The interesting Moroccan tile conception is gaining popularity , and it ’s easy to see why .
Tessa Neustadt
Whethermonochromeor multi - colored , hotshot and cross roofing tile is a sensational aim that ’s drawing the tending of sheer - pattern lovers everywhere . “ asterisk and cross roofing tile is the new hex roofing tile , ” saysCassandra La Valle , a Seattle - based clothes designer and the shop owner ofCassa Di LaValle . “ I feel like those who are looking for a unique shape to add together to their innovation are being drawn to this classic but statement - making rule . ”
Credit:Tessa Neustadt
What Is Star and Cross Tile?
Just as its name indicates , the iconic Maroc and Spanish - determine roofing tile dwell of beautiful alternating star- and bad-tempered - wrought tiles that interlock for a cohesive yet lifelike flavor . While the versatile star shape is believed to have originated from Iran century ago , there are countless ways to give star and cut through a fresh , modern feel in any setting .
These tiles are traditionally made of terra - cotta or ceramic but are sometimes made with common tile material like porcelain . They volunteer versatility in software , as they ’re commonly used for both floors and walls . They can be made in almost any colouration , but are most often see in robust , red terra - cotta chromaticity or with an alternating pattern of neutrals and a more vibrant color .
Ellie Lillstrom
Credit:Ellie Lillstrom
How to Use Star and Cross Tile
Reflecting on her trips to Morocco , where the handmade tile is used abundantly , La Valle recently chose sensation and cut through tile for a toilet remodel . “ I have a lovemaking for incorporating element ofdesign from travel , ” she says .
To make the roofing tile employment in her home , she chose an all - white palette rather than alternate between two hues or creating a design . This strategy allows the shapes to crop inside family that are n’t heavily Mediterranean or Moorish - influenced , such as her dark basement toilet . “In a part of the house that was very much lacking personality , the shapes brought in some lovely character , ” La Valle enunciate . “ We wanted the basement to find like a small more of an escape since we use itfor Edgar Albert Guest , and the mavin and cross make it experience much more unique , with a hint of transporting you elsewhere . ”
For more ways to put your own twirl on the look , consider cause originative with grout choice . “ I love how using different grout completely shift how you see the shapes , ” she adds . “ High contrast to outline the design , or tonic to make it blow over . ”
Credit:Ellie Lillstrom
The finish of the star and cross tile can also dramatically change their visual aspect . A glossy glaze will shine the visible light in the room and add more grain , while a matte finish will experience more softened and understated .
Where to Use Star and Cross Tile
Whether you ’re looking to add up ocular interest to your kitchen , john , or entryway , there are dateless ways to apply hotshot and cross tile throughout the domicile . “ On a declamatory scale , I be intimate it on floors , perhaps an expansive entryway , ” says La Valle . “ For a small scale , I prefer it in spaces that really benefit from the normal , like a fireplaceor shower . ”
La Valle advocate homeowner to take caveat whendeciding on their tile and grout colour , as it can get a bit in use depending on the combination , she says . “ I probably would n’t do a bright asterisk and cross with a contrasting grout in a kitchen unless the style of the home base really utter to that . ”
Is Star and Cross Tile a Good Fit for Any Home?
“ The obvious solvent is that if your panache tend into a Mediterranean or Moorish influence , I think this rule is more easily integrate , ” La Valle say . “ If not , I consider using it in more subtle ways is still potential . ”
“ I do think the style can find a bit specific , again , depend on the color and grout choices made , ” she says . Ifresale valueis a consideration , she adds , you might want to go with a more Hellenic choice , like a achromatic tile color with low - contrast grout .
