Contemporary Take On Mosaic Tiles Provides A Wow Factor

Mosaic glass tiles are becoming fashionable once again, for creating visually exciting kitchen splashbacks, fashioning stylish decorative features around the bath and wash basin, or brightening up a shower cubicle. But these small square tiles are difficult and expensive to install and require regular cleaning and sealing to keep the grouting hygienic and free from mould.

Now Granite Transformations, a global market leader in high performance worktops and decorative surfaces, has come up with a design solution in the shape of an innovative 3000mm x 1245mm Italian glass, mosaic slab, which can be fitted over existing surfaces in a fraction of the normal mosaic installation time, saving substantially on professional fitting costs. Available in the UK through a network of showrooms, all with expert installation teams, Trend M is a stunning range of glass mosaics, which are pre-grouted using a specially formulated latex compound that is stain resistant, will not crack and never needs sealing. Since the complete slabs are so large, this material is perfect for shower areas, bathroom walls, merchandising units, even flooring, as well as splashbacks, bathroom vanities and smaller surfaces.

Mosaic art dates back to ancient times, notably tiled flooring and baths of the Roman Empire, and it was revived in the Victorian era, before enjoying yet another renaissance amongst present day interior designers. Yet the grid format of mosaic tiles is difficult to work with, even for experienced tillers, requiring special tools and materials and a steady hand to maintain perfectly straight grout lines, even when mesh backed, which inevitably adds to fitting costs. Over time, the grouting also becomes mouldy and discoloured in steamy kitchen and bathroom atmospheres, necessitating the regular application of grout protectors and sealants, even occasional raking out and regrouting.

Granite Transformations has addressed these fitting and maintenance issues with its pre-grouted, maintenance-free Trend M slabs, at the same time providing the essential ‘wow factor’ through colour themes that range from iridescent copper and gold, to forest green and earth brown. Each 1 cm square mosaic tile is made from genuine Italian glass, glued with high performance adhesive to a fibreglass base and the joints grouted with a mould and stain resistant latex compound, to produce a traditional effect with a contemporary twist. Like other Granite Transformations materials, it can be installed over existing surfaces, meaning no mess or demolition, and is non-porous, scratch, stain and heat resistant.

The Trend M colour collection is designed to partner or contrast with other stone, granite, quartz and glass finishes in the Granite Transformations range. There are the pale shades of Aurora, combining mossy greens, pale yellow, slate grey and shimmering pink, and a cool and refreshing Watershine, with delicate tones of dusky rose, plum and ice blue that suggest cascading water. Then there’s the metallic notes of Bronzo Vivo and its shades of bronze and golden brown, or the dark coffee, rich caramel, copper and gold effects of Excalibur. Reflecting nature is the Forest mosaic of forest greens and earthy browns, as well as the subtle shades of blue and mother of pearl adorning Oceano. Finally, there is deep and dark Leadbetter, contrasting black with bright shards of silver.

All Trend M surfaces are made to measure and hand crafted to ensure a perfect fit; a precise template of the area to be covered is taken and the actual sections are fabricated off-site, before being fitted with minimal disruption, typically in just one day. Residential treatments include splashbacks and kickboards, bathroom walls and surrounds, shower cubicles and recesses, vanity tops and flooring; whilst among the commercial applications are reception areas and foyers, hotel fit-outs, retail areas, fitness suites and health clinics.

Tel 01892 509680 or visit www.granitetransformations.co.uk