Terrazzo Floors: The Retro Trend Making a Comeback
By Granite Heroes Team · 2025-08-09
Terrazzo is back in a big way. Learn about this durable, artistic flooring and how to keep vintage terrazzo looking fresh.
Terrazzo Floors: The Retro Trend Making a Comeback Once dismissed as dated mid-century flooring, terrazzo is having a major design moment. And we're here for it. What Is Terrazzo? Terrazzo is a composite material made by embedding chips of marble, granite, quartz, or glass in a cement or epoxy binder, then grinding and polishing the surface smooth. Types of Terrazzo - Traditional (cement-based): Found in older buildings, thicker installation - Epoxy terrazzo: Modern version, thinner application, more color options - Venetian terrazzo: Uses larger stone chips for a bolder pattern Why It's Trending Again 1. Sustainability — Uses stone remnants that would otherwise be waste 2. Durability — Lasts 75+ years with proper care 3. Custom design — Unlimited color and pattern possibilities 4. Low maintenance — Easier to clean than most flooring 5. Instagram appeal — Those terrazzo patterns are incredibly photogenic Caring for Vintage Terrazzo Many Chicago-area homes and buildings have original terrazzo from the 1950s-70s. If you have vintage terrazzo: Do: - Clean with pH-neutral cleaners - Dust mop or vacuum regularly - Have it professionally polished every 3-5 years - Keep it sealed Don't: - Use acidic or harsh chemical cleaners - Allow standing water - Drag heavy furniture across it - Apply wax (creates buildup that dulls the finish) Restoring Old Terrazzo Our restoration process for terrazzo: 1. Strip old wax and coatings 2. Repair cracks, chips, and missing sections 3. Grind with di