Shifting your home design from lovely to luxurious is all about the little details. From the wood species of your cabinets to the material of your countertops, there are many opportunities to infuse the feeling of luxury into a new space. Zellige tiles can create this feeling in subtle but meaningful ways, from your bathroom to your kitchen.

“Zellige tile features a wave-like, shimmery design where no two of the glazed tiles are quite the same,” Normandy Designer Abby Osborn says. “The unique designs offer texture and interest to any room and fit in any style.”

The original zellige tiles have their roots in Morocco, where each delicate terra cotta tile is made by hand to develop its unique undulations that catch the light. “Most zellige tiles you find today are commercially made ceramic tiles, which are much less fragile than the original terra cotta versions,” notes Abby. “But whether they are handmade or commercially produced, they all share that same undulating surface that catch the light so beautifully.”

A big part of what makes zellige tiles so charming are their variations. “Zellige tiles have a handmade look to them, with each individual piece having variations in color and differently styled edges,” notes Abby. “One piece doesn’t tell the whole story. Whether you’re looking to use them for a backsplash or shower application, we recommend laying out a wide variety of tiles when making your selection. That way, you can see the look of the full spectrum.”

Many zellige tiles are best used in vertical applications like shower walls or kitchen backsplashes, less so for floors where it can sometimes be slippery.

“Zellige tile is one of those wonderful options that adds a little bit of interest without being too busy or demanding,” Abby says. “It can add a little bit of glimmer and texture to any room, no matter your design aesthetic.”

There’s a lot more to a successful remodel than finding the right tile. Set up a time to talk with Abby about your ideas and concerns for your home, and together you can come up with a solution that checks all the boxes. If you’re still in the pre-planning phase, you can find inspiration any time on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok, or sign up for our newsletter to get updates on projects, tips, and trends, delivered right to your inbox.