Mosaics are one of the oldest types of flooring in existence.
Popularized during the Roman Empire and common in the villas and baths of archaeological sites, the decoration of floors with mosaic tiles dates back to 3000 BC, when these works of art were dedicated to the different deities or to relevant events (heroic deeds, battles, etc.) with an aesthetic purpose or to enhance the political or social importance of a character or family.
Mosaics are made with tesserae, small fragments of stone, ceramic or glass of different shapes and colors.
Many of the earliest mosaics were made with pieces of clay that, once fired and dried, were colored. They were then attached to the wall or floor with nails to form figures or patterns.
Today, mosaic tiles are an interesting option for floors and walls.
This type of decoration is original and has many aesthetic possibilities, as it is fully integrated into the space, achieving elegant and sober finishes that give each room of the house a unique personality.
Difference between mosaics and regular tiles
In the case of tiles, ceramic pieces are thinner and one side is glazed because it is fired with enamel. They are waterproof and shiny pieces that, thanks to their easy cleanability, are often used in bathrooms and kitchens.
Mosaic tiles have much more precise and stylized patterns than ceramic tiles. In addition, this type of tile is thicker and more resistant (it withstands abrasion and pressure well, and it does not break easily).
Mosaics for interior walls: which one to choose?
In our blog we have already talked about the different types of mosaic tiles (wood, ceramic, metal, glass, natural stone, slate, mixed, etc.).
All mosaics are usually quite resistant, although stone and ceramic mosaics are the ones that best fit this quality.
The main advantages of the former are their quality and versatility, since stone or marble tesserae are very durable, and can be installed indoors, outdoors, on floors and walls.
Thus, we can see this type of mosaics (such as the Paradise, Outlines, Skyline, Universe or World Amsterdam series) in living rooms as well as in bathrooms, gardens or terraces.
In the case of ceramic or porcelain mosaics, we highlight their more affordable price, easy installation and low maintenance. They are recommended for rooms exposed to humidity (such as kitchens, shower walls, etc.) and we can find them in multiple colors and designs.
When it comes to wood mosaics, they have an organic look, with very attractive relief and 3D shapes, and are the recommended option for rooms, living rooms or offices to which we want to print some “warmth” or a rustic style.
Finally, metal mosaics and glass mosaics are the most avant-garde and offer exclusive and sophisticated results.
Although they can be used in homes (glass mosaics bring a lot of natural light to foyers or small kitchens), they are becoming increasingly common for interior wall coverings in offices, offices, hotel lobbies, etc.
We highlight the L’Antic Colonial Gravity series (metallic, and with gold, bronze or titanium finishes) and Rhomboid (in glass, and available in black, chocolate, cream and verdigris).
Mosaic tiling on walls and floors: practical advice
Opt for a uniform design
The decoration of walls with mosaic is based on providing uniformity to the rooms, combining the colors and shapes of the coating with the rest of the furniture.
Although you can use any type of pattern, smooth surfaces tend to give greater homogeneity.
Regarding textures, if you want to add metallic or glass mosaics, you can combine them with smooth surfaces and achieve excellent results.
A piece of advice: do not leave an inch of your wall bare: think that this type of coating also helps to protect the walls from dirt, fumes and grease.
Two-color design, a trend that never goes out of style
Establishing different patterns is always a good option if we want to cover the walls or floors of the kitchen or bathroom with mosaic.
Designs in two or three different colors are usually the most effective: in this way, we can create geometric shapes and play with light and shadow, adding more decorative value to the interior of the house.
Color “by areas”
Aesthetic uniformity is not at odds with the division of spaces. So you do not have to decorate the whole house with the same style of mosaic, or even with the same material. In fact, assigning colors, textures or materials by zones will help you define spaces visually, without the need to generate physical barriers.
Frame your designs
One of the great advantages of mosaic tiling is the possibility of highlighting some elements that would otherwise go completely unnoticed in the decoration.
Even so, remember that mosaics are not always the center of the room: they can be a good complement for areas adjacent to the kitchen, such as the bar, or to provide greater emphasis in a particular corner, such as the shower or bathtub space.
Decorating walls and floors with mosaics should always be based on “less is more”. Integrating this type of proposal in the home can have good results, but requires a measured and appropriate use of this resource and an excellent combination of shapes, reliefs, materials, colors and textures.
