What is Palladiana Terrazzo? Check out De Brett's Hotel High Street Project.
Palladiana began in Italy. Using Marble offcuts to create a versatile and durable flooring. Our project at De Bretts Hotel and Crane Brothers in High Street Auckland show how exquisite this look can be.
What is Palladiana Terrazzo?
If you’ve ever admired a floor or wall with large, irregular pieces of marble or stone set into a smooth surface, you’ve likely seen Palladiana Terrazzo. This striking, mosaic-like finish is a unique variation of traditional terrazzo, offering a timeless yet eye-catching aesthetic.
Close up of Palladiana Terrazzo at De Bretts Hotel 2 High Street Auckland
The Origins of Palladiana Terrazzo
Palladiana Terrazzo has roots in ancient Roman and Venetian architecture. It takes its name from Andrea Palladio, a Renaissance architect known for his classical designs. This technique has been used for centuries to create elegant, long-lasting surfaces that celebrate the beauty of natural stone.
How is Palladiana Terrazzo Made?
Unlike our standard terrazzo, which uses small stone chips mixed into a cement base, Palladiana Terrazzo features larger, irregularly shaped pieces of marble, granite, or other natural stones. These pieces are hand-placed and fixed onto a prepared surface We then fill in the gaps with a cementitious flooring system. Once set, the surface is ground and polished to achieve a smooth, seamless look. This creates a durable hardwearing flooring.
What is the Difference Between Palladiana and Crazy Paving?
While Palladiana Terrazzo and crazy paving both use irregularly shaped stones, the key difference lies in their finishing and application. Our Palladiana Terrazzo is polished and set in a cement base, creating a seamless, refined surface, ideal for Commercial indoor or outdoor spaces, where you want to create an impact. Crazy paving, on the other hand, is typically left with visible grout lines and has a more rustic, textured appearance, making it popular for outdoor pathways and garden settings.
Why Choose Palladiana Terrazzo?
This terrazzo style is not just about looks—it’s also incredibly durable and versatile. Here’s why it stands out:
✅ Unique & Customizable – No two installations are the same, allowing for artistic, one-of-a-kind designs.
✅ Sustainable – Palladiana Terrazzo makes excellent use of offcuts and reclaimed stone, reducing waste.
✅ Long-Lasting – Like all terrazzo, it’s built to last, making it a smart investment for high-traffic areas.
✅ Versatile – Ideal for flooring, walls, outdoor spaces, and even feature pieces like benchtops.
Palladiana Terrzzzo with Brass Edging at DE Bretts Hotel High Street
LATEST PROJECT
De Bretts Hotel in High Street, asked us to provide a Palladiana floor, to match the one that has been in the hotel for years, and to the Crane Brothers entranceway adjacent.
At Giacon Terrazzo, we are specialists in creating high-quality, locally made terrazzo looks, including Palladiana Terrazzo. Andrew and our team cut and hand placed all the pieces to create the look they were after. Whether you're an architect or designer looking for a unique look or want us to match terrazzo in iconic buildings like De Bretts, our expert team can help you bring your stunning design to life.
Interested in learning more? Contact us today.
hashtag#Terrazzo hashtag#PalladianaTerrazzo hashtag#Architecture hashtag#InteriorDesign hashtag#SustainableDesign
Entrance at Crane Brothers High Street
Our Terrazzo in B201 University of Auckland Highest Green Star rated Building.
The University Of Auckland B201 Project has received the highest Green Star rating in New Zealand and is of worldwide status. Our Insitu Terrazzo flooring, using recycled Marble offcuts was designed by Jasmax. Check out more info and some great photos here.
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. We also made the matching Terrazzo stair treads and landings.
University of Auckland B201 Project Insitu Terrazzo floor
Close up of Insitu Terrazzo using recycled marble offcuts and brass dividers
Terrazzo landings and stairs to match flooring at University of Auckland B201
Are you looking for a Supplier for New Zealand Made Terrazzo Tiles?
Are you looking for someone who makes New Zealand made terrazzo tiles, using New Zealand stone and marble? Are you wanting to address climate change by buying local made tiles? We are investing in the future of New Zealand and our planet by increasing our ability to provide the market with our products. We love New Zealand stones and aggregates. Using them not only provides an authentic New Zealand product, but the natural energy of them into our homes and commercial spaces.
With climate change upon us, it is time we started making choices that can support the planet. Buying local made, with local materials is an easy way to do this. Giacon Terrazzo have invested in the latest machinery, arriving into the country this month, for producing large quantities of Terrazzo tiles quickly, professionally and to a high standard.
Not only are the tiles made in New Zealand, but we can use New Zealand stone and marble. Utlising pebbles from the South Island, local schist, dolomites, shells, creating an authentic natural New Zealand tile for both indoors or outdoors.
Our new machine can cast 900 tiles a day. Our calibrating machine ensures that all the tiles are of the same thickness, to avoid lipping. Our polishing machine finishes them to perfection.
It is exciting for us at Giacon Terrazzo to be able to support New Zealand suppliers and provide more jobs for New Zealanders in the process.
Contact us for your next project. We look forward to this new stage in our business. We love New Zealand stones and aggregates. Using them not only provides an authentic New Zealand product, but the natural energy of them into our homes and commercial spaces. Maori recognises that everything has its own Mauri- or life force. When we use our local stones in this way, it is very special.
10 Environmental Benefits of using Terrazzo Flooring.
What are 10 Environmental reasons to use Terrazzo flooring? Check this out and see why you should consider it. We are doing what we can to make sustainable choices.
You may or may not think that the new AI ChatGPT is a good thing for the future of humanity. I decided to give it a test run today, and asked it for 10 Environmental reasons to use Terrazzo Flooring. Here is the answer I received:
There are several environmental benefits of using Terrazzo flooring, including:
Durability: Terrazzo flooring is extremely durable and can last for many years, which reduces the need for frequent replacements and the associated environmental impact.
Recyclable: Terrazzo flooring is made from natural materials such as marble, glass, and stone, which can be recycled at the end of its life, reducing waste and the need for new resources.
Low VOC emissions: Terrazzo flooring typically has low or no volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, which improves indoor air quality and reduces the environmental impact of building materials.
Energy efficiency: Terrazzo flooring can reflect light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and saving energy.
Low maintenance: Terrazzo flooring requires minimal maintenance, reducing the use of water, energy, and cleaning products, and minimizing the environmental impact of maintenance activities.
Local materials: Terrazzo flooring can be made using locally sourced materials, reducing the environmental impact of transportation and supporting local economies.
Thermal mass: Terrazzo flooring has high thermal mass, which can help regulate indoor temperature and reduce the need for heating and cooling systems.
Natural materials: Terrazzo flooring is made from natural materials, which reduces the need for synthetic materials and their associated environmental impact.
Hygienic: Terrazzo flooring is non-porous and easy to clean, reducing the risk of mold, bacteria, and other contaminants, which can improve indoor air quality and health.
Aesthetics: Terrazzo flooring has a unique and attractive appearance, which can reduce the need for additional decorative materials and their associated environmental impact.
Overall, Terrazzo flooring can provide a range of environmental benefits, from reducing waste and energy use to supporting local economies and improving indoor air quality and health.
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.
Reveal of our terrazzo flooring at Te Ao Marama section at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
The Auckland War Memorial Museum was a fabulous project for Giacon Terrazzo to be involved in. ASPEC Construction were the main contractors.
The finished result is simply stunning
Go in and check out the new section Te Ao Marama at the back of the
museum that honours our Pacific heritage in Auckland.
Check out the photos of our terrazzo flooring and tiles.
The Auckland War Memorial Museum was a fabulous project for Giacon Terrazzo to be involved in. ASPEC Construction were the main contractors.
The finished result is simply stunning
Go in and check out the new section Te Ao Marama at the back of the
museum that honours our Pacific heritage in Auckland.
Here is a quote from their website:
The renovation of the Museum's south entrance has been an opportunity for us to reconceptualise the Museum as a whole, living thing. The name Te Ao Mārama (the realm of Being and Light) was gifted to the space by Whaea Te Hei Tamariki (Ngāti Whātua, Waikato Tainui), respected kuia and member of the Taumata-a-Iwi, the Museum's Māori advisory committee. The name is the balance of the Grand Foyer, which is known as Te Whei Ao (the realm of coming into Being).
On entering the Museum you come in from 'the darkness', you journey through the knowledge contained in the Museum, following the paths of light in the new loop walkways, and emerge 'enlightened' into the World of Light. There cannot be one space without the other, and everything is connected anew.
We provided the In-situ terrazzo floors and the terrazzo tiles. See the photos below
Giacon Terrazzo In situ terrazzo floor at the Auckland War Memorial Museum
We love how the light strips are reflected on the gleaming of the polished terrazzo floor, drawing our attention to the use of light. Of it’s physical yet ethereal presence in Te Ao Marama.
Light reflecting in the In situ Terrazzo flooring
Brass strips in our terrazzo insitu floor at Auckland War Memorial Museum
Brass was used not only as dividers, but as an integral element of the design, and to draw our attention to other features such as the wood panelling.
Brass strips in the insitu terrazzo floor align with the panels
The terrazzo tiles were made in our factory in Auckland. They complement the look and provide a backdrop for beautiful works of art and heritage. The timeless nature of terrazzo is perfect for a museum, where we are often transported to another era .
Terrazzo tiles- Memoir from our range- complement the exhibitions.
Note how the terrazzo can look different in various lights? Terrazzo has a constant dialogue with light. Its natural elements creating a unique property that is not replicated by synthetic replicas.
Terrazzo tiles- Memoir
To read more about the new section and see more of the fabulous design by visiting the Auckland War Memorial Museums website
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 moved into new premises at 22 Aetna Place Henderson Auckland 0612. Making Terrazzo locally for all your projects.
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
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.