For those of us obsessed with home improvements, there are certain trends that seem to stand the test of time. Neutral colours will always make a space look bigger, oak flooring will never go out of fashion, and white linens transform a bedroom every time. But there are some home decor aficionados who would add another item to that list: terrazzo tiles. Colourful, chaotic, and charming, this Art Deco staple has enjoyed something of resurgence in recent years.
Traditionally speaking, terrazzo is a composite material made from chips of marble, granite, or glass suspended in concrete. And while that might sound a little strange, the result is truly spectacular. First seen in the homes of 18th-century Venice, these tiles became popular during the Art Deco movement of the early 20th century — and have remained so ever since.
In fact, even if you don’t think you’re familiar with terrazzo tiles, you probably will be — it’s the material that makes up the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame! Unfortunately, though, real terrazzo has its downsides when it comes to home decor. That high-gloss finish, for example, is as slippery as it looks, making terrazzo floors a potential hazard. And because of the materials used, they can be icily cool to the touch as well.
If you love the appearance of terrazzo but are put off by practical considerations, there’s a great solution: terrazzo effect porcelain tiles. Combining all the beauty and luxury of authentic terrazzo with the durable, slip and stain-resistant qualities of porcelain, they’re a popular choice for any room in the home — and look great in the garden too.
One of the most popular places to use terrazzo-effect porcelain tiles is in the bathroom. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to decorate your bath and shower or a tile that works across both walls and floors, the terrazzo look is an easy way to add a quirky edge to any decor scheme. Go sleek and understated with white and off-white tiles, or make a statement with multicoloured designs.
Of course, terrazzo effect porcelain tiles aren’t just for the bathroom. In fact, there are plenty of ways in which you can use them to brighten up your home. Durable enough for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and hallways yet eye-catching enough to be a feature in their own right, they’re an easy and affordable way to achieve a striking new look. And you can even create the perfect indoor/outdoor space by choosing non-slip tiles for your garden patio.