Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Client: Private Commercial Showroom Developer
Project Type: Decorative Terrazzo Flooring
Services Provided: Terrazzo Flooring, Surface Preparation, Grinding & Polishing, Custom Design Implementation
Project Background
The client, a luxury retail showroom developer in Colombo, commissioned Thewnadee Engineering (Pvt) Ltd to install premium decorative terrazzo flooring in a high-end commercial showroom. The flooring needed to reflect the brand’s luxury aesthetic while being durable and low-maintenance to withstand heavy foot traffic, display installations, and high-profile events.
The primary objectives were:
- Aesthetically striking flooring to enhance showroom appeal
- Durable and high-performance surface for commercial use
- Seamless, polished finish suitable for high-end retail spaces
- Custom patterns and branding integration
- Low maintenance and easy cleaning for operational efficiency
This project required precision terrazzo installation combined with creative design elements to produce a unique and luxurious finish.
Challenges Faced
Several challenges were identified during site assessment:
- Complex Design Requirements
- The client requested custom terrazzo patterns and embedded logos, requiring precision in layout, installation, and polishing.
- High Foot Traffic
- The showroom floor would experience continuous foot traffic, including trolleys for merchandise movement. Floors needed high abrasion resistance.
- Large Open Spaces
- The showroom included wide open areas, necessitating careful control of expansion joints and uniform terrazzo application to prevent cracking.
- Time Constraints
- The showroom opening schedule required efficient installation without compromising quality.
- Safety and Accessibility
- Floors needed anti-slip properties in specific zones while maintaining high-gloss finish for aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Solution
Thewnadee Engineering implemented a custom decorative terrazzo flooring solution, balancing durability and luxury aesthetics:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
- The concrete substrate was thoroughly cleaned, and any cracks or voids were repaired with high-strength patching compounds.
- Surface leveling and profiling were performed to ensure proper adhesion of terrazzo layers.
- Moisture levels were measured to prevent adhesion issues.
Step 2: Terrazzo Mix Design
- A custom terrazzo mix was designed using marble aggregates, colored chips, and high-quality binder.
- Pigments were selected to match the client’s branding colors and showroom aesthetic.
- Divider strips were installed for pattern definition and expansion joint control, ensuring structural integrity and design accuracy.
Step 3: Terrazzo Application
- Terrazzo mortar was applied in multiple layers, ensuring proper coverage, thickness, and aggregate distribution.
- Custom patterns, including logos and geometric designs, were meticulously embedded using stainless steel divider strips.
- Special attention was given to curved spaces and display areas, requiring manual tools for precision application.
Step 4: Grinding and Polishing
- Multi-stage grinding using diamond abrasives exposed aggregates and ensured smooth, reflective surfaces.
- Polishing was done progressively to achieve a high-gloss, luxury finish.
- Final inspection ensured uniform aggregate exposure, shine, and pattern accuracy.
Step 5: Sealing and Anti-Slip Measures
- High-quality sealants were applied to protect terrazzo from stains and abrasion while maintaining gloss.
- Anti-slip finishes were applied selectively in entrances and display areas for safety without compromising aesthetics.
Materials and Techniques Used
- Aggregates: Marble chips in white, black, and custom colors
- Binder: High-strength cementitious binder with pigment
- Divider Strips: Stainless steel for pattern and joint management
- Polishing Tools: Multi-stage diamond abrasives for grinding and polishing
- Sealants: High-performance protective sealants
- Anti-Slip Additives: Applied in high-traffic and entrance areas
Project Outcome
The decorative terrazzo flooring project was completed successfully, delivering durable, aesthetically striking floors suitable for a high-end commercial showroom.
Key Achievements:
- Luxury Aesthetic Appeal
- Polished terrazzo with embedded patterns and logos enhanced the showroom’s luxury and professional appearance.
- Durability and High Performance
- Flooring withstands heavy foot traffic and equipment movement, ensuring long-term operational efficiency.
- Custom Design Integration
- Divider strips and precise installation allowed accurate embedding of custom patterns, meeting client branding requirements.
- Seamless and Smooth Surface
- Polished terrazzo created a dust-free, smooth floor enhancing visitor experience and ease of cleaning.
- Safety and Accessibility
- Selective anti-slip treatments in entrance and high-traffic zones ensured safety without compromising aesthetics.
- Low Maintenance
- Sealed terrazzo floors are easy to clean and maintain, reducing operational costs.
Client Feedback
The client expressed high satisfaction, highlighting:
- The luxury look and feel of the terrazzo floor
- Durability suitable for high-traffic showroom operations
- Precision in custom patterns and logo integration
- Professionalism and timely completion by Thewnadee Engineering team
- Overall enhancement of the showroom’s premium brand image
Conclusion
This commercial showroom project highlights the value of decorative terrazzo flooring in high-end retail environments. By combining:
- Custom terrazzo mix design with marble aggregates and pigments
- Precision application and pattern embedding
- Multi-stage grinding and polishing for a high-gloss finish
- Protective sealants and anti-slip measures
Thewnadee Engineering delivered a flooring solution that balances luxury aesthetics, durability, and safety, ensuring the showroom leaves a lasting impression on visitors and customers.
Decorative terrazzo flooring is an investment in both functionality and brand image, providing a durable, beautiful, and low-maintenance surface suitable for premium commercial spaces.
