An exploration of mosaic and its contemporary uses, with work by Pierre Mesguich. 

From its ancient origins and seemingly endless possibilities in both design and materials, mosaic holds a special place in the heart of designers; offering opportunity to bring character and detail to an interior, whilst also adding a unique and timeless quality.

Classical designs are still very popular and timeless, such as this leaf and vine pattern with border.

Design and interiors have been moving away from monochrome minimalism and towards more ornate and decorative styles. Injections of texture, colour and craftsmanship combine to add depth and interest to a scheme and mosaic is a natural choice to achieve this effect.

Kyoto design in contrasting Black and Gold in this opulent shower enclosure.

Popular uses of mosaic

Bathrooms are the most popular room for the use of mosaic in contemporary homes. This could be on a small area such as a bathroom floor or feature wall, or it could be enveloping a shower enclosure or wrapping around an entire wet room.  Other areas where mosaics are often specified are entrance floors, swimming pools and pool surrounds.

This Stripes design by Pierre Mesguich creates a dramatic backdrop to this bathroom.

Classic styles

A classic and timeless quality can be achieved with simple designs in marble, but also leafy, organic designs in glass or ceramic mosaic work well. Abstract designs, which create a texture with a variety of shades, and hand-cut pieces can also provide an enduring and elegant solution.

The leafy Taiga design in mirror mosaic adds a timeless detail and character to this otherwise stark pool interior.

On-trend

Trending at the moment is to combine a variety of materials, which allow new types of surfaces to be created. Also, marble mosaic is continuing to be popular as it offers a different quality to the more familiar glass mosaic. Marble works well for geometric designs and can be intricate in a small format or more impactful in larger bold black and white patterns.

The San Marco geometric design in black, white and gold.

Mosaics have a long history and a promising future. It’s inspiring to see what designers and artists have created so far and it is exciting to see what they will imagine next.

Kyoto Grey compliments the grey veins of the statuario marble shower enclosure and creates water-like waves on the floor of this contemporary bathroom.

Designer Tip:

‘Regarding designs, people can take advantage of the ‘bespoke nature of mosaic and can reflect their personal taste. All mosaic from Pierre Mesguich can be adapted in style and colour for the particular project; this may include co-ordinating the mosaic to other aspects, like fabric or wall-paper designs.

On a more practical note, installation is important, and this needs an experienced tiler who has installed mosaic tiling before. Also, a good flat surface for the mosaic to be fixed to is crucial.’

Ann Hughes of Mesguich Mosaik

Constructivist marble mosaic.

The MesguichMosaik showroom located at 10 Kensington Square, London W8.

As designs are all hand-made in their studios, they can be adapted in different colours, sizes and materials.

Tel: 00 44 (0)20 7795 6253

Fax: 00 44 (0) 20 7376 9495

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