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.