Creating Large-Scale Terrazzo Designs with Waterjet Cutting:

Inside Concourse A Expansion Phase II of the Charlotte Douglas International Airport

At the Charlotte Douglas International Airport – one of the busiest airport hubs in the nation, C Design along with Perkins + Will tackled the challenge of addressing increased traffic while creating a unique architectural identity. Modern airports increasingly feature terrazzo flooring, and at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, travelers can now walk across large-scale terrazzo designs, a testament that art can enhance the passenger experience.

A key feature of the terrazzo design is a full-scale MD-82 airplane embedded into the floor, crafted using waterjet cutting technology. This project, serviced and supplied by Concord Terrazzo Company, highlights the potential of terrazzo as a medium for creative and functional expression in large commercial spaces.

The Vision: Designing a Airplane at Scale for the Terrazzo Floor

The expansive terrazzo design maximizes the concourse’s scale, creating an immersive visual experience for passengers. The project included crafting a life-size MD-82 airplane design using 3/8″ aluminum divider strips and using a salvaged aircraft tail as part of the floor design.

This innovative design was intended to capture the spirit of aviation and the connect travelers worldwide. Achieving such a large-scale concept with precision and artistry required an customized approach – waterjeting cutting technology was the solution.

Waterjet Cutting: Precision for Large-Scale Terrazzo Designs

At Concord Terrazzo Company, waterjet technology enables the creation of intricate designs for epoxy terrazzo floors, including logos, patterns and large-scale artworks. Waterjet cutting uses a high-pressure stream of water, often combined with abrasive material, to cut through materials with accuracy.

Architects and designers can send drawings of their artwork, which is then uploaded into the waterjet. The waterjet system applies coordinates to navigate the cutting process. For the full-scale airplane design, waterjet cutting ensure each design element from the wings the the front of the plane are cut to exact dimensions.

After cutting, the design elements are assembled off-site, labeled, and transported to the job site for seamless installation. Compared to traditional methods, such as hand-bending divider strips, this process makes it easier for installers to execute the design.

Airplane-Themed Terrazzo Design: From Floor to Tail

What makes this terrazzo installation even more remarkable is the inclusion of a real aircraft tail as part of the design. This three-dimensional features add depth and authenticity to the floor, creating a dynamic focal point that captivate travelers and enhance the airport’s aesthetics.

The Endless Potential of Terrazzo for Large-Scale Terrazzo Designs

Terrazzo is renowned for its durability and low maintenance, but its capacity for artistic expression is truly what elevates it as a design material. From large-scale focal points to intricate patterns extending through hallways, terrazzo offers limitless possibilities.

At the Charlotte Douglas International Airport, the full-scale airplane design does more than enhance the visual appeal – its symbolizes innovation, connectivity, and the power of design to tell a story.

Partnering with Concord Terrazzo Company: A Single-Source Terrazzo Supplier

As a single-source terrazzo manufacturer and supplier, architects and designers can rely on us for all their terrazzo needs from ideation to material supply. Our team takes on highly customized or challenging designs that meet the vision of the client.

Our waterjet cutting services empower designers to dream big when working with epoxy terrazzo. Together we can accomplish the extraordinary.

Imagine the Possibilities with TERRAZZCO

We invite architects and designers to explore the endless possibilities of TERRAZZCO Brand Products. Whether it’s the small details or a large-scale terrazzo design, we will collaborate with you and recommend the appropriate solutions.

When all is said and done, locations like the Charlotte Douglas International Airport created an engaging experience for its travelers. With terrazzo floors, design is an innovative solution for architects and designers to bring out the best of any commercial space.

If you have questions about how terrazzo can benefit your next flooring project, our representatives are available to assist you. Contact a Concord Terrazzo Company representative today at info@terrazzco.com.