Five creative mosaic pattern using ceramic square tiles
As enduring a design as the smooth square tile is, sometimes a grid of monochrome blocks can feel too rigid for a space. Armed with creativity and daring, homeowners and interior designers fashion the square tile mosaic into an unexpected visual wonder.
Victorian semi-detached property in Liss, Hampshire by Vaughn Design and Development
An asymmetrical grid creates a playful backsplash in soft tones
This lovely kitchen backsplash in a Victorian semi-detached property in Hampshire is the perfect example of how embracing imperfection can create a different kind of beauty. Laid in an asymmetrical pattern, glazed square terracotta tiles in pastel mud-green and white add a touch of whimsy to the minimal décor.
Although the mosaic runs along the entire back wall of this expansive kitchen, it never feels at odds with the rest of this streamlined space.
“Checkerboard tiling remains a classic,” says interior designer Lauren Gilberthorpe. “But the key is restraint – used thoughtfully, it can add impact without overwhelming a space.”
2. A gingham mosaic sparks joy in an oft-neglected space
This gingham patterned mosaic in this Wisconsin lakeside summer house feels right at home given the owners’ love of all things plaid and checkered. Checkerboard print makes an appearance in curtains, bedding and rugs.
In the bathroom, teal, amber, chocolate, and white blend to make a gingham grid that feels vibrant and playful — suitable for this family retreat where “kids…fresh out of the water” are running around, enjoying the languid estival season.
It’s a fuss-free space yet it feels elegant and curated.
A gingham mosaic is always a bold choice.
Bolder yet is a high-contrast color palette, as seen in the bathroom above.
Orange or terracotta brings a natural warmth to a room while green, though not quite its complement but almost, tempers it. Together they make a lively, unexpected yet balanced combination.
3. A window pane tile adds interest to a small space
Speaking of tile designs inspired by textile, this bathroom floor done in pastel blue window pane tile recalls freshly laundered tablecloths and bedding.
Drenched in the same tint of blue, monochrome square tiles cover the shower walls.
The window pane tile is perfect for small narrow spaces as it adds color without overwhelm. Painted in pastel colors, it features like a delicate accent.
4. A diamond tile motif makes for a surprising mosaic
Sometimes when you’re stuck in a rut working on a problem, you have to turn it on its head —or on its side— to get a new perspective.
This classic Dutch kitchen room in the municipal museum in Zwolle renders the classic checkered grid in a novel way.
Though the mosaic looks like it is made of two types of tile, it is in fact just one design cleverly done to create this effect. Glazed in creamy white, each tile has its corners painted in a faded chocolate shade.
Drenched in this tile mosaic, the kitchen feels like a warm cocoon.
5. A zigzag pattern plays with scale to create interest
Leaving the grid motif behind, a zigzag pattern of square tiles in two different sizes lends an intriguing visual effect to this renovated 20th century apartment.
This combination offers the same orderliness as a traditional checkerboard layout but with a twist. The smaller darker tile appears like a shadow to the larger light-colored block, adding a sense of depth to the mosaic.
See our traditional Spanish tiles for more.
