It’s always important to make a good first impression. In a social or business situation, it starts with a smile or handshake. For a building, it starts with the entrance.

The precision of an entryway design communicates an institution’s standards, pride and culture. It lets visitors know they’re in the right place.

This month, we’ve selected sharp designs from various schools and universities that exemplify the impact of a crisp entryway design. From the bold maize at University of Michigan’s Crisler Center to the regal emblem of Notre Dame’s Eck Hall of Law, terrazzo takes detailed designs from imagination to reality.

More flexible than other flooring materials, terrazzo offers a wide color palette that can accommodate such elaborate designs while withstanding the test of time. Take a look at these gems from our gallery. We hope they spark ideas for your next entryway design.