When it comes to timeless beauty and bold elegance, Moroccan tiles are hard to beat. Their intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and handcrafted appeal can instantly transform any space into a stunning showcase of global design. Whether you’re aiming to revamp your kitchen backsplash or lay down a dramatic new floor, working with Moroccan tile patterns takes a bit of planning and precision.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through professional tips to help you work with Moroccan tiles like a seasoned interior designer. From choosing the right patterns to mastering the installation process, here’s everything you need to know to tile like a pro.
1. Understand the Aesthetic: What Makes Moroccan Tiles Unique?
Before you start laying tile, it's essential to understand the visual language of Moroccan tiles. Originating from centuries-old Islamic art and architecture, Moroccan tiles—often referred to as zellige—are known for:
Geometric precision: Intricate interlocking patterns that repeat seamlessly.
Bold, vibrant colors: Blues, greens, ochres, and whites dominate traditional palettes.
Handcrafted charm: Many Moroccan tiles are still made by artisans using traditional techniques.
These characteristics make them a fantastic choice for those who want to bring texture, character, and global flair into modern spaces.
2. Start with a Vision: Where and How to Use Moroccan Floor Tiles
Moroccan floor tiles are not just for ornate palaces or old-world riads. Today, they’re commonly used in:
Entryways to create dramatic first impressions
Kitchens for stylish flooring that hides wear
Bathrooms as statement floors or shower walls
Patios and outdoor courtyards for a Mediterranean vibe
When planning your project, consider how the pattern and color will interact with the surrounding decor. Will it be the focal point of the room? Or will it complement more subdued finishes?
3. Choose the Right Pattern for the Space
One of the challenges—and joys—of working with Moroccan tile patterns is selecting the right design. From classic stars and crosses to floral arabesques and modern geometric variations, there’s a wide variety to choose from.
Pro Tip:
Small spaces (like powder rooms or backsplashes) can handle bold, intricate patterns.
Large spaces (like open-plan kitchens) do better with slightly more repetitive, less busy patterns for visual balance.
4. Order More Tiles Than You Need
With handcrafted or printed Moroccan tiles, pattern alignment is crucial—and so is breakage coverage. Order at least 10–15% more than your measured square footage to account for:
Cutting and trimming around edges and fixtures
Pattern matching and test layouts
Potential breakage during shipping or installation
This is especially important with patterned Moroccan floor tiles, where continuity is key.
5. Dry Lay Before Installing
One of the most essential steps—often overlooked by DIYers—is dry laying your tiles before adhering them permanently.
Lay out the tiles on the floor (or wall) in the exact pattern you plan to install. This helps:
Visualize the overall look
Ensure proper pattern alignment
Avoid repeating mistakes once adhesive is involved
Dry laying is especially helpful when working with multiple colors or complex Moroccan patterns.
6. Use the Right Tools and Adhesives
Traditional Moroccan tiles—especially handmade zellige—can have uneven backs or slightly irregular edges. Using the correct tools makes all the difference:
Notched trowel: For applying even layers of thin-set adhesive
Tile spacers: Essential for uniform gaps
Level and laser line: Keeps patterns straight and consistent
White thin-set mortar: Recommended for lighter-colored or translucent tiles
Make sure the surface is clean, level, and primed before installation. This helps the tiles adhere properly and prevents future cracking or loosening.
7. Pay Attention to Grout Color and Lines
Grout might seem like an afterthought, but it can significantly impact the final look of your Moroccan floor tiles.
White or neutral grout emphasizes the tile pattern and gives a traditional finish.
Colored grout (blues, greys, etc.) can modernize the look and add visual contrast.
8. Seal for Protection and Longevity
If you're using unglazed Moroccan tiles or authentic zellige, sealing is essential. It helps prevent staining, moisture damage, and fading—especially in high-traffic areas or wet zones like kitchens and bathrooms.
Apply a penetrating sealer before grouting to protect the tile surface.
Reseal every few years, depending on foot traffic and exposure to water.
Glazed ceramic Moroccan tiles often don’t require sealing but still benefit from regular cleaning and gentle maintenance.
9. Mix with Modern Elements
Worried about going "too traditional"? Moroccan tiles blend beautifully with contemporary design elements like:
Matte black or brass fixtures
Minimalist cabinetry and neutral walls
Natural materials like wood and stone
This contrast enhances the tile’s impact without overwhelming the space. A modern-boho or Moroccan-modern fusion is perfect for trend-conscious homeowners.
10. Hire a Pro (or Consult One)
If you're installing Moroccan floor tiles in a large area—or using handmade tiles—consider hiring a professional tile installer with experience in patterned layouts. A poorly aligned design can ruin the intended impact and be costly to fix.
Even if you're a confident DIYer, a consultation with a pro can help ensure everything—from prep work to grout choice—is spot-on.
Final Thoughts
Installing Moroccan tiles is not just a renovation project—it’s a design statement. With their bold patterns, rich colors, and historic appeal, they can elevate any interior or exterior space. Whether you’re working with Moroccan floor tiles or decorative wall pieces, following these tips will help you tile with confidence and achieve that magazine-worthy finish.
