The Revival of Terazzo: Sustainable Design for the 21st Century

Terrazzo, with its vibrant and captivating patterns, has long been a beloved material in design, gracing floors and surfaces with its unique charm. Originating in 15th century Italy, terrazzo was born out of necessity and ingenuity. Italian craftsmen, seeking to make use of leftover stone fragments such as marble, quartz, and granite, developed this material as a sustainable solution for flooring. The result was not only visually striking but also an early example of reusing and repurposing materials.

However, traditional terrazzo has a downside: its binder, often cement, is a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions, accounting for around 8% of global carbon emissions. In response to this environmental challenge, contemporary designers are reimagining terrazzo for the 21st century, aligning with its original philosophy of reuse while innovating to reduce its environmental impact.

Plasticiet is one such innovator, producing terrazzo-like materials from recycled plastic. By giving new life to discarded plastic, they create stunning, sustainable surfaces that challenge our perceptions of waste. The process involves collecting and melting down discarded plastics from Rotterdam's industrial areas, repurposing them into sheets that mimic the look of traditional terrazzo. Plasticiet’s goal is to “make plastic waste something desirable again, giving it a new, long life in a different form.” Their terrazzo-like materials have been used in various applications, from furniture to interior design, showcasing the versatility and potential of recycled plastic.

Foresso takes a similar approach but focuses on timber waste. Using wood deemed unsuitable for joinery, along with sawmill shavings and plaster from a local foundry, they craft a durable binding material that turns what was once waste into something beautiful and functional.

Five Mile Radius diverts almost half a tonne of concrete waste from landfills by sourcing surplus wet concrete from local building sites to create custom terrazzo tables. This approach not only reduces waste but also showcases how innovative thinking can transform a common construction byproduct into something of enduring value.

Superlocal collaborates with local craftspeople to produce furniture using terrazzo made from discarded glass. This initiative not only repurposes waste but also supports local artisans, blending sustainability with cultural heritage.

These modern interpretations of terrazzo remind us that design can be both beautiful and responsible. By reimagining materials and processes, today’s designers are pushing terrazzo to new heights, creating pieces that not only delight the eye but also positively impact the planet.