Terrazzo
Design tip: Terrazzo pairs beautifully with warm metals such as brass or copper for a contemporary yet timeless aesthetic.
Quick Definition
Terrazzo is a durable finish created by mixing colourful stone or glass
aggregates into either a cementitious or epoxy matrix.
After curing, the surface is mechanically ground, grouted, and polished to
reveal a distinctive speckled mosaic.
Historical Background
- 16th-century Venice – Mosaic workers salvaged off-cuts of marble and set them in clay floors of their own homes.
- 1920s United States – Metal divider strips and electric grinders enabled the large, crack-free panels we recognise today.
- 1960s–70s – Adopted in airports, hospitals, and schools for its longevity.
- 21st century – Design resurgence thanks to recycled glass and vivid epoxies.
Composition & Variations
| Variant | Binder | Thickness | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cementitious | Portland cement | 16–19 mm | Classic look, breathable, subtle colours |
| Epoxy (thin-set) | Epoxy resin | 6–10 mm | Thinner, brighter palette, quick cure |
| Rustic / Washed | Cementitious | 19–25 mm | Textured, exterior-friendly |
Good to know: Epoxy terrazzo is for interior use only; cementitious systems withstand freeze–thaw cycles outdoors.
Installation Workflow
- Substrate prep – levelled slab, crack isolation.
- Divider strips – brass, zinc, or aluminium to form patterns.
- Pour / trowel mix – aggregate-rich slurry placed between strips.
- Cure – 24 h (epoxy) or 5–7 d (cement).
- Grind – diamond pads expose chips evenly.
- Grout & polish – fills pinholes, brings sheen.
- Seal – penetrating sealer adds stain resistance.
Where to Use It
- Residential: kitchen counters, shower bases, feature islands
- Commercial: airports, museums, retail concourses
- Outdoor: plazas and pool decks (rustic cementitious variant)
Sustainability Angle
Terrazzo can contain up to 90 % recycled content (glass, porcelain).
Light-coloured mixes reduce urban heat-island effect and the 40-year life cycle
often beats tile on total carbon footprint.
FAQs
Is terrazzo the same as polished concrete?
No. Polished concrete exposes sand & stone already in the slab, whereas terrazzo adds a topping layer with selected aggregates.
Can I DIY terrazzo countertops?
Small precast pieces are DIY-friendly, but in-situ floors require specialist equipment to grind and polish evenly.