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Top Decorative Concrete Design Trends for 2011: See 5 In-Vogue Looks
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Greetings!
Like high fashion, decorative concrete combines classic looks (think traditional staining and stamping) with the haute couture. Based on recent projects we've been seeing on the Concrete Network runway, we're predicting a number of trend-setting looks for the upcoming season. Some take advantage of cutting-edge technologies and techniques, while others take a traditional approach but give it a twist. As you can see by the examples here, the design possibilities with decorative concrete continue to flourish, giving contractors more and more options for creating unique, head-turning looks. Who knows what the trends will be next year, but we can promise you one thing: Decorative concrete will never go out of style.
Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
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2. Metallic coatings
A whole new alchemy is available for adding razzle-dazzle to your floors -- metallic coatings that allow you to "guild" your concrete to replicate the look of copper, silver, aged bronze, nickel, and other metals. Some of these coatings contain real metallic powders, while others use special reflective pigments. See some of the unique effects possible. |
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3. Going organic
Another trend is to veer away from the ultra-modern to a more natural look that takes advantage of the organic characteristics of concrete. There are a number of ways to give new concrete a slightly worn, cozy feel, like vintage clothing. See this example of concrete floors warmed up with a golden-wheat stain.
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4. Mixing it up
The new trend for patios, walkways and other concrete surfaces is to mix-and-match multiple materials, such as concrete, stone and interlocking pavers. The concept is similar to mixing different fabrics to achieve textural contrast and interest. See how it's done:
Concrete and Bluestone Patio
Concrete Pavers and Travertine Coping
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5. 'Undercover' concrete
One of the best attributes of decorative concrete is its ability to impersonate other materials, such as brick, natural stone, wood, and marble. What's more, you get all the performance advantages of concrete but often at a lower cost than the material it's imitating. See more examples of concrete in disguise.
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