THE RENAISSANCE OF TERRAZZO
Few architectural materials can match the rich history and contemporary appeal of terrazzo. This distinctive surface, born from humble beginnings in 15th century Venice, has evolved from a thrifty (and sustainable!) solution for marble workers to one of today’s most sought-after design elements – and with good reason. Modern interpretations, like the stunning new Terrazzo collection from Douglas Jones – South Africa’s largest unique provider of on-trend mosaics and tile décor products – are breathing fresh life into this centuries-old art form.
Originally, Venetian craftsmen discovered they could create beautiful surfaces by embedding marble chips into clay terraces – “terrazzo” literally means “terrace” in Italian. These resourceful artisans found that by mixing discarded marble fragments with clay and polishing the surface, they could create durable, decorative flooring and surfaces that were both practical and visually striking. What began as a way to use stone off-cuts soon became a sophisticated art form, gracing the floors of palazzos and churches throughout Europe. Michelangelo even used it to design the majestically patterned floors of St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and terrazzo experienced its first major renaissance during the Art Deco period, where it became a hallmark of luxury in grand hotels and public buildings. The material’s vast colour combinations and durability made it a natural choice for high-traffic areas that demanded both style and substance.
Today, terrazzo is experiencing another magnificent revival, reimagined for contemporary spaces in exciting new ways. Douglas Jones’s beautiful Terrazzo collection brilliantly marries traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities – and is perfect for a summer style update, capturing the carefree beauty of a summer escape to Italy. The collection showcases terrazzo’s versatility in wall applications, offering two distinct profiles that cater to different aesthetic preferences.
The collection’s Kitkat profile brings a fresh perspective with its elongated, narrow shape – perfect for creating visually striking feature walls that draw the eye upward and enhance the sense of space, making it ideal for sleek, contemporary feature walls. The Punkah profile offers a bolder statement, its broader form adding sophisticated texture and depth to any room. Both profiles are crafted from natural stone and are available in four distinctive stone types, providing designers and homeowners with the flexibility to create truly personalised spaces.
What makes this collection particularly relevant for modern living is its adaptability to both wet and dry areas. Whether installed in a luxurious bathroom, a contemporary kitchen, or as a statement feature wall, the material performs beautifully while maintaining its timeless appeal. This versatility, combined with the material’s inherent durability, makes it an intelligent choice for today’s design-conscious homeowner.
The beauty of contemporary terrazzo lies in its ability to bridge different design styles. It can serve as a sophisticated backdrop in a minimalist space, add character to a modern industrial setting, or complement traditional décor with its timeless elegance. The Douglas Jones collection captures this versatility while emphasising the natural beauty of stone, aligning perfectly with the current trend toward organic materials in interior design.
