Terrazzo is a timeless material that has enjoyed a return to popularity in recent years. Ancient Egyptians used early forms of this architectural element in their mosaic works. Renaissance-era Venetians perfected terrazzo (which means "terrace" in Italian) when they used bits of marble in their pavement instead of installing more expensive mosaic works. Art Deco and mid-century modern designers in the United States helped make terrazzo the mainstay that it is today. Originally featuring stone chips dispersed throughout a cement surface, this composite material now comes in an array of materials that suit modern bathroom decor.
A Variety of Styles
One of the most wonderful things about terrazzo is that no two samples are exactly alike. The distribution of differently colored chips against a solid background creates a kaleidoscope effect that dazzles while exuding a touch of luxury. These chips may be very small to create a speckled effect or more closely resemble stone slabs to make an oversized statement. Whether you prefer monochromatic neutrals, a variety of color packed into a small area, or something in between, you're sure to find a terrazzo option to suit your design tastes.
Modern Terrazzo for Bathrooms
While the terrazzo of yesteryear typically featured a porous cement base, today's options are more appropriate for a wider range of applications. Epoxy-resin, polyacrylate, and other laminate varieties are better suited to the damp and humidity of modern bathrooms. They're not as likely to be negatively affected by water, bacteria, scratches, and chemicals. Synthetic terrazzo is available in a multitude of palettes, with stone chips, pieces of glass, or acrylic particulates mixed in to create that essential potpourri of shapes and colors.
How to Incorporate It
Ready to jump onto the terrazzo wagon? Today's terrazzo offers multiple installation options. Professionally poured flooring adds an air of opulence to your bathroom. You could also install terrazzo tiles to create an accent wall or statement-making backsplash. Every wall of your bathroom could potentially be covered with these tiles, but if your budget won't allow it, there are terrazzo-inspired printed wallpapers on the market as well. Laminate terrazzo countertops mimic the mosaic effect while being more resistant to damage and everyday wear.
Alternative Accents
If you're not quite ready to totally redesign your bathroom, you still have options for introducing terrazzo into the space. A shower curtain with a bold terrazzo pattern captures the look without requiring the architectural commitment. Seek out terrazzo handles, ring dishes, art prints, or other small accents. And if you keep humidity-friendly plants in your bathroom, they might look great in pots painted with multicolored shapes reminiscent of terrazzo's gloriously random, geometric patterns.
There are plenty of ways to bring timeless-yet-trendy terrazzo into your home. If you're looking for the perfect tub to fit into the terrazzo bathroom of your dreams, feel free to contact us to find the best options available. We'll be happy to assist you!