Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A Earns Terrazzo Honor
Newark Liberty International Airport’s recently unveiled Terminal A has garnered prestigious recognition for its exceptional terrazzo floor, earning the distinction of 2024 Terrazzo Job of the Year from the National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association (NTMA).
Spanning an impressive 550,000 square feet, the epoxy terrazzo floor is a testament to exquisite design and meticulous execution. Its subtle aviation-inspired patterns, mirrored on the ceiling, contribute to the terminal’s sleek, modern European flair. The judges of the NTMA were particularly impressed by the floor’s uniformity, superior craftsmanship, and the contractor’s skillful handling of complex challenges.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the floor is impeccably designed to enhance the passenger experience. It integrates wayfinding elements that subtly guide travelers to various sections of the terminal, including arrivals, departures, and the food court area. The intricate design includes over 1,000 zinc chevrons, meticulously set into place using bespoke corrugated plastic templates. This level of detail highlights the contractor’s unwavering commitment to precision and craftsmanship.
To ensure the floor met the airport’s stringent flatness requirements, the installation team applied an average of 1 inch of epoxy fill, followed by precise screeding, resulting in an exceptional floor levelness that surpasses industry norms. The terrazzo was installed over lightweight concrete, featuring dual moisture mitigation coats, ensuring durability and longevity.
Another notable aspect of the project is its premium precast staircases. Over 3,600 linear feet of cement terrazzo treads and risers, each 4 inches thick, were meticulously installed across 22 staircases. These heavy components, some exceeding 8 feet in length and weighing over 650 pounds, were expertly placed using gantry cranes. Crews worked diligently in shifts, seven days a week for nine months, to complete this significant phase of the project.
To optimize both cost-effectiveness and quality, a consistent blend of glass, mother-of-pearl, mirror, and marble was employed across various matrix colors. This strategic approach ensured the terrazzo coverage extended without compromising durability and ease of maintenance. The result is a floor that is well-equipped to withstand the heavy foot traffic associated with a major transportation hub.
The project was spearheaded by Tutor Perini/Parson JV for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, with Grimshaw as the design architect and STV as the executive architect. T. Yorie Corp., the project’s flooring contractor, is a highly respected member of the NTMA, having been founded in 1976 and headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania, with an additional office in Newark. The company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in the exceptional terrazzo floor at Terminal A.
The NTMA, headquartered in Fredericksburg, Texas, has been supporting the terrazzo industry and setting national standards since 1923. Its annual Honor Award program recognizes outstanding terrazzo projects, promoting members as the exclusive qualified providers for such installations. The terrazzo floor at Newark Liberty International Airport’s Terminal A stands as a testament to the enduring beauty, versatility, and durability of this ancient yet modern material.
