8. Concrete & Terrazzo Geometric Wall Medallion
Industrial concrete and vibrant terrazzo aggregate form a resilient, sculptural art feature.
- Introduction: Cast concrete and terrazzo medallions merge sculpture with graphic wall decor. Made from durable cast stone, these pieces are inherently moisture-proof, making them ideal for high-humidity and wet-zone bathroom walls.
- What This Idea Means: This concept celebrates structural materials. By combining concrete with colorful marble chips, crushed quartz, and glass fragments, you turn industrial elements into an artistic centerpiece.
- How to Make It:
- Construct a shallow circular or arched silicone mold using structural foam and silicone rubber casting compound.
- Mix high-strength white Portland cement with fine sand, acrylic fortifier, and marble aggregate chips (such as Thassos white, Verde Alpi green, and Nero Marquina).
- Pour the mix into the mold, vibrating it thoroughly to eliminate trapped air bubbles.
- Let it cure undisturbed for 72 hours.
- Demold the cast and wet-grind the surface with diamond polishing pads (starting at 60-grit up to 1500-grit) to expose the cross-sections of the colorful marble chips.
- Apply an impregnating stone and concrete sealer to lock out moisture.
- Mount to the wall using a heavy-duty concealed French cleat embedded during casting.
- Tips and Variations:
- Variation 1: Cast the medallion with half smooth pigmented charcoal concrete and half terrazzo for a two-tone look.
- Variation 2: Inset a polished circular mirror into the center to combine art with functionality.
- Mounting Safety: Use masonry anchors rated for the specific weight of your cast stone medallion.