American Society of Concrete Contractors

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.