Although the Middle Ages had a poor reputation, folks throughout that time knew a thing or two about tiling. Moroccan Style Wall Tiles, which were inspired by encaustic tile from the period, have become one of the most popular interior design trends in recent years. If you’re looking for the ideal patterned cement tile, these pros and cons are a must-read.
Pros: They Complement Any Style of Home
Moroccan-style tiles may appear better in some types of homes than others, but designers and homeowners haven’t been afraid to try them out in a variety of settings. The range backsplash in this Austin, Texas, the kitchen was covered in soft, faded Moroccan-style tiles by the design team at Interiors, which adds a modern touch to the rustic environment. Moroccan-style tiles are an obvious choice for homes with Mediterranean elements. The range wall in this San Diego kitchen was designed to be a subtle feature among the wood cabinetry and floors by the Nau Builders team.
Moroccan-style tiles are also prominent in modern architecture. A star-studded pattern is combined with bright pink and turquoise accents in this fancy London bathroom. Moroccan-style tiles can also be used in transitional areas. They look well with wood textures, like the floating shelves in this Phoenix kitchen.
Pro: They’re Versatile as Accent Pieces
Moroccan-style tiles are most commonly used on bathroom floors, kitchen backsplashes, and fireplaces, although they aren’t confined to those areas. Wainscoting, stair risers, and window frames are three places where you might combine this pattern with a twist.
Wainscoting
Wrapping a part of your wall with vivid patterned Moroccan-style tile (usually up to 42 inches high) provides a magnificent mural effect. Even a small tile may make a big difference, as this hallway demonstrates.
Stair Risers
are a type of stair riser. Installing Moroccan-style tiles on the risers can turn your staircase into a focal point. Guests will be impressed by this style of design, especially if the staircase is located near the front door.
Frames for windows
If you want greater continuity, mix multiple designs of Moroccan-style tiles or choose a single pattern that forms a boundary.
Pro: They Can Be Timeless
It’s true that not every design stands the test of time. Moroccan-style tiles, on the other hand, can appear as timeless as natural stone if done correctly. When it comes to building a home that will last, farmhouse and rustic styles are top choices. Combining ageless elements like wood, travertine stone, and Saltillo tile with neutral, gently patterned Moroccan-style tiles will help keep your design fresh for years to come.
Con: They’re High-Maintenance
The surface of encaustic tiles is not coated by a coating because concrete is porous by nature. Moroccan-style tiles, as a result, are prone to discoloration. You should care for them like natural stone, which involves sealing them on a regular basis (some manufacturers advocate sealing before installation), immediately wiping up spills, and avoiding prolonged moisture exposure. If you desire this style but don’t want to deal with the upkeep, search for porcelain and ceramic look-alikes. They don’t need to be sealed and can withstand spills and water.
Con: They’re Pretty Pricey
Moroccan-style tiles aren’t for the faint of heart. Cement tiles often cost more than $15 per square foot, with some varieties costing more than $50 per square foot, depending on the business and how they’re created. The good news is that Moroccan-style tiles aren’t out of the question if you’re on a budget. Many firms now sell accurate cement-look porcelain and ceramic tiles for a fraction of the price of real cement tiles.
The most expensive tiles are those that have been hand-painted. Their cost per square foot might exceed $75, which adds up quickly even in tiny installations.
Conclusion
Given the high maintenance and cost, most people prefer making only small Moroccan patterns incarnated on the walls. For instance, you could give a Moroccan touch to your room by adding the vibrant tiles just around the fireplaces or the bed-wall region. But if you want to give your home a perfect period look then we would only say YOLO.