These days modern day terrazzo stone can be found practically everywhere – in homes, commercial spaces, medical institutions, airports and even schools. It has also become a consistent feature in design magazines and architectural style trends. The terrazzo stone is here to stay and rightfully so. What was once pigeonholed as a building material only applicable for institutional use is now making its mark in the design world as a versatile and highly aesthetic frontrunner.
Terrazzo stone first made its appearance when 16th century Venetian artisans made the discovery that they can reuse discarded marble remnants by embedding them into concrete to create patterned floors for the terraces in their homes. Consequently, this is where the term terrazzo was coined- from the Italian word terrazza which means terraces. Over the course of time the terrazzo stone began to make its way to homes and establishments just outside of Italy and then eventually, the rest of the world.
More Than Just for Floors
Terrazzo stone may have started its history as a composite material that was mainly used for flooring but over the years it has become more than just that. As more advanced technologies in making the terrazzo stone have been tried and perfected, the more applications for the material have been discovered. These days the terrazzo stone can be used in a myriad of applications both utilitarian and aesthetical. In fact, more and more people are choosing terrazzo stone over every other available material in the design and architectural landscape today.
The terrazzo stone can be used as kitchen countertops, park bench tops, outdoor furniture, a variety of art installations, stairs, wall panels, pools and many more. Usually only lauded for its durability, terrazzo stone has now made a very strong impression for its flexibility in design and aesthetic qualities. Additionally, because terrazzo can be installed in situ, precast, and even be ready-made, it is most often the logical and default choice to use in spaces of all sizes. So, whether you’re building a small specialty boutique or a vast mall complex, the terrazzo stone will check all the boxes.
In Situ Terrazzo Stone
In situ terrazzo stone is terrazzo that is poured, ground and polished onsite. This technique is ideal for large-scale commercial or institutional spaces. Furthermore, when terrazzo stone is done in situ it can be customized for both low-traffic and high-traffic area.
Precast Terrazzo Stone
Precast terrazzo is perfect for smaller spaces as the terrazzo stone will be manufactured in a covered environment and then transported to the build location where it will then be installed according to build specifications. Precast terrazzo stone is also ideal to use in high-rise commercial and residential spaces.
Ready Made Terrazzo Stone
Terrazzo stone is also available as ready-made tiles for those smaller, decorative purposes such as kitchen backsplashes, outdoor bench and table tops or most any installation that serves as a design focal point or pop of beautiful color and design in an otherwise minimalistic space.
Maintenance is a Breeze
Terrazzo stone is one of the most stress-free when it comes to maintenance. Just make sure to use a neutral-based cleaner, warm water and a soft, non-abrasive fabric for its upkeep.