Glass tiles have long been a common surface option for high traffic public buildings; town halls, churches and temples, monuments, primarily because of their durability and ease of maintenance. Dating back to the first mosaic artists, tiled floors from the Greek and Roman Empires incorporated bits of glass tiles, while full glass mosaics, first developed by the Byzantines, covered all surfaces of buildings, from floors to ceilings.
The durability of glass tiles makes them a perfect surface option for public buildings, which endure greater use and as a result, greater wear than a typical home or small office. Stain resistant and impervious to water, glass tiles are not easily damaged by spills, rapid changes in temperature, or extreme moisture or cold. Glass tile can be treated with sealants to increase its durability and resistance to scratches and moisture, an often-necessary addition for installations in high traffic areas. Minimal maintenance will ensure that that any glass tile installation will stay looking new for years.
The versatility of glass tiles is another reason they are so well suited to being used as a surface material in public buildings. Because they can be made in a wide variety of colors and textures, glass tiles can fit into nearly any installation and any location. Traditional, religious-inspired scenes fit perfectly in churches and temples, while geometric patterns complement both modern and classic design. Byzantine-inspired smalti tiles look perfect on marble and stone architecture while modern metallic blends are a great choice for surfaces with wood or metal accents.
Creating a unique photo mosaic in an entryway or main room is a perfect way to brand a company logo or local crest into a building. Custom wall mosaics and tile murals add personality and interest to a space without the worry of maintenance and long-term wear. Coming soon, the Susan Jablon’s PhotoMosaic Creator will convert into an exact mosaic tile pattern your electronically submitted photographs and drawings. Visit our Amazing Glass Mosaic Tile Gallery to see examples of corporate mosaics and public installations made with Susan Jablon Mosiacs’ glass tiles.