moroccan tile bathroom ideas—bring exotic flair to your space

ten tile ideas for a moroccan-style bathroom

create a striking accent wall with moroccan tile

a striking accent wall with moroccan tiles can transform the space into a relaxing, striking retreat. one idea: place the tiles behind the vanity as a stunning focal point, possibly pairing with a minimalist mirror or a metallic-framed one to highlight the wall.

or, tile the back wall of the shower to create a luxurious, spa-like feel. contrast the bold tile with neutral tiles on the remaining walls and floor to keep the focus on the accent. you could also install the tiles behind a freestanding bathtub to create a dramatic and elegant backdrop.

balance bold moroccan tiles with neutral tones

balance the vibrant moroccan tiles with neutral or muted walls, such as whites, creams or soft grays. this helps the intricate patterns and rich colors of the tiles take center stage.

for flooring, consider simple, natural materials like stone or concrete to maintain harmony.

mix geometric tiles with floral patterns

mixing geometric tiles with floral patterns is an artistic way to create visual intrigue while embracing the rich cultural heritage of moroccan design.

select a cohesive color scheme to unify the geometric and floral patterns. traditional moroccan colors like cobalt blue, turquoise, terracotta, gold and white work beautifully together. choose geometric tiles in shapes like hexagons, diamonds or chevrons, and pair them with floral patterns in square or arabesque-shaped tiles for a dynamic yet cohesive look.

if you want the floral patterns to stand out, use neutral-toned geometric tiles, like white or gray, to create a backdrop. or create a custom mosaic that blends geometric and floral tiles into a single design. this works beautifully for accent walls, niches or decorative borders.

use authentic zellige tiles for moroccan charm

zellige tiles (and their lookalikes) add a unique texture and an artisanal feel, perfect for creating a warm, inviting space. use them on walls, floors or as a backsplash to infuse your bathroom with the timeless elegance of moroccan design. (learn more about zellige.) pair the tiles with brass fixtures and natural wood accents to complete the look, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality.

explore vibrant colors inspired by the mediterranean

moroccan tiles can turn any bathroom into a warm oasis, a transformation that echoes the charm of sun-soaked mediterranean shores. these tiles often feature a palette of bold, vivid colors like deep blue, emerald green and terracotta. for a modern twist, consider pairing these vibrant tiles with neutral grout or sleek fixtures to create a harmonious balance.

combine moroccan tiles with modern fixtures

blending moroccan tiles with modern fixtures creates a striking fusion of tradition and contemporary decor in bathroom design. colorful, intricately patterned moroccan tiles introduce a sense of warmth and artistry. that balances well with sleek, minimalist modern fixtures, such as matte black or brushed brass faucets, frameless glass shower enclosures and floating vanities, to call attention to the ornate detailing of the tiles. (the same concept applies for kitchen tile and fixtures.)

turn your backsplash into a stunning moroccan focal point

choose tiles with bright colors and intricate geometric patterns, such as zellige or encaustic tiles, to create a captivating statement. extend the backsplash behind the sink or vanity, or even around a freestanding bathtub, to draw the eye and add depth to the space. combine the rich texture and patterns with neutral walls and sleek, modern fixtures to let the backsplash shine without taking over the room.

make a statement with moroccan tiles on the shower floor

the vivid colors and intricate patterns of moroccan tiles, such as traditional mosaics, handcrafted zellige or cement tiles, add a sense of luxury and cultural richness to your shower. opt for water-resistant and slip-proof tiles to ensure safety without compromising style. surround these tiles with understated, neutral wall tones and modern fixtures to let the flooring become the focal point, drawing attention with every step. this approach not only creates a visually striking effect but also introduces warmth and character. check out these shower design ideas for more inspo.

bring in mosaic tiles for visual interest

adding mosaic tiles to a moroccan-inspired bathroom is a beautiful way to introduce layers of charm. these tiles, often arranged in intricate geometric or floral patterns, embody moroccan design’s richness and complexity (they’re also a top tile design trend in 2024). use them as an accent wall, a shower niche or a border around a mirror to draw the eye and break up neutral surfaces. vibrant jewel tones or soothing earth hues in the mosaics create a balance and complete the transformation, especially when complemented by raw wood, brass fixtures and textured fabrics.

incorporate serene earth tones for a peaceful yet exotic space

opt for moroccan tiles in shades like soft terracotta, muted sand, sage greens and warm browns to bring a natural, grounded feeling into the space. these earthy colors soften the vibrancy often associated with moroccan patterns, making the space feel more subdued while still capturing the intricate designs and cultural richness. complement the tiles with natural materials, such as a wooden vanity, stone countertops and brass or copper accents, for added warmth.

choosing moroccan tile for your bathroom

colors that reflect moroccan design

traditional moroccan design is known for its rich, earthy palette, so consider warm tones like deep terracotta, burnt orange and golden ochre to evoke the desert’s warmth. for a pop of color, add shades of turquoise and cobalt reminiscent of the mediterranean and the striking blue walls of chefchaouen, morocco’s “blue city.” emerald green and rich indigo can also add depth and elegance, particularly in intricate geometric patterns. combine these colors in tiles with authentic moroccan designs, like arabesque, zellige or intricate mosaic patterns.

mixing colors and patterns

start by selecting a primary color as the anchor hue to unify the space. then, introduce accent colors like gold, white or muted earth tones in complementary patterns, such as classic moroccan mosaics, arabesque shapes or zellige tiles with slight color variations.

when mixing patterns, balance intricate designs with simpler, monochromatic tiles to avoid visual overwhelm. for example, pair a bold, patterned tile on a feature wall with more subtle, neutral tiles on the floor or shower, or look at floor tile layouts that complement busier wall designs.

glossy vs. matte finishes

deciding between glossy and matte finishes can impact both the look and feel of the space. glossy tiles, such as traditional zellige, reflect light beautifully, creating a shimmering, vibrant effect that enhances color depth and adds a sense of luxurious decor. these tiles work well in smaller bathrooms or dimly lit areas, as they help brighten the space and bring a touch of glamour to walls or backsplashes.

matte tiles, on the other hand, offer a more understated and rustic look, with a soft, earthy finish that evokes a calm, natural ambiance. matte finishes are also ideal for bathroom floors (in the kitchen, too), as they provide a non-slip surface that adds functionality to beauty. combining both finishes can create a balanced design—glossy tiles for accent walls or borders, with matte tiles on floors or other large surfaces—bringing out the best of moroccan style in a textured, multidimensional way.

the beauty, durability and versatility of moroccan tile make it a uniquely suitable choice for bathroom design transformations. with so many rich pattern and color options, you can dream up any number of eye-catching and practical tile combinations. we recommend opting for handcrafted, artisanal moroccan tile, like zellige, and always hiring a professional installer to ensure the best finish. clé specializes in authentic, premium materials that elevate the design of any space.