Terrazzo Times: A Unique Blend of Past and Present

Recreating Old House Renovations into Timeless Furniture

To reinforce this image, designer Hsuan Ting Huang re-created the building materials into new materials to seal the past time. She chose the techniques of terrazzo to complete as the furniture surface, and the traditional copper strip inlaid on the floor as the support structure. By collecting materials from old houses and using poured terrazzo techniques, Huang formed a new matrix, except for sharp objects.

The "Terrazzo Times" table, part of this unique collection, showcases the strength and unique features of this design. Made using a combination of cement, white cement, brick powder, black tiles powder, bronze, galvanized iron, and epoxy resin, the table measures 750 mm x 900 mm x 1100 mm. Its installation size makes it suitable for various spaces, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication.

To present the characteristic of terrazzo floor, which contains both rough and gentle cement and inlaid copper strips like the texture of gorgeous velvet, it depends superiorly on hand-polishing. The use of old materials can create the warm and delicate effect of the surface. Some of them even contain the hidden flowing texture.

The "Terrazzo Times" project started in January 2015 in Taipei and was completed in March 2015. It was later exhibited in YODEX in May 2015, showcasing the innovative approach of blending old and new materials to create timeless furniture.

Hsuan Ting Huang's design philosophy revolves around the idea of building our lives through creativity, not just for economic purposes. By incorporating memories of old house renovations and using materials such as bricks, tiles, ceramic, and gravel, Huang breathes new life into these objects, sealing the traces of time elapsed.

The creation of the "Terrazzo Times" collection was not without its challenges. Each piece of furniture required welding and cementing, taking a full month of time. Attention to detail was crucial to ensure precision and perfection. The special treatment technique used gives the cement a tougher characteristic, while the green copper embroidery suffusing the furniture adds a unique and spiritual touch.

With its blend of past and present, the "Terrazzo Times" collection by Hsuan Ting Huang stands as a testament to the power of creativity and innovation. By reimagining old materials and techniques, Huang has created a series of furniture pieces that are not only functional but also tell a story of their own.

Images:

Image 1: Photographer Aloke Chou, Terrazzo Times, 2015.

Image 2, 3, 5: Photographer Andrew Kan, Terrazzo Times, 2015.

Image 4: Illustrator Hsuan-Ting Huang, Terrazzo Times, 2014.

Intellectual Property Notice: Copyrights belong to Hsuan-Ting Huang, 2015.

Awards and Accolades: The "Terrazzo Times" design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2018. This award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The "Terrazzo Times" collection is respected for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.