Craft of Zellij

Introduction to Moroccan Zellij
Moroccan Zellij stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Originating as a form of terracotta tilework, Zellij has become renowned for its intricate designs and vibrant colors. Each tile is a labor of love, meticulously hand-chiseled and set into a plaster base, resulting in stunning patterns that range from simple geometric shapes to elaborate mosaics.

Historical Significance
Zellij has multiple origins that influenced its development, but it flourished in Morocco particularly during the Almoravid and Almohad dynasties, as an integral part of Islamic art and architecture. Adorning walls, floors, and ceilings of mosques, palaces, and madrasas, it became deeply ingrained in Morocco's cultural identity.
Its influence transcended borders, reaching Andalusia, where it inspired stunning mosaics in Spanish monuments.
Also, captivated by Zellij's beauty and complexity, the Portuguese crafted their own adaptation known as azulejos. These azulejos became, in turn, an integral part of Portuguese identity, adorning palaces, churches, and public squares.

Uses of Zellij Tiles
Commercial
Zellij tiles are appreciated for their versatility and aesthetic appeal. They are commonly found in a variety of settings, including high-end boutiques, hotels, restaurants, cafes, and more:
Riads: These traditional Moroccan houses are renowned for their ornate interiors with Zellij as a central piece of the decorative style. Here, Zellij are found adorning walls, floors, and patios.
Hotels: Zellij tiles are a hallmark of luxury and sophistication in hotels, where they are strategically placed to make a lasting impression on guests. From the grand entrance foyer, with intricate mosaic patterns on the floor, to the bathroom suites featuring handcrafted Zellij walls and floors.
Restaurants and Cafes often showcase Zellij tiles on accent walls, floors, and even tabletops. These tiles serve to enrich the ambiance with their warmth and character, whether they boast traditional geometric patterns or contemporary designs that harmonize with the restaurant's aesthetic.
High-End Boutiques: Zellij tiles serve as a statement element in high-end boutiques, where they are employed to create immersive and visually striking retail spaces.

Residential
Zellij tiles are also a favorite for residential applications, allowing homeowners to bring a piece of Moroccan heritage into their everyday living spaces.

Tips for Working with Zellij Tiles at home
Walls
For a simple yet impactful application, rectangular or square Zellij tiles can be installed on kitchen or bathroom backsplashes. They can also be incorporated into a shower in-wall to create a cocoon-like ambiance. The glossy finish on these tiles is like water shimmering in the sun—pure magic.

Focal Points
Living Space Centerpiece: A colorful Zellij pattern can replace the traditional rug by creating a tiled centerpiece in the middle of a living space, whether indoors or outdoors. This can also enhance a bathroom by surrounding a bathtub with a vibrant mosaic.
Fireplace Wall Covering: Transform a fireplace wall by covering it with Zellij tiles, adding warmth and character to the room.
Entryway Enhancement: Create a stunning first impression with a tiled accent wall at the entrance. Complement this with a minimalist console to ensure the wall's beauty stands out.
Bars, often at the center of gatherings, can be beautifully adorned with Zellij tiles. The vibrant colors provide endless possibilities for customization, making your bar a perfect conversation starter as guests admire the beauty and history behind the tiles.

Outdoors
- Poolside Walls and Water Features
- Outdoor Living Areas (e.g., on the floor or on bar counters)

Statement Pieces
Zellij tiles can turn ordinary furniture into stunning statement pieces. Tables, nightstands, and benches can all be revamped with Zellij.

Artistic Expression
Zellij offers a versatile canvas for artistic expression. Cut into small geometric pieces, Zellij tiles can be arranged to create various patterns and designs. For finishing and protecting furniture or art pieces, resin is one of the best options. By combining resin with different colored powders to fill the spaces instead of using traditional mastic, you can elevate the final result. This technique is especially helpful for completing curved forms when tiles are too complicated to cut precisely.

Geometry and Finish
When considering Zellij in any space, there are two fundamentals to keep in mind: geometry and finish.

Geometry: While square or rectangular tiles are easier to install and maintain, Zellij offers the flexibility to create any geometry. It can be custom-cut to fit any specific design, allowing a wide range of shapes and patterns, from intricate arabesque motifs to contemporary geometric designs. However, complex geometries may make the surface harder to maintain.
Finish: When it comes to choosing the finish for your Zellij tiles, whether matte or glossy, each option brings its own set of advantages. Glossier tiles are low maintenance thanks to their easy-to-clean surface, making them particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms where spills and splashes are common. On the other hand, matte tiles offer a sense of sophistication to your space while offering a modern twist on a timeless tradition. Traditional Zellij typically comes in a glossy finish, while the matte version was introduced by Western brands aiming to replicate the traditional tile. For authenticity, the glossy finish is the way to go.

Buyer's Guide
What to Look For ?
When purchasing Zellij tiles, it's essential to acknowledge the irregularities, imperfections, and color variations that are perfectly normal and give them their unique appearance. However, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the best quality.

Color Adherence: Vibrant colors are indicative of high-quality Zellij tiles. Watch out for color washing, which can occur when the surface glaze is not properly applied or fired, resulting in an uneven finish.
Surface Quality: Examine the surface of the tiles for smoothness and glossiness. Ideally, the finish should be smooth and milky, without any cracks or rough patches.
Pattern Precision: While perfect precision may not always be achievable due to the manual cutting process, strive for intricate designs with minimal misalignment. Misaligned patterns can disrupt the overall design.
Tile Thickness: Consistent thickness across all tiles is crucial for both installation and maintenance. Ensure that the tiles have a uniform thickness to facilitate seamless installation and long-term durability.
Colors: It's often best to choose colors that the shop already offers. This not only indicates that they are experienced in producing that particular shade but also helps avoid custom orders that might not match your expectations.

By paying attention to these details, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your Zellij tiles bring the desired aesthetic and longevity to your project.

Zellij tiles, with their rich history and intricate designs, offer a versatile and timeless addition to both commercial and residential spaces. Whether used in traditional settings or modern applications, these tiles bring a touch of Moroccan elegance and craftsmanship to any environment. By following this guide, you can confidently incorporate Zellij tiles into your projects, ensuring authenticity, quality, and aesthetic appeal.