Gershenzon for its affordable, in-stock natural stone options like Statuario marble tile, providing a luxurious effect for backsplashes even when natural stone countertops are not feasible. Heath Ceramics and Popham Tile are trusted by Sarah Jefferys for their quality and ability to elevate home aesthetics, offering a range from sophisticated to vibrant designs and custom configurations. Daltile is a versatile resource for Luis Carmona, providing accessible showrooms, a wide price range, and large-scale tiles that offer a clean aesthetic with fewer grout lines. Bedrosians is recognized for its quality and variety of color options and coordinating components, as highlighted by Briana Gershenzon, who recommends their Marin Ceramic Tile in Aloe Green Gloss for a fresh look. Villa Lagoon is praised by Alexandra Azart for its extensive patterns and customizable platform, allowing for unique color combinations. Lastly, Kristin Dittmar appreciates Decorative Materials for their exceptional selection of natural stones and knowledgeable team, while Bethany Adams recommends Clé Tile for both floor and wall applications, particularly their luxurious Belgian reproduction terracotta tiles and chic zellige for backsplashes. These expert recommendations aim to guide consumers in making informed decisions for their kitchen tile selections, emphasizing quality, style, and practicality. #KitchenTiles #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #TileSuppliers #ZelligeTiles #SustainableDesign #KitchenRemodel #DesignTrends #HomeDecor

The choice of tile is crucial in setting the tone for a kitchen remodel, even more so than cabinet selection. Zellige tiles, with their inherent handcrafted beauty, depth, texture, and movement, are presented as a timeless option that adds soul to any kitchen. Architectural designer Britney Groneck emphasizes their enduring appeal, noting their ability to enhance a space. Designers are increasingly utilizing zellige tiles in innovative ways to create unique and inspiring kitchen designs. This article explores five such creative applications, offering inspiration for a 2024 kitchen remodel. One approach involves a tiled cooker hood, as showcased by Toronto-based designer Gillian Segal. The strategy emphasizes the beauty of zellige tiles by extending the material beyond the backsplash to the hood fan and sconces. This ensures the natural variations in tone are highlighted across a larger area, preventing the tiles from being visually lost. The unified tiling also contributes to a sense of quietness in the kitchen, allowing other elements like lighting, curvilinear forms, and bold stone to stand out, while the texture of the tiles enriches the overall scheme. Another innovative idea is a backsplash color-matched to the cabinets, exemplified by Arkansas design studio MeetWest. This design elevates the common two-tone kitchen by color-blocking both the upper cabinets and the backsplash in a sage green. The homeowner, a ceramicist, desired elements that connected to her craft and the local landscape. The zellige tiles, with their dimensional, earthy glaze and unique variations, complement this vision. By extending the sage green to the upper cabinets, the design breaks the visual weight of warm walnut lower cabinets and visually connects the interior with the outdoor greenery, adding lightness to balance darker features like countertops and terracotta flooring. The use of mixed-color zellige tiles for a backsplash is a third idea, featured in an over-a-century-old property designed by Britney Groneck. To make an impact in a kitchen with a large window above the sink, a material that immediately draws the eye was needed. After sampling various dark hues of green, brown, and maroon zellige tiles, the decision was made to create a random pattern using five different color options. This approach introduced more depth and movement to the backsplash, transforming it into a unique and modern highlight for the kitchen while maintaining a timeless aesthetic through the handcrafted tiles’ sheen and texture. A fourth idea suggests tiling a full wall, extending beyond the conventional backsplash area. While there are no strict rules for tiling, this concept from Stockholm-based Liljencrantz Design demonstrates the impact of extending off-white zellige tiles from counter to ceiling on one side of the kitchen, and then continuing them onto an adjoining wall and above the cabinets. This unconventional application transcends the practical function of a backsplash, contributing to a simple yet exceptionally special and understated kitchen aesthetic. Finally, a backsplash featuring chunky grouting presents a relatively new trend that effectively highlights the irregular beauty of zellige tiles. Urbanology Designs, founded by Ginger Curtis, designed a kitchen using this technique, noting that it creates a secondary pattern without solely relying on the tile. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, chunky grouting is also surprisingly practical and easier to clean than tiny grout lines. This method offers a more graphic look, allowing for creative exploration of different tile layouts and adding a distinct visual characteristic to the kitchen. #ZelligeTiles #KitchenRemodel #TileDesign #ModernKitchens #BacksplashIdeas #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #KitchenTrends #ArchitecturalDesign

Joy Cho, founder and creative director of Oh Joy!, sought a new type of tile for her guesthouse-slash-work studio bathrooms, moving beyond the popular zellige tiles she had used previously in her main house. Her goal was to achieve a brighter, lighter aesthetic with a noticeable glow, leading her to choose glass tiles. Specifically, she opted for Fireclay’s glossy finish in a basic square silhouette, appreciating the 4-by-4-inch tiles for their retro appeal and how they allowed the inherent glistening hues to dominate without distraction from complex shapes. The decision to use the same finish and shape across both bathrooms helped to unify the entire space, even though each room featured distinct palettes and patterns. Cho collaborated with designer Cleo Murnane of Project M Plus to create two unique bathroom designs. In the bathroom connected to a moody blue bedroom, they arranged glass tiles in shades of turquoise, including Snowy Owl, Warbler, Magpie, and Kingfisher, into graphic stripes. This design was inspired by Josef Albers' iconic paintings, carefully selected to avoid a juvenile appearance. By placing the darkest tiles at the bottom, they effectively created an illusion of greater ceiling height. The second bathroom embraced a more random, pastel color scheme, incorporating at least five different tile colors: Rosy Finch, Carolina Wren, Warbler, Dove, Egret, Lark, and Sparrow. To achieve this random pattern, Cho suggests either allowing the installer to pick tiles haphazardly from a mixed pile or meticulously planning the arrangement on paper using a color-by-numbers system, while also considering placement around shelving niches. Cho also explored other potential design approaches for these vibrant tiles, such as an ombré effect that would transition colors either upwards or downwards, envisioning a rainbow-like progression. Beyond these specific applications, Cho offered additional tile recommendations to suit various aesthetic preferences. For a cheerful, mid-century-inspired ambiance, she suggested a 'fruity and summery' citrusy combination, which she believes would be well-suited for a kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom, evoking the feel of an orange grove. For those desiring a more subdued yet colorful space, she recommended a 'cool and neutral' mix of muted colors, ideal for a shower or bathroom where a bold statement isn't the primary goal. Finally, recognizing that glossy glass tiles might not appeal to everyone, Cho presented an alternative: classic Carrara marble tile. She emphasized that the key to making natural stone feel fresh and modern lies in the chosen shapes and patterns, such as skinny vertical rectangles or star-and-cross layouts. She noted that marble could also serve as an excellent complement to other, more colorful sections of a bathroom, allowing the entire space to still achieve a distinct and elegant shine, albeit in a different manner than the vibrant glass tiles. #BathroomDesign #TileTrends #GlassTiles #ColorPalette #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ZelligeAlternative #OhJoyStudio #ZelligeTile

Tiles offer a versatile and functional medium to enhance interior spaces, providing a departure from traditional decorative elements like paints, wallpapers, and artworks. They introduce color, texture, and can alter the visual proportions of a room when applied in innovative ways, thereby anchoring a home's design narrative. This exploration delves into nine creative applications of tiles, moving beyond conventional uses to inspire unique and fresh interior aesthetics. One approach involves retrofitting focal points, such as transforming a fireplace. Tiles can meticulously recreate the character of a stone fireplace, as demonstrated by the use of bluestone tiles to achieve an earthy, rustic appeal that appears original to the structure. Another method is to integrate storytelling through painted tiles. Custom or curated hand-painted tiles, perhaps featuring musical symbols within an illuminated arch, can inject a whimsical narrative into a modern kitchen. For those seeking a simpler yet impactful design, the power of grout can be harnessed. Employing contrasting or colored grout lines with simple tiles like metro tiles can emphasize their geometric forms and add a new dimension to the design, providing structure while maintaining material uniformity. Tiles can also be instrumental in creating distinct zones, such as a conversation pit around a fireplace. By lining a recessed area with tiles, a sense of containment and coziness is established, even within a larger room, drawing from existing architectural features to merge practicality with comfort. Beyond traditional surfaces, tiles can frame architectural elements. For instance, using green tiles with curved edges to outline a bedroom door jamb offers a modern and unexpected alternative to conventional door trim, introducing visual interest and unique materiality. For a grander decorative statement, tile murals offer a rich and textural focal point. Whether bespoke or part of a series, these murals can transform an ordinary wall into an artistic centerpiece, preserving and highlighting historical elements or introducing new visual narratives. Kitchen islands, often central to the space, can be reimagined with tiles. Tiling an island, especially with materials like Zellige tiles, adds texture and color, elevating it into a significant architectural and visual feature that avoids monotony and adds dynamism to the kitchen's design. Furthermore, tiles can create decorative borders for flooring. Instead of uniform application, chevron-patterned tiles can define the edges of a room, framing its dimensions and repurposing remnants of older layouts while maintaining a consistent flooring pattern. This technique can refresh stone or wood flooring, adding a decorative touch. Each of these applications showcases how tiles can be used creatively to imbue homes with personality, ranging from subtle enhancements to bold design statements, challenging traditional perceptions of tiling and unlocking new design possibilities. #TileDecorating #HomeInteriors #CreativeTiling #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #FireplaceTiles #TileMurals #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation