Mosaic makes Strong Statement in Bathroom

Ironwood-bathroom-web-readySmaller spaces can capture interest with just a couple of daring design decisions. This bath, from the Marquesas model at Ironwood Crossing, has all the elements of a good design, particularly given the available space. Let’s take a look at why this bathroom works so well.

Make a splash with mosaic tiles. By choosing to position a stripe of highly contrasting tiles in the shower surround, this bathroom moves from blah to drama. Notice that the mosaic is repeated on the vanity backsplash. This shows a consistency of design and connects the two pieces – vanity and tub – together from a design standpoint.

Match flooring and tub surround materials. When working with a smaller space, using similar colors and textures for large surfaces help the room feel bigger. This choice has personality but doesn’t overtake the room.

Pull from a consistent color palette. In this case, white, taupe and cool browns integrate well with each other making this bathroom feel like a well-crafted unit.

Stay contemporary with clean lines. When your space is smaller, the simple lines of modern styles are less distracting. Your eye moves easily from one element to the next, making the room flow.

Add a few sophisticated elements. The color-blocked shower curtain adds an element of style that complements the mosaic. Altogether this is an interesting and inviting design.

Choose one accent color that pops. Notice the small elements of bright yellow in this room. The oval soap dish toward the front of the photo gets an echo from a thin yellow stripe on the shower curtain. Adding just one or two items in a signature accent color add a spark to this well-designed space.

The Practical Beauty of Glass Tile

Watercolors-Ocean-Install-464x464Most of us would probably agree that glass tile is gorgeous to look at and adds a unique style to any space. But, aside from their aesthetic appeal, is glass tile a practical design choice?  After all, glass is delicate and breakable…isn’t it?

Characteristics of Glass Tile: Glass tile has many wonderful features that make it a great material for many projects, from both visual and practical standpoints.

  •  Shatter-Resistant: Unlike the type of glass used in vases and light bulbs, glass tiles are built to be shatter-resistant.
  • Durable: Strong and long lasting, glass tile is extremely practical.
  •  Water Resistant: As glass tiles don’t absorb water, they’re popular in areas with high humidity.
  • Easy-to-Clean: Since their surfaces aren’t highly porous, they’ll get back their shine with just a few wipes.
  • Heat Resistant: Heat resistant tile comes in a variety of styles, colors and materials, providing options that work with many different design schemes.

Glass Tile in the Home: Glass tiles can be incorporated in several areas of a home and are an affordable way to add a bit of glimmer to any area. Due to its heat and water resistance, glass tile is a perfect choice for fireplaces, kitchens and bathrooms.

Here are some different ways glass tile is commonly used:

  • When used in fireplace surrounds, the firelight makes the tile shimmer, creating an amazing ambience.
  • In kitchen backsplashes and countertops, glass creates a clean, contemporary look. Watercolors glass tiles provide a stunning look for a kitchen backsplash.Watercolors-Wheat-Field2-Install-464x464
  • In bathroom countertops, tub surrounds, and shower walls. Shimmer glass is a particularly beautiful choice for bathroom designs as it is hand-poured, resulting in a variation of color among the individual mosaic tiles.

Shimmer-Abalone-Dallas-Patrick-shot2-2014-464x464As you can see, glass tile is extremely versatile! With the many different options available, and each type of glass having its own unique qualities, you can select the tile that truly reflects your style.