Vertical Zellige Kitchen Backsplash in Thornton
Zellige tile is handmade Moroccan ceramic with a characteristic irregular surface and glaze variation that catches light differently from standard glazed tile. This Thornton kitchen used a 2x6 white zellige tile installed vertically in a straight stack pattern, which is a less common orientation that makes the backsplash feel taller and draws the eye upward. The irregular surface of zellige means that grout joint consistency is more difficult to maintain than with factory-cut porcelain, and the setting requires more attention to keep the face plane even.
We used a non-sanded white grout at 1/16-inch joints and installed the tile with organic white thinset to avoid any gray bleed-through on the lighter tiles. The result pairs well with the warm wood countertop and brass hardware in this Thornton kitchen.
Project Details
| Service | Residential Tile Installation |
|---|---|
| Area | Thornton |
| Materials | 2x6 white zellige ceramic, organic white thinset, non-sanded white grout |
| Pattern | Vertical straight stack |
| Scope | Residential kitchen backsplash |
What We Did
Installed moisture-resistant drywall backer in area behind sink, confirmed wall flatness
Sorted zellige tiles by thickness variation to plan setting sequence and minimize lippage
Set vertically with organic white thinset, using wedge spacers to maintain consistent joints despite surface variation
Grouted with non-sanded white grout, cleaned thoroughly to avoid grout haze on glossy glaze surface
Zellige takes more care than standard ceramic but the result is a backsplash that has real visual depth. Worth the extra attention to prep and setting.
