exploring zellige tile look alikes: stylish alternatives for any room

when zellige tile isn't the right fit

you may discover after diving deep into the world of zellige tile that zellige isn’t right for you. and that’s okay. some people, for example, find that their design calls for more uniform color and texture that what zellige can offer. others realize that zellige isn’t well suited for where they are planning to install tile. here’s a deeper look at just a few reasons a zellige tile alternative could be your perfect match.

why zellige is so coveted in design

the handcrafted history of zellige

zellige tile is deeply rooted in moroccan craftsmanship, with origins tracing back over a thousand years. each tile is meticulously hand-shaped from natural clay, kiln-fired, and finished with a glossy glaze that reflects centuries of artisanal tradition. this painstaking process means no two tiles are ever exactly alike—each one carries subtle variations in tone, texture, and sheen that tell the story of the maker’s hand.

historically used in mosques, palaces, and fountains, zellige embodies a legacy of beauty, geometry, and precision. its enduring appeal lies in this sense of authenticity and heritage, blending artistry with imperfection.

designers and homeowners alike are drawn to its luminous, mosaic-like surfaces that add character and depth to both traditional and modern spaces. more than just tile, zellige represents a connection to history and human craftsmanship in a world of mass production.

surface variation, shine, and depth

zellige captivates designers for its remarkable surface variation, natural shine, and visual depth that few materials can match. each hand-cut piece has subtle differences in shape, glaze, and tone, creating a dynamic, light-catching surface that feels alive. its imperfect edges and glossy finish play with reflections, giving walls and backsplashes a rich, almost liquid quality. the tiles shift in appearance throughout the day as light moves across them, offering a sense of warmth and movement.

unlike uniform, machine-made tiles, zellige’s character lies in its irregularities—the slight warps, pinholes, and color gradients that tell a story of human craftsmanship. this harmony of imperfection and elegance is what makes zellige endlessly admired in today’s design world.

why designers and homeowners love the look

designers and homeowners alike are drawn to zellige tile for its ability to infuse spaces with warmth, authenticity, and soul. since no two tiles are ever the same, zellige walls and surfaces shimmer with organic variation and character. the glossy glaze and uneven texture catch light beautifully, creating subtle movement and depth that elevate even the simplest interiors.

zellige’s artisanal quality feels both refined and approachable, making it at home in everything from minimalist kitchens to bohemian bathrooms. its centuries-old craftsmanship connects modern design to rich cultural roots, adding depth and story to contemporary spaces.

zellige tile alternatives to consider

cost-effectiveness

zellige tends to come at a higher price point compared to more mass produced types of tile. after all, it’s handcrafted entirely by hand in morocco using centuries-old techniques. this includes shaping locally sourced natural clay, leaving the clay to dry in the sun, further cutting and shaping the tiles, and then dipping the tiles in glaze before allowing them to fire in the kiln overnight.

all of these artisanal touches are what give zellige beauty like none other. but if you want something more cost effective for a moroccan style house interior, there are other excellent options that remain striking while coming in at a lower price point.

availability

true moroccan zellige tile can be difficult to find. the clay used to make it must derive from the fez region of morocco in order to be considered authentic zellige. this is the only type of zellige tile we sell here at clé tile.

there is one other factor to consider here: finding an experienced tile installer who has the skill (and patience) necessary to work with this very special artisanal tile. if you can’t find a contractor with the right experience, or if your contractor is more skilled at installing other types of tile, you might be better off going with a zellige tile alternative.

range of colors, patterns, or finishes

zellige tile already comes in a vast array of colors, patterns, and finishes. but maybe you find that you prefer the color range or shapes of glazed terracotta. or, perhaps you prefer a 2.5” x 8” size glazed brick tile over a 2” x 6” size zellige tile. these are other valid reasons you might seek out an alternative to zellige tile.

installation complexity

zellige tile is immensely versatile. we’ve seen it grace shower walls, bathroom floors, kitchen backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and other interior surfaces. in warmer climates, it’s suitable for the pool waterline as well.

still, zellige tile can be challenging to install due to its handmade irregularities—each piece varies in size, shape, and glaze, requiring skilled placement and custom grout spacing. zellige lookalikes, on the other hand, are machine-made for uniformity, making them easier to align and faster to install while still capturing the artisanal look of traditional zellige.

durability and ease of maintenance

glazed zellige is relatively easy to clean, thanks to its smooth surface. generally, a gentle ph neutral cleaner is best for keeping spills, dust, and dirt in check. that said, zellige can benefit from regular sealing, especially when installed in wet-prone areas like showers, bathrooms, and kitchen backsplashes.

if you’d prefer to worry less about sealing, or if the natural cracks and pits in zellige tile make you nervous, you might prefer a more mass produced tile such as glazed ceramic.

how to choose a zellige tile look alike

surface texture and glaze qualities

when choosing alternatives to zellige tile, start by focusing on surface texture and glaze quality—the two elements that most define authentic zellige’s character. true zellige has a slightly uneven face and edges that catch light in unexpected ways, so look for tiles with subtle variations in depth and contour.

the glaze should offer a hand-applied feel, with tonal shifts and small imperfections that mimic the artisanal firing process. avoid overly uniform finishes that appear flat or machine-made, as they lack the dimension of genuine craftsmanship.

some porcelain and ceramic alternatives replicate the hand-cut texture and luminous glaze of zellige remarkably well, offering durability with less upkeep. matte or semi-gloss finishes can provide a more subdued, modern interpretation, while high-gloss glazes evoke traditional moroccan radiance.

ultimately, choosing a zellige-inspired tile with layered sheen and tactile charm ensures you capture the spirit of the original—without the installation challenges.

color depth and variation

pay close attention to the depth and variation of color—hallmarks of authentic moroccan craftsmanship. real zellige tiles feature subtle shifts in hue, even within a single colorway, creating a rich, dynamic surface that changes with the light.

to replicate this effect, look for tiles that showcase tonal gradation rather than uniform color; slight inconsistencies add warmth and character. some ceramic and porcelain alternatives are designed with digitally printed or hand-glazed finishes that mimic this natural variation beautifully. choose palettes that balance vibrancy and earthiness, whether it’s ocean blues, soft neutrals, or deep emeralds.

the key is finding a collection where no two tiles look exactly the same. these nuanced differences bring visual movement and dimension to walls or backsplashes.

durability and application suitability

it’s essential to consider both durability and where the tile will be installed. authentic zellige is handcrafted clay and best suited for low-traffic or decorative areas, as its edges and glaze can be delicate. look alike materials like porcelain or glazed ceramic offer greater strength and consistency, making them ideal for high-use spaces such as kitchens, showers, or outdoor areas. porcelain, in particular, is non-porous and resistant to moisture, stains, and temperature changes—qualities that make it a smart choice for busy environments.

check that the tile’s finish aligns with its intended use; glossy tiles may suit walls, while matte or textured options provide traction for floors. many zellige-inspired collections come with indoor and outdoor ratings for flexibility across projects.

ready to find your perfect design foundation? begin your journey with clé’s handcrafted-inspired selections.

zellige tile alternatives to consider

there really is nothing quite like authentic zellige. every tile shows the journey of its craft, and no two tiles are exactly alike. but if you want tile options that offer a similarly varied aesthetic, with perhaps a different set of advantages, here are some great options to consider.

glazed terracotta tile

technically speaking, zellige is a type of glazed terracotta tile — albeit one that’s formed by artisans from moroccan clay, cured in the sun, hand-cut, and then glazed before being fired in ancient bee-hive kilns. a tile made any other way cannot be considered true zellige.

still, glazed terracotta comes in a beautiful array of options we’d happily line our walls (and even floors) with. take our eastern earthenware collection, where every tile is wood-fired for extraordinary richness and depth. or our eastern elements collection, which explores three unique glazes on the white spectrum.

glazed brick tile

if you’re drawn to rectangular zellige tiles, you’ll be pleased to know that glazed brick for interior walls can offer a similar aesthetic. the tiles in our new california collection, for example, vary in color and texture from tile to tile — and even have iron spots to show for their journey through the kiln.

glazed ceramic tile

while many varieties of glazed ceramic tile are famously uniform in color and texture (we’re looking at you, subway tile) there are other options that have an intentionally varied look. our casale rustico collection is a striking example, pairing the hand-hewn rusticity of white zellige with a modern and streamlined aesthetic.

unglazed terracotta tile

was it natural, unglazed zellige that first caught your eye? if so, you’ll be drawn to the many options found in the world of raw, unglazed terracotta tile. although its palette falls much more in the realm of dusty pinks and deep burnished oranges, it offers the kind of timeless, earthy look that probably drew you to zellige in the first place.

what’s the best zellige look-alike tile for the bathroom and shower? 

glazed zellige tile alternatives are a great option for the bathroom and shower, as their smooth surface tends to be more resistant to water. (unglazed options can work as well, but they tend to need more attention in the way of sealing, and cleanup will be more involved.)

if you’re looking for a zellige look-alike tile for the bathroom or shower, consider glazed ceramic tile, glazed terracotta tile, or glazed brick tile.

what are the best zellige tile alternatives for the kitchen?

if you love the look of a zellige tile backsplash, you’ll find excellent options in the worlds of glazed ceramic tile, glazed terracotta tile, and glazed brick tile. just be sure to look for imperfections such as color variation and iron spots. these small details will go a long way in giving your space an artisanal look.

if you want the look of natural zellige for a kitchen tile floor, try an unfinished terracotta such as le sol, which also happens to be handcrafted in morocco. the color palette will be different, but it’s rustic and timeless nonetheless.

what are the best alternatives to zellige tile for outdoor applications?

speaking of our le sol collection, it’s suitable for outdoor applications as well. (it’s even rated for climates that see freeze-thaw cycles.) in general, unglazed terracotta tiles are a solid choice to consider if you love the authentic look of zellige but can’t use it outdoors.

pantry pavers are another classic option, though it’s worth noting that they are a natural stone tile, rather than a tile shaped from natural clay.

today’s look alikes make it easy to bring that character into any room—without the complexity of authentic installation or maintenance. It’s a balance of beauty and performance that lets design and everyday living coexist effortlessly.

uncover tile options that balance timeless texture and thoughtful craftsmanship—explore the clé collection now.