A History Of Mosaic Tiles

Mosaic tiles can be traced all the way back to Mesopotamia, where the world’s first civilization is believed to have begun around 12,000 BC. Here shells, stones and ivory were used to create stunning mosaic art, and the first tiles were developed based on glazed bricks used to protect the exterior of buildings. 

Moving forward to 200 BC, within the Roman Empire mosaic tiles were used to create vast artworks and patterns across sprawling floors, with the small and colourful tiles depicting scenes of gods, everyday life and beautiful patterns.

This decorative finishing was carried from the floors through to walls and ceilings by the Byzantine Empire era, when very small ‘smalti’ glass mosaic tiles were used to add an opulent theme to cathedrals, palaces and the homes of the very wealthy.

The gold and silver-backed smalti tiles were reserved mainly for religious buildings, and there are still many fine examples surviving today, such as the mosaic masterpieces at the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Ravenna, Italy.

The religious theme continued into the Muslim Empire, which at its peak stretched as far as Spain and North Africa. The style differed from the intricate religious designs of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, with bright geometric patterns and motifs used to decorate many Islamic mosques and palaces.

As with many fine mosaics, the designs are still available to view today with excellent examples of these Islamic tiling masterpieces found at the Jameh Mosque in Iran, the Blue Mosque in Afghanistan and the Alhambra palace in Spain.

In terms of western tiling traditions, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that mosaic tiling experienced a surge in popularity, largely fueled by talented artists such as Josep Maria Jujol and Antoni Gaudi. There are many examples of mosaics from the early 1900s still in place, with one of the most famous installations being Guell Park, Barcelona, where beautiful mosaic tiles adorn everything from statues and benches to the sides of buildings.

During the Victorian era, contemporary mosaic tiles were installed throughout entranceways, hallways and kitchens, with the black and white square tiles often highlighted by beautifully coloured mosaic tile accents and designs. The contemporary geometric finish of this popular tiling style has stood the test of time, with many homeowners now restoring these beautiful finishes to their former glory.

How Are Modern Mosaic Tiles Used?

Although there are still small individual mosaic tiles available that can be skillfully laid to create a truly unique work of art, today many tilers, homeowners and interior designers opt for the convenience of mosaic tile sheets. These sheets are available in a vast array of potential designs, which allows the intricacy of mosaic tiles to be combined with modern convenience.

Whether you are a fan of contemporary gloss surfaces, luxurious marble finishes or classic glass mosaic tiles, tile designers have created an array of stunning mosaic tiles which can be incorporated into every home interior with ease.

The following are just some examples of popular styles which lend themselves to modern mosaic tiles.

Contemporary Mosaic Tiles – A Popular Design Choice

Our extensive range of mosaic tiles includes everything from classic styles through to the more contemporary mosaic tiles, so we really do have an array of choices for every interior. Whether you are looking to brighten your kitchen and bathroom walls with a bright and colourful glass mosaic finish, or add a luxurious modern twist with marble-effect mosaic tiling, our collection is designed to inspire every design enthusiast.

The versatility of mosaic tiles goes beyond the simple squares often associated with classic mosaic tiles, and today there are an array of shapes and sizes available which will instantly add depth and character.

A great example are brick pattern bathroom mosaic tiles, which will help to create a more spacious feel in small bathrooms, and are also suitable for kitchens. Alternatively, jewelled finish mosaic tiles will help to bounce light around the room and add to the sense of space.

Modern mosaic tiles are the perfect way to add flair and character to your interior, and whether you are planning a complete renovation or a simple update to your home, our range will quickly inject the colour, style and beautiful finish you are looking for.