Marvellous mosaics

Douglas Jones

We spoke to the tile experts to find out the latest trends in the world of mosaics…

What are your favourite mosaic trends at the moment?

Kitty Douglas Jones – marketing director of Douglas Jones: Currently, we are seeing a lot of geometric shapes and hexagonal mosaics. No one wants to see the standard porcelain or ceramic square mosaic tile anymore, which excites us to no end! Having said that, the subway tile is both timeless and elegant and we don’t see this trend ever slowing down.

Christelle Steyn – head designer at Lifestyle Ceramics: 3D and hand glazed mosaic tiles are huge at the moment. 3D mosaics have different heights and depths and give an almost cladded type feel, a textured wall if you wish. Geometric shapes, where you take natural stone cladding and put a more modern spin on it, are all the rage.

Another big trend is gold and silver glazed mosaics. What makes this tile so exquisite is the little imperfections that show, making each tile unique. The glaze has a shimmer that can be seen as the tile catches the light.

Jacqui Charles – owner of Mosaic Works: Cube shaped tiles and bold patterns are at the top of my list.

Mosaic Works

What exciting new mosaic styles/ranges are available in your store?

KDJ: We’ve introduced 18 different ranges to our portfolio this year, all very niche and representative of the trends being seen in the European market. We keep our fingers on the pulse of what’s trending internationally and we bring these options to the South African market to keep the options wide for every discerning buyer, interior designer and architect.

CS: We stock Rex 3D tiles and a variety of new ranges that were recently launched at Cersaie, Italy. The Fap Evoque and Meltin hand glazed mosaic ranges are exquisite.

JC: Marrakech hexagon tiles, Arabic influenced Arabesque stone mosaics, Spanish Provenza ceramic tiles and the Burnt Earth series from Zimbabwe are my favourites. I also love our De Kleipot floor and hand painted wall tiles.