JASPER, IN – Browning Day announced that St. Joseph Catholic Church has been awarded the 2024 Honor Award by the National Terrazzo & Mosaic Association (NTMA). This recognition is a testament to the dedication, creativity, and craftsmanship that went into the restoration of this historic space.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a cherished landmark in Jasper, IN. The restoration project was an opportunity to breathe new life into a sacred space that holds deep meaning for the community. The effort included enhancing the infrastructure, adding modern technology, and, most importantly, preserving the spirit of the church for future generations.
Central to this transformation is the epoxy terrazzo floor, which serves as a bridge between tradition and modern craftsmanship. Artisan-crafted and poured-in-place with a five-color geometric pattern, the floor seamlessly extends from the baptismal font at the entrance along an east-west axis leading to the altar, with precise detailing in the zinc divider strips – complementing the 1880’s structure and creating a rhythm in the terrazzo that responds to the structural system. This durable, low-maintenance finish honors the original design intent and history of St. Joseph Catholic Church, while creating a lasting foundation that will continue to uplift and inspire parishioners as they gather in worship.
This project reminds us of the power of restoration—not just to a building, but to the spirit of a faith community that congregates within. Browning Day thanks its partners at Midwest Terrazzo for their efforts on this award-winning feature.
“My grandfather was an Italian immigrant who came to America in the early 1900s to find work. His trade was terrazzo, and I visited many significant structures where he installed the terrazzo, such as the George Rogers Clark Memorial in Vincennes. I have repaired, restored, and replicated terrazzo several times in my career, but this is the first time I created the design. To have the opportunity to work in the same medium as my grandfather 100 years later is an honor. Likewise, to be recognized by the NTMA for the design quality is equally an honor. I think my grandfather would be as proud of my work as I am of his,” said Michael Eagan, Principal, Director of Faith-Based Design at Browning Day.
