FINISHES& OPTIONS
Explore different approaches to concrete and terrazzo flooring. From subtle concrete surfaces to exposed aggregate and design-led terrazzo, the finished appearance can become an important part of your space.
UNDERSTANDING
AGGREGATE
EXPOSURE
The amount of aggregate visible within a polished concrete floor can have a significant effect on its finished appearance. Different levels of exposure create anything from a more understated concrete surface to a much more pronounced aggregate finish.
MINIMAL
EXPOSURE
A more subtle appearance where relatively little aggregate is visible at the surface, allowing the concrete itself to remain the dominant feature.
SALT &
PEPPER
A light exposure that reveals smaller pieces of aggregate across the surface, creating additional texture and visual detail.
FULL
AGGREGATE
A more pronounced appearance where greater aggregate exposure becomes an important part of the overall character of the floor.
Concrete is a naturally variable material. Aggregate, colour and the final appearance can vary according to the concrete, slab and project specification. Images should therefore be treated as a guide to the style of finish rather than an exact representation of the final floor.
THREE LEVELS OF
AGGREGATE EXPOSURE
The level of aggregate exposure can dramatically change the character of a polished concrete floor. These examples illustrate the visual difference between three commonly considered approaches.
MINIMAL EXPOSURE
A restrained concrete appearance with relatively little aggregate visible across the finished surface.
SALT & PEPPER
A lighter exposure revealing smaller aggregate across the surface and introducing additional visual detail.
FULL AGGREGATE
A more pronounced finish where the exposed aggregate becomes a significant feature of the overall floor design.
Concrete is naturally variable. Aggregate distribution, colour and the final appearance will depend on the concrete, existing slab and individual project specification.
CONSIDER THE
LEVEL OF
SHEEN
Aggregate exposure is only one part of the visual appearance of a polished concrete floor. The level of sheen can also influence how subtle or reflective the finished surface appears within the space.
MATT
A more understated appearance with less emphasis on surface reflection, helping retain a softer concrete aesthetic.
SATIN
A balanced appearance between matt and a more reflective finish, introducing some sheen while retaining the character of the concrete.
HIGHER SHEEN
A more reflective appearance that can place greater visual emphasis on the finished surface and the aggregate within the concrete.
ARE DIFFERENT CHOICES
The amount of aggregate visible and the level of surface sheen are separate aspects of the finished appearance. When discussing your project with SKM, it is useful to consider both the aggregate exposure you prefer and the overall look you would like the floor to achieve.
CREATE A FLOOR
WITH ITS OWN
IDENTITY
Terrazzo offers a different design approach to polished concrete. The relationship between the background colour and visible aggregate helps define the overall character of the finished floor.
BACKGROUND COLOUR
The surrounding colour has a major influence on the overall appearance and can be considered alongside the wider interior design.
AGGREGATE CHARACTER
The colour, scale and visual character of the aggregate contribute to the pattern and personality of the finished surface.
OVERALL DESIGN DIRECTION
Consider whether you are looking for something subtle and understated or a more prominent flooring feature within the space.
STYLE YOU LIKE?
Inspiration images are a useful starting point. Send SKM examples of terrazzo colours, aggregate combinations or interiors you like when discussing your project. They can help communicate the overall design direction you are considering.
NOT SURE WHICH
LOOK IS RIGHT
FOR YOUR SPACE?
You do not need to have every detail decided before speaking to SKM. A few basic project details and examples of floors you like can provide a useful starting point.
Tell us whether you are considering polished concrete or terrazzo, how the space will be used and the overall appearance you are hoping to create.
If you have seen a floor, interior or finish you like, send us the image when discussing your project.
TELL SKM ABOUT
YOUR PROJECT
YOUR FLOORING PROJECT