10 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas with Handmade Moroccan Tiles
Looking for a way to instantly transform your kitchen into a vibrant, welcoming, and stylish space? Few materials deliver as much personality and design power as Moroccan tiles. These handmade cement tiles—famous for their bold colors and intricate patterns—are ideal for stunning backsplashes that serve as the heart of your kitchen design.
Whether your style leans modern, rustic, or traditional, Moroccan cement tiles offer endless design potential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 inspiring backsplash ideas, the benefits of using cement tiles, and how to create your dream look with Original Mission Tile.
What Are Moroccan Tiles?
Moroccan tiles are a type of cement tile inspired by traditional North African and Andalusian motifs. Made by hand, these tiles are crafted from natural materials like cement, sand, marble dust, and mineral pigments, then compressed under high pressure and air-cured instead of kiln-fired.
At Original Mission Tile, our Moroccan-inspired collections include:
- Classic geometric star patterns
- Floral and arabesque scrolls
- Modern twists on historical motifs
- Fully customizable patterns and palettes
Why Use Moroccan Cement Tiles in Your Kitchen?
✨ Handmade Beauty
Each tile is individually made by artisans, offering subtle variations and texture that mass-produced tiles simply can’t replicate.
🎨 Custom Design Options
Want to match your cabinetry or countertop? Our custom tile service lets you choose the pattern, color, and layout that fit your space.
🧽 Easy Maintenance
Sealed cement tiles resist stains and water, making them perfect for kitchen backsplashes.
♻️ Eco-Friendly
Our handmade tiles are made without kiln firing, using natural pigments and low-waste production.
10 Kitchen Backsplash Ideas with Moroccan Tiles
1. The Full Feature Wall
Skip upper cabinets and go bold with a full-height patterned tile wall. Try blue and white Moroccan star patterns for a dramatic and airy look.
Best For: Modern or Mediterranean kitchens
2. Bold Borders and Frames
Use cement tiles to frame a stove alcove or cooktop backsplash. Add a border of solid concrete tiles around a patterned center.
Best For: Classic or rustic farmhouse kitchens
3. Patchwork Backsplash
Mix different patterns in one cohesive color scheme. Combine 4–6 Moroccan designs for a one-of-a-kind mosaic look.
Best For: Boho, eclectic, or global-inspired spaces
4. Modern Black-and-White Contrast
Pair crisp white cabinets with bold black-and-white encaustic cement tiles in geometric Moroccan designs.
Best For: Contemporary kitchens or modern farmhouse
5. Color Pop Behind the Range
Add a burst of color using jewel-toned Moroccan tiles just behind the stove. Think deep teal, cobalt blue, or paprika red.
Best For: Transitional kitchens or design-forward remodels
6. Herringbone Layout with Solid Cement Tiles
Use solid color handmade tiles in a unique layout like herringbone or chevron. Add subtle texture without pattern overload.
Best For: Minimalist or Scandinavian-style kitchens
7. Mix and Match with Zellige Tiles
Combine Moroccan patterned tiles with glossy zellige tiles for contrast between matte and shine.
Best For: Global-chic kitchens or artisan-inspired homes
8. Terracotta Tones for Warmth
Use terracotta tiles with Moroccan patterns in white or cream. These earthy tones bring warmth and character.
Best For: Ranch houses, Tuscan, or boho kitchens
9. Custom Pattern with Brass Accents
Design a custom Moroccan tile pattern that incorporates brass inlay or metallic tones. Finish the look with brass tiles or gold hardware.
Best For: Luxury homes or upscale design projects
10. Ceiling-Height Accent Section
Don’t stop at the counter—extend your backsplash to the ceiling in one area, like behind open shelving or the sink.
Best For: Open-concept kitchens and design showcases
Style Matching: Moroccan Tiles by Kitchen Type
🏡 Modern House
- Black-and-white patterns
- Geometric layouts with clean lines
🐓 Farm House
- Antique floral or scrollwork patterns
- Soft blues, greens, and neutrals
🌵 Ranch House
- Warm tones, desert colors
- Terra cotta and ochre palettes
Cement Tiles vs. Ceramic for Kitchen Backsplashes
| Feature | Cement Tiles | Ceramic Tiles |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Matte, artisan texture | Glossy or matte |
| Handmade | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Customizable | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Limited |
| Durability | ✅ High (sealed) | ✅ Moderate |
| Eco-Friendly | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Depends on firing |
Our Handmade Tile Process
Every Moroccan tile at Original Mission Tile is crafted by hand using traditional techniques:
- A metal mold is created for each pattern.
- Colored pigments are hand-poured into the mold.
- Backing layers are added.
- Tiles are pressed under 2,000 PSI.
- Tiles are cured naturally for 3–4 weeks.
This process produces long-lasting, handmade tiles with unparalleled beauty and texture.
Custom Kitchen Tile Options at Original Mission Tile
Whether you’re renovating your home or designing a restaurant, we make it easy to customize your tile project:
- Create your own custom tile pattern
- Match cabinetry, countertops, or brand colors
- Choose shapes: square, hex, triangle, diamond
Pro Tips for Designing a Moroccan Backsplash
- Use a grout color that complements, not competes
- Request samples to view under kitchen lighting
- Keep countertop materials simple if the tile is bold
- Seal cement tiles for stain resistance
- Mix solids and patterns for balance
FAQs About Moroccan Cement Tiles for Kitchens
Are Moroccan cement tiles easy to clean?
Yes! When sealed properly, just wipe with mild soap and water.
Can they be used behind a stove?
Absolutely. They’re heat-resistant and durable when sealed.
Do cement tiles stain easily?
Not with proper sealing. Avoid harsh acidic cleaners.
Can I use Moroccan tiles on floors too?
Yes. They’re durable enough for floors, patios, and walls.
How do I order samples?
Visit originalmissiontile.com and request your favorites.
How to Order Moroccan Tiles for Your Kitchen
- Visit originalmissiontile.com
- Browse our Moroccan tile collections
- Explore the custom tile studio
- Order samples for review
- Contact our team for help with layout or technical specs
📞 Contact us for assistance.
Final Thoughts: Moroccan Tile Magic for Every Kitchen
Whether you’re renovating a modern condo, rustic farmhouse, or custom commercial space, Moroccan tiles from Original Mission Tile bring warmth, texture, and heritage to your kitchen. With bold patterns, endless customization, and authentic craftsmanship, your backsplash becomes more than just a surface—it becomes a design statement.
Let our artisans help you bring your kitchen vision to life.
