This site uses cookies to give you the best experience. Privacy Policy.
The terrazzo tile was a staple of the 1970’s era before falling out of fashion. However, in recent years the speckled style has enjoyed a renaissance. It can have a straightforward retro look or be updated with more contemporary patterns and colours. Here’s a look at why terrazzo tiles have an enduring appeal, and how you can incorporate them into your home.
Terrazzo is a composite material that usually combines chippings of quartz, granite, marble or glass which are set into concrete or resin. The surface is then polished to give a smooth finish and a pleasing speckled pattern. It’s thought the material was first produced in Ancient Egypt by embedding stones in clay to create a decorative effect.
The terrazzo tiles in form that are still used today were first produced during the Renaissance era in Venice. It’s thought that the technique came about as a way to make use of left over marble chippings from construction sites. They were set into stone and then polished to make attractive floor tiles. The word terrazzo translates to ‘terrace’ in English.
By the late 19th century, terrazzo tiles were in use throughout the rest of Europe and also America, where they can still be seen in public spaces such as parks, railway stations, and older buildings. The use of Portland cement led to more flexibility in the use of other materials, and a greater range of colours and patterns became available.
The tiles were a key element of the mid-century modern design, and became highly popular not just for flooring, but also for kitchen worktops and wall tiles. Today, terrazzo is enjoying a revival not just for its stylish appearance, but also because of its sustainability: it makes use of recycled materials and it’s also highly durable.
Terrazzo tiles have been traditionally used as kitchen backsplashes or for outdoor patio areas. They can also be used as flooring in hallways and porches to make a hard wearing and attractive alternative to stone or wood. Modern designs now offer more choice of colour and material than ever before.
For example, if you want a highly polished high end feel, you could opt for tiles made with resin. This could work very well in a bathroom as it is also highly water and stain resistant. The style is an excellent choice for shower walls and vanity unit countertops.
Terrazzo tiles are being used in less traditional ways, such as to create a feature wall in a living room or for stair risers. They can also make perfect accent pieces for coffee table tops, door handles, or other items of furniture.
They are available in neutral or monochrome tones if you want a more subtle effect, or bright multicoloured patterns if you want to introduce a pop of colour.
Looking for kitchen tiles in London? Please get in touch with us today.
© Total Look Tiles 2024 | All Rights Reserved
