Marrakech Design:
Masters of Encaustic Cement and Zellige Tiles
Welcome to Marrakech Design, a passion-driven Swedish company dedicated to crafting exclusive encaustic cement tiles and exquisite, handcrafted glazed Zellige tiles.
You might wonder, how does a company rooted in Gothenburg, Sweden, carry the name Marrakech Design?
The answer lies in our deep connection to the enchanting city of Marrakech, where it all began over twenty years ago. Our first journey there in 2003 opened our eyes to a world rich in beauty and mystique—every corner filled with vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and artisanal treasures, from intricate metal lamps to stunning carpets. What truly captivated us were the tiles - both cement and Zellige, which inspired us to embark on this creative journey that led to the founding of Marrakech Design. We even embraced the Moroccan spirit by purchasing a riad in the heart of Marrakech, where we cherish every moment we can spend.
Initially, our focus was on timeless Moroccan and French patterns, adapting the colors to harmonize with Scandinavian and Northern European sensibilities. However, we soon discovered the potential in marrying traditional craftsmanship with Scandinavian design.
This revelation sparked the launch of our first designer line, “Raval,” in 2010, brought to life by the renowned Swedish designer Mats Theselius. Following that, we collaborated with acclaimed Stockholm-based architects Claesson Koivisto Rune in 2012, resulting in the impactful “Casa,” “Dandelion,” and “Stone” patterns. “Dandelion” has since earned its place as a modern design icon, and we take immense pride in our ability to elevate classic artistry into the realm of modern luxury.
Our journey has continued to flourish
With our latest offerings including “Sailing Stones” by fashion designer Martin Bergström and a captivating range by Sweden’s celebrated architects, Wingårdhs. We are proud to have received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Elle Deco International Design Award in Milan for the ”Casa - Dandelion – Stone” collection.
Recently, we have turned our passion toward Zellige tiles, which boast an incomparable handmade quality that infuses any space with unique character and charm. These tiles pair beautifully with our encaustic cement tiles.
Regardless of their location, our customers - people seeking unique and timeless products - find their way to us from all corners of the globe.
At Marrakech Design, we pride ourselves not just on creating beautiful tiles, but on crafting lasting connections between tradition and modernity—a true fusion of Scandinavian design and artisanal heritage.
Proudly presented project
- Bergen, Norway
Zander K Hotel
Our history
2006
Marrakech Design is founded by
Inga-Lill and Per Ovin in Gothenburg
2007
The company opens its second store in the southern city of Malmö
2010
Launch of “Raval” the first designer collection by Mats Theselius, it later receives design awards by both interior design magazines Residence and Elle Decor Sweden
2012
Collaboration with the Stockholm based architectural practice of Claesson Koivisto Rune resulting in the “Casa Dandelion Stone” collection
2013
“Casa Dandelion Stone” receives the Elle Deco International Design Award (EDIDA) in Milan; Aesop installs our Dandelion tile in its Covent Garden flagship store; launch of the “Kelim” collection by Mats Theselius consisting of four different patterns - Goose-eye, Herringbone, Hook and Woody
2015
Our collaboration with Claesson Koivisto Rune results in five new patterns: Bow, Kimono, Lily, Moonrise and Orchard
2016
Launch of “New Raval” – a development of the successful Raval collection from 2010
2017
Our ”Orchard” tile adorns large common areas at the newly opened Hotel Zander K in Bergen, Norway. Launch of a new collection by Claesson Koivisto Rune called “Stitches and Embroidery”
2018
A new colloboration with award winning Swedish designer Monica Förster
2019
Marrakech Design adds Zellige tiles to its product range; Tend Dental Studios chooses ”Paths” by Charlotte von der Lancken as their signature tile for all their outlets across the United States; Launch of ”Mareld” by Marie-Louise Hellgren
2021
Award winning Tokyo hotel K5 installs a bespoke tile designed by our partner Claesson Koivisto Rune across its floors
2022
Launch of the ”Sailing Stones” collection by Martin Bergström, particularly known for fashion design, theater set design and art installations.
2024
Marrakech Design participates in Maison et Objet in Paris, launch of a collaboration with Sweden’s best known architects Wingårdhs consisting of ”Pop & Plus” and ”Sol, Porto & Bibbla”
2025
The company integrates its downtown showroom into its warehouse in the trendy Gamlestaden area
Sustainability & Responsibility
For us, sustainability begins with longevity.
We believe that true sustainability is not only about materials, but about lifespan. Our tiles are made to endure — they age gracefully and remain relevant beyond passing trends. They are not surfaces to be replaced, but materials to live with for decades.
Our cement tiles are made using natural raw materials drawn from the earth - clay, sand, marble powder, water and mineral pigments – as well as Portland cement which in its turn is made of natural materials like limestone and clay. These are honest materials, shaped rather than synthetically engineered.
Cement tiles are pressed in a hydraulic press, unlike ceramic tiles, they are not kiln-fired so very little energy goes into their production. Instead they gain their strength through a curing process. They contain no lead or other harmful toxins.
Zellige tiles are also grounded in natural resources and traditional methods. Formed from clay and fired in kilns, they are crafted in small batches by skilled artisans, allowing heritage techniques to continue and evolve.
To us, responsibility means working with respect:
respect for natural resources,
respect for craftsmanship,
and respect for the spaces our tiles become part of.
Looking to give your projects a truly unique identity?
Design Your Own Signature Tile
Are you an architect looking to give your projects a truly unique identity? We invite you to create your own custom tile—designed by you, produced by us.
From concept sketches to finished surfaces, our team supports you through every step of the process. Choose your own dimensions, textures, glazes, and patterns to match your architectural vision. Whether you’re working on a private residence, public space, or large-scale development, your custom tile can become a defining element of the design.
With high-quality materials, precision craftsmanship, and flexible production options, we help you turn ideas into durable, beautiful surfaces.
Create something that’s unmistakably yours.
Let’s design your signature tile together.