Star and Cross Tile

The Exotic Charm of Star and Cross Tile

Our star and cross tile collection blends traditional charm with tasteful refinement—perfect for adding sophistication and global inspiration to diverse décor styles. Depending on the choice of color and placement, the tile's pattern can be used as a striking statement or a subtle detail on walls, floors, and backsplashes.

Inspired by handmade Moroccan Zellige tile, this collection features porcelain and ceramic options that bring an artisanal feel to commercial spaces and home décor projects. The beautiful, dimensional pattern is created by interlocking star tile and cross tile, resulting in an interesting mix-and-match. When the two shapes merge, they stun as a fireplace surround, floor-to-ceiling wall feature, or a full flooring design for a bolder take.

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Moroccan Influence on Star and Cross Tiles

The origins of star and cross tile can be traced back to Morocco, with their use widespread across palaces, mosques, and public buildings. They were traditionally hand-shaped from terra-cotta or ceramic by skilled artisans, dried, and fired in a wood kiln before they were glazed. Common throughout the Mediterranean, these tiles draw attention to a tapestry of vivid colors and a lustrous finish.

The symmetrically pleasing pattern exists from the pairing of formats: the timeless star shape and the classic cross shape. Today, this Moorish-inspired tilework has gained an appreciation for its authentic flair, making it a standout choice for decorating the walls of stylish homes, hotels, restaurants, and any premium space. Designers and tastemakers alike believe cross and star tile is the new hexagon tile, only a bit more exotic and with plenty of cultural richness.

Quality Materials with Star and Cross Tile

We all have preferences when choosing wall and floor tiles. Some are more concerned about durability and longevity, while others prioritize aesthetic value and visual impact. At Apollo Tile, our stair cross tile collection seamlessly merges both aspects.

We carry star and cross tile in porcelain and ceramic, each offering unique characteristics. Both materials are versatile in style, highly durable, resistant to moisture and stains, and easy to maintain.

Ceramic tile products in this collection are a sight for sore eyes! The cross and star shapes are sold separately, with each individual tile measuring 5x5 inches. We have options approved for indoor and outdoor applications, while others are rated for interior walls only.

Our porcelain tile offerings come in pre-mixed large formats measuring 12x24 inches, designed to resemble small squares stacked together. The tile surface has a raised cross shape, which will add architectural interest and texture to interior walls and floors.

Applications of Star and Cross Wall and Floor Tiles

The versatility of star and cross tile allows it to fit seamlessly into various settings and decor styles; from traditional to contemporary and everything in between. These ceramic and porcelain beauties can be introduced as the room's focal point, such as the fireplace surround or kitchen backsplash, or throughout a room to evoke an enchanting ambiance.

• Star and Cross Tile Backsplash: Used as backsplash tile, the star-cross pattern adds graphic flair to kitchens of any style—whether you want to wake up a quiet, neutral scheme or add more pizzazz to an already vibrant setting.
• Star and Cross Tile Fireplace & Accent Wall: The unique configuration of star and cross tile will transform your walls into a captivating masterpiece. They are exquisite and eye-catching and make for a stunning fireplace surround, nook, or accent wall.
• Star and Cross Tile Bathroom Walls & Floors: With two shapes and tons of colorways to choose from, cross and star tile is the perfect fit for bathrooms. The two-tone pattern makes for a fabulous vanity backdrop, bathtub surround, or shower floor tile. It will accent an all-white bath space and pair wonderfully with cabinetry of any style.
• Star and Cross Tile Outdoor Applications: Easy to maintain and built to last, our ceramic cross and star tiles promise durability and elegance in equal measure. They are suited for patio flooring and any covered outdoor space that's deserving of a decorative touch.

The Colors of Cross and Star Tiles

From vivid blue and green tones to timeless beige and gray shades, star and cross tile colors are a surefire way to make a compelling statement. A clean white tile pattern stands out in a large vertical wall application without overwhelming the room.

Green tile pairs nicely with white to achieve a dramatic yet grounded visual effect. For instance, our Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy Green Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile and Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy White Ceramic Star-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile.

For enduring style, go with a gray cross and star tile. The Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte Grey Ceramic Star-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile work cohesively with Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte Gray Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile, and can be accented with Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte Gray Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile for an even more intriguing application.

The Finishes of Cross and Star Tiles

If your style leans into a Mediterranean or Moorish influence and you want to bring this Moroccan tile into your home, you can choose between a glossy and matte finish.

Glossy tile finish is for anyone looking for a luxurious glow. The tiles are smooth with a glass-like coating that reflects light and makes the room brighter. Our glossy star and cross tile offerings are an ideal choice for interior walls, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds, and just about any vertical area.

Matte tile, on the other hand, lacks the shine and reflective quality a glossy finish presents. Its greatest strength is in its versatile application. While these cross and star tile options are great for backsplashes, they offer greater traction in wet and high foot-traffic areas. Aesthetically, their understated look lends a refined and contemporary feel to different design styles.

What you'll especially love about star and cross tile is the ease with which you can pair the two finishes in a single application. That is, a glossy star tile with a matte cross tile.

Stellar Statements with Apollo Tile's Star and Cross Tiles

Below are some of our customer's favorites that will create a design moment in your space:

White tiles are a tried-and-true classic that works with any décor theme and color palette. Enter Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte White Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile! This matte finish tile works with all other star tile colors we have in this collection. It is incredibly versatile and suitable for both walls and floors, indoors and outdoors.

There's a sense of sophistication and playfulness about Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte Green Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile that you can't help but love. Its floral motif will easily become a conversation starter used as a feature in the entryway, on the kitchen backsplash, or around the fireplace. Pair with white cross shape or Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Matte Green Ceramic Star-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile.

If you're after classic black and white but with a bit more panache, our Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy Black Ceramic Star-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile and Siena 5.35 in. x 5.35 in. Glossy Black Ceramic Cross-Shaped Wall and Floor Tile are worth considering. This monochrome pairing works in traditional, transitional, and modern settings. Explore our black and white tile collection for more gorgeous options!

The Citadel 12.2 in. x 22 in. Matte and Glossy Blue, Beige Porcelain Large Format Wall Tile balances tradition and modernity. It's a large tile design that gives an impression of squares placed together in a grid pattern. Even more interesting is the combination of two finishes: glossy and matte. This star and cross tile will imbue your interior with visual allure and extra dimension.

Installation & Care of Star and Cross Tile

Due to the pairing of two distinctive shapes, we encourage professional installation be done on cross and star tile. Engaging a skilled tile setter will ensure that the tiles are precisely aligned and the shapes are matched correctly. This way, you can achieve a polished finish.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your star cross tile in an immaculate state. Luckily, ceramic and porcelain walls and floors require minimal care. Here's how you can preserve the beauty of your tilework:

Regular cleaning: Sweep or vacuum star and cross floor tile regularly to remove dust and loose dirt. For deep cleaning and removal of stains, mop the floors with a solution of warm water and mild tile cleaner. A cross and star tile backsplash can be wiped clean with a soft cloth dampened in a mix of warm water and a mild cleaner.

Avoid harsh cleaners: Steer clear of harsh acidic cleaners and abrasive tools as they can dull, discolor, and damage the tile surface. Stick to using a soft cloth and mop so you don't scratch your tilework.

Tackle tough stains: For stains that are difficult to remove, consider a slightly more abrasive cleaner. But before using it on your entire star and cross tile application, test it on a hidden area first.

Prompt spill cleanup: Make sure to wipe clean spills immediately to prevent staining. Use a soft, damp cloth and finish off with a dry one.

Prevent scratches and scuffs: While our ceramic star and cross tile is hardwearing and suitable for high-impact areas, avoid dragging heavy furniture across your flooring to prevent scuffs and scratches.

Seal grout lines periodically: Porcelain and ceramic cross and star floor tile do not need sealing, but grout is vulnerable to stains, pet mess, and odor-causing bacteria. Sealing grout lines during installation and periodically after will make it less porous and easier to clean.

Order Apollo Tile's Star and Cross Tile Online

Whether you want to tackle a dated kitchen backsplash or reimagine the look of your bathroom, you'll surely find the best tiles from Apollo Tile. Feel free to browse our collections, from Moroccan star and cross tile to interesting geometric tile options.

Struggling to find tiles suited for your home or business space? Order a tile sample today to experience quality firsthand. If you want more information about our dynamic range, reach out to our customer service team at 415-316-0898 or email info@apollotile.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How are star and cross tiles different from Zellige tiles?

Both are handcrafted with natural clays and have Moroccan influences. What sets Zellige and cross and star tiles apart is their design. Our handmade Zellige tiles can be found in square and rectangular shapes. As the name suggests, star cross tile are a pairing of star and cross shape.

2. Is star and cross porcelain tile approved for high-traffic areas?

Our porcelain products in this collection are suitable for interior vertical applications only: accent walls, fireplace surrounds, backsplashes, and shower walls. If you want something more suited for areas with high footfall, explore our ceramic star and cross tile options.

3. Should I match the colors of star tile and cross tile?

This is a matter of personal preference. If you're after a uniform and cohesive design, you can go for a tone-on-tone cross and star tile installation (that is, white star shape and white cross shape). In contrast, choosing different colors, say blue star tile and white cross tile, creates a striking accent and highlights the shapes even more.

4. What finish is available for star and cross floor tile?

Our star and cross floor tile comes in a matte finish. It provides better slip resistance and, therefore, makes for the perfect high traffic tile.

5. Can I install cross and star tile backsplash without grout?

Grouting star cross tile is necessary to lock your backsplash in place and add integrity to your installation. Grout also serves as a protective barrier against water seepage, which is crucial in wet areas.

6. Can I pair star and cross tile with other tiling material?

Definitely! For instance, an all-white star cross wall tile pairs nicely with flooring in marble or hardwood tile. You can also use this pattern for your bathroom floors and pair with subway glass wall tiles.

7. Can I order cross and star tile samples online?

We advise our customers to order samples of their favorite tiles before committing to a big purchase. This way, you can see if the design works in your space with all other elements. For more on our sample service, contact our customer service team.