Another Brand exploits "endless potential" of terrazzo for table collection

Terrazzo flooring, a material with a rich history dating back to 15th-century Venice, is re-emerging as a sustainable and aesthetically versatile choice in modern design. Historically created by embedding marble scraps into a binder, terrazzo is celebrated for its ability to transform waste into a durable and beautiful surface. This ancient practice aligns seamlessly with contemporary sustainability efforts, as designers and homeowners increasingly seek materials that offer longevity and minimize environmental impact. Eco Outdoor, an Australian-founded company, is at the forefront of this circular design movement, innovating new applications for terrazzo. Ben Kerr, Founding CEO and Product Innovator at Eco Outdoor, highlights the company's philosophy of utilizing "unloved" offcuts and stone industry waste to create unique flooring formats. This approach addresses the millions of tons of waste generated annually by the stone industry, demonstrating that responsible design can be both visually captivating and ethically sound. Each terrazzo tile produced by Eco Outdoor represents a step towards reducing waste, proving that sustainable choices do not necessitate an austere aesthetic. Terrazzo's modularity makes it particularly well-suited for seamless indoor-outdoor living, a popular trend in modern homes. Its robust nature allows it to withstand various weather conditions, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications, such as kitchens extending to patios or living rooms opening into gardens. When integrating terrazzo into a home remodel, manufacturers like Eco Outdoor often ship products in large formats to minimize material waste during production, encouraging significant design statements like expansive flooring or countertops. This material serves as an architectural anchor, with its resilience and monolithic patterns shining through in areas like floors and staircases. From a longevity perspective, terrazzo is an exceptionally durable option, often lasting for the entire lifespan of a building, sometimes exceeding 75 to 100 years. This "forever floor" characteristic significantly reduces the need for frequent replacements, contributing to lower embodied carbon in buildings. Modern terrazzo has evolved from its traditional cementitious base to include epoxy resin binders, which offer enhanced durability, a broader color palette, and quicker installation times. The aggregate options have also expanded beyond marble to include recycled glass, reclaimed stone, mother-of-pearl, and industrial byproducts, allowing for diverse aesthetic possibilities. Eco Outdoor, for instance, blends terrazzo with natural stone and terracotta to create palettes that evoke both historical charm and contemporary freshness, aligning with a broader trend towards materials that introduce texture and life into living spaces. Terrazzo makes a significant impact in entryways, setting a confident tone for visitors due to its vibrant colors and distinct patterns, unlike the neutral effect of natural stone. It also adds an inspirational element to bathrooms, working well for vanities and shower walls to create a clean, monolithic appearance. The material's longevity is a key sustainability advantage; it can be repolished and restored over decades, maintaining its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. This timeless quality allows terrazzo to bridge different design eras, from Art Deco to mid-century modern, and fit comfortably into contemporary lofts. Understanding the distinction between epoxy terrazzo and cement-based terrazzo is crucial for selection. Epoxy terrazzo, favored for interiors, is lightweight, offers vibrant colors, cures quickly, and has low VOC emissions. Cement-based terrazzo, ideal for outdoor spaces or older buildings with moisture concerns, is heavier and thicker but offers breathability. Both systems involve mixing a base with aggregates like marble chips, glass, or granite. Terrazzo can be poured in place for a seamless finish or installed as precast tiles, which are manufactured off-site and offer easier installation. The design flexibility is extensive, allowing for custom patterns, colors, and aggregate combinations using divider strips, making each floor a unique work of art. While the initial cost of terrazzo can be higher than other flooring options, its exceptional durability, low maintenance, and resistance to chemicals and bacteria make it a cost-effective choice over its long lifecycle, aligning with LEED Rating System credits for sustainability. Maintenance is simple, involving daily dust mopping and periodic deep cleaning with pH-neutral cleaners to preserve its pristine condition. #TerrazzoFlooring #SustainableDesign #CircularEconomy #HomeDesign #InteriorArchitecture #EcoOutdoor #MaterialInnovation #LongevityInDesign #GreenBuilding

The field of interior design is currently witnessing a resurgence of old-world products, which are being reinterpreted with modern sensibilities. This trend is particularly evident in the growing popularity of flecked surfaces, which are gaining traction among designers and consumers alike. These surfaces, often characterized by their intricate patterns and varied textures, offer a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary aesthetic appeal. The 2023 Hospitality Giants report highlights this movement, indicating a strong interest in incorporating these materials into modern design schemes. One prominent example of this trend is Max Lamb’s Marmoreal, a collection of large-aggregate terrazzo slabs and tiles available in White from Dzek. Terrazzo, a composite material made of chips of marble, quartz, granite, or glass set in a binder, has a rich history dating back to ancient Egypt. Lamb's interpretation reintroduces this classic material with a bold, contemporary scale, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from wall coverings to furniture. The use of large aggregates creates a distinctive visual texture, providing a modern twist on a traditional material. Another notable contribution comes from StudioCharlie with their Fossili terrazzo charger by MIPA. This piece showcases the versatility of terrazzo beyond architectural surfaces, demonstrating its potential for decorative and functional objects within a space. The charger's design emphasizes the material's aesthetic qualities, transforming a utilitarian item into a statement piece that blends old-world craftsmanship with modern design principles. For those seeking more refined options, Artistic Tile offers the Geotzzo Ribbon Black honed terrazzo tile. This tile features a sophisticated black base with subtle flecks, presenting a sleek and elegant option for contemporary interiors. The honing process provides a smooth, matte finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the terrazzo and making it an ideal choice for luxury residential and commercial projects. Its wavy pattern adds a dynamic visual element while maintaining a sense of classic sophistication. Ann Sacks contributes to this trend with their Terrazzo Form Waterfall tile in Vicenza. This tile features a blend of white and darker flecks, creating a natural and organic appearance. The 'Waterfall' designation likely refers to its ability to create a seamless flow when installed, making it suitable for large surface areas like floors and walls. The Vicenza variant brings a regional Italian influence, connecting the material back to its historical European roots while presenting it in a modern format. Beyond traditional stone-based materials, innovation in flecked surfaces also extends to sustainable options. SAS Minimum's Le Pavé surfacing, made of crushed plastic waste, exemplifies this eco-conscious approach. This material, shown in a custom colorway at Sonia Rykiel in Paris, offers a vibrant and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional surfaces. The process of repurposing plastic waste into a durable and aesthetically pleasing material not only addresses sustainability concerns but also introduces a unique, rainbow-speckled texture that is distinctively modern. This application demonstrates that flecked surfaces can be both beautiful and responsible, aligning with contemporary values of environmental stewardship in design. These diverse examples highlight how flecked surfaces, whether through traditional terrazzo or innovative recycled materials, are bridging the gap between historical design and modern aesthetics, offering designers a rich palette of textures and patterns. #FleckedSurfaces #Terrazzo #InteriorDesign #ModernDesign #OldWorldStyle #SustainableMaterials #TileDesign #HospitalityDesign #ArchitecturalSurfaces

Marazzi introduces Terramater, the latest addition to its Crogiolo series, a collection of porcelain stoneware that combines Italian raw materials with a heritage spanning 90 years. The collection is manufactured using 60% recycled content and features special glazes that merge with a red body during firing, resulting in organic depth and a palette of seven rich, 1970s-inspired colors. This new offering reaffirms Marazzi's commitment to sustainability and innovation within the global tile industry. Marazzi's origins trace back to 1935 when Filippo Marazzi established a ceramics factory in Sassuolo, Italy. What began as a modest operation evolved into a benchmark for the global tile industry, largely due to Filippo's emphasis on research and experimentation. Over its nine-decade history, Marazzi has consistently translated new languages, anticipated changes, and captured emerging trends in living, architecture, design, and interior and exterior spaces. The brand's dedication to sustainability, coupled with its focus on aesthetics and technology, has maintained its leadership position. The company's vision has led to significant transformations, including increased production capacity at its Fiorano and Finale Emilia sites, renovation of its historic factories in Sassuolo, and upgrades to its research laboratories. This spirit of innovation and technology, applied to versatile materials, culminated in the creation of the Crogiolo series. This series blends the tactile richness of traditional techniques with advanced production precision, offering a unique synthesis of authenticity and performance. Crogiolo represents a return to a human touch in ceramics, radiating warmth and timelessness that transcends fleeting trends. The name 'Crogiolo' itself carries historical significance, referring to the original factory where Marazzi began. In the 1980s, this factory became a creative laboratory, inviting architects, designers, artists, and photographers to explore ceramics' expressive potential. The restoration and public reopening of this original factory as a cultural venue pays tribute to the company's experimental roots. This history also inspired the influential 'Sperimentazioni' series, featuring works by notable artists, documented in the 'Il Crogiolo' booklets, which continue to inspire Marazzi's research today. The latest Crogiolo collections, including Terramater, build upon this legacy by celebrating craftsmanship, innovation, and the emotional resonance of ceramic surfaces. Terramater stands out as a porcelain stoneware collection crafted from Italian raw materials and containing 60% recycled content. Its unique surfaces are achieved through glazes that fuse with the red body during firing, creating a layered, organic depth suitable for both floor and wall coverings. The palette of seven deep, earthy tones results from the reaction between glaze and natural oxides, evoking 1970s ceramic aesthetics. The collection also reinterprets vintage dimensions and formats through a contemporary lens, allowing for diverse visual rhythms. Terramater features a modular system with one square and two rectangular tiles, offering extensive compositional possibilities. Two three-dimensional structures enhance the collection: Ritmo, with its parallel stripes and elongated shape, uses a ridged texture of burnt sienna glaze to play with light and shadow, and Losanga, which draws on classical decorative motifs with red-glaze reliefs. These surfaces are designed to structure the atmosphere of a space, adding depth and tactile identity. Terramater is the culmination of extensive research into materials, glazes, and chromatic nuances. It also commemorates the 50th anniversary of Marazzi’s revolutionary single-firing patent, which significantly reduced energy consumption and production time, anticipating the urgent need for sustainability and circular production in the ceramics sector. This innovation demonstrates that aesthetic appeal and tradition can coexist with technological advancement. Marazzi's global expansion, marked by flagship stores in major design capitals, reinforces its influential presence in architecture and interiors, serving as cultural platforms for dialogue and inspiration. As part of the Marazzi Group under Mohawk Industries Inc., Marazzi continues to blend Italian craftsmanship, design culture, and continuous reinvention while maintaining its global market position. #Terramater #Marazzi #PorcelainStoneware #SustainableDesign #CeramicTiles #InteriorDesign #RecycledContent #ItalianDesign #MaterialInnovation

SolidNature, a Dutch stone supplier known for collaborating with architects and designers on custom projects, frequently accumulates offcuts from its high-profile commissions. Recognizing the potential in these leftover materials, the company engaged Budde, a design studio based in Cologne, Germany, to explore innovative ways to repurpose them. This collaboration resulted in the creation of 'Five x Seven,' a limited-edition furniture collection comprising five distinct tables: a console, and various coffee and side tables. The Budde studio, led by founders Johannes Budde and Meike Papenfuss, developed a concept that showcases the inherent beauty and variety of natural stone. The collection utilizes seven different types of stone, including marble, onyx, granite, and travertine, sourced from SolidNature's inventory of offcuts. Each table is meticulously crafted by combining slabs of these diverse stones, which are then layered together to create a visual effect reminiscent of sedimentary rock formations. A distinctive design element of the collection is a slim, carved arch integrated into all four sides of each piece. The layered construction of the tables results in muted stripes of cream, pink, green, and gray, offering a dynamic aesthetic that changes depending on the viewing angle. This design approach not only highlights the unique characteristics and rich color palette of each stone type but also addresses the issue of material waste by transforming what would otherwise be discarded into valuable and aesthetically pleasing furniture. The 'Five x Seven' collection is presented as a limited edition, emphasizing its exclusivity and artisanal nature. However, SolidNature also offers the possibility of custom pieces, allowing clients to commission tables tailored to their specific preferences and design needs, further expanding the collection's adaptability and appeal. The collection is exclusively available through the Rossana Orlandi Gallery, a renowned platform for contemporary design that champions innovative and sustainable practices. The partnership with Rossana Orlandi underscores the collection's artistic merit and its place within the high-end design market. By transforming remnants into sophisticated furniture, the 'Five x Seven' collection demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design principles while celebrating the enduring appeal and versatility of natural stone. #furnitureDesign #naturalStone #SolidNature #BuddeStudio #tableCollection #sustainableDesign #RossanaOrlandiGallery #interiorDecor #materialInnovation

Electronic waste, or e-waste, significantly contributes to the global trash problem, with gadgets and devices frequently ending up in landfills at the end of their lifecycle. Joe Doucet, a designer known for his minimalist and thought-provoking aesthetic, has addressed this challenge by creating a piece of furniture that highlights the potential for repurposing discarded materials into functional and aesthetically pleasing objects. Doucet's OLO Table is a prime example of sustainable design, crafted from electronic waste such as old refrigerators, keyboards, and computer mice, which are given a new purpose. The core material used in the OLO Table is Polygood Oyster, manufactured by The Good Plastic Company. This material is made from polystyrene meticulously extracted from various electronic waste sources. Once collected, the polystyrene undergoes a thermoforming process, utilizing heat and pressure to mold it into the desired shapes, specifically for the table's base. The distinctive characteristic of Polygood Oyster is its inherent beauty derived from the recycling process; it retains colorful flecks and fragments from its original electronic components. These visual elements are not considered imperfections but rather serve as a historical narrative, with each table subtly telling the story of its previous life. This unique visual aspect adds considerable depth and character to the OLO Table, making it a compelling conversation piece. The table's design further reinforces its sustainability message through its fluid geometry, featuring a seamless and monolithic top that transitions into semi-circular legs. This continuous form visually embodies the closed-loop design philosophy advocated by both Joe Doucet and The Good Plastic Company. This approach emphasizes the cyclical nature of materials, where discarded resources are reintegrated into a closed system, thereby minimizing waste and maximizing material value. More than just an attractive furniture item, the OLO Table conveys a significant message about circularity and the inherent value found in waste. By utilizing discarded electronics, Doucet directly confronts the escalating issue of e-waste, transforming what is typically considered refuse into a desirable and practical object. This innovative method challenges conventional perceptions of waste and underscores the considerable potential for creative upcycling within the design industry. Although the OLO Table is a unique, one-off creation with no current plans for mass production, it stands as a powerful statement on sustainable practices. #Ewaste #SustainableDesign #ClosedLoopDesign #FurnitureDesign #RecycledMaterials #PolygoodOyster #JoeDoucet #ProductDesign #CircularEconomy

Terraformæ, an experimental design and research hub, is dedicated to contemporizing and elevating the role and scope of terracotta. This initiative extends the legacy of Fornace Sant’Anselmo, a company established in 1903 in Padua by the De Checchi family, which pioneered the production of fired bricks and later became a leader in soft mud and facing bricks. Terraformæ, founded by Alberto de Checchi with Sveva Bizzotto as Creative Director and Carlo Zambon as laboratory specialist, aims to push the boundaries of clay-centered design and product ideation by bringing together international experts, designers, architects, and researchers. Clay, known for its temperamental nature, requires extensive study and understanding to effectively merge vision with technique. Even minor adjustments in production parameters, such as kiln temperature or ingredient composition, can yield significantly varied results. Terraformæ's core team has mastered working with clay, adopting a bold, experience-based, and detail-oriented approach mirroring their parent company. The hub continuously develops research, strategies, and methods to address challenges through comprehensive analysis. Terraformæ’s operational philosophy is centered on flexibility and efficiency. The studio has invested in advanced technology and emphasizes versatility in its processes. This includes maintaining multiple production lines with various clay mixes ready for immediate use and fine-tuning firing processes to meet specific temperature requirements. This meticulous approach intensifies terracotta’s inherent charm and aesthetic appeal. One of Terraformæ’s innovative approaches involves embracing the material's imperfections. Sveva Bizzotto’s Potoro collection exemplifies this by offering a fresh interpretation of the traditional Potoro technique. Historically, this technique uses fine inorganic pigments to unify the colors of bricks from different production batches after firing. Bizzotto, however, employs a soothing watercolor effect, highlighting terracotta’s diverse design potential rather than concealing variations. Other concepts developed by Terraformæ challenge conventional perceptions. Pietro Bongiana and Silvia Codato’s Split tiles, for instance, reinterpret the joint—an element typically minimized—by enhancing it. The Bongiana Architetture studio designed terracotta tiles with a groove, either diagonal or straight, that divides the surface. Once installed, this groove is filled with colored grout, forming a rhythmic line motif that integrates the joints into the overall pattern. Multifunctionality is another key aspect of Terraformæ’s work. Swedish-American designer Shane Schneck, inspired by Terraformæ’s kiln, created Radiator. This versatile brick item, suitable for domestic use, draws inspiration from the extruded elements of breezeblocks and sunshades. Its wave-like shape makes it a adaptable object holder for various contexts. Through systematic experimentation and a continuous quest for discovery, Terraformæ and its global collective of creatives are actively exploring new territories for terracotta, demonstrating a commitment to innovative and expansive uses of this ancient material. #TerracottaDesign #MaterialInnovation #ClayCraftsmanship #SustainableDesign #ProductDesign #ArchitecturalMaterials #DesignResearch #ItalianDesign #ModernCraft

Meganite Inc. has introduced a new product line called True Terrazzo, a collection of solid surfaces designed to mimic the appearance of traditional terrazzo. This new line is composed entirely of acrylic, offering a modern interpretation of a classic design aesthetic. The company highlights that these surfaces are non-porous, a characteristic that naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria and mildew, making them a practical choice for various applications, especially in environments where hygiene is a priority. The True Terrazzo collection is currently available in a selection of seven distinct colors, providing designers and consumers with multiple options to integrate this look into their projects. Solid surfaces, such as the True Terrazzo collection, are engineered materials used for countertops, sinks, and other surfacing applications in kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces. They are typically made from a blend of acrylic or polyester resins, fillers (like alumina trihydrate), and pigments. The primary advantages of solid surfaces include their non-porous nature, which makes them highly resistant to stains and easy to clean, as well as their ability to be seamlessly joined, creating an almost invisible seam. This seamless integration also makes them inherently hygienic, as there are no crevices for dirt, bacteria, or mold to accumulate. Terrazzo, the traditional material that inspired this collection, is a composite material poured in place or precast, used for floors, walls, baseboards, stairways, countertops, and other custom products. It consists of chips of marble, quartz, granite, glass, or other suitable materials, poured with a cementitious binder (for chemical binding) or a polymeric binder (for physical binding). After it cures, it is ground and polished smooth, or otherwise finished, to produce a uniformly textured surface. The aesthetic appeal of terrazzo lies in its speckled, varied appearance, which True Terrazzo aims to replicate with the added benefits of modern solid surface technology. Meganite's True Terrazzo, being 100% acrylic, offers excellent workability, allowing for thermoforming into various shapes and designs, a feature that might not be as readily available with traditional terrazzo. The color palette of seven new hues suggests an effort to provide contemporary options while retaining the timeless appeal of terrazzo. The product is categorized under "Countertops & Surfacing Materials," indicating its primary use in these areas. The focus on hygiene through its non-porous property is a significant selling point, particularly for residential and commercial applications where cleanliness and durability are paramount. #SolidSurface #TerrazzoInspired #AcrylicSurfaces #NonPorous #Countertops #KitchenDesign #BathDesign #InteriorMaterials

Entler Studio, initially known for its lighting products, has expanded its ceramic offerings to include planters and end tables, applying its distinctive sculptural aesthetic to new home furnishing categories. The new collection features Ceramic Planters, characterized by their three-legged, round-bodied design, and Beginning End Tables, which echo the brand's signature bulbous forms. These new pieces were developed from founder Jonathan Entler's vision to create a fully branded room environment. The studio's exploration into planters and tables posed unique challenges due to the inherent complexities of slipcast ceramic as a material. However, Entler Studio emphasizes the sustainable aspect of ceramic production, noting that greenware and bisqueware can be endlessly recycled. The Ceramic Planters are available in various finishes, including a satin matte that accentuates the soft shadows and curves of the design, and a high-shine, gummy jewel-like finish achieved through applying up to 15 coats of glaze. This meticulous glazing process highlights the studio's commitment to a high level of finish and visual appeal. The planters are designed to hold plants, serving both a functional and decorative purpose within interior spaces. The accompanying Beginning End Tables come in two heights, providing versatility for different uses and arrangements, while maintaining a cohesive visual language with the planters through their glossy, mirror-topped surfaces and solid, sculptural forms. The design of the high-top table is a minimal extrusion of the side table, ensuring consistency across the collection and simplifying production processes. Jonathan Entler also prioritizes sustainability in the production and packaging of these new items. The studio has made significant strides in minimizing waste by reducing inorganic materials by 80%, substituting traditional plastic and foam packaging with more environmentally friendly wood and recycled paper. This initiative is particularly impactful for ceramic products, which are typically challenging to ship and require substantial packaging, thereby reducing pollution and enhancing environmental safety. Entler Studio, founded in Los Angeles in 2015, began with the objective of creating a format of cast ceramic that could be assembled into larger lighting fixtures. Following extensive experimentation, the studio successfully launched its initial lighting collection, which quickly gained popularity. The brand now offers endlessly customizable pieces in a wide array of 32 colors, signifying its growth and adaptability within the design market. The expansion into planters and tables represents a natural progression for the studio, leveraging its expertise in ceramic craftsmanship and distinctive design philosophy to enrich the broader home furnishings landscape. #Ceramic #CeramicPlanter #HomeFurnishings #IndoorPlanter #JonathanEntler #Planters #SideTable #Sustainability #TableDesign

Terrazzo, a material with thousands of years of history, is experiencing a significant resurgence in contemporary home design, captivating homeowners with its versatile aesthetic and practical advantages. This article explores the enduring appeal of terrazzo tiles and flooring, detailing its composition, benefits, and various applications in modern interiors. Terrazzo is characterized by its unique composition, typically a blend of aggregates like Carrara or Nero Marquina marble, quartz, and onyx, all set within a cement binder. The distinct appearance of each terrazzo piece is determined by the size of these aggregates and the chosen color of the cement, allowing for a wide range of aesthetic possibilities. This inherent customizability makes terrazzo a preferred choice for those seeking a unique surface that offers more visual interest than traditional ceramic tiles or a warmer alternative to marble. One of the primary reasons for terrazzo's sustained popularity is its eco-friendly nature. It is often produced using recycled materials such as glass and natural aggregates, which are bound by resin or concrete. The finishing process, involving polishing, honing, or sandblasting, further enhances its aesthetic and functional qualities, aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable building materials. Durability is another key attribute of terrazzo. Its robust construction makes it exceptionally resilient and more resistant to wear and tear compared to many other tiling materials. This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas within a home. The quality of terrazzo can vary significantly, with Italian-made versions known for their superior production standards that prevent brittleness, porosity, and discoloration, ensuring a long-lasting and high-quality product. Beyond durability, terrazzo offers remarkable versatility. It is water and heat-resistant, and its ease of cutting allows for diverse applications beyond just flooring. Terrazzo is increasingly being utilized for wall tiles, kitchen benchtops, and bathroom surfaces. Its timeless appeal means it can seamlessly integrate into various design styles, from traditional to contemporary, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, provided the appropriate finish is applied. For benchtops, a thickness of at least 30mm is recommended to ensure structural integrity. The design potential of terrazzo is virtually limitless due to its unique appearance and wide array of color options. Custom colors and aggregate mixes can be created, enabling homeowners to achieve anything from a minimalist monochromatic look to an intricate artistic mosaic. This flexibility in design ensures that each terrazzo installation is distinct. From an economic standpoint, terrazzo is a cost-effective investment. Its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements, coupled with its timeless aesthetic, ensure that it remains a valuable and stylish addition to a home over many years. Terrazzo flooring, in particular, offers a subtle yet impactful way to introduce color and texture. Homeowners can select from numerous color combinations, using the aggregates to highlight specific elements in their decor, such as black tapware complementing darker tones in the terrazzo, or a colored basin echoing a hint of pink in the tiles. There are several installation methods for terrazzo flooring: Poured terrazzo flooring represents the traditional and most expensive method, where a wet solution is poured on-site and then honed and polished to achieve the desired finish. This method also allows for custom patterns using metal separators. Tiled terrazzo flooring involves the use of pre-formed tiles, which are more easily transported and installed like any other floor tiles. This option is popular for its versatility and cost-effectiveness, making terrazzo accessible for various surfaces, including wet areas. Hybrid terrazzo flooring provides an even more affordable and convenient solution. These floating floor systems click into place and often come with an insulated underlay. They can be installed quickly on a flat surface like concrete, offering a visual resemblance to real terrazzo while providing sound insulation and a warmer feel underfoot. #TerrazzoTiles #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #FlooringTrends #SustainableMaterials #DurableSurfaces #RenovationIdeas #DesignVersatility

Industrial designer Robin Grasby has launched a new furniture collection crafted from Altrock, a unique material he developed. Altrock is composed of marble offcuts, sourced from luxury marble workshops, suspended in resin. This innovative material, first unveiled at the end of last year, is 87 percent recycled stone, making it a sustainable alternative in the design industry. The inaugural furniture line, showcased at this year's London Design Fair, features three primary pieces: a coffee table, a console, and a dining table. Grasby's intention behind designing these fundamental items was to demonstrate the versatility and adaptability of Altrock. The base designs can be extensively customized to create a wide array of furniture, catering to diverse functional and spatial requirements. Altrock's fabrication method allows for a broad spectrum of colors, achieved by combining different resins with various types of reclaimed stone. The material's unique aesthetic highlights the raw beauty of marble, with its broken edges and chaotic shapes bringing out the natural textures and materiality often lost when marble is used in large, polished slabs. Grasby emphasizes that the material aims to showcase the inherent beauty of marble, which results from millions of years of natural geological processes. A key aspect of Altrock's design flexibility is its mitring technique. This method involves creating angled cuts in the Altrock slabs, which are then rejoined. This allows for the creation of various geometric shapes and gives the appearance of both a solid mass and a folded, sheet-like surface. The process is designed to be highly efficient, with minimal waste generated during cutting and 'folding.' The seamless appearance of the rejoined slabs is further enhanced by a meticulous color-matching technique. This process ensures that the resin used to bond the slabs perfectly complements the base color of the Altrock material and the colors of the embedded marble pieces. Altrock has already found practical applications, such as in Hølte's East London design studio. Here, the material is used to create made-to-order fronts and worktops for IKEA kitchens, showcasing its potential for integration into existing design systems. The launch of the Altrock furniture collection at the London Design Fair aligns with a broader trend towards sustainable design, a significant focus of this year's London Design Festival. The festival featured numerous projects emphasizing recycling and the reuse of materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste. Examples include tableware made from industrial clay waste and an exhibition composed entirely of wooden dowels leftover from a previous installation. Grasby's Altrock collection stands out as a notable contribution to this movement, demonstrating how waste materials can be transformed into high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, and customizable furniture pieces, thereby promoting a more circular economy in design. #Altrock #FurnitureDesign #ReclaimedMarble #SustainableMaterials #LondonDesignFair #Terrazzo #IndustrialDesign #MaterialInnovation #BespokeFurniture

The 'Infinito' table, a limited-edition piece designed by Roberto Lazzeroni for Italian brand Poltrona Frau, showcases a unique green-tinged Rosso Lepanto marble. This rare material was discovered unexpectedly in 2018 within a Turkish cave previously mined for its reddish-purple variant. Nicola Coropulis, CEO of Poltrona Frau, acquired the entire slab after being captivated by its distinct color and origin story. He then enlisted long-term collaborator Roberto Lazzeroni to transform this exceptional marble into a furniture piece. Lazzeroni's design process was significantly influenced by the limited dimensions of the marble slab, which measured 240cm, despite his vision for a 340cm table. His innovative solution involved combining two ellipses, then cutting and diagonally splicing them to form a single, expansive geometrical figure, reminiscent of the yin and yang symbol or infinity, hence the name 'Infinito'. This approach allowed him to overcome the material constraint while creating a visually striking and harmonious design. The table has been produced in a limited run of 72 pieces, highlighting its exclusivity and unique character. The 'Infinito' collection includes two sizes. Eight larger tables feature a double oval shape supported by two white marble bases, each weighing a substantial 491kg. The remaining 64 smaller designs, weighing 286kg each, present a simple oval tabletop with a single base. The inherent variations in the marble's natural patterning ensure that every table is distinct and one-of-a-kind. This emphasis on individuality underscores the collectible nature of the furniture, where each piece tells its own story through its unique material composition. The crafting of these tables took place in Tuscany, with expert marble workers meticulously carving the green Rosso Lepanto tops. The contrasting white bases are sculpted from Carrara marble using advanced high-tech milling processes, which involve a robotic arm with five rotary axes. This combination of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology was crucial for shaping the intricate designs, as highlighted by Lazzeroni. He emphasized that working with such a material requires a deep understanding of both the marble itself and the technological capabilities to manipulate it. Roberto Lazzeroni, born in Pisa and educated in art and architecture in Florence, has a diverse career spanning art, architecture, and design. His collaboration with Poltrona Frau is extensive, with Coropulis describing him as a partner for innovative ideas. Lazzeroni acknowledges the interconnections between art, architecture, and design, noting how these disciplines often influence each other. This interdisciplinary approach is particularly relevant in collectible design, a market that has seen significant growth, offering a new dimension of luxury. Coropulis further explains that the concept of luxury has shifted from ostentation to exclusivity, where limited editions play a vital role in elevating an object's value. The 'Infinito' table, with its foundation in a naturally occurring, unrepeatable material mutation, embodies this contemporary understanding of luxury. Lazzeroni concludes that the table is "exceptional, unique and unrepeatable," underscoring its inherent value and the rare circumstances of its creation. #MarbleTable #FurnitureDesign #RobertoLazzeroni #PoltronaFrau #LimitedEdition #ItalianDesign #CollectibleDesign #RossoLepantoMarble #Craftsmanship

Terrazzo, a composite material featuring marble chippings set into cement, has experienced a significant resurgence in 2018, positioning itself as a leading interior design trend. Originating in Italy over 500 years ago, terrazzo was initially conceived as a sustainable method for repurposing discarded rock fragments. The process involves setting these fragments, which can include marble, glass, or metal, into cement and then polishing the surface to achieve a smooth finish. While traditionally used for flooring, terrazzo's appeal has broadened considerably, becoming a versatile material and aesthetic for various home applications. Its renewed popularity is evidenced by a 316 percent increase in saves for terrazzo-related content on Pinterest, highlighting its widespread adoption and visual appeal. The material's versatility, offering a wide array of color and fragment options, allows it to blend seamlessly with contemporary home aesthetics. Designers are now reimagining terrazzo, moving beyond its traditional role as merely flooring or PVC tiles to incorporate it into more sophisticated and decorative surfaces. This reinterpretation positions terrazzo as an intriguing alternative to materials like granite and concrete, according to Claire O’Brien, head of design and product at British Ceramic Tile. Terrazzo can be integrated into almost any area of the home. John Krause, managing director at Diespeker & Co., notes its suitability for flooring, particularly when poured to create seamless surfaces, and for kitchen countertops. He emphasizes that some terrazzo designs offer a neutral backdrop for vibrant accessories, while others command attention with their bright colors and flamboyant marble combinations. Beyond structural applications, Cassie Deborah, founder of Room 356, points out that the material's pattern is now being used abstractly, inspiring a range of homeware items. This abstract application means consumers can find terrazzo in various products, including lamps, cushion covers, kitchenware, and even rugs, making it accessible for different rooms and design preferences. The article showcases twelve specific terrazzo and terrazzo-print products that exemplify how to incorporate this trend into home decor. These items range from a House by John Lewis Terrazzo Lampshade and a Lorena Canals Terrazzo Washable Rug to a Dassie Artisan Handmade Clay Ceramic Speckled Terazzo Large Jug, Graham & Brown Terrazzo Wallpaper, and a MADE.COM Jett Table Lamp. Other featured products include a John Lewis Terrazzo Shower Curtain, a MADE.COM Ora Coffee Table, a Tom Dixon Terrazzo Candle, a MADE.COM Iggy Outdoor Cushion, a Ferm Living Terrazzo Knot Bean Bag, a House by John Lewis Terrazzo Mug, and Lindsey Lang Nougat Terrazzo Tiles. These examples illustrate the breadth of products available, allowing homeowners to embrace the terrazzo trend in a multitude of ways, from subtle accents to prominent design elements. #Terrazzo #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #DesignTrends #SustainableMaterials #Flooring #HomeFurnishings #2018Trends #DecorativeSurfaces

The article discusses the surging popularity of terrazzo coffee tables as a significant home decor trend, especially following a year of increased time spent at home. Social media platforms like Instagram have become a primary source for interior design inspiration, showcasing various home furnishing trends, with terrazzo coffee tables emerging as a prominent feature. These tables are characterized by their speckled appearance, typically featuring a neutral base color such as cream, beige, or oatmeal, adorned with smaller fragments of stone in deeper hues like black, navy, forest green, or terracotta. The article clarifies the composition and origin of terrazzo, defining it as a composite material traditionally used for floors or walls, with historical roots tracing back to ancient Egyptian mosaics. Terrazzo is created from chips of marble, quartz, granite, and glass, bound together with agents like cement or polymeric. Once cured, the surface is polished to achieve a smooth, uniform finish. This ancient material has been recontextualized and adapted for modern furniture, specifically coffee and end tables, demonstrating its versatility and enduring appeal. Beyond aesthetics, a key aspect highlighted is the sustainability of terrazzo. The material's unique composition often includes recycled elements, making terrazzo coffee tables an eco-conscious choice for consumers looking to enhance their living spaces while also considering environmental impact. This sustainable characteristic adds to the appeal of the trend, aligning with growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly products. Another significant advantage of terrazzo is its durability and ease of maintenance. These qualities contribute to the long-term value and practicality of terrazzo furniture. The article also mentions that each terrazzo piece can be unique and custom-made, catering to individual preferences and ensuring a distinct aesthetic for every home. Despite the potential for customization and perceived luxury, the article reassures readers that acquiring a terrazzo coffee table does not necessarily require a substantial financial investment. The article provides practical guidance for readers interested in incorporating this trend into their homes by listing various terrazzo coffee tables available in the market. Examples include the Matt Blatt Ryan Table in Terrazzoo Spring, the SKULPTURE Coffee Table from Freedom, the Cosmos Coffee Table from Life Interiors, the Jacque Terrazzoo Coffee Table from Lounge Lovers, a Terrazzo Coffee Table from Tim Neve, and the BODHI and SILIND Coffee Tables, also from Freedom. These examples demonstrate the range of options available across different price points and designs, making the trend accessible to a broader audience. Overall, the article positions terrazzo coffee tables as a stylish, sustainable, durable, and versatile home decor item that is both on-trend and practical. It provides context on the material's history and composition, emphasizes its environmental benefits, and offers actionable shopping recommendations, reinforcing its status as a must-have for contemporary interiors. #TerrazzoCoffeeTables #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #SustainableHomewares #FurnitureTrends #EcoFriendlyDesign #HomeStyling #InstagramTrends

The annual ceramic-tile and natural-stone conference, Coverings 2023, held in Orlando, Florida, showcased a significant trend towards graphic-driven designs in tile and stone. The event highlighted innovative and visually compelling products from various manufacturers, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and advancements in material science and sustainability. The selections from the exhibition demonstrate a move towards bolder patterns, sophisticated textures, and environmentally conscious production methods. Anthology Tile presented its Matisse Moonstone ceramic tile, which features a distinctive design inspired by artistic aesthetics. Emilceramica, through its Ergon brand, introduced Pigmento Amaranto indoor/outdoor porcelain wall/floor tiles and large slim-line slabs. These products draw inspiration from the appearance of hand-troweled cement resin, offering a blend of rustic charm and modern durability suitable for various applications. Ceramica Bardelli featured Storagemilano’s Volume white-body porous single-fired wall tiles, distinguished by their extra-glossy finish, adding a luxurious and refined touch to interior spaces. Vidrepur showcased its Belgirate recycled-glass mosaic tile, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and innovative material use. This mosaic tile offers an eco-friendly option without compromising on design quality. Sicis contributed with its Ragtime ceramic mosaic tile, which presents intricate patterns and a classic aesthetic. Lea Ceramiche highlighted Ferruccio Laviani’s Pigmenti, a collection of carbon-neutral, ultra-thin, laminated porcelain stoneware slabs. This product line is notable for its environmental responsibility and its advanced manufacturing techniques that allow for slim profiles and vibrant pigmentation. Ceramica Fioranese’s Riggiole Nero Mix porcelain tiles combine traditional influences with contemporary design. These tiles offer a rich visual texture and are suitable for diverse design schemes. Lastly, Ascot introduced the Joyce Decor Optical porcelain stoneware tiles, which feature dynamic optical patterns. These tiles contribute to creating visually stimulating environments, leveraging geometric and abstract designs to enhance interior aesthetics. Collectively, these highlights from Coverings 2023 indicate a strong emphasis on innovative design, material diversity, and a growing consciousness towards sustainable practices within the tile and stone industry. #Coverings #TileDesign #StoneDesigns #CeramicTile #PorcelainStoneware #InteriorDesign #ProductShowcase #SustainableMaterials

Italian brand Marazzi has unveiled five distinct collections of advanced ceramic and porcelain tiles on Dezeen Showroom, catering to various aesthetic and functional preferences. These collections include antibacterial tiles that mimic wood floorboards and high-gloss stone-effect tiles, demonstrating a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. One of the featured collections is Oltre, a porcelain tile meticulously designed to replicate the appearance of oak floorboards. This collection incorporates an interlocking pattern system that convincingly emulates the natural grain of timber. Available in four colors—white, natural, sand, and caramel—Oltre tiles are versatile for both indoor and outdoor applications. They come with an ultra-matt finish, a slip-resistant coating, and an antibacterial treatment, emphasizing cleanliness and safety. The antibacterial properties make them suitable for spaces where hygiene is a priority, while their durability and aesthetic appeal broaden their applicability in diverse design schemes. Another collection suitable for indoor and outdoor use is Carácter. These porcelain tiles are noteworthy for their composition, which includes 40 percent recycled materials, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The Carácter tiles present an understated stone effect, achieved through a blend of neutral-colored pebbles of varying shapes and sizes. Despite their luminous finish, these tiles are equipped with Marazzi's StepWise coating, providing an anti-slip surface. The collection is offered in six colors, all within the grey and beige spectrum, allowing for subtle yet sophisticated floor and wall treatments. The Crogiolo Rice collection is a series of handmade modular tiles characterized by a high-gloss finish and natural variations. These tiles draw inspiration from traditional majolica tiles, often adorned with plant patterns and featuring a dense glaze. Despite their intentionally irregular surfaces, the tiles possess straight edges, facilitating precise tessellated installations. Available in three sizes, Crogiolo Rice tiles can be arranged in complementary compositions or mixed to create unique designs. The color palette includes white and off-white hues, alongside three distinct designs that feature nature-inspired motifs in blue, offering a decorative element. Completing the showcase is the Crogiolo Lume range, also part of the broader Crogiolo tile collection. This range is similarly modeled after handmade majolica tiles from the Mediterranean region. These glazed tiles are primarily recommended for wall applications but can be used on floors in areas with low-level foot traffic, such as private residences. The Crogiolo Lume tiles are frostproof and resistant to abrasion, ensuring their longevity and versatility. They are available in a vibrant array of mottled colors, including green, blue, white, black, musk, and greige, providing extensive design possibilities for interior spaces. Additionally, Marazzi has updated its Grande Marble Look collection of porcelain slab tiles, engineered to mimic the luxurious appearance of Venetian terrazzo and marble. These tiles, like the other new collections, are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and are skid-resistant. They exhibit striking vein and shade variations, offered in a wide range of colors such as deep green and jet black with dark brown veining, providing sophisticated options for large-format applications. Established in 1935, Marazzi is a prominent Italian ceramic tile manufacturer with a global presence in over 140 countries, offering a comprehensive selection of flooring and wall coverings for various settings, designed to emulate natural materials like wood, concrete, marble, and stone. #Marazzi #CeramicTiles #PorcelainTiles #DezeenShowroom #InteriorDesign #FloorCoverings #WallCoverings #HomeDecor #SustainableMaterials

This article showcases ten diverse home interiors that prominently feature terrazzo flooring, highlighting the material's versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal across various architectural styles and room types. Terrazzo, a composite material with a rich history originating in Venice, traditionally consists of marble or granite chips set in cement, ground, and polished. Modern iterations often utilize resin-based versions, allowing for a broader spectrum of shapes, colors, and patterns. One featured project is the House in Achladies, Greece, by Lydia Xynogala, where striking aquamarine terrazzo flooring extends throughout the house, complementing marble and plaster render and drawing on the region's historical architectural practices. In Melbourne, Australia, Austin Maynard Architects utilized terrazzo in the common areas of RaeRae House, pairing it with wooden paneling and white walls to create bright and open living spaces. Graux & Baeyens Architecten's House C-DF in Belgium showcases terrazzo flooring in an extension to a canalside townhouse, contrasting with existing wooden floorboards. In the bathroom of this project, white terrazzo is used extensively, covering floors and walls, and forming the bathtub and double sink. White Rabbit House in England, renovated by Gundry & Ducker, features diagonal chequerboard terrazzo flooring and a matching staircase. This design choice, combined with green walls and railings, aims for a modern interpretation of a Georgian house. Terrazzo was also employed to clad an extension at the rear of this property. In the Brown Box apartment in Vietnam, Limdim House Studio used terrazzo flooring and surfaces, alongside curving walls and arched niches, to create a calm and gentle ambiance. The studio noted terrazzo's suitability for tropical climates due to its hardness, gloss, and heat dissipation properties. Hall McKnight's Victoria Road house in Northern Ireland incorporates terrazzo tiles with black marble chippings in the living areas, providing a bold contrast to white-painted walls and ceilings. MDDM Studio's House P in China features colorful terrazzo flooring with green, orange, and beige stones, used in conjunction with bright yellow walls and cement flooring to create a vibrant yet balanced palette for a young family. Another project by Graux & Baeyens Architecten, House BL in Belgium, showcases terrazzo covering the floor of a renovated 1960s chalet, including a sunken living space, contributing to a natural color scheme that complements the displayed art and furniture. Mài Apartment in Vietnam by Whale Design Lab utilizes an unusual terrazzo with large white marble chunks to achieve a modernist feel, reflecting the material's popularity in Ho Chi Minh City during the 1950s and 1960s. Finally, Scullion Architects' Churchtown project in Dublin features white terrazzo flooring contrasted with stained oak paneling in a conservatory-like extension, demonstrating an unconventional application of traditional materials in a 1930s semi-detached home. These examples collectively illustrate the diverse applications and enduring appeal of terrazzo as a flooring material in contemporary home interiors. #TerrazzoFlooring #HomeInteriors #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ModernDesign #SustainableMaterials #ArchitecturalFeatures #DesignInspiration #MaterialInnovation