10 Zellige Tile Bathroom Ideas: My Top 10 Creative Ways to Use Zellige Tiles in a Bathroom

One of the funniest “design curveballs” I ever had was when a client asked me if Zellige tiles came in glitter pink. Spoiler: they don’t (well, not the good ones). But that conversation kicked off an entire project that taught me just how magical these handmade Moroccan tiles can be in a bathroom. Small spaces, like bathrooms, often push me to be more inventive—Zellige’s texture and soul make them perfect for adding personality without overwhelming. Today, I’m sharing my 10 favorite bathroom design ideas with Zellige tiles, drawn from real projects and a little trial-and-error along the way. If you’re planning your own revamp, start by experimenting with a virtual room layout so you can see how tile placement changes the mood.

1. Monochrome Magic

I love using a single color across floors and walls—especially a deep sea green. The slight variation in each Zellige tile catches the light differently, adding depth instead of feeling flat. The only challenge? Ordering enough from the same batch to keep the color consistent.

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2. Statement Shower Niche

A recessed shelf lined with shimmering glazed tiles turns into a jewelry box for your shampoo. It’s a small area, so you can splurge on pricier shades without blowing the budget.

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3. Contrasting Grout Drama

White Zellige with dark charcoal grout can make even a humble shower stall look like a design statement. Just remember: dark grout needs sealing unless you fancy weekly scrubbing sessions.

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4. Wainscot Effect

Half-height tiling with Zellige and paint above gives you the luxurious texture while keeping costs down. I once used a sandy beige tile with warm white paint—it felt like a coastal spa retreat.

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5. Tiled Vanity Splashback

Behind the sink is prime real estate for Zellige to shine (and protect the wall). The reflective glaze makes small bathrooms feel brighter, though be prepared for the occasional water spot maintenance.

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6. Floor as Art

Zellige isn’t just for walls. A patterned layout on the floor brings old-world charm underfoot. It’s perfect for powder rooms, where small square footage keeps the price in check. I like to test patterns in a digital floor mockup before committing to the real thing.

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7. Mix Glossy & Matte

Combining shiny glazed tiles with matte finishes creates a rich, layered look. It works beautifully around bathtubs, but matching shades across different finishes can be tricky.

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8. Wrapped Bathtub Feature

Tiling the side of the bathtub with Zellige makes it feel integrated into the room design. I once used a pale pink glaze here—it was soft, luminous, and surprisingly gender-neutral.

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9. Accent Wall Behind the Mirror

Instead of tiling the whole bathroom, just tile the wall behind the vanity mirror. The reflection doubles the impact, and it’s far more budget-friendly. To nail the proportions, I often model it in an interactive 3D tool even if it’s a bathroom—visualization is everything.

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10. Ceiling Surprise

For the bold at heart, a tiled bathroom ceiling is unexpected and utterly stunning. It can make a tiny space feel like a jewel box, though you’ll want a pro installer to handle weight and waterproofing.

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FAQ

Q: Are Zellige tiles high maintenance in bathrooms?

A: Not if sealed properly. Wipe down regularly, and reseal grout to prevent stains.

Q: Can Zellige be used in wet areas?

A: Yes, but ensure professional installation to avoid leaks and uneven surfaces.

Q: Does Zellige suit modern bathrooms?

A: Absolutely. Its handmade texture adds warmth to sleek modern lines.