Zellige Tiles: Transform Your Space with Timeless Elegance
Posted by Mike Belk on Jul 16, 2024
![Zellige Tiles: Transform Your Space with Timeless Elegance Zellige Tiles: Transform Your Space with Timeless Elegance](https://cdn11.bigcommerce.com/s-ti709h/images/stencil/190x250/uploaded_images/zellige-look-tiles-at-belk-tile.jpg?t=1720692735)
How can you ensure your home's design continually inspires despite trends? Give your bathroom a boost with a Zellige tile shower display. Or enhance your kitchen with a Zellige tile backsplash.
The timeless elegance of Zellige tiles will seamlessly merge old-world charm and modern style in any area of your home. Despite originating in the 10th century, it is still a popular choice for homeowners worldwide.
The tile's history is as unique as its craftsmanship. Ceramic pieces are intricately arranged into geometric patterns, giving each tile varying tones, colors, and shapes. Unfortunately, their price usually reflects the extensive work involved in creating them.
However, you can still add these unique gems throughout your space. A Zellige look tile will achieve the same effect. It is also cost-effective, easy to install, and sustainable.
Understanding Zellige Tiles: Origins and Craftsmanship
"Polished stone" is the rough translation of the Arabic term "Zellige". It describes a form of Islamic art that embodies a North African mosaic style. Zellige tiles were first handcrafted in Morocco.
Artisans used rectangular molds to shape natural clay. They flattened and shaped them and then dried them in the sun. Afterward, they used their hands to cut and shape them further before leaving them to dry again.
The dry tiles were then hand-dipped in glaze and placed in a kiln to fire overnight. The kiln's uneven heat distribution helped to create the tile's unique, yet beautiful imperfections.
The gorgeous variations of tones and colors are signature characteristics of Zellige tiles. These beautiful masterpieces were then placed into patterned mosaics to adorn palaces and mosques.
Many manufacturers honor this traditional handmade process used centuries ago. This labor-intensive process adds to the final cost of the tile.
Zellige look tiles are a more affordable alternative made from ceramic or porcelain. These are high quality, strong, and easy to install and maintain.
These modern glazed ceramic tiles now adorn many 21st-century homes. You can add these Moroccan tile patterns to your home to create a stylish look and rustic charm but for less.
There is no limit to the stunning colors available. These include white, blue, a range of greens, pink, black, and even turquoise. Simply choose one to suit your style and personality.
Benefits of Using Zellige Tiles
Home renovations can be an expensive undertaking. Whether they involve a full home makeover or a room upgrade, you'll want the greatest return on your investment.
Zellige tiles can help you achieve this through their enduring appeal. They add character and can even increase your home's value. Here are a few other things you can enjoy.
Cost Effectiveness
Zellige handmade tile designs are expensive because of the process involved in making them. Their prices will also vary depending on the tile's shape, color, and size. To stay within budget, you'll want a cost-effective alternative that looks authentic.
Zellige look tiles are stunning replicas made from glazed ceramic. Ceramic has always been a durable, yet inexpensive tile option. Zellige look tiles are no exception.
Long-Lasting Durability
Longevity can also ensure a positive return on your tile investment. Zellige tiles are crafted from high-quality materials that contribute to their durability.
They undergo a rigorous manufacturing process. This ensures they can withstand wear and tear, moisture, and heat.
This durability makes them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. These characteristics allow you to enjoy their beauty for years.
Ease of Installation and Maintenance
Two handmade Zellige tiles that look the same would be impossible to find. Although this adds to their charm, it could make installation challenging. The uneven shapes, edges, and surfaces require a unique installation process.
Installation of Zellige look tiles is more manageable. As a DIY enthusiast, you'll be satisfied after adding this distinct style to your home. You can also relish the cost savings on both the tile and the labor.
Maintenance costs will also be minimal as they're easy to clean and maintain.
Environmental Sustainability
Zellige tiles are often made from natural, biodegradable materials. The manufacturing process generates less waste and ensures a negligible carbon footprint. This, along with their durability and longevity add to their overall sustainability.
Versatility
Zellige look tiles can add a touch of classiness to any room in your home. Many homeowners use them to cover shower walls. A Zellige tile backsplash can create a more vibrant look in the kitchen.
They can also add an exotic, tropical finish to your pool area. Use them on accent walls, countertops, or fireplaces to give your home character. This versatility makes them a great flooring option as well.
What else makes zellige look tiles versatile? The variety of possible applications in these spaces. Consider staggered, stacked, or herringbone patterns for your backsplash. Horizontal or vertical also works well in the bathroom, while a parquet floor design makes a bold statement in any room.
The Zellige Look Tile: Creating a World of Possibilities
Zellige tiles can showcase your personality and style or make a bold statement in any space.
Zellige Backsplash Ideas
Zellige tiles can add a twist to what seems to be the now-traditional subway tile. The bold color range will stand out against more neutral-colored cabinets and walls.
Your backsplash becomes the perfect focal point in what is often the hub of the home. You can make it even more enticing by moving away from straight lines. Instead, experiment with more unconventional layouts.
Luxury Bathroom Tiles
Zellige tiles work well in showers and bathroom walls. They also uplift the space when used for bathroom countertops.
Neutral tones can be calming in the sanctuary of your bath. However, consider adding a Zellige vanity backsplash to add color and warmth to the space.
Accent Walls
How can you enhance what may seem like a mundane room? An accent wall could be the missing statement piece. Zellige tiles on the corner wall of a room or shelved nook can add depth to the space.
The light reflecting on the surface of the glazed tiles can add an airy, yet cozy feel to the room. The right tile color and shape can add character to even the dullest area of your home.
Upgrade Your Entryway and Patio Floors
Upgrade your home's curb appeal with enhanced entryway and patio floors. Unique Zellige tile designs can uplift these areas of your home.
Make them more inviting by letting nature inspire you when choosing your tiles. An eye-catching floor design can seamlessly blend your outdoor and indoor spaces.
Fireplace Surrounds
Warmth doesn't have to be the only welcoming feature of your fireplace. Surround it with Zellige tiles to add texture and flair. Your fireplace will be a work of art and a statement piece designed to welcome guests.
Tips for Choosing and Installing Zellige Tiles
Zellige look tiles are easy to install. You can achieve professional-looking results without the additional cost. Here are a few things you should consider for the best results.
Tile Selection
Select the right color and pattern for your space. Factors that will affect your choice include the size of the room, lighting, and decor. Choose lighter-colored tiles for smaller spaces. You could experiment with brighter colors in a larger room.
Floor Preparation
Proper preparation ensures successful installation. Make sure the floor surface is even. This might involve filling holes, seams, or dips in the subfloor. Sand these down to create a level surface.
Proper Adhesive and Grout
Experts recommend using flexible white paste adhesive when installing Zellige tiles. You can also use a flexible high-bond mortar.
Your grout should match the color of the tile. While installing the tile, grout openings and gaps as you see them. Clean any excess grout to maintain the elegance of your Zellige tiles.
Sealing After Installation
Most glazed Zellige tiles do not require sealing after installation. If you're working with an unglazed product, apply sealer in thin layers until the tile can no longer soak it up. Remove any excess sealer before it dries. Allow it to cure based on the manufacturer's guidelines.
The Timeless Elegance of Zellige Tiles
Handmade tile designs can add a unique, personalized touch to your home. Traditional Zellige tiles blend craftsmanship and beauty. However, it's an expensive option and can make your home renovation even costlier.
A Zellige look tile can give you the same look for less. They are a cost-effective alternative and perfect replicas of these unique works of art.
Zellige look tiles are high quality, durable, and long-lasting. They are easy to install and maintain. Environmentally conscious homeowners will also be happy to know they are sustainable.
Their versatility allows you to experiment by applying varying layouts in any room. Consider a Zellige tile backsplash or a Zellige tile shower display as a start.
BELK Tile can help. We offer tile options by application, tile style, and color. Our products combine style and substance. We provide a wide selection at optimal prices without sacrificing quality or service.
Let's work together to bring life to your interior space. Our up-to-date gallery offers a unique online tile shopping experience. Visit our site to get started today!