The new Montpellier porcelain tile collection captures the relaxed, time-worn character of Mediterranean stone in a practical, durable porcelain format. Designed with soft surface movement, gently weathered detailing and subtly cushioned edges, Montpellier recreates the charm of naturally aged stone without losing the clean, consistent finish needed for modern interiors. Available in Cream and Taupe, the range offers a warm, versatile palette that works beautifully across traditional, rustic and contemporary schemes. With a generous 600 x 900mm format, Montpellier creates a strong sense of scale and flow, making it ideal for kitchens, hallways, garden rooms, open-plan living spaces and patios. What is the Montpellier tile range? Montpellier is a large-format stone-effect porcelain tile designed to recreate the appearance of aged Mediterranean stone. Its gently cushioned edges, matt finish and subtle tonal movement give the surface a softer, more authentic appearance than a sharply defined contemporary tile. Montpellier at a glance Size: 600 x 900mm / 24 x 36" Quantity per square metre: 1.85 tiles Material: Porcelain Finish: Matt Colours: Cream and Taupe Style: Aged Mediterranean stone effect Key features: Soft surface movement, weathered detail and cushioned edges Ideal for: Kitchens, hallways, garden rooms, patios and open-plan living areas The larger format allows the stone-inspired pattern to be appreciated across a wider surface, while the reduced number of grout lines helps create a more continuous and natural-looking finish. Mediterranean stone style without the maintenance of natural stone Natural stone has long been associated with Mediterranean interiors, rustic country homes and relaxed indoor-outdoor living. Its appeal comes from its irregularity: subtle changes in shade, worn edges, mineral markings and surfaces that look as though they have developed character over many years. Montpellier brings these qualities into a porcelain stone-effect tile. Rather than producing a perfectly uniform surface, the design incorporates gentle movement and weathered detailing that help recreate the appearance of aged stone. The cushioned edge further enhances this character, softening the outline of each tile and giving the finished installation a more traditional, lived-in feel. This makes Montpellier a strong choice for customers who want the warmth of natural stone but prefer the practicality and consistency of porcelain. Why are stone-effect porcelain tiles so popular? Stone-effect porcelain tiles offer the visual character of natural stone with the practical benefits associated with porcelain. They have become particularly popular in kitchens, hallways and open-plan spaces because they can create a natural, timeless appearance while remaining relatively easy to live with. Porcelain is known for being: Durable Hard-wearing Low maintenance Suitable for busy living spaces Easy to coordinate across larger areas Available in consistent formats and finishes For customers who love limestone, flagstone or aged Mediterranean flooring, a porcelain alternative can provide a similar visual effect without requiring the same level of ongoing care associated with some natural materials. What makes Montpellier different from a standard stone-effect tile? One of the most distinctive aspects of Montpellier is its gently cushioned edge. Many contemporary porcelain tiles are rectified or have very crisp, straight edges. These work perfectly in minimalist interiors, but they can sometimes look too precise when the aim is to recreate traditional stone. Montpellier takes a different approach. The softer edge profile helps create the impression of a tile that has been naturally worn over time. When combined with the weathered surface and subtle tonal variation, it produces a more relaxed appearance that works particularly well in: Country-style kitchens Farmhouse-inspired interiors Rustic bathrooms Garden rooms Converted barns Traditional hallways Mediterranean-style spaces Contemporary homes that need warmth and texture The result is a tile that feels characterful without looking overly distressed. Montpellier Cream: light, warm and sun-washed Montpellier Cream is designed for interiors that need warmth without feeling dark or heavy. Its pale, natural colouring is ideal for creating bright, relaxed spaces inspired by sun-washed Mediterranean stone. Cream works particularly well with: Light oak cabinetry Painted shaker kitchens Off-white and warm neutral walls Natural timber furniture Linen and woven textures Brushed brass or bronze fittings Soft beige and sand-coloured accessories The light tone can help maintain a sense of openness, particularly in kitchens and garden rooms where natural light is an important part of the overall design. Where to use Montpellier Cream Consider Montpellier Cream for: Bright kitchens Conservatories and garden rooms Open-plan kitchen-diners Neutral bathrooms Hallways Rustic living spaces Light-filled patio areas Its understated colouring also makes it easier to change furniture, paint colours and accessories over time without needing to replace the flooring. Montpellier Taupe: warm, earthy and full of depth Montpellier Taupe provides a deeper, earthier take on the aged-stone look. The warmer shade brings additional depth to the surface while retaining the soft, natural feel that defines the collection. Taupe is a particularly effective choice when paired with: Darker timber Walnut or smoked oak finishes Black metal details Warm off-whites Terracotta accents Natural stone textures Olive, sage and other muted greens Bronze and aged-brass fittings Its richer tone can help ground a large open-plan interior and works particularly well in homes where the aim is to create warmth rather than a bright minimalist finish. Where to use Montpellier Taupe Montpellier Taupe is well suited to: Farmhouse kitchens Entrance halls Open-plan living spaces Garden rooms Rustic dining areas Country-style interiors Patios and outdoor living areas It can also be combined with pale walls and cabinetry to create contrast without becoming too dark. Why choose 600 x 900mm tiles? The 600 x 900mm tile size is large enough to create a strong sense of scale while remaining versatile for a wide range of rooms. Larger rectangular tiles can make a surface appear calmer because there are fewer grout joints interrupting the pattern. Benefits of the 600 x 900mm format include: Fewer visible grout lines A more continuous stone effect Greater visual impact Suitability for larger kitchens and open-plan rooms A more architectural appearance Strong compatibility with traditional flagstone-inspired layouts The rectangular proportions also complement the natural stone aesthetic particularly well. Instead of resembling smaller modern ceramic tiles, the format creates the impression of substantial pieces of stone laid across the floor. Can large-format tiles work in smaller rooms? Yes. Large-format tiles can work extremely well in smaller spaces when the layout is planned correctly. There is a common misconception that large tiles should only be used in large rooms. In reality, fewer grout lines can make a smaller floor feel less visually divided. Montpellier can therefore work well in: Small kitchens Utility rooms Entrance halls Cloakrooms Compact bathrooms Careful planning is important, particularly around doorways, fitted furniture and narrow sections of flooring, to avoid awkward cuts. Installing 600 x 900mm porcelain tiles Large-format porcelain requires careful installation to achieve the best finish. The substrate should be: Sound Stable Clean Suitably flat Properly prepared for the installation environment An appropriate adhesive, grout and installation system should be selected for the substrate and location. Large tiles may require back-buttering and a suitable solid-bed fixing method to ensure adequate adhesive coverage. A tile levelling system can also help control lippage during installation. For external installations, additional consideration must be given to drainage, falls, weather exposure and movement joints. Always refer to the relevant product and installation guidance before fitting. Why retailers should consider Montpellier For tile retailers, Montpellier provides a useful addition to a showroom because it combines several strong design trends within one commercially versatile collection. These include: Large-format porcelain Natural stone effects Warm neutral colour palettes Indoor-outdoor inspired living Rustic and Mediterranean design Traditional flagstone aesthetics Soft, aged finishes The two-colour palette also makes the range easy to present. Cream provides the lighter option customers frequently look for when trying to maximise brightness, while Taupe adds a warmer alternative for more traditional or earthy schemes. From kitchens and hallways to garden rooms, patios and open-plan living spaces, Montpellier provides a beautifully understated foundation that adds warmth and character without overwhelming the wider interior. For trade enquiries, samples or further information about the Montpellier range, contact the Navarro team.

Urban design continues to influence residential and commercial interiors, with weathered metals, concrete-inspired finishes and large-format surfaces playing a major role in contemporary schemes. The new San Francisco porcelain tile range brings these elements together in a bold yet refined collection designed for modern spaces. With its metal-inspired surface detail, layered colour movement and subtle lappato sheen, San Francisco offers the raw character of industrial materials with the practical performance of porcelain. Available in four distinctive colours and a generous 1200 x 600mm format, the range is ideal for retailers looking to expand their offering of design-led wholesale tiles for walls and floors. San Francisco at a glance Measurements: 1200 x 600mm / 47.2 x 23.6” Quantity per square metre: 1.38 tiles Material: Porcelain Finish: Lappato Suitable for: Walls and floors Colours: White, Black, Graphite and Aquamarine The large format helps create a clean, architectural appearance with fewer grout lines, while the gently reflective lappato finish enhances the depth and movement within each design. An industrial tile with a more refined finish Industrial interiors are often associated with raw concrete, dark metal and heavily distressed finishes. San Francisco takes inspiration from this style but introduces a more sophisticated surface. The tiles feature weathered markings, softened tonal variation and darker edge detail that give them the appearance of aged metal. Rather than being completely matt or highly polished, the lappato finish provides a subtle sheen that catches the light and highlights the layered surface. This balance makes San Francisco versatile enough for both dramatic statement schemes and more restrained contemporary interiors. The finish can feel rugged and urban in one setting, yet elegant and architectural when paired with refined cabinetry, glass, timber or metallic fittings. Why choose large-format 1200 x 600mm tiles? Large-format porcelain tiles have become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial design. Their generous proportions allow the surface pattern to be seen more clearly while reducing the number of visible grout joints. The 1200 x 600mm format offers several design benefits: It creates a more continuous, spacious appearance. Fewer grout lines give walls and floors a cleaner finish. The rectangular shape can be installed horizontally or vertically. The format suits expansive open-plan and commercial environments. Large tiles emphasise the weathered metal effect of the collection. The same tile can be used across walls and floors for a coordinated design. When installed horizontally, the tiles can make a wall appear wider. A vertical arrangement can help draw the eye upwards and emphasise ceiling height. Because large-format tiles require a suitably flat substrate, correct preparation, handling and installation are especially important. Explore the San Francisco colour range The four colours share the same industrial character but create very different moods. San Francisco White San Francisco White is the lightest option in the collection. It combines pale grey and off-white tones with weathered edges and subtle areas of darker movement. The colour is ideal for interiors where designers want the texture of an industrial tile without creating an overly dark scheme. It can be paired with pale timber, white sanitaryware, brushed metal fittings and soft neutral furnishings. Possible applications include: Contemporary bathroom walls Light industrial kitchens Reception areas Feature walls Minimalist retail interiors Open-plan living spaces The lappato finish helps reflect light, while the weathered detailing prevents the tile from appearing flat or clinical. San Francisco Graphite Graphite offers a cool mid-grey surface with deeper edges and layered tonal variation. It is a strong all-round option for contemporary interiors and works particularly well with black, chrome and brushed steel details. Its balanced shade makes it suitable for: Bathroom walls and floors Modern kitchens Commercial washrooms Offices and studios Feature walls Hospitality settings Graphite can be used as the main surface throughout a room or combined with San Francisco White to create a tonal contrast. San Francisco Black San Francisco Black is the darkest and most dramatic colour within the range. Its charcoal surface includes subtle brown, blue-grey and metallic undertones, producing a rich, layered finish. This tile is particularly effective in larger rooms and commercial interiors where the darker colour can be used confidently. Design ideas include: Boutique retail spaces Hotel bathrooms Restaurant interiors Dark statement walls Contemporary shower areas Kitchen feature walls Media and fireplace walls Pair Black with warm timber to soften the industrial effect, or combine it with brushed brass and ambient lighting for a more luxurious finish. San Francisco Aquamarine Aquamarine introduces a distinctive green-grey tone to the collection. The colour retains the weathered metal character of the other options but adds a softer, more individual finish. It is a strong choice for customers looking for an alternative to conventional grey tiles while still maintaining a sophisticated and highly usable palette. Aquamarine can work especially well with: Natural wood cabinetry Brushed brass fittings Black-framed shower screens Warm neutral paint colours Concrete-effect surfaces Indoor planting Contemporary commercial interiors Its muted colour allows it to act as either a statement surface or a textured backdrop. Where can San Francisco tiles be used? The combination of porcelain construction, large format and distinctive surface detail makes San Francisco suitable for a broad range of design projects. Bathrooms and wet rooms San Francisco can create an urban, hotel-inspired bathroom when used across walls and floors. The large format reduces visual interruption and allows the surface detail to become the main feature. Possible layouts include: A full-height shower feature wall Tiles behind a freestanding bath Coordinated wall and floor installation A darker vanity backdrop A contrasting wall using Aquamarine or Black The substrate and wet area must be correctly prepared and waterproofed before installation. Tiles and grout do not replace an appropriate tanking system. Kitchens Metal-effect porcelain works particularly well in modern kitchens. San Francisco can be used as a floor tile, a full-height splashback or a feature wall behind dining and preparation areas. Graphite and Black work well with handleless cabinetry, while White can brighten darker kitchen units. Aquamarine adds colour without losing the industrial aesthetic. Open-plan living areas Using the same large-format tile across connected spaces can help create continuity. San Francisco is particularly effective in open-plan kitchens, dining rooms and living areas where the architectural format can unify the overall design. A tiled feature wall can also provide a focal point behind: A media unit A dining table Open shelving A fireplace A contemporary console Retail and commercial environments For businesses sourcing design-led wholesale tiles, San Francisco offers a strong option for commercial specifications. The collection can complement: Fashion and lifestyle stores Restaurants and cafés Salons Hotels Offices Bars Showrooms Reception areas Its layered surface gives commercial interiors depth and character, while the large format supports a sleek, professional finish. How to style metal-effect porcelain tiles Metal-inspired tiles are highly versatile, but the surrounding materials will influence whether the finished space feels industrial, luxurious or minimalist. Pair with natural timber Wood softens the cooler, weathered appearance of the tiles. This combination works particularly well in kitchens, bathrooms and hospitality spaces. Warm oak can balance Graphite and Black, while darker timber creates a sophisticated contrast with White and Aquamarine. Add black architectural details Black-framed shower screens, slimline lighting, metal shelving and dark taps reinforce the urban character of the range. This works especially well with Aquamarine, White and Graphite. Introduce warm metals Brass, bronze and copper fittings can add warmth and create a more luxurious finish. Their reflective surfaces complement the subtle sheen of the lappato tile. Use simple cabinetry Because the surface already contains texture and movement, simple furniture and cabinetry can prevent the overall design from becoming too busy. Handleless units, floating vanities and clean architectural lines allow the tiles to remain the main feature. Layer tonal colours San Francisco does not need to be paired with a strong contrasting shade. Combining several greys, charcoals or soft neutrals can create a calm and cohesive interior. Why porcelain is ideal for metal-effect tiles Real metal surfaces can bring distinctive character to an interior, but they may also require specialist installation and ongoing maintenance. Porcelain offers a more practical way to achieve a similar visual effect. It provides: Strong resistance to everyday wear Low water absorption Straightforward cleaning Suitability for walls and floors Dimensional stability Consistent sizing No requirement for metal polishing A surface that will not rust like untreated metal This makes metal-effect porcelain suitable for areas where the authentic industrial look is desired without the maintenance demands of real sheet metal. Important installation considerations Large-format tiles should be installed by someone with the appropriate tools, knowledge and experience. Before installation, the surface should be: Sound Stable Clean Dry where required Suitably flat Free from dust, grease and loose material The correct adhesive should be selected according to the tile, substrate and installation environment. Large-format porcelain often requires a flexible cementitious adhesive and a suitable solid-bed installation method. Back-buttering may also be required to achieve adequate adhesive coverage. Always refer to the relevant adhesive and tile technical information. A suitable tile levelling system can help reduce lippage during installation, but it does not replace correct substrate preparation or professional fixing techniques. San Francisco for tile retailers and commercial customers For tile retailers seeking fresh, distinctive collections, San Francisco combines several strong selling points: On-trend industrial styling A premium lappato finish Large-format 1200 x 600mm sizing Four coordinated colours Wall and floor versatility Residential and commercial appeal A distinctive alternative to standard concrete-effect tiles Navarro Tiles supplies wholesale tiles to retailers throughout the UK and Ireland, with a broad range of porcelain, ceramic, stone-effect, marble-effect, wood-effect and large-format collections. San Francisco provides retailers with a strong design-led option for customers looking beyond conventional grey porcelain. The addition of Aquamarine, alongside the more familiar White, Graphite and Black, gives the collection greater showroom impact and more scope for creative specifications. Frequently asked questions What type of tile is San Francisco? San Francisco is a large-format porcelain tile collection with a weathered metal-inspired design and a refined lappato finish. What size are San Francisco tiles? The tiles measure 1200 x 600mm, equivalent to approximately 47.2 x 23.6 inches. How many San Francisco tiles are required per square metre? Approximately 1.38 tiles are required to cover one square metre, before allowing for cuts, breakages and installation waste. What colours are available? San Francisco is available in White, Black, Graphite and Aquamarine. Can San Francisco be used on walls and floors? Yes, the collection is designed for use across both walls and floors, subject to correct specification and installation. What is a lappato finish? A lappato finish is partially polished rather than fully matt or highly polished. It creates a gentle sheen that enhances surface movement while retaining a more tactile, contemporary appearance. Are metal-effect tiles suitable for bathrooms? Porcelain metal-effect tiles can be suitable for bathroom walls and floors when they are correctly specified and professionally installed. Wet areas also require an appropriate waterproofing system behind the tiled surface. Are large-format tiles suitable for small rooms? Yes. Large-format tiles can work very well in smaller rooms because fewer grout lines may make the space appear cleaner and less visually divided. Careful planning is needed to manage cuts and proportions. Discover the San Francisco tile range San Francisco combines the depth and character of weathered metal with the performance and practicality of large-format porcelain. From the pale, architectural appearance of White to the dramatic depth of Black, the versatile Graphite and the distinctive green-grey tones of Aquamarine, the collection offers a strong design option for modern residential and commercial interiors. For retailers sourcing design-led wholesale tiles, San Francisco adds a bold, contemporary range to the showroom while meeting continued demand for large-format porcelain and industrial-inspired surfaces. Contact the team for trade enquiries, samples and further information about the San Francisco collection.

Mosaic and tile combinations offer one of the most versatile ways to introduce colour, pattern, texture and detail into an interior. From a carefully positioned kitchen splashback to a full bathroom feature wall, mosaics can transform an ordinary tiled surface into a distinctive design feature. One of the greatest advantages of combining mosaic and tile is the freedom it gives you to control the overall impact. Mosaics can be used across an entire wall for a bold finish, or introduced more subtly as a border, shower niche, splashback or decorative panel. Their smaller scale contrasts beautifully with larger wall and floor tiles, helping to create depth and draw attention to key areas of a room. Modern mosaics are available in a wide variety of colours, shapes, materials and finishes. This makes it possible to create designs that feel calm and understated, bright and playful, or luxurious and dramatic. In this guide, we explore the difference between mosaic tiles and standard tiles, where they can be used, how to combine them successfully and the factors to consider before installation. What are mosaic tiles? Mosaic tiles are made from smaller individual pieces arranged together to create a larger sheet, pattern or decorative surface. The individual pieces may be square, rectangular, hexagonal or irregularly shaped, depending on the design. Many modern mosaics are supplied on mesh-backed sheets. The backing holds the individual pieces in position, making it easier to maintain consistent spacing and install a detailed pattern without fixing every piece separately. Mosaic tiles can be manufactured from materials including: Porcelain Ceramic Glass Natural stone Metal Mixed materials The best material will depend on the intended application, the surrounding tiles and the level of maintenance required. What is the difference between mosaic and tile? The terms mosaic and tile are closely related, but they do not describe exactly the same thing. A standard tile is usually a single, larger piece of ceramic, porcelain, stone or another suitable material. It is installed individually and may be used to cover a wall, floor or other prepared surface. A mosaic is made up of multiple smaller pieces that work together as a decorative unit. These pieces may be identical or may combine different colours, finishes, shapes and materials. The main differences include: Scale Mosaic pieces are much smaller than most standard tiles. This allows them to follow curved surfaces, fit around detailed areas and create more intricate patterns. Visual detail Standard tiles often provide the main surface covering, while mosaics are frequently used to add contrast, texture or a focal point. Installation Larger tiles are usually installed individually. Mosaics are commonly supplied in sheets, although careful alignment is still needed to prevent visible joins between each sheet. Grout lines Because mosaics contain many small pieces, they create a greater number of grout joints. The grout colour therefore has a significant influence on the finished design. Why combine mosaic and tile in one design? Using mosaic and tile together allows you to create contrast without making the entire room feel overly busy. Large-format or plain tiles can establish a calm, practical backdrop, while a mosaic introduces detail in a more controlled way. This combination works particularly well in bathrooms and kitchens, where a decorative section can highlight a specific area. Benefits of combining mosaic and tile include: Creating a clear focal point Adding texture to neutral interiors Breaking up large tiled surfaces Introducing colour without covering every wall Defining separate zones within a room Coordinating walls, floors and decorative features Adding visual interest to small or awkward spaces A mosaic does not always need to contrast dramatically with the main tile. A tonal mosaic in a similar shade can add subtle texture while maintaining a calm and coordinated finish. Creative mosaic and tile ideas for bathrooms Bathrooms are among the most popular places to use mosaic tiles. Their smaller scale makes them particularly effective for decorative details, recessed areas and surfaces where larger tiles may feel too plain. Create a mosaic shower feature wall A full-height mosaic wall inside a shower can become the main focal point of the bathroom. This works particularly well when the other walls are finished with larger, simpler tiles. For a balanced design, select a mosaic that shares at least one colour or tone with the surrounding tiles. For example, a soft grey mosaic can complement larger grey stone-effect tiles without appearing disconnected. Before choosing a mosaic for a shower, confirm that the product is suitable for the intended wet-area application. The substrate must also be prepared and waterproofed correctly before tiling. Highlight a shower niche A recessed shower niche is a practical storage feature, but it can also be used to introduce pattern and contrast. Installing mosaic tiles on the back of the niche draws attention to the recess and creates a neat decorative detail without dominating the whole room. The smaller pieces can also be easier to arrange within compact spaces than large-format tiles. Frame a bath or vanity area Mosaics can be used behind a freestanding bath, around a vanity unit or as a panel behind a basin. This creates a defined feature area while allowing the remaining walls to stay more neutral. A mosaic backdrop can also coordinate with mirrors, brassware, cabinetry or other bathroom finishes. Add a horizontal mosaic border A mosaic border can be positioned around the room, above a bath or between two different wall tiles. This approach was once associated mainly with highly contrasting decorative strips, but modern borders can be much more subtle. A tonal porcelain mosaic can divide the wall without making the finished design feel dated. Use mosaics to zone a wet-room area In an open wet room, a change in tile scale can help distinguish the shower area from the rest of the bathroom. For example, larger tiles may be used across the main floor and walls, while a coordinating mosaic is used within a niche or on one shower wall. Any floor tile must be specifically suitable for the location and selected according to its technical performance rather than appearance alone. Creative mosaic and tile ideas for kitchens The kitchen offers many opportunities to combine mosaic and tile designs. Because splashbacks occupy a relatively small area, they provide the perfect place to experiment with colour, shape and texture. Create a mosaic kitchen splashback A mosaic splashback can add detail between worktops and wall cabinets while protecting the wall from everyday splashes. Depending on the style of the kitchen, you could choose: Soft neutral mosaics for a calm, contemporary space Glossy mosaics to reflect light Stone-look mosaics for a natural finish Contrasting dark mosaics against pale cabinetry Tonal designs that coordinate with the worktop The grout colour will affect how strongly the individual pieces stand out. A contrasting grout highlights the grid or pattern, while a close colour match creates a more blended appearance. Tile from the worktop to the ceiling Extending a mosaic splashback upwards can create a much stronger design statement. This can work particularly well behind a cooker hood, open shelving or a sink positioned beneath a window. Covering the full section creates a deliberate feature rather than making the mosaic appear like a small decorative strip. Use mosaics inside open shelving The back of an open shelf or display recess is an ideal location for a small area of mosaic. This introduces texture and colour without taking over the kitchen. It can also help connect the shelving with the main splashback or surrounding tiles. Define a kitchen island or bar area Subject to the product’s suitability and the construction of the surface, mosaics may be used to create a decorative front on a kitchen island or home bar. This is an effective way to repeat the colours used elsewhere in the room and turn functional furniture into a focal point. Mosaic and tile ideas beyond kitchens and bathrooms Mosaics are often associated with wet areas, but they can also be used throughout the home. Fireplace surrounds A mosaic can introduce texture around a fireplace and help establish it as the natural centre of the room. The chosen tile, adhesive, grout and substrate must all be suitable for the temperatures and conditions around the particular appliance. Always follow the fireplace or stove manufacturer’s installation requirements. Hallways and entrance areas A decorative tiled section can create a strong first impression in an entrance hall. Mosaics may be used within a wall panel, alcove or other focal area. For floor applications, check that the selected mosaic is rated for the anticipated level of foot traffic and the installation environment. Utility rooms Utility spaces need practical finishes, but that does not mean they need to feel purely functional. A mosaic splashback behind a sink or worktop can introduce character while creating an easy-to-maintain surface. Living-room feature walls A tonal mosaic can add depth behind shelving, a console table or a media unit. Neutral porcelain mosaics work particularly well when the aim is to create texture rather than a strong colour contrast. Home bars and entertaining spaces Mosaic tiles can be used to decorate the front or back wall of a home bar, subject to the suitability of the tile and substrate. Metallic, glossy and strongly contrasting mosaics can produce a dramatic effect, while matt stone-inspired designs create a softer, more understated finish. How to choose the right mosaic tiles With so many options available, it is important to consider both the appearance and technical suitability of the tile. 1. Consider where the mosaic will be installed Not every mosaic is suitable for every surface. Before buying, check whether it is approved for: Walls Floors Wet areas Shower walls Shower floors Commercial interiors External applications Never assume that a wall mosaic can also be used on a floor. Floor tiles need to withstand foot traffic and may require additional technical characteristics depending on the setting. 2. Coordinate with the main tiles The mosaic should feel connected to the rest of the room. You can achieve this by repeating: A colour from the main tile The tone of the floor A finish used in the fixtures A shape or line found elsewhere in the room A mosaic that is completely unrelated to the surrounding surfaces may feel added as an afterthought. 3. Think about the scale of the space Small mosaics create more detail and more grout lines. In a very compact room, covering every surface in a detailed pattern may make the design feel busy. In smaller spaces, consider using mosaics in a focused area such as a niche or splashback. In larger rooms, a wider decorative panel or full feature wall may feel more balanced. 4. Choose the grout colour carefully Grout is a major part of any mosaic installation because it surrounds every individual piece. A close colour match will soften the pattern. A contrasting grout will emphasise the layout and make every piece more visible. Before installation, test the proposed combination on a spare sheet where possible. The grout can change the apparent colour and overall character of the mosaic considerably. 5. Consider the finish Glossy mosaics reflect light and can add brightness to a wall. Matt mosaics produce a softer, more natural effect and may be better suited to calm or stone-inspired schemes. Textured surfaces may need more care during grouting and cleaning. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance, particularly for materials that may stain or require sealing. Using neutral mosaics to add subtle texture A mosaic does not have to be bright or highly patterned to make an impact. Neutral shades such as white, beige, grey and soft stone tones allow the smaller tile format and grout lines to provide the visual detail. This can be particularly effective in minimalist interiors where the design relies on texture, proportion and subtle tonal variation. Neutral mosaics can be paired with: Large-format stone-effect tiles Marble-effect porcelain Wood-effect floor tiles Concrete-inspired surfaces Brass or black bathroom fixtures Natural timber cabinetry This creates a layered design that feels interesting without becoming overpowering. Introducing the Navarro Mosaic range The Navarro Mosaic collection offers an elegant range of porcelain mosaic wall and floor tiles in versatile natural tones. The collection has a matt finish and is designed to work in both traditional and contemporary projects. It can be installed as a complete surface or introduced as part of a focal feature. The range includes four colours: Mosaic Blanco: a soft pale tone for light, understated interiors Mosaic Marfil: a warm neutral option with a gentle cream-toned appearance Mosaic Perla: a light stone-inspired shade Mosaic Gris: a cooler grey finish suited to contemporary designs The range is available in a 300 x 300mm format made up of individual 50 x 50mm mosaic pieces. The collection is porcelain, rectified and suitable for both wall and floor applications. These understated colours make the range easy to coordinate with larger-format porcelain tiles, allowing retailers, designers and homeowners to create subtle transitions between the main tiled surface and a decorative mosaic feature. Transform your interior with mosaic and tile design Mosaic tiles offer an effective way to bring greater detail and individuality to an interior. Whether you use them across an entire feature wall or as a small decorative accent, their scale, texture and grout pattern can completely change the character of a surface. The most successful mosaic and tile combinations balance creativity with practicality. Consider the intended application, coordinate the mosaic with the main tiles and fixtures, choose the grout carefully and ensure the complete installation system is suitable for the environment. With its natural colours, matt finish and wall-and-floor suitability, the Navarro Mosaic collection provides a versatile foundation for both traditional and contemporary schemes. From subtle bathroom niches to coordinated kitchen splashbacks, Mosaic Blanco, Marfil, Perla and Gris can introduce detail without overwhelming the wider design. Explore the Navarro Mosaic range and discover how the right combination of mosaic and tile can transform kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces with lasting character.