Knoxville High School, Knoxville, IL

When the highly anticipated new high school in Knoxville, IL ran into scheduling conflicts and budgetary concerns, a decision was made to remove the beautifully designed terrazzo concept from the project. Because of terrazzo’s reputation for high quality, pattern options and ease of maintenance, this split-second reaction was quickly reversed, and the installation was pegged for the summer of 2015.

“Missouri Terrazzo was very pleased with the fact that the school district could have chosen another flooring type to complete the project earlier, but chose to wait a year to allow for the terrazzo installation,” Kevin Rickman, Missouri Terrazzo, said. “They knew installing terrazzo as the main centerpiece would create a beautiful and memorable entrance to the school.”

The school opened for classes in August 2014, meaning the terrazzo install would be completed around an already established state-of-the-art school. Protection of all existing school items such as monitors, trophy cases, and other items in the auditorium, library, and offices was key.

“Careful consideration had to be made to protect the existing finishes and equipment from damage, while installing a new 5-color terrazzo floor system,” said Rickman. “The install needed to be as if it had been there from the beginning.”

The 13,000 square feet of terrazzo begins in the school’s main entryway. A large bold blue “K” logo representing the school’s colors, lies in the center, welcoming students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

A four-color pattern of shades of brown, tan, and beige flows from the entryway into the cafeteria/multi-purpose area that’s used as eatery space, small group meetings and study sessions, and thru traffic. These rays of color continue down the main corridor to connect with the kitchen/serving area and seamlessly transitions to carpet to complete the library.

The warm coloring of the terrazzo complements the natural stone wainscot and columns within the cafeteria and corridor. The flooring is completed by a brown precast terrazzo wall base that allows a smooth transition between the floor and wall.

“Chosen for its aesthetic enhancements, durability, longevity, and ease of maintenance, this terrazzo floor will provide this facility with a strong foundation for years to come,” Rickman said.

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