Illusion is the essence of magic, and the terrazzo floor at the Chicago Magic Lounge, with its 3D stack block pattern, plays to that sense with an M.C. Escher visual illusion. Guests enter a faux-speakeasy entrance with a vinyl floor that transitions to terrazzo when entering the lounge itself, which has an elegant, retro style. “Terrazzo made the transition work well while adding depth and character to the room,” said architect John Morris of Morris Architects Planners. “Terrazzo is the best way to do that.”

The space was small and presented layout and phasing challenges to Menconi Terrazzo. Steve Menconi, general manager of Menconi Terrazzo, said, “The owner, contractor, and architect all worked hand in hand with our installers” to make the project run smoothly. An unusual aspect of the project was installing wiring underneath the terrazzo floor that connects to hearing aids for those needing help hearing the performer. Menconi had never done that before, and they worked directly with the electrician to test how the wiring reacted with the epoxy.

Don Clark, Jr., co-owner of the Chicago Magic Lounge, appreciates the finished space: “We wanted our venue to be magical in all aspects. Choosing a floor design and terrazzo manufacturer with the great skill to execute our mission was key to creating the magic of our lounge.”