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Mosaic tiles - original laying ideas and creating a stylish design (80 photos). Using mosaics in the interior of a bathroom Decorative mosaics for the bathroom

Mosaic can really transform even the most ordinary and boring interior, giving it sophistication, richness and taste. But everything will happen only if the mosaic in the bathroom takes into account all the subtleties and nuances, and the design of the bathroom is thought out in advance using photos, sketches and advice from professionals.

Mosaic tiles in a modern bathroom interior are an excellent decorative tool.

Mosaics can be used to decorate a bathroom of any size.

In addition, even the most complex curved surfaces can be covered with small tiles, making them a real highlight of the interior. Decorating a room with mosaics is a complex and time-consuming process. Every detail is important here: the type of tile, the color palette, the layout method and its quantity in the interior. Also, the floor covered with mosaics can be equipped with.

Types of mosaics and their main characteristics

Mosaics are made from different materials, for the bathroom it can be glass, smalt, stone, ceramics, porcelain tiles or metal. Mother of pearl, precious stones, gold foil and artificial aquamarine can also be used in the production of exclusive collections.

Venetian glass mosaic

• Glass mosaics are made primarily from Venetian glass. It is durable, waterproof, impact-resistant and has a solid structure, which means that it prevents the development of microorganisms and fungi that colonize the pores of the finishing material in damp rooms. Glass mosaic is presented in a very diverse color palette and textures. It can also be metallized or mirrored.

Smalt mosaic

• Smalt mosaic is a type of glass, but unlike it it has a matte finish. Smalt is obtained by pressing the smallest particles of colored glass with the necessary impurities. As a result, each individual element is slightly different from the others. In a multi-colored layout this point is not noticeable, but if the entire wall is covered with single-color tiles, the interior will look a little dull.

Ceramic mosaic

• Ceramic mosaic in appearance resembles ordinary tiles; in fact, they are only small in size. Ceramics can be glazed, matte, or have a surface of any other texture. Mosaics with craquelure are very popular today (this is when the ceramics have a unique texture with small cracks), and they look especially organic in ethnic style.

Stone mosaic

• Stone mosaic is made from absolutely any type of stone, from the cheapest tuff to rare types of marble, jasper or onyx. Of course, the cost of finishing will depend on the exclusivity of the material. The color texture of the stone is unique, and the mosaic cladding is obviously unique and luxurious. Stone mosaic can be polished or chipped.

Metal mosaic

• Metal mosaic – modern and elegant solution, but such finishing will not be appropriate in all styles. The surface of metal tiles can be matte or polished to a mirror finish. It is most often made from aluminum or stainless steel, but any other metal can imitate its surface.

Options for using mosaics in the interior

Finishing shelves with mosaics in the bathroom interior

Mosaic in the bathroom can be used for:

• wall cladding (in full, in the form of panels or friezes);
• floor finishing (full lining, laying out rugs or friezes);
• creating aprons (near the washbasin, bathtub, shower);
• design of the screen under the bathtub, countertops, shower tray and other surfaces, in particular non-standard shapes;
• finishing of built-in shelves or niches.

Mosaic interior design ideas

Most apartments and houses are sized, if not . But it is in such rooms that a correctly selected mosaic will become an exquisite addition to the interior and help visually expand the space. For example, if the wall opposite a large mirror is tiled with small tiles.

Mosaic pattern in the bathroom

• Mosaic is in a great way zoning of space. Functional areas can be separated by laying part of the wall and floor with mosaics, while the rest of the surface will be covered with ordinary tiles. The elements framing the zone will look no less impressive: straight or curved stripes.
• Mosaics can be used to lay out just a few thin stripes on the walls or floor to give the interior new colors, especially if large and small tiles are chosen in contrasting shades.
• If desired, all walls and floors can be completely covered with mosaics, but such finishing is very active and, as a rule, it needs to be diluted with one or two monochrome walls.
• A rectangular mosaic laid out in a horizontal layout looks very fresh and original.
• The use of mosaics in design opens up such wide possibilities that it can be difficult to decide where and in what quantity it would be most appropriate. Perhaps it will make the task a little easier by viewing photos from the gallery, which contains the most beautiful and original interiors bathrooms.

Bathroom interior with mosaics all over the walls

Advice! Not only the usual chaotic patterns, but also entire paintings are laid out in mosaics. Mosaic panel will undoubtedly become the central element of the interior, as it looks very impressive, original and unusual. Part of the wall lined in this way is not inferior to conventional ceramic finishing in terms of performance characteristics.

Choosing a color palette

The peculiarity of mosaic is that it can be either monochromatic or easily allows you to combine dozens of shades in a small area. When choosing a particular color palette, it is important to focus on the overall concept of the interior and the result that is expected in the end.

Combination of shades in a mosaic pattern

• Mosaic gradient, also known as a smooth transition from dark to light, is one of the most popular colors when it comes to mosaics today. The same rules apply here as for regular tiles. IN small rooms the dark bottom should smoothly transition into a lighter top, and in spacious bathrooms you can do the opposite, light bottom and dark top.
• Pixel mosaic is a combination of several shades, rarely just two, in a chaotic order. But unlike the gradient, there are no special color accents here.

Pixel mosaic in the bathroom interior

• Color combination with tiles. In the event that the mosaic is combined with ordinary ceramic tiles, the most dark color An individual mosaic element should be darker than the main palette of the room, and the lightest one should be correspondingly lighter, almost white.
• Monotonous solution. A mosaic with a pearlescent sheen looks very interesting if it is laid out in stripes or a pattern against the background of matte walls in the same color.
• Metal mosaic looks stylish and expensive. But it makes the atmosphere somewhat cooler, so it is recommended to use this finish only for decorating and highlighting individual interior elements.
• The only way to lay out a mosaic, in which it is possible to use a dozen, and sometimes hundreds of colors, are panels and paintings. They make the interior bright, unusual and very cozy. Finished paintings and mosaic panels are rarely laid out directly on the wall. They are sold in the form of individual fragments assembled on fiberglass mesh or paper. Any type of mosaic can be used to create panels, but more often it is smalt.

Decorating a bathroom with mosaics: video

Bathroom interior with mosaic: photo

Finishing the bathroom with mosaic tiles gives it the appearance of an ancient bathhouse; this is the way the rooms for taking baths were decorated in ancient Greece. True, in those days there were no ready-made mosaic tiles; the patterns were made with individual natural stones by hand, which was a difficult and time-consuming task. All mosaic tiles existing today are classified according to several criteria.

Material for making tiles and brief characteristics

Material of manufacture	Brief characteristics
	The most common option, universal use. It has sufficient strength and is impervious to moisture. The cheapest tile in terms of cost. Depending on the thickness of the mosaic, it can be installed on the walls or floor of the bathroom.
	A more expensive version of tiles that imitates ceramics. Has many color options. Advantages - the color does not change throughout the entire period of operation; when exposed to direct sunlight, the surfaces “play”.
	Mineral dyes are added to the composition, mainly used for finishing floors. Rarely used for walls due to complex care. Microcracks form on surfaces over time, in which various microorganisms multiply. It is very difficult to remove them from there.
	The artistic appearance of the ceramics is original and beautiful, but the cost does not correspond to the properties. It is made from waste from ceramic production; from an objective point of view, the increase in price is unreasonable.

Depending on the method of fixing individual mosaic tiles to the canvas, there can be two types.

1. The individual plates are fixed on paper. The paper is pasted on the front side. This is an outdated manufacturing technology mosaic tiles. Laying technology is complicated for several reasons. Firstly, it is more difficult to monitor the gaps in the joints separate sheets. Secondly, the paper needs to be wetted and removed, which is an additional waste of time and effort.
2. The plates are fixed on a reinforcing mesh with reverse side. Such tiles are easier to work with, the front surface is visible during installation, it is easier to correct mistakes, the pattern and distance between the seams are immediately visible. After installation is completed, it is much easier and faster to rub the seams.

Any ceramic tile can be used for bathrooms; the choice depends on financial capabilities and preferences. My only wish is to not use tiles with uneven front surfaces, they are very difficult to clean. And in the bathroom you need to wash the surfaces often; a lot of dirt and residues from dried water accumulate on them.

It is much more difficult to work with than with a regular one. Why? For ordinary tiles, a surface with a height difference of up to 4 mm is suitable; experienced tilers can level the base with tile adhesive without any problems. During laying, do not use a notched trowel, but an ordinary one; put a lot of glue in the corners and in the center of the tile. Then, by lightly tapping and constantly checking the position with a level, the height is leveled to the same level. This, of course, is a violation of generally accepted theoretical technology, but in practice, professionals often use this simplified method. The quality of tile laying is almost not affected, and the speed of work is significantly increased. We do not recommend using this method for beginners; their risk of making mistakes due to inexperience is too great.

The base for mosaic tiles must be perfectly flat, differences in height are prohibited. The small size of individual mosaics will never level them out; elevations or depressions will remain noticeable on the wall.

In addition, for ordinary tiles you can use different kinds glue, this factor has almost no effect on the adhesion density. If it has come out, the excess can be easily removed from the seams, and the final color of the grout does not change. It is also not necessary to make a primer; the tiles have large area and there will always be an area with sufficient adhesion. With a mosaic, such actions are unacceptable. The glue should only be white; it is almost impossible to remove excess gray from the gaps.

Another problem is that mosaic tiles can only be laid using a comb. It ensures the adhesion of each tile. If this is not adhered to, they will fall out (for mosaics glued to paper) or will wobble (for mosaics glued to reinforcing mesh).

mosaic tiles for bathroom

Preparing the base for mosaic tiles

We have already mentioned that the tiles lie on a perfectly flat surface. Often walls are leveled with plasterboard - quickly, evenly and cheaply. We strongly do not recommend using drywall to level bathroom walls. Its main drawback is low physical strength. Under medium loads, for example, while washing you lean on the wall, it will bend. As a result, the tile will fall off. Drywall is used construction companies, thus they significantly increase the speed of work and, accordingly, their profits. As always, the customer pays for everything.

If you are finishing the bathroom with your own hands, then do not be too lazy to plaster the walls with cement-sand mortar. Step by step instructions We will provide instructions on laying ceramic tiles specifically for this option.

Step 1: Check the condition of the wall. In most cases, after ordinary plaster it will have to be leveled. Check with a straight, long staff or level, apply it in different places and at different angles. Look at the gaps. It is much easier to detect irregularities with a light bulb. Place it on the floor, the light rays will indicate unevenness.

How to make a surface suitable for laying mosaic tiles?

1. Prepare the putty solution and primer. Choose high-quality material, do not try to save money.
2. Carefully coat the surface with primer. The fact is that putty that is thin in thickness will fall off if there is insufficient adhesion. Prime twice in transverse directions. Use a primer deep penetration, it will serve as additional protection against moisture.

   Deep penetrating primer CERESIT CT 17

   Dilute the primer in the proportions indicated on the canister. If there are concerns about its quality, then reduce the amount of water by about 15%. But in no case is it recommended to increase the percentage of water; even minor violations of the material preparation technology significantly reduce its effectiveness.

   The diluted primer mixture adheres better and sets faster. However, the deeply penetrating product performs better when undiluted.

   It is better to prime with a brush rather than a roller. A brush can thoroughly rub the liquid into the surface, but a roller will only wet it. In addition, all hard to reach places what not to do with a roller.

3. While the primer dries, prepare the plaster. First, water is poured into the container, and then the dry mixture is added in portions. To stir, it is better to use a mixer; if you don’t have one, you will have to stir by hand. Let the solution sit for about five minutes, after this time, stir it again.
4. You need to plaster with a large flat spatula, rub the solution into the plaster with maximum force. Go through each place several times. Do not pay attention if you still have traces from the spatula, over time you will gain experience and the surfaces will be smooth.

   In extreme cases, after drying, the marks can be removed with sandpaper. It is better to fix it on a flat board or trowel, sand it in a circular motion, do not press it too hard.

   If there is no sanding paper and the marks are small, then you can smooth them out with a metal smoothing iron.

   Press it firmly against the wall surface at an angle and move it across the surface several times in different directions. In most cases, this alignment is sufficient.

5. Clean the surface from dust, preferably using a vacuum cleaner.

Step 2. Measure the area of ​​the walls, purchase the appropriate amount of glue and tiles.

The reserve for tiles can be kept small, 5% is enough. The fact is that it is easy to cut into required sizes at the seams, minimal amount of waste. These common tiles can cause chips or uneven edges and increase waste.

Step 3: Apply primer very carefully twice. Do not miss this operation, we have already mentioned that mosaic tiles do not tolerate deviations from technology.

Step 4. Consider the placement of the tiles. If you plan to make a decorative mosaic border, then decide on its height and cladding material.

Step 5. Draw lines for laying borders and tiles on the wall. If you have little experience, then draw lines every three rows of tiles, this will make it possible to constantly monitor its position. The fact is that glued mosaic sheets are large in size, and the larger the size of a unit of material, the more difficult it is to eliminate defects when the gap between them is broken.

Step 6. Prepare the glue. The technology is indicated on the packaging; follow the manufacturer's advice. Are there any concerns about its quality? Add a little primer to the diluting water, about 10-20% of the total amount. You will have the primer left over from previous operations.

Important. The consistency of the glue requires very careful attention. For ordinary tiles this is not so important; they are laid from bottom to top, and a cross is inserted into each seam to maintain a gap. The same cross prevents individual tiles from slowly falling down over time. It is useless to use for a mosaic cross; they will not keep it from lowering. This means that the glue should be thick, but not so thick as to impair the adhesion coefficient to the wall and tiles.

Step 7. Start working from the bottom row and far corner. The glue should be applied twice. First with a flat spatula, and then with a comb. The height of the ridges is within 3–5 mm, choose the appropriate spatula and give it the proper slope. The better the glue rubs in, the more securely each individual tile will stick. This is especially true for tiles on paper. Reinforced mesh increases the reliability of fastening, it is deeply immersed in the glue.

Practical advice. We have already said that maintaining the distance between the tiles will have to be done by eye; this is very difficult for inexperienced builders. To make inevitable flaws less noticeable, lay it in a checkerboard pattern. Using a construction knife, cut one whole sheet into two parts, start the first row with half, and the next with a full sheet.

Step 8. Carefully place the first sheet horizontally. If you need to trim it a little, then slowly move it with the palms of both hands. With significant or incorrectly directed efforts, the mosaic tiles will fold like an accordion. To ensure a tight fit of all tiles, use a trowel; the larger it is, the better. Every 3-4 sheets, check their position in different directions with a long staff or level. If you have a laser level, great. Its lines are not covered with glue, so you can work faster. Do not allow gaps; it is very difficult to correct them later.

It is important to know that it is not recommended to completely remove the glued sheet; you can only correct the position on the wall. The removed sheet is difficult to prepare for reuse, especially if it is on paper based, the paper may become wet and tear during removal.

Video - Laying mosaics

Practical advice. Pay great attention to the exit points of pipelines. Here it is better to put more glue than less. The leftovers will be removed, no problem.

Continue working in the same way over the entire surface of the bathroom wall.

Step 9. If your sheets of mosaic tiles were paper, then they should be removed. You need to start removing only after the glue has completely hardened; the time is indicated on its packaging, in most cases it is 24 hours. Wet the paper with a damp sponge; there should be enough water. Do not leave dry areas so that it can be easily removed; the entire area should be well wet. The paper must be removed entirely and at once, otherwise the remains will be difficult to remove. Wetting time is approximately 2-3 minutes, there are missing places - do not tear off the paper, but repeat soaking again. If everything is done correctly, the ceramic tiles will easily release from the top paper.

For tiles on a reinforcing mesh, this operation is not needed, which greatly simplifies the work process.

Step 10. Grouting the joints.

As you might guess, mosaic tiles have a lot of seams. Practice shows that grouting takes no less time than installation. Moreover, it is rarely possible to do everything efficiently the first time; you have to repeat the operation. For grouting, use bactericidal plastic materials. They are not cheap, but then redoing the wall cladding will cost even more. If the surface of all the tiles is smooth, then it is easier to work. Using a large rubber spatula, rub the mixture into the seams, apply considerable force, and do not allow any gaps.

We wipe the surfaces

The surface has dried - check the quality of work. Any gaps found must be refilled with mass and then cleaned.

Some apartment owners, in order to improve the appearance of the bathroom, cover certain sections of the walls in the bathroom with decorative mosaic tiles with rough edges or tiles of unequal height. There is a lot of fuss with them; you will have to grout and then clean each tile separately. It is impossible to predict how long this will take.

How to lay mosaic tiles on curved surfaces

The algorithm for working on such surfaces has its own characteristics. When the tile is pressed against curved planes, the glue is completely absent in the center of the ceramic tiles, and its thickness increases at the edges. Due to this redistribution of the glue, the center of the tiles does not stick at all, and the sides take a long time to dry. To minimize the negative effect, it is recommended to cover such surfaces with mosaic tiles with minimum sizes elements.

Technology for laying mosaic tiles on the bathroom floor

For these purposes you need to buy thick tiles. The algorithm of actions differs in several ways.

1. The floor must have waterproofing. Use various impregnations for these purposes; they have excellent adhesion to both the concrete base and tile adhesive. In addition, they have good waterproof properties.
2. Tile adhesive must be of high quality. Small sizes significantly increase the likelihood of individual pieces of the mosaic being undermined by various household appliances. The biggest danger is an old washing machine. When drying clothes, it vibrates strongly and can “ride” along the floor. At this time, the legs catch on the protruding edges of the tile and tear it off the floor.
3. Grouting of joints is carried out only quality materials and very carefully. The presence of voids is completely prohibited. There are cases when such air pockets are invisible at the top. For elimination problem areas rub the grout with great force and several times in one place.
4. Keep in mind that a floor with mosaic tiles does not have slopes to drain water; it is useless to create them. A small angle will not have an effect, and you cannot increase the inclination. In this regard, the need to carefully carry out all construction measures to seal the floor increases significantly.

Answers to frequently asked questions

Can mosaic tiles be cut?

No you can not. The only option is that you are a professional and have a special diamond cutter. And then in that case, a tile with dimensions of individual elements of at least 2x2 cm and made on a reinforcing mesh will be cut. It won't work on paper. The point is, then diamond wheel professional cutter has water cooling, the paper will get wet, the mosaic sheet will fall apart into separate pieces.

What to do if the gap in the corner of the room is larger than the width of the tile fragment?

The optimal solution is to accurately calculate the position of the plates and slightly increase the gap between them. But this method can be used if the increase in the gap does not exceed 2 mm, otherwise the appearance of the wall will deteriorate. To eliminate such problems, it is better to purchase special plastic corner corners. They are installed in exactly the same way as under ordinary tiles. With the help of corner elements, a gap of up to five millimeters is eliminated.

How to carefully make a round hole?

When laying mosaic tiles, use a carpenter's knife to cut a square hole to fit the diameter of the pipe. Next, detach the mosaic elements from the cut piece; you will need four pieces. There are two ways to remove sharp corners of squares.

1. First. Hold one corner of the tile with pliers, and gradually break off the second corner into small pieces with sharp nippers.
2. Second. Take the tile with pliers and grind the desired corner with a grinder and a diamond blade.

Important. There are two types of diamond blades: for cutting concrete and tiles. They have significant differences and cannot be used for other purposes. The concrete disc has long radial slots to remove large amounts of dust from thick concrete. These slots create vibration, which will cause the tile to crack. Discs for tile work do not have slots; they have shallow short grooves along the side planes.

Is it possible to restore original appearance mosaic tiles?

This can only be done if you have a supply of plates. Pick up in store via big time the exact same mosaic is impossible. Each batch of goods has its own differences, this is explained by the peculiarities of the technological process.

If you follow all the recommendations, treat your work responsibly and carefully, then the quality of your own cladding will not be much different from the work of professionals. Don't rush, be careful about each operation. Start laying tiles from the most inconspicuous corner of the bathroom. Even if small errors are made at first, no one will notice them. And during this time you can purchase a small practical experience performing such complex facing work, there will be no more defects.

He'll have to take a lot difficult decisions. And the most important of them is what material to cover the surfaces with? The bathroom is constantly experiencing increased humidity and temperature changes. Many surfaces of the room for water procedures are subject to mechanical stress. In apartment buildings standard houses bathrooms are often connected to the toilet. In a shared bathroom, it is especially important to maintain cleanliness and order. This means that the finishing material must also be resistant to chemical cleaning agents and easy to clean. Mosaic tiles meet all the necessary criteria for a finishing material for a bathroom.

Among its obvious advantages are the following:

• strength;
• reliability;
• durability;
• moisture resistance;
• lack of reactions to temperature changes;
• variety of colors and shades;
• wide choice of materials;
• possibility of cladding uneven surfaces, complex shapes, design of curved and concave planes, niches;
• color resistance to fading;
• the ability to create drawings, ornaments and even works of art;
• ability to adhere to any surface - concrete, plaster, wood or metal.

In a word, mosaic tiles have in their arsenal the entire list of advantages characteristic of ceramic tiles (a favorite finishing material for our country) and whole line advantages inherent only to this type of finishing. And we are talking only about the practical, functional side of the issue. But from the point of view of aesthetic pleasure that you can get from contemplating an artistic mosaic panel in your bathroom, this finishing material has no equal.

Of course, there are no advantages without disadvantages. The main disadvantage of finishing surfaces with mosaics is the fairly high cost of the material itself and the work involved in its installation. But if you amortize the budget for tiling the bathroom for many years, during which this finishing material will serve faithfully, without changing color, without fading or peeling, then from an economic point of view, repairs using mosaics are a profitable investment.

Currently, mosaics made from the following materials are widely available:

1. mosaic tiles from natural stone It is most often used for flooring, primarily due to its increased strength and durability, resistance to moisture and mechanical stress. The most common stones are marble, granite, onyx and jasper. Of course, the cost of such a mosaic will be quite high;
2. ceramic mosaic is one of the most common and budget options, the main advantage of which can be called wealth color palette, capable of providing a selection of shades for any work of art;
3. glass as a material for the production of mosaic tiles proves to be resistant to moisture and chemicals material, which makes it a leader in the category of ease of care;
4. The rarest, but outwardly incredibly attractive type is metal mosaic. It is rarely used for bathrooms due to low resistance to moisture. But it can be used as decoration for spacious rooms in sectors with the least humidity.

Let's look at specific design projects for bathrooms and toilets to see how mosaics can be used to cover certain surfaces, highlight accents, decorate plumbing fixtures and furniture, and finish complex geometric shapes.

Drawings, ornaments, paintings

One of distinctive features mosaics from ordinary ceramic tiles is the ability to create drawings, artistic images and original ornaments in a wide range of color palettes. Not so long ago, mosaic was one of the most important types visual arts Thanks to the durability of this material, many masterpieces have survived to this day. To build something like works of art in your bathroom is a very large scale. But lining the walls using ready-made blocks with a printed pattern or hiring a professional who will select an image to suit your taste is a doable task that will fit perfectly into the framework of a modern interior.

A bright floral pattern that occupies most of the vertical surfaces of the bathroom is a way to transform your room beyond recognition. This interior is not only unique, but also personalized, it reflects your own preferences and tastes.

Floral motifs are found in bathroom interiors, decorated with mosaics more often than other options. This is due to the smooth lines of the patterns, closeness to nature, energy and freshness. Even a small drawing as an accent can take the interior of your bathroom to a completely different level.

An original, but dim, not variegated pattern, made using mosaics, will help make the wall cladding unique, preserving the calm atmosphere of peace and tranquility that the bathroom space so needs.

Use patterned mosaic tiles to create an accent wall. As a result you get original design shower cabin, without ruining the budget for repairs.

Another option for decorating an accent surface is using a mosaic with an ornament. The work area will be reliably protected from moisture and at the same time decorated in an original way. An illuminated mirror against such a background looks even more luxurious.

Without marine theme in the bathroom with mosaic decoration there is nowhere. Combining mosaics and small pebble stone trim in one room creates an incredible spectacular design surfaces. Such unique interior unforgettable.

Another option for using a marine theme when choosing a mosaic image for a bathroom. Small images look especially good against a light beige background.

Currently, ready-made blocks with part of a mosaic ornament are widely available, which are combined together like puzzles, forming canvases with a large ornate pattern. Such an unobtrusive but elegant ornament can decorate any bathroom. For lovers of a neutral, light palette of rooms, this mosaic on the walls of the bathroom will appeal.

We place accents

If a small budget has been allocated for the renovation of a bathroom or toilet, but you would like to use mosaic tiles in the decoration of certain surfaces, there is an option to decorate only one wall (or part of it) with the help of this expensive material - an accent wall. In this case, you get an expressive and practical interior with low cost for repairs.

In a bathroom or washroom, the most common option for decorating an accent wall is to cover the surfaces above work area shells. This is a practical way to make it easier for yourself to care for surfaces that are most exposed to moisture and more.

Covering the wall above the bathtub with bright mosaics with a mother-of-pearl tint can bring your interior to the very best. high level coloring Original, contrasting color scheme dictates the design concept of the entire room and acts as a focal point.

Another common design technique in the area of ​​placing accents is to brightly decorate the wall opposite the sink with a mirror and repeat an element of the same color in the work area.

For tiling bathrooms located in asymmetrical attic rooms with sloped ceilings, mosaic tiles can be a very good investment of money, time and effort. Considering how much ceramic tile would have to be cut to create a bevel, the presence of mosaics is economically justified.

This is an uncommon design solution, but a bathroom floor can become an accent surface lined with bright mosaics. Practical and functional choices become the basis for creating a room design.

Difficult geometry

One of the most significant advantages of mosaic tiles is the ability to cover planes of any shape and degree of curvature. In this case, we can talk not only about finishing the surfaces of walls and floors, but also bathrooms, sinks, all kinds of niches and recesses.

The smoothness of lines and shapes gives the bathroom interior a feeling of fluidity and lightness. This is especially important for small spaces, and most bathrooms in average apartments are like this.

Covering the base of bathtubs and rounded surfaces - would it be possible to do this with any other finishing material that can withstand high levels of humidity? Thanks to mosaic tiles, similar cladding can be performed on more complex surfaces.

Covering an oval bathroom and a pedestal of the same shape for a bathtub? There is nothing easier if you choose mosaic as a finishing material. The original and intriguing bathroom design is unique and inimitable.

Finishing such complex, in terms of geometry and curvature, surfaces of an unusual bathroom is possible only with the help of mosaic tiles. Thanks to the impressive scale of the room, the dark shades of the mosaic do not confine the space, bringing into it an element of drama and oriental zen for relaxation and rest.

Such a variety of color and texture solutions, finishing tiles various sizes not every room can withstand. Not without the help of mosaics in finishing the complex rounded surface, a harmonious image of the bathroom was created.

Stunning effect from cladding small elements

Sometimes to create a unique and interesting interior bathroom, it is enough to use bright, shiny or colored mosaics only for small area surfaces - edging a mirror or sink space, highlighting an apron around the perimeter of the room, or decorating plumbing elements and accessories.

Covering a small counter separating the toilet area from the water treatment segment with mirror mosaics looks very impressive. Vertical stripes visually increase the height of the room.

A small strip finished with mosaic will visually blur the boundaries of space and bring color variety to the interior of the bathroom.

Another example of a similar design for a shower stall, but using mirror mosaics with vertical chips.

A small section of surface above the work area of ​​the sink, tiled with bright glossy mosaics, not only brought color variety to the neutral palette of the bathroom, but also enlivened the interior.

Thanks to the use of mosaic tiles, the individual chips of which are painted exactly in those shades that are present in the main decoration of the surfaces of the room, it was possible to create a balanced, cozy image of the bathroom.

Total tiling with mosaic tiles

Among modern design projects There are many bathrooms where almost all surfaces of the room are tiled with mosaics. Such repairs can be expensive, but you are guaranteed durability and unchanging appearance.

Even a small bathroom can be transformed with mosaic decoration. This type of drawing is called pixel – it is an original way to integrate several shades of one color scheme.

A single-color mosaic, with which all surfaces, niches, shelves and recesses are lined, can create an original image of your water treatment room. Depending on the size of the chips (mosaic elements) that will be used, whether there will be grout between them and what tone, the appearance of the bathroom or toilet will depend.

Light shades of mosaic tiles can visually expand the space of the bathroom, which very often needs it. In addition, a calm, neutral palette sets the mood for relaxation and peace, which is necessary for household members after a difficult day at work while taking a bath or shower.

Among the light palette of mosaic tiles, I would especially like to highlight the marble finish. Even small inclusions of marble mosaics into the interior add an atmosphere of luxury, filled with the cleanliness and even sterility of a utilitarian room.

The contrasting combination of black and white mosaics within one room produces an incredible effect. Especially if, instead of the usual arrangement of a light tone on the walls of the bathroom and a dark one on the floor, we see the opposite color scheme.

The dark shade of mosaic with a mother-of-pearl sheen as a total surface cladding can add drama to any bathroom. Thanks to the glossy surface of the mosaic, fingerprints and traces of water drops will not be visible on dark chips, and the bathroom will not be cleaned very often.

Bright blue, azure and blue shades of mosaic tiles are especially popular. It is not surprising that in a water treatment room we want the reflection of the blue of the ocean or the azure of the sky reflected in the water, successfully integrated into the interior of the room.

Large single-color mosaic chips against a background of snow-white grout give the bathroom incredible geometricity and rigor.

Mosaic in the bathroom - functional beauty

Mosaic patterns do not leave anyone indifferent to their mesmerizing appearance. The beauty of such a panel lies in the small, often sparkling elements, which altogether create a very attractive overall picture. I want to look at it again and again. Representing an excellent alternative to the usual tiles, mosaics are able to add individuality to each individual room, conveying the unsurpassed taste of its owner.

The mosaic panel is universal for any room in terms of functionality. The need in the kitchen or bathroom is explained by resistance to moisture and dirt, and in the bedroom or living room, by the individuality of the design concept and exquisite luxury.

Now you can bring something alive and soulful into the interior not only with the help of painting and wall paintings; small tiles can also easily cope with this task.

Types of mosaics

The main difference between mosaic and other types of tiles is its size. As a rule, it has a regular square shape and a size of no more than 2 cm. Designer collections represent original production lines in which tiles of other geometric, and sometimes even abstract, shapes are acceptable.

This is done to create an individual design, so most of them are still small, classic sizes.

According to the composition they are distinguished:

• Ceramic - is a smaller version of the usual ceramic tiles and has all the same characteristics and quality composition;
• Venetian - not afraid of shocks and other mechanical influences, shiny, but not glossy;
• Smalt – matte, resistant to mechanical, physical and chemical influences;
• Metal - can be with the addition of fiberglass, usually stainless materials such as brass or copper are used.
• From natural stone– onyx, jasper, lapis lazuli, granite or marble are usually used, but any other type of rock can be used in the manufacture of natural panels for decorative masonry;
• Other materials - glass, mirror, porcelain and other other materials that only come to the creative imagination of modern designers and craftsmen.

By purpose they are distinguished:

• Floor;
• Universal.

There are only two gradations due to the fact that the universal one can be used even for decorating walls, even for niches, even for the ceiling, but special requirements are imposed on the floor.

It must be resistant to mechanical stress, moisture and not slip even when wet. For this purpose, special compositions are used in production, and the surface itself has a matte appearance with notches and a certain roughness.

Mosaic tiles are sold individually and require very painstaking work during installation. For the purpose of convenience, as well as for selling a complete color or patterned panel, it is often applied to special plates that have an adhesive or mesh base.

Such a base has the size of a large tile, for example 20x20 or 20-40, and can also be the size of the picture presented at the exhibition. This design will significantly reduce installation time, and make the process less labor-intensive and simplify it.

Where is mosaic applicable?!

The scope of application of mosaic tiles has absolutely no restrictions. It is suitable for domestic and industrial use; another question is whether it will be justified for economic and aesthetic reasons.

As for the design of mosaic tiles, numerous proposals allow you to use it both for decorating a bathroom or the interior of a luxurious room in a private house, and for decorating an office. It harmoniously combines with almost all other construction and finishing materials.

It can be used as the main masonry, to highlight niches or columns, and also to decorate panels, for example, at the head of a bed.

Bathroom

It was from this room that the widespread use of small tiles in the interior began. Designers so wanted an alternative to boring and boring tiles that glass panels, which have the same strength but a more sophisticated look, were to their liking. The small size harmonizes favorably with the usual cramped bathrooms.

Bathroom mosaic tiles are used on walls, ceilings and even as flooring. Resistance to moisture, temperature changes, as well as mechanical and chemical influences makes it simply indispensable for the bathroom, but the cost is several times higher than a standard tiled coating, which undoubtedly overshadows and stops many consumers.

Kitchen

Tile for the apron suggests itself, because there is no more convenient and practical material for this area, subject to constant cleaning using chemical compositions. Most housewives want not just a kitchen, but a cozy and incredible room where they can pleasantly spend time preparing their favorite dishes and proudly welcome guests.

Therefore, the limits of using mosaics in this room have long gone beyond functionality. Nowadays, you can increasingly find bar counters and even countertops framed with small tiles. It turns out quite organic, fresh and practical.

Hallway

Another room that requires frequent cleaning, as all outerwear and shoes are stored in it. Being located on the border between the house and the street, it is subject to frequent pollution and, as a result, wet cleaning.

Ceramic mosaic tiles will come in handy here. Reflective textures and light shades will visually expand cramped spaces and add additional light.

Living room and bedroom

It may not be used as the main finishing material, but as a panel or for decorating individual elements, mosaic will fit into absolutely any living space. Walls with simple motifs, niches, columns and other structures will take on a completely different look.

It is not necessary to use pompous mirror or textured colorful designs, tiles made of natural stone or simply matte pastel colors will decorate absolutely every interior.

Photos of mosaic tiles in catalogs open up a lot of possibilities and inspire flights of fancy. Living rooms, shopping centers, saunas and spas are increasingly giving preference to this, although not the cheapest type of finishing material, but so practical and elegant.

The variety of color and design solutions opens up enormous prospects for the consumer, attracting with its chic and individuality.

Photo of mosaic tiles

The combination of tiles and mosaics in the bathroom can completely change the interior of the room, giving it a more expensive look. It is not without reason that mosaic is becoming increasingly popular both among designers and those owners who do the renovations themselves.

Mosaic tiles are suitable for both small bathrooms in Khrushchev-era buildings and spacious rooms. You can combine mosaics with any materials: vinyl wallpaper, plastic panels, textured paint or plaster. But most often, ceramic tiles with mosaics are used in the bathroom.

Advantages of combining mosaics with tiles

It would seem, why add another finishing material in the bathroom besides ceramics? Why can’t all the walls and floors be decorated with tiles only, because this is the most practical material? Of course you can, but the combination of tiles and mosaics has several advantages:

Firstly, mosaic is one of the “flexible” materials, in the truest sense of the word. It can be lined with complex shapes, figured niches and countertops for the sink. It is also better to decorate the space under a semicircular bathtub with a plastic material, and mosaic is ideal for this.

Secondly, if there are many complex ledges in the room for taking water procedures, then tiling them is much more difficult: labor and material costs, because the tiles will need to be cut, there will be more waste.

Thirdly, you can adjust the design with mosaics by adding a vertical or horizontal frieze where necessary. Also, do not forget that from small pixel modules you can create any design or pattern you want, complementing the main tile. This material can also be used for zoning a room.

Well, as for the resistance of mosaic elements to chemical attack and high levels of moisture, most are not inferior to good ceramic tiles. Even the mosaic can withstand temperatures from minus to

Another advantage of mosaics is the variety of materials from which mosaic elements are made: glass, ceramics, acrylic, metal, natural stone, wood.

Mosaics are laid in the same way as tiles - they are glued to most substrates (concrete, plaster, drywall, wood, foam blocks, metal).

In a word, mosaic tiles have no less advantages than ceramics, but there are features inherent only to this type of finishing material.

Flaws

However, any building or finishing material has not only advantages, but also disadvantages. In our case it is financial side question. This applies both to the material itself and to the work involved in its installation. You will also need more grout in the area where the mosaic is installed.

But, on the other hand, high-quality work and materials that will serve for many years and will please the eye are a profitable investment. After all, after all, we start the day in the bathroom and end it right there.

How to choose a mosaic for tiles

When using two finishing materials, it is necessary to take into account their different properties, even down to size. To rule out choosing a mosaic for a bathroom, consider the following:

• product material;
• shape and size of modular elements;
• shade and compatibility with the main tile.

Material

Depending on the material from which the mosaic is made, you can get a different visual effect. Today, manufacturers produce tiles from the following materials:

• Plastic. The most economical option, both in price and in appearance. However, even the cheapest mosaic tiles can look better than budget ceramic tiles. So, to save your budget, you can think about combining simple tiles with plastic mosaics. As for strength and hygienic properties, this material is not inferior to tiles. One practical solution for using plastic mosaic tiles is on the floor, as they are less slippery than ceramic tiles.
• Ceramics. One of the most popular and frequently used for bathrooms. Ceramic mosaics are easiest to match to tiles in terms of thickness and color scheme. Most often, manufacturers produce mosaics that match a specific collection of ceramic tiles. Mosaic ceramics are made from a mixture containing kaolin or clay and then covered with glaze - a process identical to the production of regular tiles. Ceramic mosaics can have either a glossy surface or a rough, matte surface.
• Glass. In terms of price, glass mosaics are slightly more expensive than ceramic mosaics, but in appearance the elements look much more expensive and more aesthetically pleasing. You can choose transparent glass of different shades, as well as with different textures or impurities. To make glass elements, silicon sand is used, which is fired at very high temperatures. high temperature. Thanks to technology, glass mosaic is much stronger than ordinary glass.
• Smalt. Artificial colored glass made using special smelting technologies with the addition of metal oxides. Smalt mosaic is much stronger than glass, but also costs an order of magnitude higher due to the long production cycle. But the images laid out in smalted mosaics look especially impressive.
• A natural stone. One of the most expensive types of mosaics is made from natural stone. For production they use: travertine, marble, granite, onyx, jade, lapis lazuli, jasper. This mosaic looks elegant and aesthetically pleasing. Naturally, natural stone is very practical and durable, and choosing a shade is not difficult.
• Fake diamond. If the budget is strictly limited and does not allow combining tiles with expensive mosaics made of natural stone, then it is quite possible to opt for a mosaic made of acrylic, agglomerate or other artificial stone. Similar material It can be either plain or with an imitation of some natural material.
• Mirror. It looks expensive, but also costs more than regular glass mosaic. Manufacturers offer various options mirror elements: sprayed, with the effect of a broken mirror or antiquity. The color scheme can also be different - from regular white to purple or black.
• Metal. The basis for production is the same plastic, on top of which a metal plate is glued. You can choose a mosaic made from brass, bronze, copper or stainless steel. However, such a mosaic is not practical, since it is designed for use in areas with low moisture concentration. In other words, metal mosaics in the bathroom will quickly take on an unattractive appearance.

Manufacturers also offer types of mosaics that cannot be used in the bathroom, for example, those made of wood. High humidity The premises do not require cladding with wooden elements.

Shape and size of elements

To match the mosaic to the main tile, you need to consider its size and shape. Square mosaics are considered the most popular, since making a beautiful bathroom design with mosaics is not difficult. In addition to square elements, rectangular, diamond-shaped, round, hexagonal or asymmetrical shapes are also produced.

For ease of laying, it is better to select small modular elements, for example, squares ranging in size from 1x1 cm to 5x5 cm. But, again, it all depends on where the mosaic tiles are installed and on what area.

As for the thickness of the selected material, most often the mosaic is thinner and you have to either use more glue or apply another layer of plaster under the mosaic so that there are no differences in height. To avoid unnecessary labor costs, pay attention to collections of ceramic tiles with mosaics - in this case, both materials will have the same thickness.

How to decorate a bathroom with mosaics: choosing colors and decor

There are several options for creating a beautiful interior using two materials - tiles combined with mosaics.

Option one- selection of a similar color with minor differences. If a certain color predominates in your bathroom, for example, beige or white, and you do not want to create contrasting inserts, then the shade of mosaic tiles can be chosen close to the main one. It can be any suitable tone.

Option two- a game of contrasts. The next way to transform a bathroom is to make mosaic inserts bright or contrasting with the main color. Color combinations can be completely different: black-white, white-red, gray-yellow, yellow-blue. The main thing is that both colors match each other. Also, the mosaic elements themselves may differ in color from each other.

Creating a drawing or pattern. Using mosaics, you can create all kinds of compositions, not only geometric (for example, stripes, squares), but also floral patterns, wavy lines, zigzags, whole pictures. A mosaic ornament in an oriental style looks incredibly impressive.

You can create an original interior in the bathroom by covering one of the walls with mosaics, for example, above the bathtub, creating a beautiful panel from it. Small pixel elements are selected in a variety of shades, and since the basis of most of the mosaic is a grid, they are cut very easily.

Partial mosaic finishing

A bathroom completely tiled with mosaics looks very impressive. However, this finish is not suitable for every room. You can create the right atmosphere only in a spacious bathroom, and in hygienic rooms in typical apartments you can hardly get a masterpiece.

Therefore, the combination of mosaics and tiles in the bathroom becomes an ideal solution for a cramped bathroom or bathroom. Moreover, small rooms dictate their own rules. Using mosaics, you can veneer some elements or highlight different zones.

Frame for mirror, door, window opening

If you plan to use a mirror canvas mounted flush with the wall, then a frame made of mosaic will help to decorate it beautifully. And so that such a design does not seem lonely, you can put the same frame around the doorway for company. In such cases, the mosaic is selected in shades that contrast with the main tile.

As companions to the mosaic frame, you can also make small inserts on the wall, or line niches, if any, with mosaic elements.

Washbasin countertop

We have already said that mosaic - perfect material for the design of complex and curved shapes. If you decide to install a countertop sink-washbasin in the bathroom, then you will need a countertop under it. The material used for it is very different - from moisture-resistant laminated chipboards to artificial or natural stone. One of the budget options is to make a tabletop from a metal profile, cover it with plasterboard and finish it with mosaics. In addition, the shape for such a countertop under a washbasin can be very different - from a strict rectangular to a curved one, smoothly flowing onto the wall. At the same time as the tabletop, you can also veneer the apron above it, since this surface requires special care. And the practicality of mosaics is perfect for such a purpose.

Screen for bathtub or tray

The space under the bathtub or tray can become a decorative feature rather than a gaping hole. Very often the screen is covered with the same ceramic tiles that were used in the decoration. But who’s stopping you from making a beautiful mosaic screen for your bathtub? This is especially true if the bowl itself has beautiful curved shapes. To create a complete beautiful interior with a mosaic, in combination with the screen, you can decorate the wall above the bathroom with the same mosaic or lay out separate inserts.

Niches, shelves, columns...

There are a great many options for combining tiles with mosaics. If the bathroom has engineered boxes, niches, racks and shelves for cosmetics and towels, then they can also be highlighted or decorated with mosaics. Usually for cladding complex elements With tiles, you have to spend a lot of time and effort on fitting and cutting them. And mosaics are perfect for decorating difficult places.

It is also quite difficult to veneer round or curved interior elements, such as columns. To decorate such structures, it is better to select mosaics with small elements.

Plumbing cladding

A rather rare, but very successful move is to line the bathtub itself or the washing bowl with a mosaic. It’s rare that a craftsman manages to do everything neatly and aesthetically, however, such use of mosaics also has the right to exist. In addition, if a shower is constructed in the bathroom, then it is more practical to lay out the shower tray with mosaic. To design complex geometric shapes, the elements should be the smallest - such modules are easier to size and glue.

The combination of tiles and mosaics in the bathroom: beautiful photos

In the interior, you always need to take into account the compatibility of two different materials, be it paint, tiles, wallpaper or plaster. Complementing the main tiles with mosaic tiles in the bathroom can greatly change the appearance of the room and create the right atmosphere. Some types of mosaics can be used not only for beautiful inserts or friezes, but as a basis for decorative panels, patterns or borders. Designers have long appreciated this practical and effective material as a base and complement to tiles. The combination of white tiles with mosaics in the bathroom looks especially elegant, and the basis can be either neutral or contrasting design. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the collection “Tiles and mosaics in the bathroom, photos of finished interiors,” which can become the basis for your renovation. Enjoy watching!