Greetings!
Do you want to be on the cutting edge when it comes to decorative concrete countertops, and dare to go beyond a simple ho-hum, no-frills rectangular slab? Creative contractors are always experimenting with new looks and applications for concrete countertops and vanities, often in response to the desires and changing lifestyles of their customers. Here are some of the hottest trends we've been noticing at The Concrete Network, based on recent countertop projects concrete contractors have shared with us. Hopefully, they will spark your imagination and embolden you to create countertops that rise above the ordinary and break new ground.
Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
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Daring free spans
Using stronger concrete mixes, special additives and lots of reinforcement, contractors are making countertops, kitchen islands and fireplace mantels that span up to 9 feet or more without support. Unlike typical concrete countertops, which rest squarely on cabinetry or other supports, these long-span slabs seem to be floating in air. See these projects:
9-foot free-span countertop
Countertop stretches over 23 feet
Free-span fireplace mantel
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Getting personal
More people are beginning to discover that decorative concrete is anything but cookie-cutter. It's the perfect material for anyone who wants to express their personal tastes, whether through color, pattern, shape or special inlays. That's especially true when it comes to concrete countertops, which offer endless possibilities for creative expression. See these ideas.
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Fiber-optic lighting
The same fiber-optic cables being used to speed up telephone lines, cable TV and the Internet are also a new-age way to light up decorative concrete countertops. These fine strands of optically pure glass or plastic can be cast directly into concrete to create fascinating visual effects.
Hand-seeded glass beads mimic grapevines
Fiber-optic wine bottles light up concrete countertop
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Custom built-ins
Adding drainboards, trivets, cutting boards, and built-in displays or storage can add character and functionality to countertops or vanities. Drainboards can simply be slats cast into the counter, while trivets and cutting boards can be crafted from nearly any material, from stainless steel to bamboo. Built-in drawers or shelving in a bathroom vanity provide extra storage for towels and grooming products.
Concrete countertop drainboards and trivets
Bathroom sink with drawers and shelving
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