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Terrazzo

If you are looking for a flooring system with great design opportunities, then there’s no flooring system out there like Terrazzo. That is because Terrazzo offers architects and designers the option of creating almost any design imaginable.

Precast Terrazzo

Precast terrazzo is a seamless and elegant option to continue the aesthetic of a project on a variety of surfaces. The versatility of terrazzo allows us to produce intricate custom designs from floor to ceiling.

Terrazzo Art

When planning a new construction or remodeling project, often flooring is selected to match a combination of styles or materials. But what if the flooring was the focal point of your project?

For Designers

For designers, terrazzo offers a unique combination of beauty, durability, and versatility. Its ability to be customized to fit any design aesthetic, along with its sustainable and long-lasting nature, makes it an attractive option for a wide range of applications. Whether used in flooring, countertops, or decorative elements, terrazzo continues to be a timeless and innovative material in the world of design.

We are happy to collaborate with Designers to develop custom Terrazzo samples

Why Terrazzo

Terrazzo, a composite material known for its durability and design versatility, has become a popular choice among designers for both residential and commercial spaces. Originally developed in Italy over 500 years ago, terrazzo was initially used as a cost-effective flooring solution by combining marble chips with cement. Today, modern terrazzo offers a wide range of aesthetic and functional benefits, making it a favored material in contemporary interior design.

Composition and Types

Terrazzo is composed of chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, or other suitable materials, poured with a binder that is either cementitious (cement-based) or epoxy (resin-based). These chips are then ground and polished to create a smooth, uniform surface. The type of binder used can affect the appearance and properties of the terrazzo:

Cementitious Terrazzo: This traditional form uses a cement binder and offers a more classic, natural stone look. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use but requires more maintenance compared to epoxy terrazzo.
Epoxy Terrazzo: This modern version uses a resin binder, allowing for a broader range of colors and designs, including intricate patterns and custom logos. It is less porous than cementitious terrazzo, making it more resistant to stains and easier to maintain, but it is generally recommended for indoor use only.

Aesthetic Flexibility

One of the key attractions of terrazzo for designers is its aesthetic flexibility. The wide variety of aggregate materials and colors available means that terrazzo can be customized to fit any design vision, from subtle and understated to bold and dramatic. Designers can create bespoke patterns, incorporate brand colors, or even replicate the appearance of natural stone or other materials.

Durability and Sustainability

Terrazzo is renowned for its durability. Properly installed and maintained terrazzo can last for decades, even in high-traffic areas, making it an excellent investment for commercial spaces such as airports, schools, hospitals, and shopping centers. Its longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to sustainability goals.

Furthermore, terrazzo can be an environmentally friendly choice. It often includes recycled materials, and its long lifespan reduces the overall environmental impact. Some manufacturers also offer terrazzo products with low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions, enhancing indoor air quality.

Applications

While flooring remains the most common application for terrazzo, designers are increasingly exploring its use in other areas:

Countertops and Backsplashes: Terrazzo can be used to create eye-catching countertops and backsplashes in kitchens and bathrooms.
Wall Cladding: As a wall cladding material, terrazzo adds texture and visual interest to feature walls or entire rooms.
Furniture: Terrazzo is being used to craft unique furniture pieces, such as tables and benches, providing a modern and artistic touch.
Outdoor Spaces: In addition to interior applications, cementitious terrazzo is suitable for outdoor use, such as in patios, walkways, and pool surrounds.

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FAQ

What are the benefits of using terrazzo in interior design?

Terrazzo is celebrated for its durability, aesthetic versatility, and sustainability. It can last for decades with proper maintenance, making it a cost-effective choice over time. The wide range of aggregate materials and colors allows for custom designs, fitting various aesthetic preferences. Additionally, terrazzo often includes recycled materials and can have low VOC emissions, contributing to environmentally friendly design projects.

How do you maintain terrazzo surfaces?

Terrazzo floors have ease of maintenance, but this does not mean that no care is required. Once you understand the care requirements in the early stages of a newly installed terrazzo floor, you lessen the possibility of future problems and recognize the economy of maintenance of this product. Following these instructions will get your new or existing floor to look its best and will help to realize the long-term benefits of the low-maintenance cost of caring for a terrazzo floor.

To help prevent stains and damage to terrazzo, spills should be cleaned up as quickly as possible.

The following are minimum recommendations; however please note that each situation will be different.

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What are the different applications of terrazzo in design?

While traditionally used for flooring, terrazzo has expanded into various other design applications. It is now commonly used for countertops, backsplashes, wall cladding, and even furniture. These applications leverage terrazzo’s aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, allowing designers to create cohesive and visually striking interiors. Its versatility makes it suitable for both residential and commercial spaces, adding a modern and artistic touch to any environment.