You're interested in incorporating a concrete feature into your home or business. Great. It could be a concrete countertop, a sink, a design wall, a hearth. Almost anything, really. That initial idea to incorporate the unique aesthetics of concrete into your home or business is the perfect time to start the collaboration with a bespoke concrete specialist. Bringing your ideas and their experience together will create the perfect one-off piece for your space.
When the specialists at Tinney & Co. start work on a project, there are lots of different aspects we consider that feed into the design and, ultimately, the end result. Each are calibrated against the others, so that all angles of the project are analysed – including some you may not have thought of – and the process is as smooth as possible from design to installation.
Let's take a look at a few of the things a concrete design specialist will consider.
Design and functionality
The first thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the design and functionality of the structure. What is its purpose? What do you want it to serve as? They will work closely with the client to understand their vision for the piece. That can include everything from the form to make it easy to use, to the relative prominence the piece has in the space.
The specialist will also consider the location of the structure, its purpose of the structure, and any specific design requirements. For example, if the client wants a concrete staircase, the specialist will consider the dimensions, the shape and the location of the staircase to ensure that it meets the client's needs – both aesthetic and physical.
A bespoke concrete specialist will also consider if the piece needs any special features based on its function. For example, if the structure needs to be fire-resistant or waterproof, the specialist will use dedicated materials and techniques to ensure that the structure meets these requirements.
2. Concrete mix
The second thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the concrete mix needed to meet the requirements of the design. You can think of the concrete mix as the recipe for the concrete, and the ingredients have to be right to ensure a pleasing, long-lasting piece. The concrete mix will depend on the type of structure being built, its location and the specific requirements of the client.
One of the key factors influencing the concrete mix is the required strength and durability of the concrete. For example, if the structure will be exposed to high traffic or weather, the specialist will use a mix design that adds more durability to counteract it.
3. Formwork and reinforcement
The third thing that a bespoke concrete specialist will consider is the formwork and reinforcement. Formwork is the temporary structure that is used to support the concrete during the pouring and curing process. Reinforcement is the steel bars, mesh or glass fibres that are added to the concrete to give it additional strength (which are not used in all bespoke concrete designs, but can be deployed when necessary).
For example, if the structure has complex curves or angles, the specialist will use flexible formwork to create the desired shape. They will also work out the ideal size and spacing of the reinforcement to ensure that the concrete is strong and durable.
4. Curing and finishing
Curing is the process of keeping the concrete moist and at the correct temperature to ensure that it sets and hardens properly. Finishing is the process of smoothing and shaping the surface of the concrete.
The specialist will consider the type of curing and finishing that is needed for the specific structure. For example, if the structure is exposed to the elements, the specialist will use a curing compound to protect the concrete from moisture and temperature changes. They will also consider the desired finish of the concrete, whether it is a smooth, polished surface or a more textured surface. This is where collaboration comes in, as your aesthetic preferences can feed into the finishing stage, so you get the look you want.
5. Installation
Last but not least, a bespoke concrete specialist will consider how best to install the piece. This includes planning for the logistics of the project, such as how the concrete will be transported, as well as ensuring that the site is prepared and ready for construction.
The specialist will also consider the safety of the installation process, including ensuring that workers are properly trained and equipped to work with the concrete, and that all safety regulations and guidelines are followed.
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Designing and creating a piece of bespoke concrete design is a complex process that requires specialist expertise – to ensure that your piece is functional, safe, long-lasting, and in tune with your style.
Get in touch and let's collaborate.