Mosaic tiles are often found in smaller bathrooms because they create the illusion of space. With the strategic use of mosaic tiles, you can make an otherwise cramped space feel roomy and luxurious. To do this, you need to use the right techniques for installation and pick a pattern to pull it off. Plus, you’ll want to add some personal touches of your own.
Everything You Need To Know About Mosaic Tile
Mosaic tiles are small, intricate pieces that create a nice visual. Although frequently used for kitchen backsplash, they can be a great addition to your bathroom walls, too. As Kate Sterling, tile expert and head of the AKDO marketing and design department, explains, “Mosaics can be used to cover almost any surfaces, whether it be horizontal or vertical, while adding style and personality to the room.”
Mosaic tiles come in many materials, including glass, ceramic, stone, and metal. They can be arranged in various patterns and homeowners can choose tiles that align with their style to add a unique touch to any space. Mosaic tiles serve a practical purpose in humid bathrooms since they’re easier to clean and maintain than traditional wallpaper.
Install Mosaic Patterns Vertically for a Wallpaper Effect
One of the best ways to use mosaic tiles in a small bathroom is to install them vertically to give the illusion of a higher ceiling and a larger room. Sterling suggests, “Mosaics can be installed as small accents, similar to hanging a piece of artwork, or can cover the wall to make a rich wallpaper look.”
Vertical patterns are effective when using specifically shaped mosaic tiles. Designs with elongated shapes or that naturally create vertical lines when arranged are best.
Use Large Mosaic Patterns to Create an Open Feeling
Using large-scale patterns in a small space can make it feel more open. For example, using a larger pattern over your tub creates a focal point in your bathroom, drawing attention to that area. Sterling explains, “The patterns keep the viewer’s eyes moving, tricking them into thinking there is more space.”
When selecting a larger mosaic pattern for your small bathroom, choose designs that incorporate lighter colors or reflective elements for light to bounce around the room. Use a large pattern as a focal point, such as behind a freestanding tub, to create the illusion of more room in a compact space.
Get the perfect fit with our guide on how to cut stone tile.
Create More Floor Space With a Tiled Mosaic Rug
Another way to use mosaic tiles in a small bathroom is to create a tiled “rug” effect on the floor. This technique is most commonly installed underneath a freestanding tub or in front of a vanity. Sterling notes, “The texture of the small stone tesserae creates a woven textile feel, creating an inviting environment.”
A mosaic tile rug is also very practical because it provides a stable, slip-resistant surface for wet feet. They’re also easier to clean and maintain, making them a good choice for high-moisture areas.
Here’s our guide for tiling a bathroom floor.
Wrap a Border With Mosaic for a Bigger-Looking Room
Creating a continuous mosaic border around your bathroom can make the space appear larger by guiding your eye around the room. This is the most budget-friendly option because you need fewer tiles than the other options we’ve laid out here.
Sterling advises, “Mosaic borders are a wonderful way to add designer touches to a room while tying in details from other areas of the space, allowing a transition from one material to the next, or working within a budget.”
When designing a mosaic border, use colors or patterns that complement the rest of your bathroom. Using borders is a great way to make your space feel bigger without major renovations.
Stack Rectangular Mosaic Tiles Vertically for a Higher-Looking Ceiling
If you prefer a more subtle approach to mosaic tiles, stacking rectangular tiles vertically is a great option. This technique draws the eye upward, making the ceiling appear higher. Sterling suggests, “Neutral colors like white, gray, and taupe are very adaptable and can be used to create a variety of looks, ranging from simple and clean to a style equally as dramatic as those incorporating stronger colors.”
Mix different shades of the same color to create depth without overwhelming the space. The vertical lines created by stacked tiles elongate the walls, creating a more spacious feel in your bathroom while personalizing your desired design.
