Star and Cross Tile Is Everywhere Right Now: Here's How to Get the Look

Whether monochrome or multi-colored, star and cross tile is a stunning design that’s drawing the attention of bold-pattern lovers everywhere. “Star and cross tile is the new hex tile,” says Cassandra La Valle, a Seattle-based designer and the shop owner of Cassa Di LaValle. “I feel like those who are looking for a unique shape to add to their designs are being drawn to this classic but statement-making pattern.”

What Is Star and Cross Tile? 

Just as its name indicates, the iconic Moroccan and Spanish-influenced tile consists of beautiful alternating star- and cross-shaped tiles that interlock for a cohesive yet graphic look. While the versatile star shape is believed to have originated from Iran centuries ago, there are countless ways to give star and cross a fresh, modern feel in any setting.

These tiles are traditionally made of terra-cotta or ceramic but are sometimes made with common tile materials like porcelain. They offer versatility in application, as they’re commonly used for both floors and walls. They can be made in almost any color, but are most often seen in rich, red terra-cotta hues or with an alternating pattern of neutrals and a more vibrant color.

How to Use Star and Cross Tile

Reflecting on her trips to Morocco, where the handmade tile is used abundantly, La Valle recently chose star and cross tile for a bathroom remodel. “I have a love for incorporating elements of design from travel,” she says. 

To make the tile work in her home, she chose an all-white palette rather than alternating between two hues or creating a pattern. This strategy allows the shapes to work inside homes that aren’t heavily Mediterranean or Moorish-influenced, such as her dark basement bathroom.

“In a part of the house that was very much lacking personality, the shapes brought in some lovely character,” La Valle says. “We wanted the basement to feel like a little more of an escape since we use it for guests, and the star and cross make it feel much more unique, with a hint of transporting you elsewhere.”

 For more ways to put your own twist on the look, consider getting creative with grout choice. “I love how using different grout completely changes how you see the shapes,” she adds. “High contrast to outline the design, or tonal to make it fade.”

 The finish of the star and cross tiles can also dramatically change their appearance. A glossy glaze will reflect the light in the room and add more texture, while a matte finish will feel more muted and understated. 

Where to Use Star and Cross Tile

Whether you’re looking to add visual interest to your kitchen, bathroom, or entryway, there are endless ways to use star and cross tiles throughout the home. “On a larger scale, I love it on floors, perhaps an expansive entryway,” says La Valle. “For a smaller scale, I prefer it in spaces that really benefit from the pattern, like a fireplace or shower.”

 La Valle urges homeowners to take caution when deciding on their tile and grout color, as it can get a bit busy depending on the combination, she says. “I probably wouldn't do a bright star and cross with a contrasting grout in a kitchen unless the style of the home really speaks to that.” 

Is Star and Cross Tile a Good Fit for Any Home?

“The obvious answer is that if your style leans into a Mediterranean or Moorish influence, I think this pattern is more easily incorporated,” La Valle says. “If not, I think using it in more subtle ways is still possible.” 

 “I do think the style can feel a bit specific, again, depending on the color and grout choices made,” she says. If resale value is a consideration, she adds, you might want to go with a more classic choice, like a neutral tile color with low-contrast grout.