Choosing the right tile for your bathroom can feel overwhelming. Tiling is a long-term commitment, and finding a design that sets the perfect mood while complementing your home’s aesthetic is no small feat. Fortunately, there’s one type of tile that effortlessly blends beauty, function, and endless design possibilities: Moroccan tiles for bathroom spaces. These North African treasures have adorned the walls and floors of grand palaces, historic monuments, and artisan homes for centuries. Their timeless appeal continues to captivate modern decorators, making them a standout choice for bathrooms today.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most iconic Moroccan tiles for bathrooms and how you can incorporate them into your space.
In this article:
Why Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom Are Worth it
Look, I get it. There are a million tile options out there. But Moroccan tiles for bathroom applications aren’t just another pretty option. These tiles have survived centuries in North African climates. Extreme heat. Humidity in hammams. Daily use in palaces and homes. They’re still standing. Still gorgeous.
Here’s what makes them work:
Water resistance. Moroccan tiles were literally designed for wet spaces. Traditional hammams, courtyard fountains, you name it. If it involves water, these tiles can handle it.
Temperature stability. Unlike some materials that get uncomfortably hot or cold, Moroccan tiles maintain a pleasant temperature underfoot. This matters more than you’d think.
Durability. Once installed properly, these tiles last decades. We’re talking about a genuine long-term investment, not something you’ll need to replace in five years.
Timeless aesthetic. Trends come and go. Moroccan tile-making techniques date back before the 8th century. That longevity speaks for itself.
Handcrafted character. Every tile has slight variations. Your bathroom won’t look like a factory showroom. It’ll look curated and intentional.
The cultural legacy alone makes Moroccan tiles for bathroom spaces worth considering. Bringing centuries of North African craftsmanship into your daily routine? That’s pretty special.
The Three Iconic Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom Spaces
Not all Moroccan tiles are created equal. Each type brings something different to your bathroom. Let’s break down the big three.
Zellige Tiles: Handcrafted Luxury
Zellige (sometimes spelled zellij) is probably what you picture when someone says “Moroccan tiles for bathroom.” Those hand-glazed beauties with rich, vibrant colors.
The process to make Zellige tiles is genuinely impressive. Artisans source high-quality clay from Fez and Meknes. They hand-knead it, sun-dry it, fire it at high temperatures. Then comes the hand-cutting into various shapes.
The result? Tiles with slightly irregular edges and unique color variations. But let’s be clear, these aren’t flaws. They’re the whole point. Each tile becomes one-of-a-kind.
Where Zellige works best: Bathroom walls. The glossy finish catches light beautifully, making smaller bathrooms feel more open.
Color options: Deep blues, emerald greens, soft pinks, classic whites. It’s a beautiful range. You can go bold or keep things subtle.
The vibe: Luxurious but not pretentious. Artisanal but not rustic. Zellige brings sophistication without trying too hard.
I’ve seen Zellige transform what would have been ordinary shower walls into something you’d find in a boutique hotel. The visual impact is immediate.
Bejmat Tiles: Rustic Meets Refined
Bejmat tiles share Zellige’s clay foundation but take a completely different direction. These rectangular tiles are typically unglazed and thicker, giving them a natural, earthy appeal.
The simplicity is what makes them brilliant. No elaborate glazing process. Just clay shaped, fired, and ready to install.
Layout versatility: Herringbone patterns. Straight lines. Bold chevrons. Bejmat tiles work with whatever layout you choose. The rectangular shape offers a lot of flexibility.
Durability advantage: Because they’re thicker and unglazed, Bejmat tiles handle both walls and floors beautifully. You can extend the same tile from floor to wall for a cohesive look.
Color palette: Warm terracottas, soft sands, natural clay tones. These aren’t bold statement colors. They’re grounding, organic shades that bring a natural feel.
The vibe: Collected over time. Relaxed elegance. The kind of bathroom that feels intentional but not overly designed.
Bejmat tiles work especially well if you’re going for that organic, handcrafted aesthetic. They pair beautifully with other natural materials—wooden vanities, woven baskets, ceramic pottery.
Cement Tiles: Pattern with Purpose
Moroccan cement tiles take a different manufacturing approach. Instead of kiln-firing, they’re created through pressing and curing. The result is a smooth, matte finish that becomes the perfect canvas for patterns.
Pattern possibilities: This is where cement tiles get their edge. Moorish motifs. Islamic-inspired geometrics. Spanish influences. Elaborate florals. The level of detail is just beautiful.
Artistic heritage: These patterns reflect centuries of North African artistry. Similar to the bold designs you’d find in African textiles and handwoven rugs. The craftsmanship speaks for itself.
Application range: Accent walls, shower niches, flooring. Cement tiles work anywhere you want visual impact. They’re statement pieces that set the entire tone.
Color combinations: Often multi-colored. Blues and whites. Terracottas and blacks. Greens and golds. The patterns typically incorporate several colors in one tile.
The vibe: Bold but balanced. Artistic but not overwhelming. Cement tiles bring personality but aren’t over the top.
I’ve seen cement tiles used sparingly and completely transform the bathroom’s character. You don’t need to cover every surface to make an impact.
Discover more Moroccan craftsmanship: The 5 Moroccan Rug Styles That Make Every Step Special
Styling Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom Walls
Walls offer the easiest entry point for Moroccan tiles. You get maximum visual impact with relatively straightforward installation.
The full wall approach: Cover one complete wall in Zellige tiles. This works beautifully behind a vanity or in a shower.
Half-wall elegance: Tile the lower half of your walls, then paint the upper portion in a complementary neutral. This gives you the Moroccan tile aesthetic without overwhelming the space.
Pattern play with cement tiles: Use ornate cement tiles behind your vanity or in your shower. The intricate Moorish designs become focal points that draw the eye.
Color strategy for walls: Muted tones create sophistication. Deep blues and greens add drama. Neutrals offer versatility. Choose based on your bathroom’s overall mood.
Creating cohesion: If you’re mixing styles, keep your color palette tight. Let the different tile types create texture variation while the colors tie everything together.
Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom Floors
Flooring is where Moroccan tiles really prove their practicality. They’re built to last underfoot.
Bejmat for natural warmth: These unglazed rectangular tiles in terracotta or sand tones bring organic warmth to your bathroom floor. The natural variations in color create movement and interest.
Herringbone and chevron layouts: Bejmat tiles arranged in these classic patterns add dynamism. Your floor becomes more than just functional—it becomes designed.
Cement tiles for artistic floors: Patterned cement tiles on the floor create an artistic, bohemian feel. Their designs turn your floor into the focal point.
Extending floor to wall: Continue your floor tiles up the walls or onto a shower bench. This creates visual flow and makes your bathroom feel more cohesive.
Playing with scale: Large-format Moroccan tiles make small bathrooms feel more spacious. Smaller tiles with pattern add intimate charm to larger spaces.
The trick with Moroccan tiles for bathroom floors is creating balance. If your walls are bold, keep the floor subtle. If your walls are neutral, the floor can handle more pattern and color.
Creating Statement Areas with Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom
Sometimes you don’t need to tile the entire bathroom. Strategic placement creates just as much impact.
The statement shower: Transform your shower into a personal hammam. Deep blue Zellige tiles, emerald greens, or soft pinks reflecting light create a luminous, water-inspired look.
Mixed shapes for dimension: Combine square and hexagonal tile designs. The variety in shapes adds architectural interest without overwhelming the space.
Ceiling treatment: For serious drama, tile your shower ceiling. This envelopes you in that authentic Moroccan ambiance. It’s bold but absolutely stunning when done right.
Niche detailing: Even if you’re keeping the rest simple, a shower niche clad in ornate cement tiles becomes a beautiful focal point. Functional and gorgeous.
Vanity backsplash: Create a statement behind your sink with patterned cement tiles or vibrant Zellige. It’s a small area that delivers big visual impact.
Tub surround: If you have a freestanding tub, the wall behind it is prime real estate for Moroccan tiles. Make that area shine.
The beauty of focusing on statement areas is budget flexibility. You get the Moroccan tile aesthetic without the cost of tiling every surface. Strategic placement delivers maximum impact.
Making Moroccan Tiles for Bathroom Work in Your Space
The luxurious shimmer of Zellige, the rustic charm of Bejmat, or the artistic patterns of cement tiles. All choices with staying power.
These aren’t trend tiles that’ll feel dated in three years. The same techniques that adorned palaces and historic monuments for centuries now bring that artistry into your bathroom.
The practical benefits matter too. Water resistance. Temperature stability. Genuine durability. But honestly? It’s the beauty that seals the deal. Moroccan tiles for bathroom spaces transform your daily routine into something a bit more special.
Every morning becomes a little moment of luxury. Every shower feels more like a retreat. That’s what happens when you surround yourself with genuine craftsmanship.
So pick your style. Choose your colors. Create your layout. Your bathroom deserves this kind of attention.
Looking for more bathroom inspiration? Explore our 5-Step Guide to African Decor for Bathroom and discover how to bring even more sophistication into your space.
