Zellige, this ancestral Moroccan art, is no longer reserved for riads and traditional interiors. These small enamelled terracotta tiles, cut and assembled by hand, have become a staple of contemporary design.
Their iridescent brilliance, subtle color variations and unique artisanal appearance give an incomparable soul and character to modern and refined spaces. The main thing is to find the perfect balance between the richness of this tradition and the simplicity of the current design.
Discover how to combine the vibrant authenticity of zellige with the modernity of your interior.
-1. Favour contemporary colours and shapes
For successful integration, it is often easier to adapt the zellige to the palette of contemporary design.
Opt for neutral and clean colors: white, light gray, bright black or pastel tones (sage green, ash blue). Zellige brings the texture and liveliness of craftsmanship without overloading the space. It pairs perfectly with minimalist furniture.
Play with shapes: If the traditional square is a classic, zelliges are now available in modern formats such as rectangles (5 x 15 cm), hexagons or fish scales. These unexpected forms create a more contemporary visual dynamism.
Simplify patterns: In a modern interior, favor uniform colors on a small area rather than complex geometric patterns. The richness will come from the texture and irregularity of the tiles, which beautifully capture the light.
-2. The zellige as accent wall or focal point
In a contemporary space where the walls are often smooth and united, zellige excels as a single focal point. The idea is not to cover the whole room, but to add a touch of craftsmanship by small original touches.
The Kitchen Credence: This is the perfect place. A colorful zellige credence (deep blue, forest green or terracotta) behind a waxed concrete or raw wood worktop becomes a true work of art. It brings warmth and personality to kitchens with clean and modern facades.
The accent wall of the living room: A single wall, for example behind the fireplace or TV, covered with zellige creates instant visual depth. Neutral tones such as white or iridescent beige bring depth while remaining soothing.
Bathroom: The zellige sublimates a shower cabin or a bathtub outline. Its moisture resistance and shiny surface transform the bathroom into a luxurious and relaxing space, playing with the reflections of the water.
-3.Integration into accessories and furniture
If you hesitate to embark on a large wall covering, the zellige can be introduced more discreetly via furniture or decoration elements.
Coffee table top: A coffee table top inlaid with colorful zelliges or geometric patterns creates a unique piece that catches the eye in the living room.
Niches and Alcoves: In a hallway or living room, dressing the interior of a niche or shelf in zellige adds an artistic and unexpected dimension.
Entrance and Corridor: Use the tiles to create a floor mat in the entrance. This delimits the space and brings a warm welcome touch upon arrival.
By integrating zellige in moderation and combining it with clean lines and contemporary materials, you manage to create an interior that tells a story. You honor craftsmanship while affirming a resolutely modern style. This is the secret to bringing the soul of Morocco to you.