Why terrazzo is appearing more and more on modern staircases

Terrazzo is one of the oldest finishing materials in the world — already used in Venetian palaces in the 15th century. Yet today it feels new again. That is no coincidence. Terrazzo is back — not as a nostalgic reference, but as an answer to a question that modern interior design is asking.
What makes terrazzo so suitable for staircases?
A staircase is viewed from multiple angles: from above, from the side, from the hallway. This makes it one of the few places in an interior where material truly fills the space. Terrazzo responds well to that multiple visibility. The integrated Design pigments give the surface depth and vibrancy — the experience changes depending on light and viewing angle.
What is the difference with a terrazzo print?
A terrazzo print has a repeating pattern. On one tread that is not visible. On an entire staircase — twelve, fourteen treads side by side and above each other — the repeating motif is unmistakable. Recycled natural stone composite terrazzo has no repeating pattern. The Design pigments are part of the material itself — each element has its own position, its own colour, its own character.
Why terrazzo in design interiors?
Design interiors work with materials that are more than a backdrop. Terrazzo is pronounced without being intrusive. It has character without shouting. And it combines with virtually any other material — concrete, wood, glass, metal — without clashing.
Which Omnistair Terrazzo colours are most popular?
Graphite Blend and Obsidian Black for dark, architecturally bold interiors. Earth Harmony and Rustic Earth for warm, organic atmospheres. Autumn Mosaic for interiors with an explicit design character.
Which collection best suits your interior is covered in choosing Stone Naturel, Stone Blend or Terrazzo. And why Stone Naturel and Stone Blend are becoming the new standard is covered separately.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Design pigments are integrated into the top layer — they do not detach with normal use. The material has a high, inherent scratch resistance in the material itself — no top layer that can wear away.
A terrazzo print is a digital image that repeats. Real terrazzo has no repeating pattern — the Design pigments are part of the material.
Terrazzo has been used in architecture for centuries. Current popularity is a renewed appreciation for an old material, not a passing trend.
Graphite Blend and Obsidian Black for dark interiors. Earth Harmony and Rustic Earth for warm atmospheres. Autumn Mosaic for design-focused projects.
Yes. They are fully integrated into the material and require no special maintenance beyond regular cleaning.
Plan a visit to the Experience Center
Want to see how terrazzo looks on your specific staircase? At the Experience Center in Waddinxveen, all terrazzo colours are physically available.