Make it work for you

TERRAZZO WORKTOPS Often used for flooring in shopping centres and office blocks, terrazzo now brings colour and pattern into our kitchens

LOUISA’S CHOICE:

Originating in ancient Venice, terrazzo was invented as a way to use up marble waste – early upcycling at its best!

QWhat is terrazzo? There are two types: cement and resin. Cement is the traditional form; it’s durable and usually less expensive than resin. Modern resin terrazzo includes epoxy resin, binding aggregate and pigments. It’s more colourful, less prone to cracking and staining and has a smoother finish – perfect for worktops.

QWhy is terrazzo good for worktops?

It is low maintenance (cementbased needs annual resealing, resin doesn’t) and can be cut for sinks, hobs and drainer grooves. However, most people choose terrazzo for its dynamic design. You can go as bold or calm as you like, match colours and even place chunks where you want them.

QHow do I buy terrazzo worktops? There are a few UK suppliers offering a range of standard colours and designs. Order samples to view in your kitchen. For bespoke terrazzo, either visit the company or factory to choose marble chippings or have samples made to a brief.

QHow is it installed? Templates are made on site (by your builder or terrazzo supplier), then the worktops are cut and polished in the factory before being installed.

QIs it expensive? For authentic terrazzo, expect to pay from £700sq m for cement-based and from £800sq m for resin-based, including templating and installation. You can also buy mineral or quartzbased terrazzo-style designs. Try LG Himac’s new solid surfaces, from £300 linear metre, as well as speckled terrazzo-look laminates.

“Avoid acid-based cleaners; use hot water and a neutral cleaning agent. Stubborn stains can usually be removed with a pad or brush”

JOHN KRAUSE, MANAGING DIRECTOR OF DIESPEKER & CO.

CHOOSE A WORK SURFACE WITH MARBLE USED IN A MODERN WAY