The Beauty and Versatility of Terrazzo
Discover a terrazzo flooring in the heart of Mykonos
Epoxy terrazzo outdoors?
When considering outdoor materials, epoxy terrazzo flooring may not seem like the most obvious choice for many people. Some argue that it is not suitable for outdoor installations due to its sensitivity to ultraviolet rays and its less-than-ideal coefficient of thermal expansion for exteriors. While this is true, in some circumstances, epoxy terrazzo can still be used outdoors with specific formulations, installation techniques, and maintenance to withstand environmental factors such as UV exposure and moisture.
Tuya Restaurant in Mykonos, Greece was one of the first outdoor projects to showcase the remarkable potential of this material.
The decision to use epoxy terrazzo outdoors was made despite the potential for the space to be exposed to high temperatures during the summer months. This was because the location was easily protected from direct sunlight. The architecture of the space provides ample shade, which means that direct sunlight rarely reaches the floor.
This project was challenging due to the balance needed between environmental concerns and logistics operations. The restaurant is located in the old center of the island, where traffic is limited to pedestrians and construction materials can only be carried on-site by small lifters, scooters or wheelbarrows, and only between 5-9 am.
All the necessary materials, machinery, and tools for the project had to be transported by ferry boat from Athens. Before the delivery, we carefully evaluated and planned for all the required materials, consumables, tools, machinery, and backup supplies needed for the project. This was necessary because it was impossible to acquire any necessary supplies on the island.
Despite these challenges, the metamorphosis of a very old and traditional building courtyard into a fashionable and high-end restaurant was successfully achieved.
Tuya Mykonos inspired by the island’s architecture
The architects who designed Tuya Restaurant were very mindful of the island’s traditional identity, which has been maintained by keeping the villages and original architecture untouched. Mykonos has a strict color code that requires the walls of houses to be painted white, and the doors and windows to be painted blue, green, or red. This code dates back to a tradition where sailors painted their doors blue, farmers painted them green, and everyone else used red. For Tuya Mykonos, the architects chose to use the green color, which is why the green-with-cream flooring color was not a design accident.
Twins Studio, a well-known interior design company owned by Mihai Popescu, based in Romania, has once again delivered an impeccable interior design for Tuya Restaurant. Known for their outstanding creativity and exceptional attention to detail, Twins Studio has worked with us on numerous projects in the past, including Tuya Vienna and Tuya Milan. With their extensive experience and expertise in the field of interior design, it’s no surprise that they have once again impressed us with their exceptional work for Tuya Mykonos.
When designing a restaurant, every detail counts, and the flooring is one of the most crucial aspects. It impacts the overall dining experience, not just in terms of functionality, but also in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that complements the restaurant’s decor and style. For this project, the designers had to choose a flooring design that respects the architecture and environment of Mykonos Island.
The meticulous attention to detail was evident in the careful and accurate design that produced a magnifying glass illusion, making the flooring appear as if it were under clear pool water. Natural light reflected from the floor in slightly different shades according to the green and cream aggregates, adding a unique and exclusive touch to the design.
The installation process required great care. The working team took care in applying the terrazzo over the old pavement, ensuring the substrate’s soundness, leveling, and reconfiguring the drainage slopes. They also preserved all areas of the adjacent walls, trees, and plants in the building’s inner courtyard. The flooring was completed in just 25 days, working daily, due to the tight opening time of the restaurant. The team worked tirelessly to finish the project before the holiday season started, as no construction work is allowed in the old center of the Island after that.
The Heritage Commission from Mykonos City Hall verified and approved all the works according to their regulations, ensuring the restaurant’s preservation.
Tuya Mykonos has recently undergone a renovation that has left no stone unturned in creating a truly exceptional dining experience. One of the most notable features of the new design is the breathtaking terrazzo flooring that has been installed. The flooring is a true work of art, with intricate patterns and designs that are inspired by the architecture of the island itself. The result is a stunning and unique atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who dine there. Every aspect of the design has been carefully considered to ensure that diners have an unforgettable experience.
To learn more about Tuya restaurants, Twins Studio and Terrazzo, visit: www.tuya.ro, www.twinsdesign.ro, www.viazzo.ro