Our Terrazzo in B201 University of Auckland Highest Green Star rated Building.

We are proud to be part of the University of Auckland B201 Project. This project has received the highest ever 6 green star rating.

Giacon Terrazzo laid the beautiful insitu terrazzo using a recycled white marble chip. This was sourced from local marble fabricators who support the cause for recycling. We crushed all the offcuts that would have gone into landfill, then mixed it altogether to create a fabulous terrazzo. The image below is from this article on the Auckland University website https://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/news/2023/10/02/b201-rebuild-for-faculties-in-2024.html

B201 University of Auckland terrazzo floor by Giacon Terrazzo ltd

The Architects- Jasmax have incorporated brass strips in the insitu to create a pattern that adds that special touch to the area. Terrazzo will last the lifetime of the building. It is an excellent choice for green star projects. We enjoyed working with Hawkins on this project and look forward to more Green Star projects in the future

How can you use Architectural Precast for Retail Shops- Project Fabric Store Newmarket.

Architectural Precast Terrazzo is a perfect choice for a retail setting. It has a timeless look that only gets better with age. It is durable, solid, and easily cared for. Giacon Terrazzo work closely with designers and Architects to create something truly unique. Helping to create the image and look of a brand.

Precast Terrazzo Counter Fabric Newmarket using recycled marble offcuts.

What are the benefits of using Architectural precast over Stone or terrazzo imported slabs?

• We measure and cast the items to fit exactly. This means that we produce less waste, as there are no offcuts from the manufacture.

• They are made here in New Zealand, so you can buy knowing that there are less climate miles.

• We can work with your designer or Architect to create something unique, to produce curves, different thicknesses, rebates for shelving and other unique features.

Terrazzo shelving unit with lights coming through

What do you need to consider when considering precast for your project?

• it is important for us to be able to liaise with the designer and the cabinet maker from the beginning. The designers for the Fabric Store are Katie Lockhart Studio. Right from the beginning they engaged with us so we could work together closely to bring their vision to life.

• We can consult with you and explore design colours, techniques and considerations important when using terrazzo. Undergoing the sample process. We can choose New Zealand aggregates., or look for ways to use recycled product.

• Terrazzo will last the lifetime of the building. It is sustainable and refurbishable.

Terrazzo cabinet made on a frame using panels that fit together.

How can you make your name stand out in a Retail Store?

Terrazzo signs give a store an elegance. They last forever. They make a statement. For the Fabric Store we made Terrazzo letters. These were fastened to the window on the inside and the outside, to create a look that is very unique and memorable.

Fabric Sign from Terrazzo

Terrazzo panels can be made to cover cupboard doors. As we have done in the image below.

The Terrazzo creates a neutral background that allows the products to stand out.

Terrazzo precast counter low.

Finishing details. The back of the Terrazzo cabinet has been made in sections. So the store can add further shelves to it at a later date.

BACK OF THE TERRAZZO SHELVING CABINET

Terrazzo is a versatile product, that can be used in so many ways. Let us help you create your next project. Contact us for more information.

Interior Design Finalist Ctrl Space for 110 Customs street, Auckland

We would like to congratulate Ctrl Space for being a finalist in the Interior Awards for 110 Customs Street, Auckland.

The result of their design is stunning. We are proud of the terrazzo floor we laid in this project. The brass detail and the border, created a timeless classical look that terrazzo is best known for. Watch the video here and get an inside look at how they created this project from start to finish.

https://vimeo.com/713955970?embedded=true&source=vimeo_logo&owner=8336869

Check out the photos from Ctrl Space here

https://ctrlspace.co.nz/project/110-customs-street-west-auckland

Andrew worked with the Architects to produce a bespoke terrazzo sample, that fitted their design brief:

Using GRC panels to make a design statement at Balenciaga Newmarket

We are delighted to share some images of the recent project we did in the Balenciaga store in Westfields Newmarket. We created custom size Ultra High performance GRC panels that are seen throughout the store, in wall , ceiling and floor panels. They created an aesthetically pleasing ‘‘canvas’” for the designer brands products to be showcased within this fab new store.

Balenciaga store front using Giacon Terrazzo Ltds GRC panels

Our experience in designing mixes was utilised to its fullest in this project . We created an ultra high performance GFRC concrete that was thin and structurally tough. Combining durability with an aesthetic look suitable for high fashion designers Balenciaga . With this mix design we were able to manufacture panels 3.6 x 1.2 x 20mm thick.

That is a beautiful feat!

Ultra high performance GRC wall, ceiling and floor panels at Balenciaga newmarket

The project was for Dimension Shopfitters. They did a great job of bringing it all together.

casting GRC panels in our factory

The panels were all manufactured in our factory in Henderson. Using local manufacturers in the design and execution process allowed Balenciaga to create a Greener build, and reducing climate change. Increasingly we are seeing our clients asking us how we can incorporate sustainable or local materials into our processes. This is exciting. We can all do our part. Ask us today how we can help you to make a difference with your choices.

Curing the wall panels on site.

Can You Make Curved Terrazzo or Concrete Panels?

We were recently asked if we can do curved cementitious panels.

It is not easy, ( like making slabs on a machine. We make the panels by hand at our yard in Henderson, Auckland.

It involves a lot of crafting. From the making of the moulds through to the drying process to ensure it is done correctly. Then once the panels are fitted in place, we may have to hand grind and smooth to ensure that the finished products slot together.

Curved panel curing in the yard

Terrazzo precast is a natural hand made process. This is one of the reasons people often choose it. Each piece we make is original and unique as a result.

The photos here from the recent benches we made for Cutting Innocations at Lumley House is a great example of what is possible.

Architectural Precast Terrazzo Panels and bench

Innovation is what Kiwi's are brought up on.

Precast Terrazzo curved bench

Ask. Ask. Ask. Any question is a good one.

Before you make an assumption about what is or isn’t possible, give Andrew a call. He will be able to give you some great advice on what is possible.

side view of island bench

Can you use our Terrazzo pavers and copings for a salt water pool?

The short answer is yes, of course you can. Saltwater pools are a great choice these days for people who want less chemicals in their lifestyle. There are a few considerations that you need to be aware of when going down this road.

Are Terrazzo & Concrete pavers suitable for salt water?

Concrete and Terrazzo pavers have salt-resistant properties. However we still recommend that you use the right type of sealer to protect them. Our terrazzo usually incorporates natural marble or other aggregates- like the Nuance sample we used in the pool pictured below..

Pool using Nuance pavers and copings at the Randall residence in Auckland

With pools you need to ensure you have the right finish, so it is not a slippery hazard.

We recommend three finishers for exterior use.

1. Fine diamond finish

2. Honed finish.

3. Brushed- exposed aggregate

All of them are non-slip for exterior and suitable around pools.

Close up of our Nuance Paver

USE THE RIGHT SEALER

Even salt-resistant paver materials are damaged by saltwater over time. To extend the life of your pavers, apply a salt-resistant sealant. The sealant not only prevents the salt in your pool water from damaging the pavers but also stabilizes the sand between your paver joints and stops splashed water from washing it into the pool. Apply sealant to all pavers within at 2 meters of the edge of your pool. You can apply several coats of sealer, if you wish.

We recommend that you discuss this with your tile layer, so that they are sure of your requirements. Ensure that you use a penetrating sealer that will not affect the slip resistance of the pavers. The sealer should be applied in dry weather to dry pavers. Do not use a sealer that leaves a surface coat on the pavers

An example of a sealer available in New Zealand that meets this standard is Dry Treat STAIN-PROOF Original™ It is an impregnating, invisible and breathable sealer that protects natural stone, tiles, pavers, concrete and grout from damage caused by water, salts and oil-based stains. It is easier to clean the pavers and keep them looking great if they have been sealed with a great sealer. More information on this product is here

Any of our range can be used for pavers, we recommend nothing too white because of sun glare, or too dark beneath the feet. Call or email us to discuss your options.

Having Supply Issues with Tiles in New Zealand? Check out our NZ range

A selection of our terrazzo designs

With Co-Vid 19 causing many supply issues worldwide, we are hearing so many stories of projects being held up by shipping delays.

Don’t worry we have a cunning plan.

Giacon Terrazzo have put together a new range of terrazzo using New Zealand aggregates and

ingredients and stock that we have on hand We admit it we do like to squirrel stuff away in case it might come in handy at a later time. Well now is that time right? See the range here.

What is the time required to manufacture these?

We have the machinery in our new factory that allows to calibrate to an even thickness, then grind and polish our tiles quickly and to a highly polished ( or honed) finish. For most projects the lead

time is 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on the quantity of course.

Memoir Tile at Auckland War Memorial Museum

Are our Terrazzo Tiles eco friendly?

We are committed to making choices in our business that place the environment at the

front of our minds.

We have received a grant from the Waste Minimisation fund to allow us to recycle

marble waste for use in our products. We look forward to adding a bigger recycled range to soon.

By using NZ ingredients or recycled aggregates, it allows us to cut down on energy that would be used for overseas transport of goods. And keep New Zealanders in work. Win Win situation.

We have a new water recycling plant installed, so we use less water and dispose of our waste responsibly.

See our sustainability policy here

We can start to

address issues of

Climate change with

every decision we

make

What size are the Terrazzo tiles ?

Our standard sizes are 400 x 400mm and 600 x 600mm. However we can do special

sizes and slabs. Call us to discuss.

Can you colour match a design I like?

Of course. We can colour cement in a wide range of colours. We can source coloured aggregates .We are experts at creating designs to go with your project brief, and to bring your vision to life. We are often called to match terrazzo in heritage sites. Options are endless. Use our range as a starting point.

Here are some cool samples we made for a client recently to go with their brief.

Bespoke samples

Time we started to think about the future. We are.

We have moved to 22 Aetna Place Henderson

We have settled into our new premises at 22 Aetna Place Henderson. It’s just down the road in Henderson. It is a bigger factory with room for all our new machinery.

Our calibrating machine for Tiles and slabs and our new water recycling plant

What’s great about it is there is heaps of room for our new tile polishing machine. We have bought a new water recycling plant, which is part of our kaupapa of making better choices for the environment.

Still setting up our new showroom . So you can come on out and check out our design samples, or consult for a bespoke design.

If you are coming out this way, pop on in and say hi.. Check we are in first, as we are all over Auckland some days.

Ave - our head honcho in the factory

Giacon Terrazzo granted a waste minimisation grant for recycling materials.

As part of our kaupapa to become more sustainable and ecofriendly, we are delighted to announce that we have been granted funding from the Waste Minimisation Fund at Auckland City Council.

See the details here

https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/articles/news/2021/01/zero-waste-innovators-get-funding-boost/

The Waste Minimisation and Innovation Fund was established to support waste minimisation initiatives using a portion of the funds allocated to Auckland Council from the national waste levy. It is primarily intended to provide seed-funding to encourage and enable creative reuse and recovery and generate economic opportunities.

We are excited to be on this list https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/grants-community-support-housing/grants/regional-grants/docswasteminimisationfund/wmif-september-2020-recipients.pdf

Thanks to the Auckland Council for supporting us to create a greener product.

Giacon Terrazzo will be sourcing marble and granite scraps from fabricators, crushing them and using them in our terrazzo. See the video of our crusher at work below.

Reducing land fill - Yes

Recycling- Yes

Hard wearing and yet beautiful- Yes.

Look our for our new range coming soon that will use these products.

If we can all take one step at a time towards using products that help our environment we can start to create a more sustainable future for the planet.