When most people considering using terrazzo as a flooring, countertop, or other surface material they don't often stop to consider the polished concretes varied and interesting history. The terrazzo that is still used to decorate homes and offices today has actually been around since the time of Neolithic Asia. Of course, through scientific advancement and innovation, the new products available are quite advanced. However, no matter the time period, the main draw has remained the same, to create a beautiful surface.
9000 – 8000 BC Western Asia
During this time terrazzo was a mixture of burnt lime and clay that was colored with ocher to achieve its signature red color. Once the mixture had set it was then polished to make it more attractive and durable. Terrazzo is still similarly installed today. For the time period this method was quite innovative and created a floor that was impenetrable by moisture and was durable. The fact that these floors are still being uncovered in present day goes to show how long terrazzo will last.
16th Century Venice
The rise in popularity during the 16th century can be attributed to the great mosaic artists of Venice. These workers turned to terrazzo as a way to reuse the marble chips that would otherwise go to waste from their other projects. They were still very beautiful but had no real purpose until the rise of terrazzo. These artists began to use the pieces around their own homes and developed the first sealer when they realized that some spilled goats milk brought out the amazing colors of the marble. It only made sense to develop a product that would show off the colors and sheen indefinitely.
Late 1800's – Coming to America
It was not until the late 1800's that terrazzo made its way across the ocean to America. The very first terrazzo was laid in 1890 on Fifth Avenue in New York in the Vanderbilt residence. During this time mosaic was still preferred but from 1900 – 1915 there was an insurgence of Italian migrant workers that were skilled in the art of terrazzo and brought about the big terrazzo boom.
In the 1920's the surface material took off and was finally beginning to be recognized for its true potential. The medium was ideal for the Art Deco styles that were popular. It was installed in many of the Nation's most famous buildings included Radio City Music Hall and the State Building.
During the uprising in popularity, innovations were also discovered and designed in the field of dividers. The dividers made it possible to create detailed and intricate designs creating a much more versatile product.
Present Day
Today terrazzo has again become a popular flooring option. The variety is greater than ever and anything you can imagine is possible. There are all new polishes and these colors are limitless. Terrazzo is now used for everything from luxurious countertops to private residential homes. Yet the uses don't end there. Whatever you can imagine, is possible. The world of terrazzo is limitless. Whether you need an indoor or outdoor surface, terrazzo is the material to use.
