Tile That Stands The Test of Time: Introducing Zagora
By Bedrosians Tile & Stone | 6/14/2023
It’s not everyday you can hold something in your hand that’s been made the same way for the last 800 years. But that’s only part of the wonder of the glazed terracotta tile known as zellige.
Made in Morocco, zellige is unlike any tile in the world. Using ancient methods, locally sourced clay is hand-molded by artisans into small blocks, then dried in the open air and natural sunlight.
Each block is then hand-dipped in glaze and fired in ancient kilns, before being hand-chiseled to the desired tile shape and size.
During firing, the real beauty of zellige emerges. Imperfections like hairline cracks and pitting appear in the glaze, which undulates across the tile surface and down the chipped edges. These “flaws” aren’t flaws at all, but distinguished markings that are unique to zellige and a tribute to the centuries-old, handcrafted process involved.
We’re honored to offer this ancient form of tile in our Zagora Collection, available in four classic shapes and sizes, including 4”x4” square field, 2”x6” rectangle field, 2”x2” square mosaic and triangle mosaic. True to its authentic, organic style, Zagora features ten earthen colors that run the gamut from light to dark.
Zagora is a stunning solution for interior walls, floors, backsplashes, showers and vanities, and can also be installed outdoors in non-freeze climates on walls, pool waterlines and fountains.
Intrigued? Here are a few quick tips regarding installation:
• Only installers experienced with zellige or other handmade tile should install Zagora.
• Before installing Zagora, unbox your tile and lay it out exactly how you want it. Be sure to disburse color variations and markings to achieve the perfect blend.
• We recommend sealing Zagora tile along with the grout to better preserve the color and richness.
• For more detailed installation instructions, please see our Zagora Installation Guide.
Zagora is truly one of our most unique tile collections. And given how rooted it is in tradition, it’s also one of our most timeless.
