For my final project, I created a tile mosaic inspired by the Mid-Century Modern design movement, with a focus on its coastal/tropical subcategory. Mid-Century Modern design (1940s–1960s) is defined by clean lines, organic forms, bold color, and a strong connection to nature, while the tropical variation incorporates vibrant palettes, abstracted natural motifs, and an indoor-outdoor lifestyle influence. My piece reflects these ideas through a combination of geometric and organic shapes arranged within an arched frame, giving it a clean, architectural structure. The composition is layered and dynamic, suggesting a stylized coastal landscape with elements that can be interpreted as water, sky, and plant life. I used a color palette of ocean blues, soft greens, sandy neutrals, and warm accent tones to create contrast while maintaining a cohesive, era-inspired look.
Sustainability played an important role in my process, as I used upcycled and secondhand tiles to construct the mosaic. The available materials influenced the final design, leading to a more intuitive and experimental approach rather than a fixed plan. This method allowed me to transform discarded materials into a functional and visually engaging piece. Additionally, the mosaic technique connects to historical traditions such as Byzantine and Roman mosaics, as well as their revival in mid-20th-century architectural decoration. Overall, this project combines historical influence, sustainable practices, and Mid-Century Modern coastal aesthetics to create a piece that is both conceptually meaningful and visually compelling.
Link to Unrulr to view progress.
