Zellige tiles are handcrafted, glazed clay tiles traditionally made in Morocco and celebrated for their rich colour, subtle irregularities, and artisan charm. In simple terms, zellige tiles are hand‑cut terracotta tiles with a glossy or matte glaze that form mesmerising patterns when installed. The main reason Australians love zellige tiles is their unique character — no two tiles are exactly the same — which brings depth, texture and old‑world sophistication to floors, walls, splashbacks and feature surfaces in contemporary homes.
While zellige tiles share a common heritage, there’s a delightful variety in finishes, sizes and installation styles that suit different interior schemes.
These tiles feature a rich, lustrous glaze in jewel‑like tones such as deep emerald, ocean blue or terracotta. The glossy finish reflects light beautifully and creates a dramatic focal point.
For a more understated aesthetic, matte zellige tiles offer softer colour expression and texture. They’re ideal for spaces seeking subtlety rather than high shine.
Warm whites, creams and soft neutrals are increasingly popular in coastal, minimalist and Scandinavian‑inspired Australian interiors. These tones complement natural materials like timber and stone.
Artisan variations where tiles are arranged in traditional patterns — arabesque, fish scale, chevron or herringbone layouts — give a bespoke, heritage‑rich finish.
While traditional zellige tiles are small, contemporary adaptations include larger formats that retain the handcrafted charm but suit modern architectural scales.
These tiles showcase uneven surfaces and imperfect edges — a hallmark of authentic craftsmanship that adds visual interest and tactile appeal.
Choosing zellige tiles becomes easier once you consider how and where they’ll be used.
Splashbacks: Glossy zellige tiles pop behind stoves and sinks.
Feature walls: Large expanses of zellige create dramatic impact.
Bathrooms: Moisture‑resistant glazed tiles pair beautifully with matte joinery and warm timbers.
Flooring: Choose harder, matte finishes with non‑slip surfaces.
Glossy tiles reflect light and heighten colour intensity, while matte finishes offer depth and sophistication without glare.
Rich colours (blues, greens, ambers) make bold statements; neutrals (ivory, beige) blend seamlessly with contemporary interiors.
How tiles are laid — brick bond, herringbone, vertical stack — dramatically changes the final look. Choose based on scale and architectural style.
Glossy zellige is easier to wipe clean; textured matte surfaces may require gentle sealing and specific care to retain their beauty.
Here’s why zellige tiles are becoming a favourite in Australian homes:
Because each tile is hand‑glazed and hand‑cut, variations in tone and texture are celebrated — no two installations look identical.
Zellige tiles bridge heritage craftsmanship with modern design, complementing both classic and contemporary interiors.
From kitchen splashbacks to bathroom walls, from feature fireplaces to accent alcoves — zellige tiles adapt beautifully.
The subtle colour variations create depth that flat, industrial tiles can’t replicate. This gives spaces a soulful, lived‑in elegance.
Whether your home leans coastal, rustic, Mediterranean, French provincial or ultra‑modern, zellige tiles can harmonise with diverse palettes and materials.
At House of Isabella Australia, zellige tiles are paired with décor and furnishings that elevate their intrinsic beauty while keeping interiors cohesive and stylish:
Buy Now, Pay Later with Afterpay & Zip for budget‑friendly installations
Fast delivery Australia‑wide, supported by East & West Coast warehouses
Large in‑stock catalogue of curated tiles and complementary décor
Exclusive, unique designs that enhance bespoke interiors
Australian‑based customer care to guide your selection with confidence
To create a holistic interior palette, consider pairing zellige tiles with designer pieces inspired by Florabelle Collection, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, or OneWorld Collection. These collections offer textured rugs, ambient lighting, graceful furniture, and soft textiles that harmonise with tile surfaces — giving you a complete, considered room scheme.
Here’s why zellige tiles are trending strongly in Australia for 2025:
Australians are embracing rich terracotta, moss green, sapphire blue and amber tiles that echo natural landscapes and coastal panoramas.
Designers are using zellige tiles not just as splashbacks but as bold feature walls in entryways, powder rooms and behind bedheads.
Pairing zellige with warm timber, natural stone or textured plaster is trending, creating spaces that feel both grounded and refined.
There’s a growing preference for handcrafted, imperfect beauty over mass‑manufactured finishes — especially in bespoke homes.
Zellige tiles are extending beyond interiors into alfresco kitchens and patios where Australian lifestyle blurs indoor and outdoor living.
Here are practical tips for styling zellige tiles in your space:
Zellige tiles shine next to timber benchtops, cane detailing, and stone surfaces — layering textures for a curated look.
Light grout makes colour pop and feels more traditional; darker grout adds definition and modern contrast.
Use smaller tiles in tight spaces or patterned layouts; larger tiles can make walls feel more expansive.
Soft, warm lighting enhances the depth and sheen of zellige tiles — consider angled or feature lighting for maximum impact.
Because zellige tiles are rich in character, keep surrounding finishes simple — sleek cabinetry, neutral floors, and subtle hardware — for a sophisticated result.
Terracotta tiles
Moroccan tiles
Ceramic splashbacks
Feature wall tiles
Bathroom tiling ideas
Kitchen tile trends
Mentions of brands such as Florabelle Collection, Gallery Home, Café Lighting & Living, Zaffero, Emac & Lawton, OneWorld Collection and others are included purely for descriptive and contextual purposes. House of Isabella Australia is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with these brands.
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