The expressive possibilities of terrazzo surfaces in the Martian Veil installation by Fantini Mosaici

2025 marks a pivotal moment for Fantini Mosaici, the Milanese company specializing in luxury mosaics, Venetian terrazzo, Palladiana, cobblestones and fine marbles, with the launch of its first showroom in the heart of Milan, at Foro Buonaparte 68. This showroom is conceived as a creative laboratory—an immersive hub where architects, designers, and clients can explore the boundless potential of custom surfaces.

During Milano Design Week 2025, Fantini Mosaici unveils the first hall of its showroom—an anticipation of the full exhibition and design narrative that will define the space.

Taking center stage is Martian Veil, a striking site-specific installation by AB+AC Architects. Designed to explore the expressive and functional potential of terrazzo, the architectural element reinterprets the material in a contemporary light, emphasizing its tactile and sensory qualities.

Inspired by the mineral-rich, fiery landscapes of Mars, Martian Veil is a three-dimensional wall that interacts with light and shadow, creating an ever-changing perception of space. Crafted from a curated selection of fine stones—Rosso Verona, Rosso Francia, Verde Ming, and Giallo Siena—the installation echoes the deep, intense hues of the red planet while showcasing the artistry of Italian craftsmanship.

But its exploration extends beyond the visual: Martian Veil introduces a multisensory dimension, infused with essential oils of eucalyptus, incense, and wood. This olfactory experience enhances the perception of space, establishing a dialogue between memory and material, between nature and human ingenuity.

With a modular structure and a flowing depth that varies between 2.5 and 12.5 cm, the 4x4.6m installation is conceived as a fragment of an imagined architectural landscape. More than a temporary installation, it anticipates new applications for terrazzo in contemporary high-end design.

AB+AC Architects have envisioned two different scenarios for Martian Veil in real-world settings: a monolithic fireplace within a villa surrounded by nature, and a monumental wall in a mountain hotel, stone, and fragrance converge into a fully immersive experience.