For Architects & Designers
Terrazzo’s versatility, durability, and long history have made it a favorite of many of the architects who work with the NCTA. They share their stories here.
Resources
Looking for more information? From LEED certification information to color palettes and maintenance information, we’ve got you covered.
NCTA Contractors
Ready to get started? Our complete directory of NCTA contractors can get your project off the design page and onto the floor.
NCTA Terrazzo Flooring Guide
Terrazzo flooring is a composite material poured in place or precast, consisting of chips of marble, glass, or other aggregate set into an epoxy or cement matrix, then ground and polished to a seamless finish. Terrazzo has a documented history spanning more than 2,000 years and a performance record to match.
Explore the North Central Terrazzo Association’s terrazzo reference guide for architects, interior designers, and building owners evaluating terrazzo: what it is, how it performs, how to specify it, and where to find a qualified regional contractor.
Why Use Terrazzo?
More than 1,500 years ago, Italian artisans learned to mix marble scraps—waste material from other projects—with cement to create beautiful flooring designs for lobbies, plazas, and other public spaces.
Longevity
Long-lasting construction eliminates environmental impact of replacement. Terrazzo flooring can be preserved even if the building is updated 60 or 70 years later.
Sustainability
Terrazzo construction uses locally-sourced materials, and can include recycled glass. It also uses zero-VOC materials that have little to zero off-gassing.
Low Maintenance Costs
Terrazzo shows its true colors in high-traffic areas where durability, longevity and minimal maintenance are critical. With proper terrazzo maintenance, a floor may never need to be replaced.
About The NCTA
The concept of a regional terrazzo association was sparked by Lou D’Agnolo Sr. and Narch Modesto in 1965. The two discussed various benefits offered by such an organization, and then proceeded to research potential members. Initially, this new group called North Central Terrazzo Association (NCTA) was limited to 23 firms in three states: Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.
The NCTA is a regional association recognized by the National Terrazzo and Mosaic Association. Each zone association promotes terrazzo and discussed the issues unique to their area. Membership in regional zones is restricted to NTMA members in good standing.
See Terrazzo in Action
Timeless, beautiful, and resilient, terrazzo makes a mark on spaces from commercial buildings to public government halls. Terrazzo is transforming floors throughout the Midwest. See our spotlight on recent award-winning projects that NCTA contractors have completed all over the region.