Mosaic Design Ideas

We love mosaic tile! Why? Because the design possibilities are infinitely versatile given the wealth of colors, shapes and materials to choose from - oftentimes combined into one product! They can add whimsy, break up a blah wall, enhance a design theme or define a space. Designer Alena Capra has used mosaics around columns and created a tiled accent wall behind a TV set. She says, "I love that tile can be mixed and matched in so many different ways. I can take glass and stone and porcelain and create something different each time even with a tight budget. I love using tile in unconventional areas. Tile goes beyond the kitchen and bath. It's different and it protects the wall."

>> See Alena Capra, Interior Designer, Talks Tile and Design

What is mosaic tile?

Mosaic tile consists of a collection of small pieces of porcelain tile, glass or stone in any shape that is assembled to make a larger tile. That collection of mosaics is mounted (or packaged) onto a backing for easy installation.
 
In this gallery of backsplash design ideas, we are focusing on more traditional looking mosaics in 1x1, 2x2 and 1x2 brick shapes.

As you can see with all of these installations - whether a true backsplash space as in images 1, 3, 4, 5 and 8 - as part of an all-over installation where the mosaic coordinates perfectly with the other tile selections (image 2), as a bathroom focal wall (image 6), or as a decorative mosaic accent band in a shower installation, the effect is perfect! Mosaic adds visual interest, warmth, a touch of shimmer and shine, as well as visual relief from blandness...

At the end of this gallery, we added a few whimsical mosaic tile ideas for you to consider: mixed colors, iridescence and tonal effects.

Which look do you like best?