American Society of Concrete Contractors

Mason in Drums, PA

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:55:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Mason, Emil J Gera Concrete Contractor, Inc., Drums, PA
First Place: Multiple Applications, Under 5,000 sqft
WOW! Award Winner

The customers on this project wanted a WOW factor when people walked into their backyard. The rear of the house was a blank piece of paper. Upon our initial meeting we discussed what they might like to see in this space and gave me creative freedom. Using Structure Studios Viz Terra design program I set to work designing this space based upon the entry point from their garage entrance that guests would be using and thinking about what would be the biggest wow factor. I included every decorative design aspect I could think of from the water feature, fire pit area, bar seating, full outdoor kitchen, fireplace, seat walls, 4’x10’ live edge farmhouse table, lighting and natural gas lanterns at the entrance. The customers loved the design with very little changes. Our company began by installing the footings for the timber frame structures. This was the only aspect of this project that was sub contracted out. Their structures are amazing, now I had to make everything look just as good if not better. The floors are Deco-Crete’s Rustic Barnwood Plank. The fire pit area is stamped to show off the design in the wood and accentuate the fire pit. The kitchen, table base, fire pit, seat walls and piers are built using Outdoor Living Foundations system, which we manufactured in house with the help of OLF’s owner. These structures feature Vertical carving along with cast in place countertops. The fireplace stands 24’ tall and is a conventional masonry fireplace finished off with vertical carving. Lastly the water feature, which is backlit for a magical nighttime experience tops it all off. This was a once in a lifetime project for our company. Nearly every surface is custom, designed and built by Gera Concrete.

Dairy Market Central Food Hall in Charlottesville, VA

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:49:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Dairy market Central Food Hall, Decorative Concrete of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
First Place: Project Video, Under 5,000 sqft
First Place: Stained & Dyes, Under 5,000 sqft

The Dairy Market Stain and Polish project pushed the limits of both technical execution and logistical planning. What initially seemed like a straightforward job quickly revealed itself to be anything but. The architectural specifications called for an intricate, marble-inspired design reminiscent of the floors in the Venetian Hotel in Las Vega. This level of detail called for our team to source a specialized stencil vendor from across the country, doubling our anticipated material costs.

The project site added another layer of difficulty: a 1,155-square-foot area inside a temporary tent, located in the heart of a constantly operating food court. We had to maintain clean air with industrial scrubbers running 24/7 and route all power through ceiling rafters to eliminate tripping hazards in high-traffic zones.

The stencil work demanded flawless precision. With over 20 sheets to align, even the slightest error would have thrown off the entire pattern. Midway through, we had to overnight five additional stencils to keep the project on track. Our team worked diligently to provide a quality decorative stain and polish system for the Dairy Market Food Hall in Charlottesville, VA. What began as a two-week job evolved into a true test of our team's adaptability, problem-solving, and craftsmanship under pressure. The end result is a flawless and sustainable polished floor with an exquisite design bringing detail and style to the food hall.

Marjaree Mason Center in Fresno, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:32:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Marjaree Mason Center, Heritage Bomanite, Fresno, CA
First Place: Polished Concrete & Overlays, Under 5,000 sqft

This project involved removing several large sections of existing cementitious terrazzo flooring and replacing them with Bomanite Modena to create a seamless, polished surface throughout the space. Approximately 5,000 square feet of both old and new terrazzo was polished, with around 800 square feet consisting of newly installed Bomanite Modena. An interior ramp was poured with Bomanite Modena to establish a California ADA-compliant entry to the bathroom, and a band of Bomanite Modena was installed along hallway perimeters to provide a smooth transition between old and new flooring.

One of the project’s main highlights was the exceptional craftsmanship required to install new Bomanite Modena alongside very old terrazzo flooring. Zinc terrazzo strips aligned perfectly, and the color complemented the original floor, which was discovered to have more shades than initially anticipated due to restricted access during early inspection. The team’s skill ensured a polished finish that respected the existing historic flooring.

Another key aspect was the positive collaboration between Heritage Bomanite, the general contractor, and the construction management and design teams. Despite ongoing challenges presented by the owner, the team maintained open communication and professionalism, successfully overcoming each obstacle while working in cramped conditions alongside trades that ideally should have been offsite.

Initial inspection was limited due to the floor being covered under plywood once construction had started. A chip of the existing terrazzo was provided to Bomanite’s Denver facility to create an approved sample. Several areas required removal and rebuilding of a base layer to achieve the correct depth for Bomanite Modena installation.

This project demonstrates the value of craftsmanship and teamwork under pressure to achieve a beautiful, lasting result.

Chaney Reception Desk in Annapolis, MD

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:26:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Chaney Reception Desk, Hyde Concrete, Annapolis, MD
First Place: Countertops/Furniture/Fire-pits, Under 5,000 sqft

This 3,000-pound architectural precast concrete reception desk represents artistic craftsmanship and precision engineering for Chaney Enterprises' corporate headquarters. The desk serves as a strong, sleek, and sophisticated welcome centerpiece, the perfect focal point for a company passionate about providing ready-mix concrete and construction materials to customers.

Preconstruction planning was key. After architect renderings were provided, we developed and returned comprehensive shop drawings and build documents. Upon immediate approval, our team handcrafted the desk, demonstrating confidence in our expertise and proven track record.

We engineered a six-piece system that required precise tolerances for seamless assembly. The centerpiece front panel features an integrated toe kick and an angular brake with custom notching for LED backlighting. This complex shape required specialized forming and extreme dimensional accuracy. Field adjustments were not possible given the material weight and architectural constraints.

Achieving angular alignment across all pieces while maintaining structural integrity for the 3,000- pound assembly was a technical challenge. We ensured a perfect fit despite the complexity of multipiece precast construction. Installation was a logistical challenge; we maneuvered 1,000+ pound individual components thirty feet above ground level through the renovated building's confined entrance. Safety planning and coordination meetings with contractors ensured safe and incident-free installation. Our crew executed the rigging operation using telehandler equipment and multiple person lifting protocols.

This project shows concrete's architectural versatility, transforming concrete into corporate art. The integrated lighting features, custom wood cabinetry, and precision-engineered modularity demonstrate advanced precast concrete capabilities. Francis Hall Chaney III, CEO of Chaney Enterprises, notes, "We are thrilled with how this centerpiece welcomes visitors and embodies our commitment to supporting our customers and communities as we push forward with quality." By combining artistry in concrete construction, structural engineering expertise and artistic vision, we delivered a functional sculpture that demonstrates the highest level of concrete craftsmanship and showcases the limitless possibilities of architectural precast design.

Art For Your Floors in Dallas, TX

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 22:18:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Art For Your Floors, Epoxy Guys, LLC, Dallas, TX
First Place: Concrete Artistry, Under 5,000 sqft
First Place: Decorative Resinous Coatings, Under 5,000 sqft

Located in the heart of Dallas’ vibrant Design District—an area known for its artistic expression and creative innovation—this project brought to you by Epoxy Guys was the perfect opportunity to merge functional flooring with fine art. The client wanted more than durability they wanted a statement. We delivered a high-performance epoxy system that not only met industrial standards but also served as a canvas for a custom interpretation of Michelangelo’s Hands of God, seamlessly embedded into the floor.

The artistic element elevated the level of difficulty significantly. Every phase—from surface prep to layout and installation—required extreme precision. Moisture control, substrate repair, and leveling had to be flawless to avoid any interference with the hand-painted centerpiece. The artwork itself was executed in layers, using custom pigment blends, freehand detailing, and a carefully timed encapsulation process to preserve clarity and ensure long-term durability under a high-gloss protective topcoat.

Working in the Design District also came with logistical challenges. Site access was restricted, timelines were tight, and maintaining environmental conditions was essential to ensure material performance and adhesion. Despite the complexity, our team brought the project together with a balance of craftsmanship and creativity.

This floor doesn’t just serve a purpose—it tells a story. By incorporating a touch of Michelangelo into an epoxy system, we created a space that reflects the artistic heartbeat of Dallas while showcasing what’s possible when design and construction are in perfect sync.

McMullen County Splash Pad in Tilden, TX

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:46:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
McMullen County Splash Pad, Sundek National Accounts, Tilden, TX
First Place: Cementitious Overlays, Over 5,000 sqft

The McMullen County Splash Pad project encompassed 2,775 square feet of Classic Texture installation featuring multiple custom art elements and colors. The surface was finished with SUNDEK’s Eco Clear water-based urethane topcoat, enhanced with an aluminum oxide broadcast for added slip resistance. The installation was completed in 21 days. SUNDEK was provided with a highly detailed CAD drawing from the landscape architecture firm. To accurately replicate the artwork, we produced custom heavy-duty polyplastic templates to scale. These were hand-laid and meticulously masked following the installation of the Classic Texture system, preparing the surface for precise color application. After the initial artwork and color layout were completed, the landscape architect made significant design changes requiring a full recolor and redesign. This involved repeating the intricate masking process, reapplying the custom color layout, and recoating with the clear finish, essentially performing the detailed design work twice. The project team endured long hours in the challenging South Texas heat and wind to meet the revised expectations. The original installation cost was 37,000 dollars with an additional 16,000 dollars incurred for the redesign and recolor. Multiple custom color samples were developed for the client, and a unique three color aggregate blend was used for the final base field color of the splash pad. This project represents more than just decorative concrete. It fulfilled a century long wait for McMullen County to have its first true public recreational space. For generations, the community lacked a safe and welcoming place for children to play and families to gather, especially during the extreme South Texas summers. The splash pad now stands as a vibrant, durable, and meaningful destination that reflects the pride and resilience of a small community with big spirit.

Legacy Builders - Rudolf Hanger in Whitsett, NC

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:33:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Legacy Builders - Rudolf Hanger, Carolina Bomanite Corportation, Whitsett, NC
First Place: Cast-in-Place - Stamped, Under 5,000 sqft

300 word Narrative - Legacy Rudolf project: This initial project meeting was during covid, over a video conference with the Designer and owner. An original layout for the hanger/barndominium was determined and samples produced. The scale and purpose of the project allowed for a modest budget. We were chosen for our attention to detail and craftsmanship. It was determined that a bonded topping slab was best, in order to allow for normal construction traffic prior to the finished pours. Random cracking of the structural floor slab created additional crack repair work for us consisting of epoxy injection and grinding prior to our scope. The site, situated back in a large wooded tract, allowed for easy access in dry weather, but difficult after rainfalls. Since this was a post covid build, availability of the special order aviation door caused significant delays. During initial conversations with the Builder and owner, there were concerns about the ability of a sophisticated remote controlled landing platform to easily navigate over the door threshold and over the slate textured surface without disruption to the helicopter. Attention was given to allow for a soft 'skip' trowel over the texture after imprinting in order to knockdown the high edges. The owner was instrumental in performing several rescue missions shortly after Hurricane Helene in WNC. He mobilized his helicopter to Asheville, NC to assist in locating missing members of a family after being moved by a friend's Facebook post. His initial flights not only inspired others, but created a landing zone used for months at a Harley Davidson location. This group of civilian and ex-military pilots were nicknamed the "Redneck Air Force"

Project Specifics: The concrete portion of the project was approx. 3666SF with 2791SF either imprinted or textured. The imprinted sections were as follows: Main storage area 2467SF - 3" bonded topping slab with a 3' ocew composite rebar grid poured using a 3600psi small stone mix. The concrete was colored using Davis integral 860 pigment at a rate of 5#/CY. The surface was textured using Bomanite Slate Texture skins using liquid release. The antiquing was Black EZTique at a 1oz per gal of water ratio. A saw cut pattern approx. 42" was used for structural as well as aesthetic purposes. This allowed for multiple contraction jointing thus eliminating post pour random cracking. The base sealer was a 20% solids solvent based acrylic with a 20% water based acrylic topcoat followed up with 2-3 coats of a sacrificial wax prior to owner occupancy. Woodplank Walkway 324SF - This area, which started at the front door and led to the owners retreat, was poured first in order to establish elevation and ease of detailing for the installation crew. Nail holes were added using the back of a marker in order to add detail. The coloring was Brickform Walnut and the imprint tools were Bomanite 12" Boardwalk Plank using liquid release. After cleaning the walkway received special coloring of Mojave, Mission Beige and Terra Cotta from EZTique. The overall wash was Brownston from Bomanite. The same sealing process was used as the Main areas. The perimeter joints were sealed with an urethane joint sealant to match. Auxiliary Area 875SF - It was determined from the owner that the remainder of the storage area needed to be a nicer finish. An 800 grit grind and polish w/densifier was used in this space to compliment the entire space. General Contractor - Legacy Building Group Designer - Carolina Bomanite Corporation, John Fletcher Concrete Supplier - Chandler Concrete, Burlington, NC Submitted by - John Fletcher, President Carolina Bomanite Corporation

101 Ocean in Santa Monica, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:30:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
101 Ocean, Trademark Concrete Systems Inc., Santa Monica, CA
First Place: Cast-in-Place - Special Finishes, Under 5,000 sqft

101 Ocean was built in 1963 and sits atop the north end of Ocean Avenue. This iconic structure towers above the Pacific Coast Highway providing unobstructed ocean views. In 1993 the building was completely renovated while still maintaining the same 10-story retro-modern décor and 59 units. Summer 2024 Trademark was approached by ownership in regards to helping to completely renovate the pool and spa areas of the property. During an intense 8 week span throughout the summer months the project was completed. The project features two of the highest profile decorative concrete finishes ever installed by Trademark.

The concrete work at the 101 pool and spa renovation spared no expense and a big reason why it remains a large focal point to anyone who's seen laid eyes on this incredible project. Trademark & the design team joined forces early on during preconstruction developing two extremely high end (& unforgiving) concrete finishes. Both "bright white" - inclusive of both white sand and white cement. To execute this installation white sand was transported by Super-10 (numerous times) from the Bay area down to CalPortland's Santa Monica plant and hand loaded on site. Execution was of extreme importance as each load of concrete thousands of dollars. The two paving types on the project alternate between a "bright white" sand finish & a "bright white" honed finish. The honed finished paving was creating by hand seeding white granite along the top of the paving and later exposing the aggregate with a hand planetary grinder. The sand finish texture was created using a surface retarder. These two striking paving types really come to life in the evening as the property is illuminated with various landscape/hardscape lighting.

the NOW in West Hollywood, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:25:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
the NOW, Largo Concrete, Inc., West Hollywood, CA
First Place: Vertical/Facades, Over 5,000 sqft

At the corner of La Cienega and Sunset Blvd. along the iconic Sunset Strip, the NOW is a 79,214 SF high-end commercial development highlighted by exposed architectural white concrete. The building features three levels of below-grade parking and four levels of leasable space. A two-tier retaining wall was built on the north side to maximize space, but tight site and limited laydown area at this busy intersection posed logistical challenges. Planning of equipment and ready-mix deliveries, along with strategic material storage and access routes, enabled efficient operations.

The two lowest parking levels are accessed by vehicular elevators and are the only two decks with identical elevations. The remaining floors vary in height from 10’-11¾” to 22’-6”. The upper three levels cantilever toward Sunset Blvd., with levels two and three spanning 17’-5” from column edge. Both decks terminate at a 5’6” tall beam, which turns down on level two and up at level three to create a parapet wall for the patio area.

Perimeter elements feature a 2'x2' tie pattern, with vertical seams every 8’ and horizontal seams every 4’. QC worked with field teams to maintain architectural formwork integrity through cleaning and moisture-check procedures.

The most striking architectural feature is a “louvered”, wave effect on the second level patio. These columns are 1’ wide and 2‘10” inches apart. The first eight columns from the west taper off from 3 feet 9 inches, 13 feet above the deck, down to 2 feet deep where the column meets the second level deck.

The next 17 columns are stub columns suspended from the perimeter upturn beam above. These stub columns shrink in height as they move across the building, starting at 8 feet tall and ending at 3 feet from the bottom of the beam. Embeds at the top of each column are connected to steel beams with their own unique pattern which span across the space creating an undulating effect.

Catalina Pacific supplied a 6,000 PSI white cement mix. Largo placed 7,250 CY over 15 months with 65,000 manhours and zero recordable incidents.

Submission Guidelines

Each submittal must include a 100-300 word clarification statement, which should enable the judges to understand the overall scope and other facets of the project which made it particularly difficult or challenging.

The clarification statement should cover the complexity and uniqueness of the project and might include such information as:

· Project design

· Economy and craftsmanship

· Degree of difficulty of layout and installation

· Site compatibility

· Ecological and environmental factors

· Problem solving Testimonials from other project participants (e.g. owner, GC, A/E) are welcome but not necessary.

Photo Requirements

• Professional photography is strongly recommended.

• All photos should be taken from a marketing perspective.

• A minimum of three and a maximum of six photographs shall be submitted for each project.

• The photos should provide the necessary insight into the project’s ability to address the judging criteria.

• While photos showing the overall project can be helpful in defining scope and scale, close-ups of areas are often better for illustrating fine craftsmanship.

• Each photo must be at least 5” x 7” at 300 dpi.

• Pictures taken at the highest resolution possible are in your best interest.

California Firefighter's Memorial in Sacramento, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:44:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
California Firefighter's Memorial, Trademark Concrete Systems, Inc., Sacramento, CA
First Place: Project Video, Over 5,000 sqft

The California Firefighter’s Memorial is a powerful tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of California’s fire service community. Located in Capitol Park in Sacramento, this expanded memorial honors more than 1,500 firefighters who have died in the line of duty since 1850. Each year, thousands gather here during the California Firefighter’s Memorial Ceremony to reflect and remember those who gave their lives in service to the state.

The decorative concrete scope was central to creating a space that is both reverent and enduring. The hardscape features 10,000 square feet of 6" thick running bond flatwork, produced with a custom white concrete mix incorporating imported white sands, all hand-mixed on site. The result is a striking yet respectful tone and texture befitting the memorial’s significance.

Integrated into the flatwork are bronze inlays and discreet lighting elements, designed to enhance the visitor experience without distracting from the solemn purpose of the space. Additional features include radiused concrete benches, circular pedestals with bronze inlays, and sign walls with template-sandblasted text. All vertical concrete elements were cast using the same custom white mix, ensuring a cohesive and elegant design throughout.

In total, the project involved 350 cubic yards of decorative concrete. The careful craftsmanship, complex detailing, and thoughtful coordination required to execute this work reflect a high level of expertise and dedication.

This project not only demonstrates technical excellence in decorative concrete construction—it also carries deep emotional and civic value. As a lasting tribute to California’s fallen firefighters, it serves as a meaningful landmark in the state’s capital and a deserving candidate for recognition in any award program celebrating craftsmanship, public space design, and community impact.

Epic Universe; Celestial Park in Orlando, FL

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:08:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Epic Universe; Celestial Park, David Allen Company, Orlando, FL
First Place: Polished Concrete & Overlays, Over 5,000 sqft

Celestial Park is the radiant core of Epic Universe—an awe-inspiring hub where all themed lands converge. Guests pass through this cosmic garden of stars, fountains, and architectural wonders. David Allen Company transformed broad design intent into high-performance, polished surfaces. Spanning 14,800 square feet of Rapid Set Tru Polishable Overlay, the work required intricate planning and close collaboration with WG Yates and Universal Creative to bring each environment to life.

At Otherworlds Mercantile guests step onto a floor that mirrors the constellation-filled ceiling above. Featuring two custom integral colors and a sparkling blend of Rose Gold Mirror, Mother of Pearl, and Clear Glass, the overlay was honed to 800 grit and sealed with Coval Ultimate TopCoat. But beneath the shimmer: significant substrate cracking required carbon fiber stitching, epoxy mortar repairs, and a full crack suppression membrane. Over 2,500 linear feet of divider strips were then installed in a circular layout to echo the ceiling’s design, completing a floor that feels both immersive and infinite.

Just steps away, Atlantic Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience overlooking the grand fountain. Here, the floor tells a story of movement toward the ocean. A gradient layout of Cobalt Glass, Aqua Glass, Turquoise Glass, Mother of Pearl, and Mirror aggregates increases in density from the entrance to the observation deck—creating the illusion of approaching the shoreline. Multiple crews mixed aggregates live during a continuous pour, ensuring the transition flowed naturally. Polished to 800 grit and finished with two coats of Coval UTC, the surface also features 53 custom brass inlays, fabricated to match Universal’s designs and installed with precision.

Finally, at Oak & Star Tavern, designed as a warm retreat with celestial elegance, the floor uses eight custom integral colors and a radiant blend of Gold Amber, Rose Mirror, Yellow Glass, Pink Quartz, Granite, and Recycled Mirror. Twenty-one custom brass inlays, water jet–cut in-house, were set into the polished surface following a carefully stenciled layout. The slab was pre-leveled to transition seamlessly into surrounding large-format tiles, and as with the other venues, finished with Ameripolish 3DHS densifier, full epoxy grout, and Coval UTC. Each floor was protected post-install using Skudo GP Mat and Skudo Board, preserving the integrity of the finishes throughout construction.

From celestial retail to oceanside dining to fireside storytelling, these three spaces share a common thread: floors that are more than functional—they are immersive surfaces, carefully crafted to elevate the guest journey. Together, they represent a singular vision brought to life with exceptional creativity, precision, and polish.

Manor Country Club in Rockville, MD

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:03:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Manor Country Club, Sundek of Washington, Rockville, MD
First Place: Multiple Applications, Over 5,000 sqft

Manor Country Club, a private member owned club located just outside Washington DC in Rockville, Maryland, celebrated its 100th anniversary with a complete amenity and exterior makeover. Referred by club member Jane Poetker, the facilities manager, in search of a concrete solution, a call to SUNDEK was made.John (JR) Switts contacted Jane for more information and met with her the following day. During his visit, he saw that most of the concrete sectional renovations, once completed, resulted in new concrete sitting next to old concrete which was not the look they were hoping for.Anticipating this concern from his initial phone conversation with Jane, JR came prepared and brought several samples to present. Although the samples were good, they were not a perfect match. But there was no need to worry. Within three days, Jane had exactly what she wanted. In her words, wow. A presentation to the board was made for approval to overlay 8000 square feet of concrete with a multicolor hand stained SunStamp finish with grout, covering walkways and paved areas. The project was approved in early spring and installation followed shortly after.Impressed with the work during installation, Jane asked JR to provide a proposal for the two outdoor pool areas, adding an additional 15000 square feet to the project. There was just one catch. The work had to be completed before the pool opening on May fifteenth.With a small army of SUNDEK technicians led by master technician Eloy Davalos, both areas were completed on schedule and on time.

Epic Universe; Gran Helios Hotel Lobby Floor in Orlando, FL

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:53:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Epic Universe; Gran Helios Hotel Lobby Floor, David Allen Company, Orlando, FL
First Place: Decorative Resinous Coatings, Over 5,000 sqft

The Grand Helios Hotel stands as a shining tribute to the sun, moon, and stars within Universal’s Epic Universe. Anchoring Celestial Park with striking architecture and luminous interiors, the hotel blends luxury with cosmic grandeur. Its public floors—spanning the lobby, hallways, retail areas, and breakfast restaurant—were envisioned as a flowing celestial map, alive with constellations, radiant arcs, and planetary bands underfoot.

To bring this vision to life, a custom Terroxy epoxy terrazzo system was installed across approximately 10,100 square feet. The design incorporated three primary base colors and five additional artwork tones, combining to create layered fields of movement and rhythm. Over 5,000 square feet were hand-seeded in a multi-color celestial pattern, embedded with hand-bent ¼” brass strips to form glowing golden rings, orbits, and constellations. In high-visibility areas, such as the lobby ramp, sitting steps, and retail thresholds, poured-in-place terrazzo was sculpted into curved, vertical transitions—including a waterfall-edge knee wall and column wraps.

Roughly 250 linear feet of poured-in-place 6” radial cove base was installed with a brass top strip, matched by 650 linear feet of precast cove base throughout corridors and corners .One expansion joint with a finished brass top-plate was strategically integrated to maintain visual continuity. Where needed, precision infill was placed to meet floor tolerance requirements. A final upgrade to TR-X sealer enhanced reflectivity and durability, while AlphaShield protection safeguarded artwork zones during final construction phases. This floor is more than finish—it’s a celestial tapestry that guides guests through the Grand Helios experience, one radiant step at a time.

Chimelong Spaceship Park in Zhuhai, China

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:45:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Chimelong Spaceship Park, Bomanite International Limited, Zhuhai, China
First Place: Concrete Artistry, Over 5,000 sqft

Chimelong Spaceship Park Zhuhai, the world’s largest indoor park built by Chimelong Group, is located in the Zhuhai Hengqin Chimelong International Ocean Resort, adjacent to Hengqin Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. As the core project of Zhuhai Chimelong’s Phase II, the park adopts an interactive model integrating marine ecology and entertainment, connecting natural ecosystems, amusement facilities, science popularization, and scenario-based performances to showcase over 400 species and nearly 150,000 marine animals to visitors.

The overall architecture of Chimelong Spaceship Park Zhuhai resembles a super spaceship from outer space, full of technological vibes, integrating marine biology science display, metaverse entertainment applications, large-scale performances, featured catering, and thematic merchandise. The landscape design follows the concepts of "nature," "ecology," "environmental protection," and "conservation," creating natural ecological scenes, displaying marine landscapes, and integrating environmental protection concepts to combine technology with interactive fun.

The hardscape flooring design and construction cover the park’s perimeter, Science Popularization Hall, indoor areas, and children’s park, spanning 85,000 m². The hardscape design echoes the theme by integrating elements like sunlight, beaches, six-level waves, and marine animals to vividly present a thriving marine ecosystem. Indoor terrazzo systems feature rich marine-themed patterns, while outdoor exposed aggregate artistic flooring in blue, green, and yellow simulates water, greenery, and beach scenes. Special glass aggregate flooring, sand finish surfaces, and imitation-wave/crack designs, along with anti-slip beach-yellow steps, ensure safety for children while enhancing thematic appeal.

Some of the challenges faced were:

Tight schedules and overlapping construction across multiple sections increased implementation difficulty.

Drawing on experience from international projects like Shanghai Disneyland and Beijing Universal Studios, Orangestone’s high-skill craftsmanship team precisely tackled technical challenges. The final project delivers a perfect match to the site’s positioning, with marine-ecology-themed artistic flooring becoming a standout feature of the park.

Lewisville Old Town Aquatic Center in Lewisville, TX

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:39:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Lewisville Old Town Aquatic Center, Sundek National Accounts, Lewisville, TX
First Place: Cementitious Overlays, Over 5,000 sqft

This letter outlines the scope and complexity of the decorative concrete overlay completed by Sundek for the conversion of an outdoor Olympic-sized commercial pool into a large splash pad. Our scope included a multi-colored custom design of our Sundek Classic Texture overlay system. Sundek partnered with the GC to transform the former pool shell and deck into a vibrant, interactive play area. The project design was created by an architect who overlayed the existing concrete and projected new concrete, playful colors, a flow of fun, and child-friendly aesthetics. The layout required meticulous planning due to its curved forms and complex intersections. Sundek employed advanced craftsmanship to seamlessly integrate multiple colors and patterns, ensuring both visual appeal and surface durability. The layout and installation were technically demanding due to the irregular shape of the existing pool and the need to accommodate additional concrete and joints along with new splash pad features. Site compatibility posed unique challenges, including drainage retrofitting and slope correction. Additional complexities included limited site access, strict schedule requirements, fluctuating weather conditions, and budget constraints. We worked closely with the GC, Architect, and Parks Directors on the overall vision, slip resistance standards, water flow, and achieving long-term maintenance efficiency. Environmental considerations were addressed through the use of low-impact materials and responsible water management solutions. Throughout, our team adapted quickly to unforeseen conditions, offering on-site problem-solving and design refinements to ensure a successful outcome. This project is a testament to our commitment to collaboration, creative solutions, quality workmanship, and project execution under complex conditions.

Sidan Gianyar Dam in Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:33:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Sidan Gianyar Dam, Bomanite International Limited, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
First Place: Cast-in-Place - Stamped, Over 5,000 sqft

Deep in the heart of Gianyar, Bali, Sidan Dam stands as a symbol of sustainable progress, resource management, and community upliftment. Built to supply much-needed water to the regions of Denpasar, Badung, Gianyar, and Tabanan, this major infrastructure project also carries the potential to become a new eco-tourism destination in Bali. As part of its commitment to supporting impactful national projects, Indocrete played a crucial role in enhancing the dam’s visual and functional landscape through its Stamping System — combining engineering efficiency with aesthetic value.

Inspired by Nature, Guided by Function

The design of the dam’s rip rap area was conceptualized to reflect the motion and energy of water — a nod to the dam’s core function: to contain and distribute water flow. Initially, the specification called for standard concrete blocks. However, with urgent deadlines looming, the project team sought an alternative solution that maintained both structural integrity and visual quality. Indocrete’s Stamping System became the optimal choice — offering faster application and greater design flexibility without compromising performance.

Designing with Cultural Sensitivity

Indocrete applied two main motifs for this project. The rip rap section features an Ashler pattern, shaded in wave-like tones to emulate flowing water — a powerful visual metaphor for the dam’s mission. Meanwhile, the public access areas utilize a Random Stone pattern in earthy, natural colors that align with the Balinese people’s deep-rooted connection to nature. These design decisions were carefully curated to blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment and resonate with the local cultural aesthetic.

Impacting the Region: Water, Jobs, and Tourism

Once operational, Sidan Dam will provide up to 1,750 liters of water per second, helping to resolve water scarcity across four regencies. But its impact goes beyond utility. With plans to transform the dam into a government-managed tourist attraction, the project is expected to generate significant visitor interest. This not only enhances regional tourism but also creates new job opportunities, stimulates small businesses, and revitalizes the local economy.

Navigating Technical and Logistical Challenges

Executing this project came with a unique set of challenges. The remote location in Bali’s highlands made material mobilization difficult and expensive, as not all logistics providers were willing to access the area. The work zone itself was physically demanding, with slopes as steep as 45 degrees, presenting significant challenges not only in terms of execution but also in upholding strict safety standards throughout the project. The steep incline of the casting area made the stamping process particularly difficult, as achieving consistent pressure and accurate pattern alignment on such terrain required extraordinary effort and precision. In certain sections, the conditions were considered highly risky from a safety perspective, especially during the application of the Indocrete Stamping System. Workers had to exert considerable physical effort to stabilize themselves, often bracing their own body weight while maneuvering stamping tools on the sharply sloped surface — a task made even more hazardous by the constant risk of slipping. Despite these challenges, the Indocrete team managed to carry out the work safely and effectively through a series of proactive safety strategies. These included the use of harnesses and safety ropes in critical areas, the presence of trained safety supervisors on-site at all times, and strategic scheduling of work based on weather forecasts to avoid rain or overly wet conditions. Despite these difficulties, the Indocrete team remained agile. They carefully selected transport partners, managed mobilization independently, and redesigned angular layouts into wave-like curves that matched both the functional and aesthetic goals. By studying accurate weather forecasts and adapting the work schedule accordingly, the team ensured optimal application conditions.

Community Dynamics and Environmental Realities

The remote village setting presented both opportunities and complications. With no ATMs nearby, the team relied on local residents for cash withdrawals, which incurred high service fees. Additionally, land rental for storage was priced steeply as locals recognized the urgency and demand of the project. Rather than resisting these realities, Indocrete took a collaborative approach, choosing to negotiate in good faith and build mutual understanding.

Building Beyond Concrete

More than just a construction solution, Indocrete’s involvement in the Sidan Dam project reflects a holistic philosophy: combining engineering precision, local sensitivity, and adaptive problem-solving. From design to execution, every decision was made with purpose — to support Indonesia’s infrastructure, empower local communities, and contribute to a project that will serve generations to come. Through this endeavor, Indocrete proves once again that concrete doesn’t have to be boring — it can be beautiful, meaningful, and transformative.

California Firefighter's Memorial in Sacramento, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 15:30:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
California Firefighter's Memorial, Trademark Concrete Systems, Inc., Sacramento, CA
First Place: Cast-in-Place - Special Finishes, Over 5,000 sqft

Alloy Santa Fe in Los Angeles, CA

Sayde Hindelang — Mon, 22 Dec 2025 22:19:00 GMT

2025 DCC Award Winner
Alloy Santa Fe, Largo Concrete, Inc., Los Angeles, CA
First Place: Architectural Cast-in-Place Concrete Structures, Over 5,000 sqft

Alloy Santa Fe is located at the west end of the 4th Street Bridge in LA’s Historic Arts District. Construction began in February 2022 with the placement of over 17,000 CY in mat foundations, the largest single pour totaling 8,870 CY. The development features a seven-level, 105,000 sf commercial building and a 36-level residential tower with 475 units and a 10-level office building above five levels of parking.

Decorative board-formed, exposed architectural concrete can be found throughout the development. From the main lobby soffit to the residential and office columns, to the sauna and cabanas at the roof deck pool, the finish is prominent throughout. The most striking board-formed features is the amoeba-shaped void in the roof deck referred to as the ‘Oculus.’ Each plank was prepared, sealed and used once for the highest quality finish and were repurposed as toe boards and for other safety measures to reduce waste.

Of 1,191 total columns, there are 90 unique column dimensions! Two unique columns are irregular hexagonal shaped and located along Mateo on the west side of the development. The largest measuring 5’3”, these columns also feature a vertical board formed finish terminating at a beam with the same horizontal finish.

Quality control was critical to ensure the correct elements received the proper finish. Extra care was taken when landing materials and placing rebar to ensure the finish was not compromised. Once placed and stripped, these elements were protected to prevent trade damage.

ORCA aggregate from British Columbia was used to accommodate the thermal requirements in the foundation, specified MOE in the decks, and 12,000 PSI high strength in the base vertical elements. Core walls in the tower are up to 42 inches thick and were formed with a self-climbing core form system. Overall, Largo placed over 68,000 CY on site.

900 Innes India Basin Park Phase Two

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 20:13:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

900 Innes India Basin Park Phae Two, T.B. Penick & Sons, San Diego, CA

First Place: Stains and Dyes, Over 5,000 SF

In 2014, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (SFRPD) acquired the 900 Innes property at India Basin in San Francisco’s Bay View Hunters Point (BVHP) neighborhood. With its scenic views, waterfront access, and rich natural resources, this site stands as the Department’s only San Francisco Bay-front property. In collaboration with the BVHP community, the Trust for Public Land, the San Francisco Parks Alliance, and the A. Philip Randolph Institute, SFRPD plans to transform this post-industrial brownfield into a 21st-century legacy park. This project emphasizes habitat and wetland restoration, public access, resilience to sea level rise, social equity, and waterfront recreation.

The development plan integrates the existing India Basin Shoreline Park area with the 900 Innes property, creating a unified 10-acre waterfront park that bridges a critical gap in the San Francisco Bay Trail. The project will unfold in two phases, starting with 900 Innes, followed by the rest of the India Basin Shoreline Park.

The goals for the 900 Innes project included creating a highly visible artwork on the pier to establish a destination point and attract visitors to the waterfront. To achieve this, the San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) held a competition, shortlisting four local artists and giving them two months to develop site-specific works for the new pier and park. The selection committee was composed of members from the community, design professionals, and a representative from Recs and Park SF.

We had the pleasure of assisting the winning artist, Raylene Gorum, in bringing her artistic vision to life using the Lithocrete system. We provided her with samples for the competition submission, and after her selection, we collaborated with her, the architectural and engineering team, and other stakeholders to further develop the artistic and technical details of her piece, titled "Lady Bayview." According to Raylene Gorum “Lady Bayview is an image of a female guardian figure whose hands encircle a glittering, circular universe. She is dressed in a swarm of shifting wind barbs and ships that describe the site’s layered history of innovation, perseverance, and community. The figure is intended as a talisman that reflects the community’s history and the legacy of the Bayview Five, a group of strong female African-American leaders in the community who successfully advocated for better housing, health and labor issues, a local theater and more.”

To create the design for Lady Bayview’s head, face, and hand, we poured Lithocrete embedded with a blend of ¼-inch lavender and purple colored glass, accented with red glass highlights. We then saw-cut and stained the pattern using custom water-based stains we made to match Raylene’s chosen Pantone colors. For the sparkling universe, we poured Lithocrete seeded with fine crushed mirror glass and stained this area with a custom water-based blue stain, achieving a dazzling effect. On the rest of the pier, we poured Lithocrete seeded with fine crushed mirror glass, and we sand blasted and stained the wind barbs and ships. In total, we poured 13,580 SF of Lithocrete and sandblasted and stained 157 wind barbs and 15 ships.

The project faced multiple challenges, particularly with the layout and formwork for the head and hands. Using a paper template proved difficult due to the wind, making it challenging to position without tearing. Once the head and hands were laid out, we had to form them using Masonite and siding board to accommodate their intricate contours. On cold days, we had to use accelerators in the concrete mix & strong winds complicated the finishing process, requiring finishing aids. Water control was also a challenge; we had to block the edge of the pier with sandbags and plastic, along with using Gelmaxx, to prevent contaminants from entering the water. Lastly, staining the ships presented a significant challenge, requiring meticulous attention to detail, especially when hand staining the white portions of the ships.

Tzu Chi Jing Si Center in Malaysia

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 20:09:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Tzu Chi Jing Si Center, Bomanite of Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia

First Place: Vertical & Facades, Over 5,000 SF

The Tzu Chi Foundation is a global NGO that focuses on giving material and medical aid and inspiring love and humanity in both givers and receivers. Malaysia is fortunate to enjoy the Foundation’s charity and kindness. The pebbles are skillfully plastered on all surfaces and washed to expose the pebbles. One can hardly see any cement in between the pebbles, which are almost three dimensionally protruding out from the surface. Every cemented groove line is aligned equidistant and horizontally level, showing precision and care in the work executed. About 11,000 bags (220 tons) of pebbles and 750 bags (37.50 tons) of cement were manually moved, mixed, and applied to the surfaces of the entire project. Pebbles were mixed with portable mixers, wheelbarrowed to location and hoisted, bucket by bucket, up or down different levels, to roof ridges, curved fascia beams, etc. The other challenges were: The general contractor built the concrete structure, columns, and brick walls. We were commissioned to check the dimensions of all structures that required pebble wash. Many areas were hacked, saw cut, trimmed, and re-screeded to the correct dimensions, and the walls were hacked and re-screeded flat to receive 12-15mm thick pebbles. All windows and doors, wall copings, every nook and corner were also checked and many realigned to be horizontally level, and all walls and columns also realigned vertically. The mustache-like curved fascia rc beams at the front and back of the 3 building were meticulously measured, marked, hacked and re-screeded by our team before applying the 12-15mm thick pebble wash. No templates were used, and all 6 sets of curved fasciae rc beams were manually hand crafted to attain almost perfect symmetry.

Statesville Christian School in Statesville, NC

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:56:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Statesville Christian School, Carolina Bomanite, Charlotte, NC

First Place: Project Video, Over 5,000 SF

In May of 2022, Carolina Bomanite was approached by Landscape Architect Ron Cutlip, to help with sidewalk repairs at Statesville Christian School in Statesville, NC. The original intent was to make improvements to a wall and paver path, creating an accessible walkway with no steps to the sports fields. Once work began in 2023, a larger design was developed for what eventually became the Lions Plaza. This design required the grade to be raised in order to accommodate a space for picnic tables. A 3' stem wall was poured to make the plaza accessible, and a propane fire pit surrounded with recycled glass was installed. The plaza was backfilled with stone, poured and textured with no color. The design intent was to use school colors as the finished product. The original walkway was colored and textured with added brick banding. Fundraising, donated materials, and sporting events caused delays that stretched over the course of a year. New sidewalks around the concession building were installed for accessibility to the bathrooms and handicapped parking. After the initial paving was completed, three Bomanite Microtop colors were used to cover the entire plaza and bands. The school's logo was hand-applied with three colors, and a Bible scripture and words of encouragement were added, along with a phrase, around the firepit. When finished, everything was sealed. Due to the high daytime temperatures, this work occurred during the night. Sunshades, synthetic turf, and composite decking were also installed in order to provide areas for students to relax, eat lunch, and study. The school and its Director were great to work with. The project’s progress could be monitored by school families as it was adjacent to the school’s drop off and pick up area, and the many positive social media posts from them during construction were appreciated.

Texas Bankes Association

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:52:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Texas Bankes Association, Texas Bomanite, Dallas, TX

First Place: Polished Concrete & Overlays, Under 5,000 SF

The design intent for Texas Bankers Association was to include seamless transitions throughout the entry all based on a tile that the architect loved for the elevator and bathroom floors. Texas Bomanite helped design a lobby floor and front entry that did just that through the installation of Bomanite Revealed and Bomanite Modena TG.

Over several months, many design meetings, and various samples, Texas Bomanite created a white Modena TG floor with #3-#5 Blanco Mexicano aggregates. They included 1/8" zinc divider strips to break up the floor and tie into the silver finishes throughout the lobby. The architect also wanted a seamless transition from the outside to the inside and Texas Bomanite added on a white Bomanite Revealed front entry with the same aggregates. This lobby has been the genesis of many projects that showcase a continuous flooring from the inside of the building to the outside of the building.

Texas Bomanite’s polish division performed all interior prep work, installation of zinc strips, and polishing of the Modena TG. Their concrete division performed the installation of the Modena TG and Revealed concrete, paying close attention that the large aggregates were tightly floated against all of the zinc strips, and against the exposed, curved concrete walls. The front entrance of the building is on a hill so creating and leveling the front steps and ADA ramp posed to be quite difficult. The clean and seal division performed the exterior prep work and exposing and sealing of the Revealed. Many members of Texas Bomanite were involved with this project and were able to work together to produce a beautiful product.

Mi Vida

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:48:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Mi Vida, Hyde Concrete, Pasadena, MD

First Place: Countertops, Furniture, Firepits, Under 5,000 SF

Hyde Concrete was contracted to craft a unique bar, server stations, and a matching host stand for Mi Vida, in the popular Penn Quarter of Washington, DC. A focal point of the vibrant restaurant, the customer-facing main bar was designed with an intricate decorative profile, textured surface accents, and a color palette to complement the cool restaurant.

As noted in Dwell magazine, the expansive bar adds to the “dynamic yet refined design language…marries sophistication and fun into a true embodiment of the Mi Vida experience.”

Architects desired an organic shape with textured surface accents and an intricate edge profile. During the design phase, we were presented with an elaborate four-inch molding as the desired edge profile. We used the straight molding as a plug to make rubber edge molds to facilitate the curved shape of the bar. The pieces had many tight elements that made casting very difficult. The elaborate edge required considerable post-casting handwork, time, and attention to fill the tiny casting voids.

Mi Vida’s main bar is a 156+SF rectangular precast bar with a lowered ADA section and recessed drink rails. The glass fiber-reinforced concrete bar tops boast textured veining throughout the surface. These accents were voids created in molds (see progress photos), then filled imperfectly, honed, and sealed to create the feel of an ‘arroyo’ or river washout. The elaborate edge is four inches tall and runs the entire 60+ feet of customer-facing bar counter. Great attention to detail was needed to ensure the edge profile crossed over the joints perfectly.

The result is a stunning marriage between casting complexity and hand-textured finishes that provide Mi Vida’s clients with a fantastic and tactile experience at the bar. The architects are thrilled: “The bar serves as a central feature that draws the eye and integrates seamlessly.”

Waterside Residences in Penang, Malaysia

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:39:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Waterside Residences, Bomanite of Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia

First Place: Countertops, Furniture, Firepits, Over 5,000 SF

Waterside Residences is another condominium by IJM, built on reclaimed land in The Light City Township. Bomanite’s systems are in about 85% of these developments and the sidewalks of the entire master infra. A remarkable and fulfilling relationship between IJM and Bomanite Malaysia, spanning over 34 years of trust, integrity, high quality and service. DRIVEWAY, REAR GARDEN, PUBLIC WALKWAY Bomanite Sandscape was selected to achieve a seamless, grout-free finish with a “sand-blasted” non-slip surface. More importantly, the driveway is strong enough to withstand heavy traffic loads including a fire-truck. Clever placements of expansion and constructions joints helped us achieve the sexy curvilinear lines creating panels of different organic shapes and sizes. Traffic directional arrows are crisply distinct in Sandscape finish with a sense of authority for vehicles. The External Public Walkway is part of the Master Infrastructure of the Light City Township and was installed in Rock Salt finish by Bomanite about 8-9 years ago. A fine testament to how quality withstands the test of time and build trust with long term clients. The rear garden of the condo has an external kid’s gym with crisp and straight Broomed Finish walkways.

DCR Showroom in Saginaw, MI

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 18:14:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

DCR Showroom, Fisher Companies, Midland, MI

First Place: Concrete Artistry, Under 5,000 SF

For this project, we were tasked with designing and constructing a unique front counter for a showroom, incorporating the client’s new logo and utilizing black walnut wood. The project’s complexity was heightened by the need to integrate a polished concrete river and a concrete front panel seamlessly into the counter design. The innovative aspect of the design involved creating a two-legged counter with a monolithic concrete river, without drilling into the valuable black walnut. To achieve this, we engineered an intricate formwork system that enabled us to pour the concrete river precisely. The form was designed to allow the concrete front panel, featuring the company logo, to be securely bolted to the underside of the counter upon installation. This design also included a chamfered edge to discreetly house LED lighting, enhancing the visibility and prominence of the logo. Economically, the project required careful balance, ensuring high-quality materials were used efficiently. Craftsmanship was crucial, especially in maintaining the integrity of the black walnut and achieving a flawless finish on the concrete elements. The logistical challenge of constructing the piece off-site was addressed to avoid disrupting the client’s daily operations. This required meticulous planning and coordination to ensure that the counter could be transported and installed seamlessly. Safety was a paramount concern throughout the project. Extra efforts were implemented to manage concrete dust due to the hazards associated with silica exposure. We utilized advanced dust control measures, including wet-cutting techniques and HEPA-filtered vacuum systems, to ensure a safe working environment. In summary, this decorative concrete project showcases our ability to combine innovative design, expert craftsmanship, strategic problem-solving, and stringent safety practices to create a striking and functional piece of furniture that serves as a centerpiece for the showroom.

Statesville Christian School in Statesville, NC

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:53:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Statesville Christian School, Carolina Bomantie, Charlotte, NC

First Place: Cementitious Overlays, Over 5,000 SF

In May of 2022, Carolina Bomanite was approached by Landscape Architect, Ron Cutlip, to help with sidewalk repairs at Statesville Christian School in Statesville, NC. The original intent was to make improvements to a wall and paver path creating an accessible walkway with no steps to the sports fields. Once work began in 2023, a larger design developed for what eventually became the Lions Plaza. This design required the grade to be raised in order to accommodate a space for picnic tables. A 3' stem wall was poured to make the plaza accessible and a propane fire pit surrounded with recycled glass was installed. The plaza was backfilled with stone, poured and textured with no color. The design intent was to use school colors as the finished product. The original walkway was colored and textured with added brick banding. Fundraising, donated materials and sporting events caused delays that stretched over the course of a year. New sidewalks around the concession building were installed for accessibility to bathrooms and handicap parking. After the initial paving was completed, three Bomanite Microtop colors were used to cover the entire plaza and bands. The school's logo was hand-applied with three colors and a Bible scripture and words of encouragement were added, along with a phrase, around the firepit. When finished, everything was sealed. Due to the high daytime temperatures, this work occurred during the night. Sunshades, synthetic turf and composite decking were also installed in order to provide areas for students to relax, eat lunch and study. The school and its Director were great to work with. The project’s progress could be monitored by school families as it was adjacent to the school’s drop off and pick up area and the many positive social media posts from them during construction were appreciated.

DreamWorks Land Mama Lunas Feline Fiesta at Universal Orlando

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:48:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

DreamWorks Land Mama Lunas Feline Fiesta, Universal Creative, Orlando, FL

First Place: Cast-In-Place Stamped Concrete, Under 5,000 SF

Step into Mama Luna's and immerse yourself in a world of feline charm inspired by *Puss in Boots: The Last Wish*. This haven for felines and lovers offers interactive features, with playful games triggering reactions on massive screens, enhancing the room's grandeur and depth. From the Saltillo tiles underfoot to the terracotta overhead, every detail exudes Hispanic architectural essence. Marvel at intricate mosaics, pass beneath wrought iron posts, and admire vibrant bougainvillea on the walls. Mama Luna's blends whimsy and tradition, inviting you to indulge your love for cats and Hispanic design.

In stark contrast to the exposed rock salt in Troll's Land, Mama Luna's showcases exquisite stamp and carve work, highlighting intricate design and meticulous craftsmanship. The cast-in-place concrete is a testament to this attention to detail, with each tile individually stained by hand and joints deepened and grouted to emulate traditional Saltillo tiles. The mosaics and ceramic tiles adorning the walls are equally impressive, each handcrafted by a local artisan and painstakingly painted to perfection. These artistic touches infuse Mama Luna's with undeniable charm and authenticity, inviting visitors to marvel at the beauty of the craftsmanship while immersing themselves in the enchanting ambiance.

The realization of Mama Luna's beauty was a collaborative effort. KHSS brought the vertical carve work to life and expertly installed the tiles, ensuring precision and attention to detail at every step. Mizner Studio poured their passion into handcrafting intricate tiles, infusing each piece with character and charm. UCC skillfully executed the stamp work, creating a seamless and captivating floor surface that emulated traditional Saltillo tiles. Finally, Edwards Concrete applied stain and grout techniques to enhance the tiles' authenticity, completing the illusion of a centuries-old Hispanic architectural gem. Together, these vendors orchestrated a symphony of craftsmanship, transforming it into a masterpiece of design artistry.

Sepaku Semoni Dam in Indonesia

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:39:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner

Sepaku Semoni Dam, Bomanite of Indonesia, Malang, Indonesia

First Place: Cast-In-Place Stamped Concrete, Over 5,000 SF

Sepaku Semoi Dam: A Balancing Act of Design, Economy, and Environment The Sepaku Semoi Dam in East Kalimantan embodies a unique confluence of design, economic development, and environmental responsibility. Inspired by the revered Madinah mosque's floor designs, the dam's stamped concrete reflects a cultural touch within this modern engineering marvel. Playing a crucial role in Indonesia's new capital, the IKN, the dam guarantees a steady supply of clean water for its residents. Beyond this primary function, it's become a tourist draw, boosting the local economy. Construction faced challenges. Overlapping projects in the area demanded careful coordination to ensure smooth execution. The region's unpredictable weather, with sudden downpours and extreme heat, added another layer of complexity. The project team implemented weather monitoring to adapt work schedules and take necessary precautions. An unexpected flood during the stamping concrete phase presented a major hurdle. To meet the tight presidential inauguration deadline, the team maximized time and resource efficiency. Additionally, a robust quality control system ensured the stamped concrete met high standards despite the compressed timeframe. Through meticulous planning, innovative solutions, and a commitment to safety and quality, the Sepaku Semoi Dam project transformed a challenging site into a symbol of Indonesia's progress. The dam's intricate design and its role in water supply and economic growth highlight its lasting impact, showcasing the successful integration of tradition, modernity, and environmental awareness.

Adams County Veterans Memorial in Brighton, Colorado

Sayde Hindelang — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:16:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
Adams County Veterans Memorial in Brighton, Colorado Hardscapes, Greenwood Village, CO
First Place: Cast-In-Place Special Finishes, Over 5,000 SF

At Riverdale Regional Park, the Adams County Veterans Memorial stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of those who served our country. The project was a collaborative effort involving DHM Design, ECI Site Construction, the Veterans Advisory Committee, County Commissioners, and local veterans. The memorial includes multiple monuments, such as the re-creation of the USS Colorado battleship, with decorative concrete elements featured prominently throughout.

Decorative Concrete Elements:

A 230 SF curved concrete mural (Story Wall) featuring a 3D illusion of grayscale photographs, letters, and telegrams. This innovative design was achieved using a CNC-produced form liner from Scott System.

19,694 SF of integrally colored Sandscape in 5 different colors.

2,212 SF of Sandscape Refined double-mirror glass for extra sparkle.

6,538 SF of Imprinted concrete in a Running Bond Belgian Block texture, 6" Boardwalk texture, and a Sandstone texture.

695 SF map of Adams County which includes integral color, Microtop XT, embedded stainless steel logo and text and embedded tiles.

Custom formed Sandscape medicine wheel.

Sandblasted and painted text on precast acid-etched panels.

Board-formed and smooth troweled seat walls.

Custom-formed turret bases with embeds for the ship’s gun barrels.

Excellence in Project Execution:

Our biggest innovation on this project was in the creation of the Story Wall, which required a new approach to cast-in-place installation. The use of a specialty concrete mix and precise form liner resulted in a stunning, clear image.

Environmental/Safety:

Working around Mann-Nyholt Lake necessitated careful planning and the use of cofferdams. The project was completed with no lost time incidents, totaling 13,241 hours worked safely. Concrete was sourced locally, contributing to sustainability.

Contribution to Community:

The Memorial serves as a lasting tribute to the sacrifices of our brave service members, embodying reverence, national identity, and honor.

900 Innes India Basin Park

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:45:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
900 Innes India Basin Park, T.B. Penick & Sons, San Diego, CA
First Place: Concrete Artistry, Over 5,000 SF

n 2014, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department (SFRPD) acquired the 900 Innes property at India Basin in San Francisco’s Bay View Hunters Point (BVHP) neighborhood. With its scenic views, waterfront access, and rich natural resources, this site stands as the Department’s only San Francisco Bay-front property. In collaboration with the BVHP community, the Trust for Public Land, the San Francisco Parks Alliance, and the A. Philip Randolph Institute, SFRPD plans to transform this post-industrial brownfield into a 21st-century legacy park. This project emphasizes habitat and wetland restoration, public access, resilience to sea level rise, social equity, and waterfront recreation.

The W Hotel Hollywood Grand Staircase

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:29:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
The W Hotel Hollywood Grand Staircase, Cano Architectural Concrete Repair, Ontario, CA
First Place: Cementitious Overlays, Under 5,000 SF

Imagine a staircase that needs to seamlessly combine metal stud-framed cement board with existing metal panned concrete stairs that tie into newly formed and poured concrete stairs and curved planter walls. Sounds fun! Now apply a cement coating over all of that and make them durable and functional. That's exactly what the W Hollywood requested from WATG, the architecture firm that designed the recent grand staircase renovation.

On top of all the above challenges. This cementitious overlay by FirmeCrete Floor & Wall Coatings needed to have an exposed sand finish, but not your typical sand finish an ultra-white aluminum oxide sand finish. To achieve this, the Cano Architecture Concrete Repair Crew needed a collaborative team. The General contractor Build Group led the construction and installed the framing and cement board structure. Pacific Structures formed & poured the concrete sub-slabs and planter walls. The Coating magic came from the CANO Crew, the Firmecrete specialists. This project required meticulous detail, ensuring that the curves looked clean and sharp on the multi-layered planter walls to the precise lines on the 2” light channels. While making sure every substrate was prepped to ensure proper adhesion.

The complexity went beyond the intricate design & custom-blended material. The execution was required within a tight timeframe, all while the hotel remained open for business. The result speaks for itself: a cohesive multi-tiered masterpiece where walls, floors, and steps become one.

The transformation of the W Hollywood Hotel's grand staircase is a testament to the skill and collaboration of the team involved. From the installation of the surfaces to the flawless application of the Firmecrete finish, every detail was carefully considered. The end result is a stunning example of modern design.

DreamWorks Land, Shrek's Cottage at Universal Orlando

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:22:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
DreamWorks Land, Shrek's Cottage at Universal Orlando, Universal Creative, Orlando, FL
First Place: Vertical & Facades, Under 5,000 SF

Welcome to Shrek's Cottage, the enchanting centerpiece of the entrance to DreamWorks Land, beckoning visitors with its whimsical charm. Standing tall at 40 feet, it looms over you as you enter, serving as the gateway to a fantastical world. Here, you're greeted by the iconic characters of Shrek, Fiona, their baby, and the ever-talkative Donkey. To the right, the E.T. ride stands proud, a nostalgic gem since its inception at Universal Florida in 1990. On the left, Swamp Snacks offers delectable treats while King Harold's singing frogs serenade passersby. Shrek's Cottage is a haven that welcomes guests to the magic of DreamWorks Land, inviting them to embark on unforgettable adventures.

The completion of Shrek's Cottage was a labor of love, requiring a meticulous process to bring the iconic building from the movies to life. Lathe cages were welded to the structural steel to build out the rough shape of the cottage. Scratch and carve coats were applied by skilled artisans sculpting the cementitious rockwork to match the dirt and mud-walled hut depicted in the films. Every detail was depicted carefully from the texture of the walls to the massive tree with roots extending out to form an awning over the door, ensuring that Shrek's Cottage emerged as a faithful reproduction of its on-screen counterpart. The result is a whimsical and enchanting structure that transports visitors into the heart of the beloved fairytale world of Shrek.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and Welcome Center

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:14:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum and Welcome Center, Hyde Concrete, Pasadena, MD
First Place: Polished Concrete & Overlays, Over 5,000 SF

The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum (CBMM), located on the Eastern shore of Maryland, has a mission to explore and preserve the history, environment, and culture of the entire Chesapeake Bay region, and make this resource accessible to all. CBMM’s new 12,000 sq. ft. Welcome Center is part of ongoing campus upgrades to create engaging, immersive, and transformative experiences that educate and inspire.

Polished concrete was utilized to embrace the vison of the designer, meet the demands of the heavy museum traffic, and notably, to integrate a beautiful, large, stained, and polished concrete map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Early in the design process, CBMM and the designer reached out to Hyde Concrete with a vision of a concrete floor with a map of the Chesapeake Bay integrated into the flooring. They relied on Hyde Concrete’s knowledge and skills in the decorative concrete industry to help bring the vision to represent the largest estuary in the United States to life. After many conversations about the project's design, use, and budget, Hyde recommended a low-sheen, polished concrete finish throughout. At the main entrance, we would incorporate the map of the Chesapeake Bay.

Upon entering the Welcome Center, visitors encounter a large, 20x30-foot map of the Chesapeake Bay. After completing multiple mock-ups for sheen and color, the designer decided on a blue-grey to reflect the color of the bay, and a low sheen, matte polish for the surrounding areas. The map of the bay was achieved by intricately placing large, portioned stencils of the map and staining the design into the polished concrete. It is geographically accurate, and a standout design feature of CBMM’s new space! All parties are thrilled with the result, and many enjoy trying to locate and name the Chesapeake Bay’s many rivers and surrounding cities.

Myers Memorial Columbarium Garden

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:02:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
Myers Memorial Columbarium Garden, Carolina Bomanite, Charlotte, NC
First Place: Cast-in-Place Special Finishes, Under 5,000 SF

Spring of 2019, Carolina Bomanite was asked to pursue a design for a columbarium at a Methodist church in Gastonia, NC. Months went by in order to determine a location and style of columbarium that would enhance the church. Due to COVID, an online zoning variance was needed in order to locate the columbarium on a 3000 SF patch of church property. After fundraising and a final design by Landscape Architect Ron Cutlip, construction started in February 2023.

Donations came slowly as the church wished to build without debt. The custom-built niches took more than 6 months to build. In the meantime, cast-in-place walls, footers, drainage and more than 200 tons of stone infill continued in the compact space. The walls were covered in Tennessee stone veneers. The pergola footers were designed to be part of the paving band design. This isolated potential cracking and worked as intended.

Constructing a columbarium required building for a 100+ year life cycle. Every product and function was over-designed and installed per this criteria. Composite rebar was used as much as possible due to no corrosion. The flatwork is an exposed, custom finish with white sparkle. The paving provides a comfortable walking surface that will require very little maintenance. The black banding was poured using an integral color with black sparkle and later sealed for enhancement. The Company's jointing technique (hidden expansion) using slip dowels, precision saw cutting and sealant are key to a lasting project. A custom pre-sloped channel drain was installed around the center landscape bed. Custom precast panels surround the niches. The fencing and gates are handmade of steel and powder coated. The cross, backlit with LED lights, was forged from copper, stainless, bronze, and corten steel. A slate textured sidewalk leads up to a gated entry unveiling a place of solace.

Paul Derda Recreation Center Revitalization

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 18:46:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
Paul Derda Recreation Center Revitalization, Colorado Hardscapes, Greenwood Village, CO
First Place: Architectural Cast-in-Place Concrete Structures, Under 5,000 SF

Colorado Hardscapes proudly served as the Design-Build contractor for the Paul Derda Recreation Center in Broomfield, CO. Our project focused on replacing the center's aging rockwork, necessitating both aesthetic enhancements and functional upgrades.

Collaborative Efforts

· 3-D and Structural Design:

Collaborated with MB BIM Solutions for detailed 3-D modeling and structural design.

· Architectural Designs:

Created new designs spearheaded by Colorado Hardscapes.

· Structural Fabrication:

Commissioned Total Welding for structural steel fabrication and onsite installation.

· Construction:

Engaged Berich Masonry for CMU wall construction.

· Scaffolding:

Utilized WACO scaffolding for elevated tasks.

Execution and Craftsmanship

Our responsibilities included dismantling the existing rock structure, forming and installing new rock features, and adding finishing touches like painting the rockwork. Our best artisan rock builders hand-painted the rocks to seamlessly match and update the old rockwork, ensuring a cohesive look. Additionally, we installed a new Life Floor around the pool area.

Challenges and Solutions

1. Rust Prevention:

To prevent rust, we used galvanized rebar and structural steel, complemented with a Tnemec coating due to the rockwork’s proximity to water.

2. Amenity Preservation:

We worked meticulously to protect existing slides and the pool without causing any damage.

3. Dust Mitigation:

Operating indoors, we prioritized ventilation and dust control to safeguard our team’s health.

4. Adherence to Schedule:

With the pool’s significance, we adhered to a tight schedule, reopening the pool in mid-March 2024, just in time for spring break.

Safety Achievements

We are proud to report that there was no time lost to injury (OSHA), highlighting our commitment to safety throughout the project.

Through innovative solutions and dedicated teamwork, the revitalization of the Paul Derda Recreation Center has transformed it into a vibrant and welcoming destination for the community. We extend our gratitude to every individual and partner involved in this successful

Directors Place

Sayde Hindelang — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:39:00 GMT

2024 DCC Award Winner
Directors Place, T.B. Penick & Sons, San Diego, CA
First Place: Architectural Cast-in-Place Concrete Structures, Over 5,000 SF

Director’s Place is a new 150,000 SF, five-story warm shell research and laboratory building that features dramatic views of the Sorrento Valley area towards the Pacific Ocean and Torrey Pines estuary. The building features a nearly 50/50 split of life sciences research labs and office space.

The building's architectural features and interior lobby design were inspired by the nearby coastal cliffs of Torrey Pines. Striations, layers, textures, time, history, stories, erosions, carved, earth tones, natural, and organic - all concept words that helped guide the design. A two-story high Lithocrete sedimentary wall anchors the double-height lobby space. The colors and textures of the wall were carefully selected to mimic the striations of the Torrey Pines cliffside. Light coves track from a tiered ceiling on Level 2 down the face of the wall, creating an eye-catching, immersive art piece. The flooring was designed to create a line in the sand – a metaphorical juxtaposition in the space. One side resembles the cliffs, and the other picks up on the ocean’s movements.

Creamy white terrazzo flooring with flecks of sediment neighbors the sedimentary wall, representing untouched sand. This flooring carries up a cantilevered monumental staircase and across the Level 02 mezzanine. On the opposite side, dark blue, almost charcoal-colored terrazzo flooring represents sand that has been touched by the ocean waters, acting as a landing point for a wood-clad soffit and columns, reminiscent of a pier. The dark Terrazzo flooring flows into the elevator cabs, touching each level of the building as they rise and fall. Both the sedimentary wall and terrazzo flooring carry to the exterior of the building further enhancing the concept.

We worked closely and early on with Delawie, the project architect, and Ground Level, the landscape architect to bring their vision to life and proposed the Lithocrete sedimentary wall system as the best way to simulate the striations & layers of the nearby cliffs. We also assisted in the development and installation of the interior terrazzo and exterior Lithocrete paving.

Pouring the full-height 30’ tall sedimentary wall was quite the challenge. First off, a hole had to be cut in the ceiling in order to be able to boom pump the concrete in. Also, since we had multiple integral colors, we had to have multiple concrete pumps and concrete trucks for each color which was logistically challenging since the site was small and there wasn’t much room. The wall itself was challenging since it featured 8 distinct alternating layers which were each made up of different combinations of etch and color per the architect’s design intent. This required a lot of attention to detail to achieve the design intent. Lastly, the exterior Lithocrete paving was poured using White Cement and had a very fine crushed mirror glass embedded on the surface with a light etch.

More to come.