Decorative Concrete Can Transform Your Home - Inside and Out.

11/02/2005

Los Angeles homeowners, architects, interior decorators and landscape gardeners are discovering the many faces of decorative concrete. Not only is it a very practical material, it can be applied in many ways to create different effects. And it is growing in popularity in cities and towns across the US.

We are not talking about that cold, drab, gray material found in walls and garage floors. Decorative concrete is a material that, in expert hands, can be molded to almost any shape. It can glow with vibrant colors and astound the observer with a variety of finishes and textures.

Interior decorators are using decorative concrete countertops in bathrooms and kitchens with novelty features like inlays, color variations or sculpted edges that would be impossible with any other material. The same applies to sinks in the most modern shapes or the classical antique forms from the ruins of Greece. Color and texture are entirely up to the owner's imagination.

Fireplace surrounds, mantelpieces and hearths become the focal point of a room during this festive time of year. Decorative concrete can transform a hearth with a wide choice of colors, finishes and textures.

Interior floors are yet another area where decorative concrete can rise to the occasion.
A vast selection of textures from cobblestones to petrified wood slats, different colors and geometric designs are available when you use a competent decorative concrete artist.

Moving out doors, there are just as many opportunities for this versatile material. An obvious start would be the driveway. When using "stamping" or "stenciling" a vast variety of textures, colors and finishes can be created. Patios and water features almost ask for this medium and barbeque areas, whether serving counters, grill areas or conversation pits, are ideal for maximizing its practical and artistic applications.

"Although I have been working in this field for many years the endless practical and aesthetic uses of this material never cease to amaze me," said Blayde Penza from his decorative concrete workshop in Los Angeles, California, "It's always a great kick to see the look of pleasant surprise when a client sees the finished product."