Platform on new construction, renovation, restoration and transformation
As part of the large-scale renovation of the ARTIS Aquarium, the floors also required a future-proof solution. To install over 2,000 square meters of terrazzo flooring, the specialists at Eterno Minerals of the World were brought in; together with contractor Salverda, they developed a comprehensive plan for both the structural subfloor and the final terrazzo finish.
Eterno came into the picture for this project through Betonwerken Nederland. “After a thorough assessment with the contractor, the various phases of construction were mapped out, and we determined which parts of the existing structure required extra attention,” says Richard Hoogeveen of Eterno. “We didn’t just look at the terrazzo floor itself, but at the entire flooring system.”
One major challenge was creating space for the new installations. “Since a terrazzo layer is about 2.5 centimeters thick, a special subfloor was installed first,” Hoogeveen explains. “This intermediate layer, approximately 8 centimeters thick, accommodates electrical wiring, pipes, and equipment for the aquariums. The subfloor and terrazzo layer ultimately form a single unit, allowing the floor to contribute structurally to the building.”
In addition to the technical requirements, aesthetics naturally played an important role as well. “In collaboration with the contractor, architect, and ARTIS, we evaluated various color samples,” Hoogeveen recalls. “Ultimately, we chose a light cement color with a darker natural stone as the base. The shade of the cement varies in different areas of the building, creating subtle differences in appearance.”
The project presented significant logistical challenges. “Due to ARTIS’s inner-city location, materials could only be delivered in limited quantities,” says Hoogeveen. “Due to municipal requirements, trucks were not allowed to be fully loaded, and all materials had to be brought in through a relatively small entrance. We then mixed and processed the specialized terrazzo mixture on site.”
The end result captures the imagination. According to Hoogeveen, sustainability, ease of maintenance, and a very long service life are key reasons for choosing terrazzo. For the company, which has specialized in terrazzo and concrete floors since 2006, the project also holds special significance. “We are immensely proud to have been able to contribute to the renovation of such an iconic landmark. We have literally and figuratively done our part for the future of ARTIS.”
