Our Technical Services team and Ken Milbery, director of techncial services, recently finalized new guidelines for the care and maintenance of glass and ceramic tiles installed in pools and spas.
POOL TILE: CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
Maintaining the pristine appearance of glass mosaic and ceramic tiles in your swimming pool requires a proactive and consistent approach. Here are some key strategies for keeping your tiles looking new and beautiful.
SEALING
After the tiles have been installed and before the pool is filled for use, it is highly recommended that the installation be sealed to lessen the maintenance needed in the future. The sealer is a sacrificial product and needs to be reapplied on occasion.
REGULAR BRUSHING
Brushing the tiles weekly is essential to prevent mineral buildup, especially along the waterline, where evaporation is highest. Use a soft brush or non-abrasive scrub pad to gently clean the surface, focusing on areas prone to residue accumulation. This routine helps maintain the tiles’ finish and prevents unsightly scaling.
BALANCED WATER CHEMISTRY
Keeping water chemistry balanced is essential for the longevity and appearance of your pool tiles. Imbalanced water can lead to increased mineral deposits and potential tile damage.
Maintaining balanced water chemistry is crucial. Regularly monitor and adjust the following parameters:
Calcium Hardness: Aim for levels between 200–400 ppm. High calcium hardness can cause scaling, while low levels may make the water corrosive.
pH Levels: Maintain a pH between 7.2 and 7.8. An imbalanced pH can lead to scale formation and impact the effectiveness of sanitizers.
Total Alkalinity: Keep levels between 80 and 120 ppm to stabilize pH and prevent fluctuations that may cause scaling.
Frequent testing and adjustments help avoid conditions that promote mineral deposits.
EQUIPMENT RUN-TIME MANAGEMENT
To mitigate mineral accumulation, it’s advisable to run overflow features continuously. Constant water flow prevents the drying and evaporation cycles that leave minerals on tile surfaces, reducing the risk of buildup.
For example, perimeter overflows sometimes cycle on and off during daylight hours to save energy or run a cleaning cycle. Minerals are left behind each time the water dries or evaporates. To reduce mineral buildup, overflow features should run from sunrise to sunset.
USE OF APPROPRIATE CLEANING SOLUTIONS
For routine cleaning, mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of a non-detergent cleaner like Dawn. Spray the mixture onto the tiles, let it sit for about 10 minutes, and then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush or a nonabrasive scrub pad to remove any buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can scratch or dull the tiled surface.
NEVER PLACE MURIATIC ACID DIRECTLY ON GLASS OR CERAMIC TILE
PROFESSIONAL MAINTENANCE
If you notice persistent buildup or staining despite regular maintenance, consult a pool maintenance professional. They can evaluate the situation and suggest specialized treatments.
We advise against using mechanical abrading or blasting for glass or ceramic tile.
By adhering to these practices, you can preserve the beauty and durability of your pool tiles, ensuring that your pool continues to be a striking focal point for years ahead.
A pdf version of these recommendations can be found here:
The concept of "home" is undergoing a profound transformation. What was once simply a place of shelter has evolved into what Harvard professor David Kester calls "a mental, physical, and emotional healing environment." This fundamental shift is reshaping not just how we live, but how we think about interior design itself.
Feras Irikat, who brings 25 years of product design experience to his role as director of design and marketing at Lunada Bay Tile, sees this evolution firsthand. The rigid design rules of past decades have given way to a more fluid approach, where homeowners and designers freely mix eras, styles, and aesthetics to create deeply personal spaces. This transformation is being driven by key trends that will define home design through 2025 and beyond.
6 Key Design Trends for 2025
1. Nostalgic Revival with a Premium Twist
The post-pandemic era has sparked a renewed interest in comforting, familiar elements from the past – but with a modern interpretation. Designers are seamlessly blending traditional elements with contemporary features, creating spaces that honor heritage while embracing innovation. Think mid-century lighting paired with Zellige tiles, or modern shaker cabinets alongside farmhouse elements.
"In hardships, we tend to think about memories, we tend to think about the good old days that passed because that's a comforting moment that puts our mind at ease,” Irikat said.
This post-pandemic trend isn't about simple reproduction – it's about giving heritage a modern spin. As Irikat demonstrates through Lunada Bay Tile's collections, such as Mistral and Vesuvio, it's possible to take traditional patterns and "keep the soul existing and identifiable, but add something new to it."
2. Sustainability Meets Nature-Inspired Design
The Pacific color glaze on the Shinju Reef pattern covering the backsplash and back wall feels right at home in this modern kitchen, showcasing natural materials and metallic finishes. Design: Jamie Jackson Design
Environmental consciousness is moving beyond mere eco-friendly materials. Designers are now drawing direct inspiration from nature, translating organic patterns, textures, and color palettes into interior spaces. This trend emphasizes recycled materials and sustainable products while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic that connects inhabitants with the natural world.
"Let nature inspire your concept, your color palette, your design aesthetic," Irikat urged.
He notes how designers are increasingly "relying on something a lot more natural, a lot more emotional to create something physical." This approach goes beyond using eco-friendly materials – it's about creating deeper connections with our environment through thoughtful design choices.
Lunada Bay Tile’s recycled glass tile collections, which contain up to 70% post-consumer recycled glass, are one way to implement a more sustainable material selection to your spaces.
From the weathered patina of coastal stones to the soft iridescence of ocean waves, Lunada Bay Tile's collections draw their color inspiration directly from the natural world. Each colorway tells its own environmental story – whether it's the warm earth tones reminiscent of desert landscapes in the Vesuvio collection, the crystalline blues and greens that mirror tidal pools in the Agate series, or the subtle gradients that echo morning mist in the Tozen line.
These nature-derived palettes create visual harmony in spaces and forge a deeper connection between indoor environments and the organic world outside. By translating nature's timeless color schemes into contemporary tile designs, Lunada Bay Tile helps designers and homeowners bring the calming, restorative qualities of the natural world into everyday living spaces.
3. Technology Integration with Purpose
Smart home features are evolving beyond novelty to focus on meaningful functionality. From water-conscious faucets that track usage to versatile wall systems that transform spaces for multiple uses, technology is being integrated thoughtfully to enhance daily living while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
"Technology is impacting the way we live, the way we cook, the way we engage and the way we entertain," Irikat observed.
He points to innovations in home automation, water conservation, and versatile living spaces as examples of how technology is meaningfully integrated into our homes. "Technology was one of the things that enabled us to survive a very hard pandemic," he noted, and its influence on design continues to grow.
4. Playful Optimism in Design
Left: Graphite 4-inch Hex in Molten Bronze and Black Iron. Middle: Graphite Duet in Black Iron and Klein Blue. Right: Graphite in multiple sizes and colors.
There's a growing emphasis on creating spaces that spark joy and positive emotions. This trend manifests in mixed metal finishes, unexpected color combinations, and playful pattern mixing. The focus is on personal expression rather than following strict design rules.
"I love the world of optimistic design," Irikat said. "It's nice to ask your clients what puts a smile on your face."
He advocates for moving beyond traditional questions about color preferences and instead focusing on emotional responses. "Today's design world is incredibly fluid," he noted, allowing for unprecedented mixing of styles, eras, and finishes in ways that spark joy and personal connection.
5. Authentic Personalization
The most significant trend is the move toward genuine personalization. With 48% of consumers willing to spend more on personalized experiences, customization is becoming crucial in home design. From custom blends of handcrafted tile to bespoke furniture pieces, homeowners seek spaces that truly reflect their individual style and needs.
"We have to start paying attention to that consumer that wants personalized options and offering them ways to make spaces uniquely their own," Irikat said. "Custom blends allow designers and homeowners to tell their story through color and pattern."
Lunada Bay Tile makes this creative expression possible through its custom blend program. Designers can combine different colors, finishes, and sizes from collections to create unique mosaic patterns. These custom blends can range from subtle tonal variations to bold, artistic statements, giving each project a distinct personality that cannot be replicated.
6. The Soft Revolution
Colors and shapes are taking on softer, more subtle forms. Earth tones are lightened and softened, while harsh angles give way to gentle curves. This "soft home" approach creates more welcoming, less jarring environments that support emotional well-being.
Choose tile collections with fewer 90-degree angles and rounded edges for a softer aesthetic. Lunada Bay Tile’s Agate, Tozen, JAW, and Lapis glass tile collections are just a few options, offering soft curves and nature-inspired colorways for your designs.
As we move into 2025, the most important trend isn't about specific colors or patterns – it's about creating environments that support emotional well-being and personal expression. The future of design is less about following strict rules and more about creating spaces that resonate on a deeply personal level.
"You don't persuade people through intellect. You do it through emotions," Irikat emphasized.
Like branches reaching toward the stars, our community grows stronger with each passing year. In this season of light and gathering, we're grateful for the beautiful connections we've built together. From our Lunada Bay Tile family to yours, may your holidays sparkle with joy and your new year bloom with endless possibilities.
Recording of our second live webinar giving an overview of our current ceramic tile offerings, including the recently launched Zellige tile series – Mistral. Below are some of the highlights and direct links to each section of this recording.
Zellige tile collection made in Fez, Morocco, and our first ceramic series collection produced outside of the Japanese ceramic factory. Our newest ceramic tile addition, the Mistral series follows the authentic hand-making tradition with modern pattern and color interpretations.
Refreshed in 2023, adding several pattern/sizes and 3 new colors to the original Black Iron offering. This is a series that lets you play and create by mixing colors, mixing patterns, and even mixing tiles from other series to create movement. Watch this section to learn more about this series, as well as further insight into our Duet pattern.
One of the most colorful ceramic series we’ve introduced. (Mistral, being another of our most colorful ceramic series.) This series feature beautiful shapes, beautiful colors resulting from specialized glazing techniques and double-firing in the kiln to produce incredible luster.
The tiles in this series feature a fine-woven, vintage linen texture beneath the slightly translucent glazes. The varying texture and translucent glazes give these tiles gorgeous movement and wonderful variation.
Second introduction of a highly sculptural ceramic tile series. These tiles can be arranged in numerous ways and combinations of shapes and/or colors to create a unique installation.
The very first ceramic series for Lunada Bay Tile, the series brings modern elegance inspired by nature’s artistry along ocean coasts and reef. The various tile shapes share the same glazes with subtle color movement, as well as metallic glazes with stunning reactive variation.
In the first recording of our monthly live webinar series, we present an overview of the Lunada Bay Tile company and many of our glass tile products. Below are some of the highlights and direct links to each section of this recording.
Lunada Bay Tile is a designer/manufacturer that creates products that not only possesses all the benefits of tile but has a sense of art, craftmanship, and uniqueness
We create every design and color within our offering and continuously explore how we can innovate existing products
Focus greatly upon design that promotes emotional balance and well-being
Combine traditional craftmanship and handmade products with modern approach
Tiles can be used in a large variety of applications, from kitchen backsplashes and bathroom tiled walls to outdoor spaces and pools
The tile series discussed are all hand-crafted, glass mosaic tiles
Tiles contain as much as 70% recycled glass, depending on the series and the color (to learn more about actual percentages, click here)
Our glass mosaics work with contemporary, transitional, and even traditional design styles
The patterns, colors, attributes, characteristics, and specifics of several glass series were discussed. The series in this live webinar were: Vesuvio, Agate, Tommy Bahama Glass Blends, JAW (Just Add Water), Elements, Luce, Shibui, Tozen, Haisen, as well as our Custom Blends program
Vesuvio series is a mixed media – white marble with subtle veining and glass mosaics from our Agate series as a foil to highlight color and showcase patterns.
The Agate glass mosaic series is inspired by Venetian glassmaking that skillfully blended milk glass with different colors to evoke the feeling of semi-precious stone.
Glass mosaic series resulting from collaboration with Tommy Bahama. The beauty of collaboration is bringing together two different mindsets, two different ideas, two different perspectives joining together in one to create new ideas. For this collaboration, the series aims to transform a space with the feeling of another place, namely the most inspiring yet untouched locations around the world.
Initially created as a pool waterline series that is plug-n-play unique shapes that are pre-cut with straight lines at top and bottom and mounted as borders for use out of the box. Larger sheets make it possible to customize these borders to any height. The series has become popular for shower bands, bathroom backsplashes, kitchen backsplashes, and anywhere a border is desired.
The Luce series features a subtle equilibrium between translucent glass and opaque glass creating very special movement within each piece. Some pieces within this hand-crafted series may appear more opaque and others more translucent to provide dimensionality in a single color. Luce glass mosaic patterns are unique and design forward, all available in great color combinations.
One of our classic glass series, Shibui is a pre-cursor to the Agate series and presented in a natural finish rather than the iridescent surface given to Agate. Colors range from earthtones, yellows, terracotta, to blues and blue-green.
Tozen series features translucent glass with an infusion of colored glass – two translucent colors with high contrast and mixed together to create dimensionality with vibrant, strong color and movement. These tiles are high energy.
Similar to Tozen, Haisen starts with translucent glass and mixes two colors together though not as contrasting for softer energy. Copper flecks are then introduced to create another layer of shimmer and life.
Our Custom Blends program is for customers who want something unique and personalized – a glass mosaic color palette that speaks to their design aesthetic, environment, and personal inspiration. The program is another tool for designers and homeowners to create something special for their space.
Finding the right tile for your project involves several key steps to ensure you make an informed decision that meets both your aesthetic and functional needs. Here’s a brief guide to help you start the process:
Define Your Project Needs
Start by determining the purpose of your tile project. Are you tiling a kitchen backsplash, bathroom floor, a pool, or an outdoor living space?
Each area has different requirements, such as:
Moisture resistance for bathrooms
Slip resistance for bathroom floors
Ease of maintenance for kitchens
Low water absorption for exterior applications in freeze-thaw areas
Low water absorption and durability for submerged applications
Always review the Recommended Usage & Floor Applications of a product before purchase. The tiles you consider should be appropriate for the application.
This information can be found on all Lunada Bay Tile product pages under RECOMMENDED USAGE & FLOOR APPLICATION, or under DOCUMENTION to find our “Applications & Testing” tearsheet.
(Screenshot from LBT product page)
Set a Budget
While the lifespan of tiles in a space can last 10 – 50 years, or longer, establishing a budget is crucial before you start shopping for tiles. This will help narrow down your options and prevent overspending. Consider not only the cost of the tiles but cost of the installation as well, and keep this in relation to the impact of the entire project. Project budgets are essential but remember the final choice will be a lasting one.
Research Tile Types
Familiarize yourself with the different types of tiles available, such as ceramic, glass, natural stone, concrete, and porcelain. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of durability, maintenance, and appearance.
Our Resources page contains information on maintenance, applications and testing, installation, etc, and the LBT Collection page organizes our complete tile offerings by material type.
Choose Your Style and Design
Ponder upon the feeling you wish to bring to your space. Decide on a style that suits your overall design vision. Consider factors like color, texture, and pattern. Collect inspiration from design magazines, websites, or social media platforms to refine your preferences.
The Lunada Bay Tile Inspiration Gallery is a great place to browse for various styles to emulate or find inspiration, and can be sorted by space, material, tile series, color, and pattern/shape.
Obtain Samples
Before making a final decision, order samples of your top choices. Swatch Cards and Sample Boards of our tiles can be ordered through your local authorized Lunada Bay Tile showroom. This will allow you to see how the tiles look in your space, assess their texture, and evaluate their relationship with other elements of your project and existing décor to find the tiles that will bring the feeling you want to your space.
Evaluate Lighting
Before choosing samples, and once your samples arrive, consider the lighting in the area where the tiles will be installed. Natural light and the colors in the room can significantly affect how colors of the tile appear. Observe your samples in different lighting conditions to ensure the tiles maintain the feeling wanted for your space, and they meet your expectations.
Consult Professionals
If you're unsure, consult with a tile professional, interior designer, or architect. They can offer guidance on the best tile options for your project and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Most LBT authorized showrooms have qualified designers on staff who are available for consultation. Their understanding of your needs through a one-on-one meeting will be of great service in helping make the best choice for your project. The nearest tile showroom can be found on our Dealer Locator.
Confirm Installation Details
Finally, if you’re hiring a professional installer, confirm all details related to installation, including costs, timelines, and any special requirements for your chosen tiles.
By following these steps, you can confidently select the right tile for your project, ensuring it meets your needs and enhances your space.
Glass tile has been a popular option in both home and commercial design, and for good reason. Its unique characteristics offer a range of benefits that can enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of any space.
Lunada Bay Tile designs, manufactures, and stocks hand-crafted glass tiles with these benefits in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and finishes.
Whether you are planning a kitchen backsplash, a bathroom renovation, decorative feature wall, pool and spa, restaurant, hotel, or anything else – here are six benefits of hand-crafted glass tile:
(Agate 1-1/4 x 5 Brick in Amalfi Pearl)
1. Aesthetic Appeal
One of the most significant advantages of glass tile is its stunning visual appeal. Lunada Bay Tile offers a variety of distinctive designs, colors, textures, and finishes in their hand-crafted glass tile collection. This extensive selection allows homeowners and designers to create customized looks that reflect personal style and vision.
The reflective quality of glass tiles can add depth and vibrancy to any space, making them an excellent choice for both contemporary and traditional designs. Whether you prefer bold colors or subtle hues, a sleek modern feel or a classic touch, there’s a perfect tile to enhance your project.
On top of this, each piece of hand-crafted glass tile is unique, showcasing the artistry and skill of the artisans. The attention to detail in each tile adds a personal touch that mass-produced tiles simply cannot match. This ensures your installation will have a one-of-a-kind aesthetic, setting your space apart from others.
Click here, to learn more about the characteristics of hand-crafted glass tiles.
(Clockwise, starting upper left: Textile Bargello in Mica, Tozen 1x2 in Iodine Natural, Tozen Penny Rounds in Ahou Silk, JAW (Just Add Water) in Amalfi, Agate 1" Hex in Bari Silk)
2. Versatility in Applications
Hand-crafted glass tiles from Lunada Bay Tile are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, from kitchen backsplashes and bathroom walls and flooring to pools, spas and outdoor spaces. This adaptability allows for creative freedom, enabling homeowners, designers and architects to create cohesive designs throughout a home, business or other space by integrating glass tiles seamlessly into different areas or rooms. It’s easy to see why this versatility makes glass tiles a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.
Always review the Applications & Testing charts found on all of our product pages, or in our Resources section, to confirm the tile is right for your application before purchase.
(Tozen 1x4 Herringbone in Oxygen Natural)
3. Light Reflection and Brightness
The reflective properties of glass tiles help to brighten spaces and create an illusion of depth. Lunada Bay Tile's glass tiles can enhance natural light, making rooms feel brighter, and more open and airy. This is particularly beneficial in smaller areas or rooms that don't receive much natural light. By incorporating glass tiles into your design, you can enhance the overall brightness of the room, creating a more inviting atmosphere. This reflective quality also works wonders in kitchens and bathrooms, where good lighting is essential.
4. Durability and Longevity with High-Quality Materials
While glass may seem delicate in their beauty, glass tiles are highly durable. They are resistant to scratches, stains, and moisture, making them an ideal choice for a large variety of spaces and environments. With proper installation and care, glass tiles from Lunada Bay Tile will maintain their beauty and integrity for years without showing signs of wear. This longevity makes them a smart investment for homeowners looking for a long-lasting solution.
(Agate 1x4 Brick in Lucca Pearl)
5. Easy Maintenance
Another benefit of hand-crafted glass tile is its ease of maintenance. Lunada Bay Tile’s glass products are non-porous, meaning they resist stains and odors. Glass tiles can be easily cleaned with mild soap and water. The non-porous surface also makes glass tiles a perfect hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
To learn more about Care & Maintenance of our glass tiles, click here.
6. Eco-Friendly Materials
Sustainability is a key consideration for many homeowners today. Lunada Bay Tile offers eco-friendly glass tiles made from post-consumer recycled materials, helping you make a responsible choice for the environment. Choosing these tiles not only beautifies your home but also contributes to a greener planet.
Learn more about the recycled content of our Glass.
Whether you are creating a chic backsplash in the kitchen or a luxurious shower wall, glass tiles can easily fit your needs and style. Hand-crafted glass tile from Lunada Bay Tile offers an exceptional blend of beauty, durability, and sustainability. By choosing these tiles, you are investing in a product that enhances your space while supporting artisanal craftsmanship and provides aesthetic appeal with practical advantages that enhance your home’s value and functionality.
Discover a striking new mosaic border series, JAWRedux. Our glass artists assemble single colors in alternating Pearl and Silk finishes to create a dynamic pattern that emulates the essence of cascading water. The hand-crafted glass border provides design flexibility for waterlines, feature walls, and architectural accents. Easy to use straight out of the box or add corresponding field material to increase the border height. Choose from 10 colorways to create visual impact for pools, spas, showers, water features, and other border applications—where elegance meets practicality, indoors and out.
JAW REDUX COLORS
JAW REDUX PATTERN
NEW AGATE PATTERNS
Meet two new patterns in our Agate glass tile collection, evocative of semi-precious stones. Agate Yumi's gently scalloped edges draw inspiration from the ancient art of Japanese archery. The term "Yumi," which means bow in Japanese, is also a symbol of precision, focus, and purpose. A new 2 x 6 format provides a grander canvas for the exquisite color movement in the series. Both of these new patterns are available in 11 of the 16 Agate colors.
Have you been envisioning a stunning tile transformation for your space, but hesitated due to the high costs? Whether you're a homeowner with a passion for DIY, or a professional designer seeking quality within budget constraints, Lunada Bay Tile's new online outlet store, Ciao Bella, is set to redefine your expectations for your next project. This platform offers an unprecedented opportunity to access premium tiles at affordable prices, making luxurious home improvements more accessible than ever before.
Introducing Ciao Bella: Premium Tiles at Up to 60% Off
Lunada Bay Tile, renowned for its meticulously crafted, high-end glass and ceramic tile collections, has launched Ciao Bella—an exclusive outlet store offering unbeatable prices on discontinued and limited-stock tiles. This new platform provides both homeowners and design professionals with direct access to Lunada Bay Tile's exquisite designs at prices up to 60% less than MSRP.
Why Choose Ciao Bella?
Special Access: Ciao Bella is the only online retailer where you can find deeply discounted Lunada Bay Tile products. These are the same high-quality, handcrafted tiles that have graced upscale homes and commercial spaces, now available at a fraction of the original price.
Quality and Craftsmanship: Lunada Bay Tile is known for its commitment to excellence. Each tile is designed with an artistic touch, drawing inspiration from nature, architecture, and cultural heritage.
Continuous Inventory Updates: The Ciao Bella collection is constantly expanded with the latest from Lunada Bay Tile. This means fresh selections and exciting opportunities for every project.
Ready-to-Ship: With a vast inventory in stock at their California warehouse, your tiles are ready to ship quickly, within a few days. This ensures your projects can be completed on time and without delay.
Returns Accepted: Recognizing that online purchases happen without firsthand examination, Ciao Bella offers a return policy to ensure your satisfaction.
For Homeowners and DIY Enthusiasts
Ciao Bella opens up a world of possibilities for your home improvement projects. Whether you're renovating your kitchen backsplash, upgrading your bathroom tile, or adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor space, you can now access premium tiles at prices that won't break the bank. The user-friendly website makes it easy to browse collections, order samples, and envision your dream space.
For Design and Building Professionals
Professionals in the design and construction industry understand the importance of balancing quality with budget constraints. Ciao Bella offers a valuable resource for sourcing beautiful tiles at discounted prices, allowing you to maximize your project budgets without compromising on style or quality. The continuous inventory updates and ready-to-ship stock ensure that you can meet tight project deadlines while delivering exceptional results.
Maximizing Your Tile Budget
Whether you're a homeowner or a professional, here are some tips to make the most of your tile budget:
Carefully plan your tile layout to minimize waste
Choose less expensive options for areas with less visibility
Use smaller tiles to create intricate patterns
Consider the cost of grout, adhesive, and installation when budgeting
Prioritize key areas for tiling while using alternative flooring in less prominent spaces
Transform Your Space with Lunada Bay Tile
"Ciao Bella is not just a great deal; it's an investment in the same exceptional quality and design that Lunada Bay Tile is famous for—now at an unbeatable price," says Feras Irikat, Director of Design & Marketing at Lunada Bay Tile. "These tiles are not just building materials; they are pieces of art that elevate spaces with their unique textures, colors, movement, and patterns."
Visit Ciao Bella by Lunada Bay Tile to explore current offerings, new arrivals, and "last chance" tiles. Whether you're tackling a single room renovation or a large-scale project, Ciao Bella offers the luxury and style of Lunada Bay Tile at prices that can't be matched.
Don't miss out on special offers! Subscribe to receive a discount code for five free Sample Cards and be the first to know about new limited-stock collections. With Ciao Bella, luxury meets affordability, making your dream spaces more achievable than ever.
Tommy Bahama by Lunada Bay Tile is introducing 3 exciting new color blends, in the continuing exploration of beautiful and untouched locations throughout the world that inspire relaxation, freedom, and adventure. The new colorways in the series are: Fujisan, Lucky Bay, and Motuo.
What are the locations that inspire these colors, and how do they translate into color blends? The question for you is, how will these colors inspire your space and bring encouragement to live spontaneously, unwind in style, and to feel your very best?
Cayo Coco: Don your swimsuit and flip flops for some epic relaxation in Cayo Coco, a luscious tropical island off the coast of Cuba. Famous for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and aquamarine waters, this island paradise entices travelers with the promise of endless surf and sea life adventures. The glass blend transports you to this getaway destination through a combination of whisper-soft whites, blues, aquas and greens.
Cocos Keeling: Australia's last untouched paradise lies in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, kissed by the sun and caressed by fragrant trade winds. Only two of the 27 islands are inhabited; the rest await your exploration. Whisper-soft blues and a hint of gray-green make up this lustrous blend.
Kangaroo Island: Welcome to Australia’s Kangaroo Island where landscapes invite you to stop and gaze. The island may be wild by nature, but anticipate a friendly welcome—sea lions greet you on pristine white beaches; koalas doze in lofty eucalyptus; and pelicans glide over shimmering waterways. The soaring cliffs, dense forests, golden sand dunes and lush wetlands of the island are discernible in this tile blend.
Maldives: Nowhere in the world will you find the whiter-than-white, powder-soft sand that you will discover on the coral islands of Maldives. Whether you arrive by private yacht or by seaplane, spacious villas perch above aquamarine waters. But it is the perfect beaches that lure travelers from the soft comforts into nature. The tile blend of soft whites awakens a sense of spirituality and contemplation.
Cappadocia: For more than a thousand years, people have made their home in the soft rock of Cappadocia, Turkey. Erosion may have shaped the incredible landscape, but humans took a cue from Mother Nature and carved complex tunnels into the rock. The natural-hued blend emulates the dry and rocky plateau of this World Heritage site.
Pamukkale: Located in Turkey, this natural wonder is comprised of terraces and travertine formed by streams and hot springs. The waters are believed to have curative powers and have been used as a thermal bath for centuries. The tile blends reflect colors of gray stone and icy blue water.
Skyros: If it's holistic healing you’re after, look no further than Skyros, the most remote of the Greek Islands in the Aegean sea. An island of dual personalities, the northern half offers a landscape of green and fertile densely wooded forests while the south contrasts with jagged coastlines and barren scenery. The Skyros glass blend amplifies the beauty found in nature through a blend of gray, white, sea and sky blues, and a hint of green.
Kaikoura: Snow-capped mountains meet the sea in Kaikoura, a dramatic landscape nestled between the Southern Alps in New Zealand and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its abundant wildlife—including whales, fur seals, and albatross – Kaikoura offers wanderers endless winding coastal walks for sea gazing. This mosaic blend magically captures the combination of earth meeting water through hues of deep blue, gray-blue and soft white.
Motuo: In a remote region of Southeastern Tibet lies Motuo, a subtropical and biodiverse region often called the “Tibetan Shangri-La”— where Bengal tigers prowl and Takins roam alongside the Himalayas. The glass mosaic blend brings together hues of native teak and sandalwood with the blues, grays and glacier whites seen along the dramatic mountain peaks.
Surin: Rugged and rewarding, Thailand’s Surin Islands are an undiscovered, remote escape that draw divers and snorkelers to explore coral reefs and sea creatures. The national park—an archipelago of five islands—is only accessible by boat. The tile’s color palette is reminiscent of Surin’s pristine beaches, clear bays and lush jungles.
Lucky Bay: Along the picturesque coast of Western Australia lies a pristine white sand beach with grains of sand so soft and fine they squeak under your feet. The crystal-clear azure waters beacon rich marine life, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot kangaroos lounging on the beach. This mosaic blend is a study in beautiful blues.
Fujisan: Coniferous and deciduous trees blanket the lower slopes of Japan’s Mount Fuji in a lush green. Above the tree line, in the Alpine Zone, you’ll see remnants of past volcanic eruptions, creating a unique and rocky terrain. This mosaic blend captures the connection between the ancient lava landscape and the icy-blue lakes surrounding this arresting scenery.
San Blas: Experience the feeling of tranquil life on Panama’s San Blas Islands. The archipelago comprising 365 islands— many uninhabited—are dotted with coconut palms that grow aside bright turquoise waters. Pristine white beaches and crystal-clear seas offer the ultimate digital detox while you swim among the starfish. Aqua, whites and grays emulate the look of this tropical destination.
Twillingate: Breathtaking coastal views are the hallmarks of Twillingate Island off the coast of Newfoundland. The rock-ribbed landscape, dotted with forests and carpeted with soft grasses, overlooks steel-gray ocean waters and drifting icebergs—even in the summer months. The glass mosaic blend echoes the look and feel of this majestic coastline through a combination of oceanic blues, cool grays, and seafoam whites.
Aogashima: A remote island in the Philippine Sea, Aogashima is an active volcano island accessible only by boat or helicopter. Home to 200 residents and occasional adventurers, the island is a serene getaway with a sense of danger. The striking glass blend takes inspiration from sea blues, cool winds and dark volcanic rock.
To learn more about the Tommy Bahama Glass Blends series, and available patterns within this series, visit our series collection page. And to see these tiles installed in pools, kitchens, bathrooms, and move - visit the Lunada Bay Tile Inspiration Gallery.
It is often said that life is not perfect. When considered, natural, organic beauty is not “perfect”. Whether it is dimples, freckles, or some out-of-the-ordinary quality – these characteristics have become signs of uniqueness and beauty resulting from the nuances of life, genetics, and chance.
At Lunada Bay Tile, we inject life into our tiles. Every one of our hand-crafted glass tiles is formed and manipulated by our skilled artisans. They apply both traditional craftmanship and modern techniques to create effects unlike any other source in the industry.
Each piece of glass tile is imbued with character and traits from our creative process. The results offer a mix of sophistication and craftmanship many people are looking for today. For those people, our tiles provide the simple joy of hand-made objects and the endless details discovered in them over time.
Common, natural characteristics of our handmade glass tiles include:
Variation in color, shade, and size
Surface texture (such as fissures, folds, and bubbles)
Minor edge irregularities (including occasional chipped edges)
No two tiles are exactly the same
Important Note: These surface characteristics are not within the body of glass and do not create structural problems or sacrifice the integrity of the tiles. Through all performance testing, the results are the same for tiles with these surface characteristics and without.
For Best Results With Your Glass Tile Installation
It is important to take the time and care to fully clean and polish the tile surface as the final step of installation. When tiles are not fully cleaned, and grout remains in a fissure or other surface characteristic, the tile may appear as if cracked or lead one to believe there are flaws in the glass. Fully completing all steps of the installation process will restore the natural luster to the glass and promote the enjoyment, beauty, and other inherent benefits of the glass tiles through many years ahead.
Visit the Resources section of our website for written instructions and tutorial videos as well as recommendations for care & maintenance of our glass tiles.
Before purchasing our tiles, be sure to review the Recommended Usage & Floor Applications to confirm your tile selection can be used in your space.
The beauty of mosaics is evident to most architects, designers and installers. What is less obvious are the specification details and installation techniques that should be used to ensure an expert installation.
There are several types of mounting methods for mosaic tiles, and each has its strengths and weaknesses. Lunada Bay Tile and experienced tile installation professionals prefer paper-face mounting.
* The biggest advantages of paper face tiles are being able to make adjustments during your set rather than the day after, and avoiding annoying sheet lines.
** The sign of true craftsmanship can be found in the smallest of details.
Paper-faced tiles are tiles with a paper covering on the front. The paper allows the tiles to adhere directly to thinset. The paper facing is removed with water after the tiles have been installed.
Hand installation with paper sheeting is considered the premium mounting method for experienced installers who follow the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) Handbook for Ceramic, Glass, and Stone Tile Installation. These standards are written for architects, designers, general contractors and tile installers in an effort to help professionals in the industry communicate clearly and ensure successful tile installations.
There are many benefits to the paper-faced mounting method. The paper allows a direct bond to the back of the tile while allowing for high degree of adjustability. Tile contractors are able to make adjustments during the set, rather than the day after, and avoid annoying sheet lines. The paper sheets also make it easier to negotiate radius conditions and other curving shapes.
BENEFITS OF PAPER-FACED MOSAIC SHEETS:
Easy adjustment of individual tiles while mortar is still workable
Avoids annoying sheet lines
Ensures possibility of 100% coverage for best bond of tile to substrates
No material between the tiles and adhesive to weaken bond
No mesh material to feed and promote bacteria growth
Allows maximized bond to vitrified materials
Allows uniform mortar shrinkage and cure
No mounting material to be seen through transparent glass
Paper is easily removed with minimal water 20-30 minutes after installation
Entire process is easy to accomplish with a little patience
PRO TIP: When removing the paper face, leave some of the paper adhesive prior to grouting. The left-over adhesive on top of the glass provides a perfect grout release. No additional grout release will be needed.
The sign of true craftsmanship is seen in the smallest details, and paper-faced mounting of mosaics allows for a high level of detail during installation.
TCNA provides information on A108.16, an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard that provides best practices for installing glass mosaic tiles, including paper-faced, back-mounted, edge-mounted, or clear film face-mounted tiles. The standard was published in 2005 and reaffirmed in 2020.Both the TCNA Handbook and ANSI A108-A118-A136.1 American National Specifications for the Installation of Ceramic Tileare available for purchase throughTCNAandANSI.
Paper + Patience = Beautiful, Reliable Tile Installations
See our installation guides and videos, including advice for removing paper face and making tile adjustments, at LunadaBayTile.com/Resources
You can click here for a downloadable PDF on the benefits of paper face.
As one of the oldest tile-making traditions in the world, Zellige tiles have adorned mosques and palaces for centuries. The Mistral collection reinterprets the heritage of Zellige tiles for the modern day. Tile makers in Fez, Morocco, employ time-honored methods that have been perfected and passed down over generations. The individually hand-chiseled tile pieces bridge the past and the present by marrying classic techniques of tile making with modern patterns and colors. Unique to Mistral, lead-free Italian glazes are applied to the Zellige tiles to achieve a striking, fresh palette curated for today’s distinctive interiors and exteriors.
To see Mistral tiles used in bathrooms, kitchens, and more - visit our Inspiration Gallery.
