Whimsical Bird Mosaic for Katie Unicorn’s Dallas Home Kitchen
“Translating the dandelion’s texture and the bird’s posture into tile took a lot of tweaks, but the subtle gold accents make it sing”
— Design Team
If our studio has a design favorite, it’s animated mosaics, and this feature explores one of our most ambitious animated mosaics to date, alongside the process and people that brought it to life.
Client Brief
When Katie, founder of the creative studio Katie Unicorn, contacted our team, she brought with her a deep love for whimsical design.
Nada, lead design consultant, immediately connected with her vision, and with Katie’s requirement for burstful art.
Her kitchen, defined by white lacquer cabinetry, quartzite countertops, and abundant daylight, was intentionally minimal. The mosaic was meant to become the heart of the space.
Inspiration Moodboard
Katie’s first references were a small but telling trio, a snake, a forest, and a fish scene. All three carried the hallmarks of Kingfisher-style painting. Creatures twist, coil, and glide through the frame, often cropped in interesting ways.
Nada: “Also, I have to say… your Katie Unicorn logo is so cool. It adds a subtle burst of joy and color to your email. Definitely puts a smile on the reader’s face.”
Katie: “Thank you so much for the kind words on my logo, that truly made my day! My design philosophy is entirely based around ‘whimsy’ and inspiring whimsy in others lives, so it truly is wonderful to hear that it brought you joy :)”
She emphasized that the artwork should feel whimsy, like her design approach.
Design Development
Initial Sketches
Our first design presentation introduced several original concepts inspired by her references.
2D & 3D Visualizations
High-resolution tile layouts and 3D renderings illustrated how the mosaic would move across curved and raised areas.
Color Palette & Materials
A refined palette of yellow, blue, and soft white bases, created depth and contrast.
Design Update
As the dialogue continued, Katie revisited the concept with a new perspective. She and her husband had discovered a series of nature-inspired illustrated artworks that resonated more strongly with the feeling they wanted in their home. With the artist’s consent, Katie shared these pieces as new inspiration, featuring birds, branches, and seed heads.
Two distinct directions emerged:
- A bird-focused concept inspired by kingfisher illustrations
- A nature-based concept influenced by The Lost Words
Each was explored with multiple background options, including reflective gold-toned tiles and softly varied stone surfaces.
“As soon as I opened the image I shouted YES!! The bird is perfect!! You and your team nailed it!
Thank you SO much for making the adjustments. I am absolutely thrilled with how this is coming together!”
— Katie Unicorn
As a designer herself, Katie brought exceptional clarity to her feedback. Conversations extended beyond layout into the emotional character of each element, the posture of the birds, the density of the dandelion head.
Regular video calls allowed us to discuss the realities of translating illustration into mosaic without losing its expressive quality.
Final Installed Photos
“Refining the bird’s posture and opening the background made all the differenc”
— Design Team
This design theme is our playground, mosaics where giraffes peer over leafy canopies, monkeys dangle in playful mischief, and birds carve arcs through the air. We’ve done it all.
Our upcoming 2026 Animal Catalog promises an entire menagerie waiting to leap into view.
FAQs
What materials are used in custom kitchen mosaics?
We typically use hand-cut glass, stone, and metallic accent tiles. Each material is chosen to balance color, texture, and reflectivity, ensuring the mosaic complements the kitchen’s design and lighting.
How do I commission a custom mosaic for my home in Dallas or elsewhere?
Start with a design consultation where we discuss your space, style preferences, and desired scale. You can provide inspiration, sketches, or reference images, and our team will guide you through concept development, material selection, and installation.
Can the design be customized to reflect personal style and architecture?
Absolutely. This mosaic was developed through close collaboration with the homeowner, tailoring the color palette, abstract forms, and gold accents to complement both the pool structure and the surrounding landscape.
Are kitchen mosaics durable and easy to maintain?
Yes. When installed with proper sealing and care, glass and stone mosaics are durable, heat-resistant, and easy to clean, making them ideal for areas like backsplashes and feature walls.
Verified Client Reviews & Experiences
Start Your Custom Mosaic
Inspired by this transformation? Share your vision with our studio — and let MEC Artworks craft a bespoke mosaic that reflects your style, space, and story.
