If you've been paying attention to interior design trends lately, you've probably seen it: walls and backsplashes glistening with irregular, jewel-like tiles that catch the light and ooze artisanal charm. That’s Zellige tile—and it's having a major moment.

But what exactly is Zellige, and why is it suddenly everywhere from luxury kitchens to boutique hotel bathrooms?

Let’s dig into why Zellige tile is so popular right now—and why this centuries-old Moroccan craft is capturing modern hearts.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

1. It's Handmade—and Looks It

In a design world increasingly filled with mass production, people are craving imperfection. Zellige tiles are handmade from clay, traditionally in Morocco, and fired in kilns fueled by olive pits. Each tile is cut by hand, glazed by hand, and carries slight variations in tone, texture, and shape.

That imperfection is the point: no two tiles are exactly alike, and together they create a surface that’s full of movement, warmth, and soul.

2. It Reflects Light Like Nothing Else

Thanks to their glossy glaze and uneven surfaces, Zellige tiles catch and reflect light in a way that gives walls a shimmering, water-like quality. It’s subtle yet striking. In both natural and artificial lighting, Zellige has a luminous depth that flat, machine-made tiles can’t match.

This makes them perfect for:

• Backsplashes that need a little sparkle

• Showers that feel like a spa

• Fireplaces that pop

• Feature walls that don’t feel too “done”

Photo Credit: Pinterest

3. It Bridges Old World and Modern Style

Zellige has been used in Moroccan architecture for over a thousand years, often seen in intricate mosaics in mosques and palaces. But its rise in modern interiors proves it’s just as at home in contemporary spaces.

Designers love it because it balances old-world character with minimalism. You can pair Zellige with sleek countertops, wood accents, or modern fixtures, and it always adds texture without overpowering the room.

Photo Credit: Pinterest

4. Earthy, Organic Interiors Are In

Zellige fits squarely into the trend toward natural, earthy design. Homeowners are trading sterile white kitchens for warmer tones, layered textures, and artisanal materials. Zellige delivers all of that in one swoop: it’s raw, refined, and rooted in craftsmanship.

It also complements other trending materials like:

• Tadelakt plaster

• Raw wood

• Terracotta

• Linen and boucle

• Natural stone

The result? A space that feels lived-in, layered, and serene.

5. It's Timeless—but Fresh

Unlike bold tile trends that come and go (we’re looking at you, chevron and geometric cement), Zellige manages to feel timeless and trendy at once. Its heritage ensures it won’t feel dated in five years, while its current popularity makes it a go-to choice for designers looking to elevate a space with authenticity.

In other words: it’s a design investment, not a passing fad.

What to Know Before You Use It

Zellige is beautiful—but it’s also not perfectly flat or uniform. That’s part of its charm, but it can be a surprise if you’re expecting factory-finished tiles. It’s also usually installed without grout or with very minimal spacing, which requires a skilled tile installer who understands the material.

Pro tip: Embrace the imperfections. That’s where the magic is.

We do not own the rights to any of these photos. All of these photos were found on Pinterest.