Choosing the tiles for a bathroom or kitchen is often one of the areas in which my clients like to get really involved. It’s understandable – a particular style or color of tile can completely change the look of a space. In recent consultations with my Houston interior design clients, I’ve found more and more of them are opting for trendy glass mosaic tiles. It’s a look they just can’t seem to get enough of! And I have to admit, the effect is sometimes exceptionally pretty. Check out the effect of this glass and stone combination border in a fashionable yet sophisticated bathroom we recently designed…

Glass mosaic isn’t one of the classic tile styles I love, like subway tile or penny tile, but it really seems to be the choice of the moment right now! After seeing it in its many incarnations, however, I can’t deny that I’m not always a fan of the multi-hued effect, especially when it creates an almost ‘pixellated’ effect in a small space. To me, the space looks clearer and less cluttered when the tiles used are all of a similar shade, as in this serene-looking bathroom. The shimmer of the glass mosaic is evident, but it’s calming rather than chaotic.

(Source: Veranda)
The advantage of using mosaic in one shade, or variations of a shade, is that it can look really stunning against a simple white backdrop. Take this ultra-modern spa-style bathroom, in which the crisp white palette is broken only by the waves of pale green tile on the bath. Simply gorgeous!

(Source: Elle Decor)
I also really like mosaic tiles with a more ‘rough-hewn’ finish, though they don’t possess the shimmer qualities of glass. It’s a great look for a rustic style powder room, and has a more classic look that I think will stand the test of time.

(Source: Elle Decor)
I will say one thing I do love about glass tile, while it may not be not a classic, it’s ever-changing, trendy, fashionable, and a statement of what’s current and now. As long as our clients are loving it-there will always be spot for some kind of mosaic in our work!
