PRECAST TERRAZZO FLOORING
The legacy of József Walla
WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY: BEATRIX TORMA
The use of cement-based flooring became widespread across Europe at the same time. Individually hand-made terrazzo tiles were the commonly used covering for historic heritage buildings constructed around the turn of the century in Hungary.
CHURCH OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY OF MOUNT KARMEL
TERRAZZO FLOORING
At the peak and turning point of its development, Budapest became the capital and turned into one of the intellectual centres of Europe at the turn of the century. It was perhaps the most exciting period of Hungarys modern development, with decades full of talent, initiative and experimentation. A rich social and cultural vegetation was created that made possible the establishment of many important public buildings, including the opening of the Academy of Music and the Opera House, both of which were important in terms of architecture and music history. The early Gothic-style Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel was also built at this time, featuring architectural and decorative monuments that are masterpieces of the eras outstanding artists, builders and craftsmen.
Reconstruction of terrazzo flooring from the turn of the century
The industrialist József Walla was responsible for the tiling of many now forgotten and demolished historic buildings. His mosaic and cement factory not only served the needs of domestic market halls, railway stations and public buildings, but also exported its products to neighbouring countries. There were not many factories of a similar profile in Hungary, its best known competitors were the manufactories of Péter Melocco and Vince Cristofoli, as well as the factory of Frigyes Raichl in Palánka. Among the patterns we find simple ones with classicizing border motifs, stylized plant representations or drawings reflecting the influence of Viennese geometric art nouveau.
The small-element terrazzo flooring of the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel, adorned with floral fields and geometric patterns, is the work of József Walla. The well-preserved original flooring was restored by on-site polishing. The damaged pavement in the foreground was reconstructed by Iamart based on samples taken from the original mosaic terrazzo, with its final appearance being determined in collaboration with relevant experts. In the Iamart workshop, terrazzo tiles are manufactured using traditional techniques, ensuring that the appearance of the flooring resembles that of the original pieces from the era.
