by PrincessNike

Created on: October 21, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Decorating with mosaics adds style and interest to any room in your house. Mosaics come in many forms: they can be made out of broken tiles, pebbles, glass fragments, or any small objects that can be set together in mortar. Incredibly sturdy, mosaics that have survived for a millennium or more are still as beautiful today as they were when they were new. Easy to care for, mosaics work well in sophisticated, funky, or traditional homes. Mosaics come pre-made or can be custom made by the do-it-yourself-er or professional.

IN THE KITCHEN

Pre-made mosaic tile backsplashes are available from home-improvement stores and custom kitchen suppliers everywhere. Larger mosaics can be found for the area above the stove. But why limit yourself? For the DIY-er, creating a mosaic backsplash in your kitchen can be fun and rewarding. Incorporating pieces that you like or that have special meaning (like grandma's plate that your son broke) personalizes your kitchen like no pre-made mosaic can. Or, you can hire someone to install a custom mosaic backsplash.

For even more kitchen customization with mosaics, think beyond the backsplash. Many kitchen islands are made of tile. Install a pre-made or custom tile mosaic on the top of your island! Tile mosaics are as sturdy as plain tile surfaces, and can be cleaned the same way as you would any tile countertop. All the countertops can be covered in tile mosaics if you wish. For the less adventurous, choose one area such as the island, the desk, or the breakfast bar to decorate with mosaics.

A mosaic-topped kitchen table adds fun to breakfast. This mosaic can coordinate with the rest of the kitchen to create a built-in feel, or it can become the focal point for the whole kitchen if you wish. Adding a mosaic to the inside of cabinets can create a sense of whimsy and surprise. Place mosaics in the back of open cabinets, ones with glass doors, or ones that are opened frequently.

IN THE BATH

Mosaics in the bathroom are easy to clean and add water-proof decoration to small or large baths. A shower stall can be turned into an under-water oasis, complete with fish or mermaids with a mosaic. Tub surround become funky or sophisticated depending on the mosaic. Walls covered in mosaics provide not only a waterproof surface, but can reflect light: important in an interior bath. Covering the walls and floors both with mosaics can turn a small dark bath into a sparkling jewel box.

Mosaics in the bath can be used to divide the area or create focal points.

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>