Waves of the Aegean: A Custom Abstract Mosaic for GAIA, Four Seasons Abu Dhabi
‘I could feel the Mediterranean sea in this abstract mosaic’
-Our Client
A commercial project commissioned by the design firm, Finasi, for a luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi. The mosaic was designed for an exterior curved facade of GAIA, a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant scheduled to open within the hotel.
An abstract mosaic that truly reflects the restaurant’s Greek-Mediterranean vibe. The design firm chose ceramic because the mosaic was intended for an exterior surface. This was a good choice, as the GCC experiences extreme temperatures for most of the year. Ceramic mosaics are naturally heat-resistant and can retain their colours for decades.
Client Brief for the Abstract Mosaic
Finasi, a design firm, commissioned this abstract mosaic for the Four Seasons Hotel in Abu Dhabi. In the briefing, MEC Artworks was told that it would be an exterior mosaic at the front of the restaurant.
The mosaic was to set the tone for the newly opened branch of GAIA, a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, so a touch of this culture would be a bonus in the mosaic.
The colour palette was to be a mix of light and dark. Nothing gaudy, so that the mosaic’s overall look came across as elegant and classy.
At the same time, the artwork needed darker, arresting hues so the customers wouldn’t be able to dismiss it.
We communicated and shared progress with Finasi throughout the project.
Inspiration Moodboard for the Abstract Mosaic
While working on the inspiration mood board for this project, our designers knew that they wanted a mosaic with a Greek-Mediterranean feel.
This became the main theme while designing the mosaic.
The shades of blue were inspired by the Aegean Sea, which is a hallmark of Greek coastal areas.
The flow of the lines looked like waves, similar to waves in the Mediterranean Sea, as the sea is what one thinks of as soon as they hear the word ‘Mediterranean’.
The Blush Pink and Dusty Rose tiles were set close together, with very narrow grout lines in between. This brought to mind the arrangement of pebbles in Greek pebble mosaics, which were and still are popular in floor mosaics.
Design Development
The Rough Sketches
In the rough sketches, wave-like patterns were decided to be added. Dusty pink, almost leaning towards White streaks were added in between to depict the foam in between the waves.
The Overall Look
The overall look was to suggest a Greek-Mediterranean style. The colours and pattern of this mosaic were designed accordingly. Abstract winding lines symbolising the sea and colours suggesting natural shades found in those areas.
Materials & Colours
Ceramic was the material of choice for its obvious benefits in outdoor mosaics. While it is great at imbibing any colours it is dyed in, ceramic also withstands the damage done by heat and light very well. Ice Blue, Bright Cobalt and Royal Blue with a contrast of Blush Pink and Dusty Rose were the shades finalised.
The Crafting of This Abstraction
Behind the scenes of artisan craftsmanship:
‘We look forward to collaborating with MEC Artworks again’
— Finasi
Once our design team was satisfied with the design pattern, the work was handed down to our expert team of artisans.
Abstractions are special in their own way, as they always leave room open for last-minute inspirations or changes. This mosaic was no different.
MEC Artworks prepared this mosaic in the usual sections. Finasi was informed after the completion of the first section. It was only after their approval that the second section was started.
Our team set the tesserae close together in the background of the mosaic. Blush Pink and Dusty Rose coloured tiles were set in strips with very thin columns of grout in between.
The idea was to give the feel of ‘pebble mosaics’, which are crafted from pebbles placed together closely in rows. A well-loved style for floor mosaics in Greece, Rome and the Mediterranean region.
Glimpses of the Aegean Sea were visible in the Cobalt Blue winding lines that ran through the length of the mosaic.
Abstract Mosaics Can Never Be Outdated
‘The completed artwork was a beauty to behold’
— Director, The Four Seasons Hotel
Another spectacular abstraction completed by MEC Artworks.
The most attractive feature in abstract mosaics is the variety of narratives one may find in them.
Each individual will read an abstract mosaic in their own way. In fact, even one person may interpret it in several different ways depending upon their mood and frame of mind.
This abstract mosaic, crafted for GAIA, a Greek-Mediterranean restaurant soon to be launched in The Four Seasons Hotel in Abu Dhabi, carried with it a certain mood. It could be felt when the artwork was installed on a facade at the entrance of the restaurant.
Blush Pink and Dusty Rose tesserae patterns exuded elegance and finesse. They clearly pointed out the fact that this spot was perfect for fine dining.
The blues symbolise the sea and the air of relaxation that is felt when one is at the beach.
A fantastic piece of art emanating brilliance and poise.
FAQs
Will mosaics fade or lose their appearance because of strong UV exposure?
No, they won’t, if the right materials are used. High-quality ceramic tiles with stable, durable surface finishes are made to retain their colour and appearance under extreme sunlight. For a hotel restaurant exterior, the mosaic should be crafted with UV-resistant materials and installation products to help preserve the artwork over time.
How to protect mosaics from Abu Dhabi’s dust, sand, and humidity?
For installations in the GCC, MEC Artworks uses exterior-rated adhesives and grout selected for the local environment. When the right type of grout is used and a mosaic is properly sealed, the accumulation of dirt can be avoided. Absorption of moisture is reduced too. For regular cleaning, appropriate, non-abrasive products can keep the artwork looking new.
Can a ceramic abstract mosaic withstand Abu Dhabi’s extreme heat and sun?
Yes. Properly specified exterior-grade ceramics are suitable for Abu Dhabi’s hot, sunny climate. The tiles are selected for resistance to high temperatures and UV exposure. Movement joints are kept in the mosaic for movement caused by expansion and contraction. The adhesive, grout, and substrate prepared should also be appropriate for the extreme weather conditions.
Can the abstract mosaic be customised to match the hotel or restaurant’s architecture?
Yes. That is what MEC Artworks is all about. A bespoke ceramic abstract mosaic can be designed around the hotel’s branding image, architectural style, decor, or a theme the hotel is adopting. Shapes, colours, textures, and patterns can be coordinated with the surrounding exterior to create a distinctive focal point.
Verified Client Reviews & Experiences
Start Your Custom Abstract Mosaic
Inspired by this transformation? Share your vision with our studio — and let MEC Artworks craft a bespoke abstract mosaic that reflects your style, space, and story.
