Editor's Note
This editor’s note highlights the key facts and market implications behind “Classic Tiles Return as a Trend for Kitchens and”, with emphasis on sourcing, product fit, fabrication, logistics, or buyer impact.
Functional, decorative, and capable of completely transforming a space: tiles remain essential in kitchens and bathrooms. But what until recently was the standard (the now ubiquitous subway tiles) is giving way to a much richer and more personal proposal. The Houzz Fall 2025 Trends Report points to a clear successor: zellige, the handmade Moroccan tile that is on everyone's lips.
Originating from Morocco, zellige tiles are crafted by hand from glazed terracotta. What truly gives them that unique magnetism is their irregular, vibrant, and highly textured appearance. Each piece is different, slightly wavy, with subtle color variations and that sought-after imperfection that reveals its handmade origin.
“If you are someone who wants everything perfectly uniform, this is not your type of tile,” warns Rebekah Zaveloff, co-founder and creative director of Imparfait Design studio. “But that is precisely where its beauty lies: those small irregularities are what give it soul and character.”
And at a time when we seek more authentic, welcoming, and personality-filled homes, zellige fits perfectly. "People want authenticity, materials that tell stories," adds Zaveloff.
“Zellige provides an immediate patina, a texture that makes the space seem to have history and soul.”
Designer Whitney Jones of Copper Sky Design + Remodel agrees. "We use them to add depth and character," she explains. "Often, renovations end up so pristine that they feel cold and artificial. Zellige, thanks to its artisanal nature, introduces a genuine imperfection that transforms any room into a personalized project with a timeless air."
And although its aesthetic evokes tradition, new zellige designs are more vibrant and daring than ever. Saturated colors, glossy finishes, and even hand-painted details. This is confirmed by Molly Torres Portnof, founder of DATE Interiors studio, who advocates for taking this piece beyond its conventional use. "It's common to see them in kitchens and bathrooms, but zellige are tiles that can be applied in any space: from a laundry room to a living room, including outdoor areas or even a pool," she notes. In one of her latest projects, she completely clad a fireplace with this type of tile, achieving an absolutely sculptural effect.
However, its installation requires care. It is not a standard cladding that can be installed without further ado. The edges must be finished correctly, and the trim pieces can represent an additional cost. "It's not like the typical ceramic tile that you can just cut and leave as is," comments Zaveloff. "Here you have to be patient and pay attention to the details."
Although it demands more attention, those who install it assure that the result is worth it. For Gabriela Eisenhart of Silo Studio Design, zellige is much more than a passing trend: "I am convinced it is here to stay," states the Atlanta-based designer.
“Once properly sealed, it is incredibly durable, perfect for kitchen backsplashes, bathrooms, and even fireplaces.”
Source: Read the original article | Published: October 10, 2025