The zellige tile backsplash has become one of the most sought-after features in kitchen design. (It’s everywhere right now!) Its textured surface, subtle color variation, and handcrafted feel make it a favorite among designers who want to bring depth and personality into modern spaces.
We’ve seen many cabinet designs entered in our design awards with zellige tile backsplashes, proving that this is a trend taking off right now.
If you’re planning a kitchen renovation, this backsplash style adds shine and movement without overwhelming your cabinetry. The soft glittery sheen and imperfect finish of zellige tile works beautifully with wood, painted, or minimalist cabinet designs.
Before choosing it for your kitchen, it’s worth understanding where zellige tile comes from, what makes it special, and how to pair it thoughtfully with your cabinets.
What Is a Zellige Tile Backsplash?
A zellige tile backsplash draws its inspiration from centuries-old Moroccan craftsmanship. Authentic zellige tiles are made from natural clay, shaped, dried, glazed, and kiln-fired by hand. (Source them from a Moroccan business for the most authentic look.)
This artisanal process results in slight variations in thickness, color, and texture that make every installation distinct, no two tiles being the same.
Today, many tile makers also produce zellige-inspired ceramics that recreate this look using modern methods. These options try to capture the same handmade character but are more uniform in size and easier to install.
Big box stores, smaller boutique tile makers, and designer brands have embraced this look in their catalogue, offering a practical and cost effective option for homeowners who love this look.
You’ll recognize zellige tiles (or their dupes) by their:
Glossy or semi-gloss finish that reflects light softly
Slightly uneven edges and surface ripples
Subtle variation in tone from piece to piece
Handmade appearance that adds texture and warmth
Whether you choose authentic Moroccan or zellige-style tiles, both offer a character-rich backdrop that pairs beautifully with nearly any cabinet finish.
Is a Zellige Tile Backsplash Trending?
Yes, zellige tile backsplashes are one of the leading kitchen trends right now. Designers are drawn to how they reflect light and add a sense of craftsmanship to modern interiors. Perfect for the modern organic styles that are also on the rise.
The popularity of zellige ties closely mirrors to the shift toward organic materials and softer, more tactile finishes. Homeowners are choosing tiles that feel collected rather than manufactured.
When paired with simple, clean-lined cabinetry, zellige tile brings just enough imperfection to make the kitchen feel layered and personal.
How to Install a Zellige Tile Backsplash
Installing a zellige tile backsplash takes patience and care. Each tile has slight irregularities, so the process is more about achieving balance than precision.
- Prepare the Wall
- Plan the Layout (mixing color and textures)
- Keep Grout Lines Tight
- Apply with Care
- Seal if Necessary
Professional installation is worth considering, especially if you’re using authentic handmade zellige, as it requires a delicate touch to achieve the right balance of consistency and character.
What Kitchen Style Works Best with a Zellige Tile Backsplash?
A zellige tile backsplash works across a range of design styles because it adds warmth without distraction. It’s especially effective in kitchens that blend modern simplicity with natural materials. This tile works well with many cabinet styles and can be blended into a few different aesthetics.
Organic Modern
The top kitchen style right now and the best use of zellige tile. Use beige or soft grey zellige with flat-front wood cabinetry. The mix of smooth and textured surfaces gives a balanced, contemporary feel. It lets the tile and cabinets shine independently for a blanaced look.
Modern Mediterranean
Pair warm white zellige with light oak cabinets and stone countertops for a calm, sun-washed look that feels timeless. Alternatively, choose a bold, saturated color like green, blue, or red for a fun pop of color and added personality.
Transitional
If you are no longer a fan of subway tile (another classic choice for a white backsplash). Combine shaker-style cabinets with glossy white zellige to bridge traditional and modern elements.
Size and Color of Zellige Tile
Size and color of tile will impact the overall kitchen style. Zellige comes in several shapes, finishes, and colors, allowing you to customize your kitchen design. The surface can range from glossy and rippled to matte and softly uneven. These small changes in texture catch the light differently, giving your backsplash movement throughout the day.
These beautiful ripples if movement throughout the tile enhances the color, which ranges from cream to white to grey. You can even find zellige tile in rich green, blue, and terracotta colors.
Size can vary from square to rectangular. Some popular shapes are:
Square (2×2 or 4×4): Traditional and classic.
Rectangular (2×6 or 3×8): A modern variation with a sleek layout.
Hexagonal or diamond: Adds subtle geometry and visual rhythm.
How to Style a Zellige Tile Backsplash with Cabinets
Your cabinetry plays a major role in how a zellige tile backsplash feels. The key is finding contrast and connection between materials. Texture vs. smooth, matte vs. shine.
Why does zellige tile work so well with cabinetry? Cabinets bring structure; zellige adds life. Together, they create a balanced kitchen design.
The slight irregularities of zellige soften the straight lines of cabinetry, making the kitchen feel more layered. Whether your cabinets are detailed or minimal, the handmade look of zellige complements them in different ways:
For simple, modern cabinets, zellige adds visual interest.
For detailed, traditional cabinets, subtle zellige tones prevent visual clutter.
It’s this flexibility that makes the combination long lasting, you can change wall colors, hardware, or decor around it, and it still feels right.
Zellige with Warm Wood Cabinets
Natural wood tones complement the handmade look of zellige beautifully. The grain of the wood and the variation of the tile create a cohesive, organic aesthetic.
Try these combinations:
White oak cabinets with cream or ivory zellige
Walnut cabinets with beige or tan zellige
Rift-cut oak with sage or misty blue zellige
Painted Cabinets Love Zellige Tile
Painted finishes let the tile’s surface texture stand out. Stick to soft, muted tones that coordinate without competing.
Pair ideas:
White cabinets with off-white or beige zellige
Light grey cabinets with warm white zellige
Olive or sage cabinets with ivory zellige
Matte or satin cabinet finishes pair best with the gloss of zellige, balancing reflection and depth.
Zellige Tile with Modern Slab-Front Cabinets
For a streamlined kitchen, pair a zellige tile backsplash with wood cabinets in a slab door style. The texture contrast adds warmth to clean-lined spaces.
White oak and walnut are trending for 2026, so pairing those materials with this tile trend make sense for modern contemporary kitchens.
Do you love Zellige Tile? Here's Our Final Takeaway.
A zellige tile backsplash is the new subway tile in my opinion. Whether you choose authentic Moroccan clay tiles or modern zellige-inspired ceramics, the look feels handmade and timeless.
When paired with thoughtful cabinetry, it creates a kitchen that feels elevated but approachable.
In general, tile is cheaper than slabs of stone, so you also get the organic look of a natural material without the price tag.
At Decor Cabinets, we see how details like these shape the personality of your space. When the backsplash and cabinets work together, your kitchen feels intentional, stylish, and elevated.
A Final Few Tips:
A few small choices make your backsplash and cabinetry feel high-end:
Order extra tile so you can mix color variation evenly.
Test samples under your actual lighting. Warm and cool bulbs change how zellige appears.
Use simple hardware. Brushed or matte finishes work well with the tile’s shine.
Keep grout lines narrow to highlight the texture.
