Tag Archives: Bomanite Sandscape Refined

Colorado Hardscapes Crafts Commemorative Creations

July 29, 2024

The origins of the Adams County Veterans Memorial project in Brighton, CO, date back to 2018 when Adams County officials saw the need for a large-scale space to honor our military veterans. The Memorial is a culmination of efforts from DHM Design, ECI Site Construction, Veterans Advisory Committee, County Commissioners, local veterans, and Bomanite licensee Colorado Hardscapes. Multiple monuments including the re-creation of the USS Colorado battleship commemorate each branch of the military, the extraordinary sacrifices made by veterans, and the responsibility we have as citizens to uphold the principles and freedoms upon which this great nation was built. Almost every monument at this Veterans Memorial encompasses Bomanite decorative concrete.

Monumental Mission in Memorial Making

At Riverdale Regional Park, the Adams County Veterans Memorial stands as an embodiment of reverence, national identity, and honor for those who have dedicated themselves to serving our country. A project with such significance increased the pressure for Colorado Hardscapes to create something that lives up to the legacy of those it represents in addition to challenges of scheduling and new building strategies. Colorado Hardscapes’ collaboration with all stakeholders resulted in a truly remarkable accomplishment. Their team actively participated in the ideation, design, and production to help select the best color, texture, and finish for each element. Meeting on the job site, at the Design Center, and even at past projects was a way for Colorado Hardscapes to ensure their clients would be getting exactly what they wanted. It is very evident to all four parties that the open channels of communication played a vital role in the success and satisfactory completion of the project.

Decorative Designs and Detailed Work

Colorado Hardscapes scope of work at the Adams County Veterans Memorial includes:

19,694 SF of integrally colored Bomanite Sandscape Texture in 5 different colors.
2,212 SF of Bomanite Sandscape Refined double-mirror glass for extra sparkle.
6,538 SF of Bomanite Imprinted Systems concrete in a Bomanite Running Bond Belgian Block texture for the street paving, 6″ Bomanite Boardwalk texture for the boat’s boardwalk, and a Bomanite Sandstone Texture for the surrounding steps.
695 SF map of Adams County which includes integral color, Bomanite MicroTop XT, embedded stainless steel logo and text and embedded tiles.
Custom formed Sandscape medicine wheel.
Sandblasted and painted text on precast acid-etched panels.
A variety of Bomanite Sandscape and broom finish curbs and edgers.
Underground abutment walls.
Board-formed walls.
Uncolored, smooth troweled seat walls.
11” thick structural concrete on the ship’s deck.
Custom-formed turret bases with embeds for the ship’s gun barrels.
Structural concrete for smokestacks and i-beams.

Timely Teamwork for Timeless Tribute

Colorado Hardscapes recognized the pressing challenge of timing from the outset. With the goal of opening in time for Memorial Day, they knew that meeting the deadline would require a keen focus on time allocation. As a specialty subcontractor, they expected to work alongside other contractors simultaneously. They held daily meetings to synchronize with specific timelines of the masonry workers, steel workers, and underground utility workers, reviewing plans, providing updates, and ensuring that everyone was on the same page. This was essential to mitigate confusion or any potential bottlenecks that could stall the project’s progress.

Colorado Hardscapes also worked closely with ECI to offer their knowledge and expertise and help wherever they could, even if it was beyond their scope of work since the complexities of the project included a lot of one-offs for every trade involved. Ian Mestdagh, Director of Pre-Construction, ECI Site Construction said, “We have had the opportunity to build some pretty special places over the years but this one stands alone. The project team and our subcontractor partners have gone above and beyond to deliver a world-class project that honors those that have sacrificed everything. Throughout this process, Colorado Hardscapes has led the charge in working through the details of this amazing project and really revolutionizing what is possible with concrete.”

Innovative Story Wall

In addition to the large scope of specialty finishes on this project Colorado Hardscapes also had the chance to create the Story Wall. Project manager, Nick Federico, exhibited outstanding innovation and dedication in his quest to create a wall that would truly capture and immortalize the veterans it honors, conveying the compelling story of deployment to reunion. This wall required a considerable amount of lumber on-site in addition to three pumps to assist their crew during the pour. The form liner system enabled Colorado Hardscapes to create ribs that were millimeters wide and varying in depth, resulting in a 3D illusion of grayscale photographs, letters home, and telegrams. Although there have been numerous pre-cast applications of this form liner system, this Story Wall is the first cast-in-place installation of which we are aware. It stands as a poignant tribute to the individual narratives of veterans, and the creative concrete craftsmen at Colorado Hardscapes are deeply proud of the innovation that went into its creation.

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite decorative concrete at Adams County Veterans Memorial in Brighton, CO.

The long lead time associated with acquiring specialty materials posed another hurdle. To maintain progress throughout the duration of construction, Colorado Hardscapes strategically changed the sequence of their work, as needed, while waiting for the form liners and for other trades to complete their work. Colorado Hardscapes precise schedule for forming and pours ensured that ECI was never left waiting on them. Despite the challenges inherent in the project’s unique design, they were able to meet all milestone deadlines through strategic tailgating of all possible areas and the implementation of pumping techniques where necessary. Colorado Hardscapes successfully managed to stay within the given deadline.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Colorado Hardscapes was awarded the treasured 2023 Bomanite Multiple Systems – GRAND Award. Colorado Hardscapes concrete artisans’ dedication to excellence, innovation, and collaboration led to the creation of a truly unique and moving space that encompasses a range of decorative concrete products. From the realistic look of the USS Colorado battleship to the intricate design of the Story Wall, every element of this Memorial reflects our unwavering commitment to remembering those who served our country. Adams County Veterans Memorial represents the very best of craftsmanship, creativity, and community and will remain a lasting tribute that will continue to inspire visitors for generations to come.

Bomanite of Tulsa Transforms Tulsa Tech’s Entrance

October 12, 2023

In 1965, the inaugural Tulsa Tech campus was established on 40 acres with only a handful of buildings, driven by the vision of improving the lives of upcoming generations of Oklahomans. Today, after more than half a century, this campus has become the primary hub for Tulsa Tech’s healthcare career training, the cultivation of skills for future engineering students preparing for college, and the education of students in conventional trades such as construction, electrical work, welding, and various other vocational disciplines.

The Tulsa Technology Center, Lemley Memorial Campus embarked on Phase III of construction that encompassed a comprehensive Entry Package, including a roundabout, pavement, parking lots, and sidewalks and building entryways. Flintco LLC was selected as the Main Contractor for the project and they used Timber Wolf Excavating as the Sub-Contractor. Bomanite of Tulsa was chosen to create the architectural design concept of over 21 thousand square feet of decorative concrete for the Entry Package. Bomanite of Tulsa completed their portion of the project in 2022.

Bomanite Granite Setts Set Standard for Cobblestone Look

The TTC Lemley Phase III Entry Package decorative concrete project included various Bomanite Systems. Most prominent was the Bomanite Imprint Systems concrete pavement using 11,120 square feet of Bomacron Pattern Granite Setts in 6” x 6” size. The definition of a Sett is a small rectangular paving block made of stone, such as granite, used to provide a durable road surface, like a cobblestone, but in this instance, it is architectural, concrete. The coloration for this installation utilized Bomanite Coal Gray Color Hardener and Bomanite Cobblestone Gray Release Agent.

In addition to the imprinted concrete installation, two Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems were also used. The first consisted of 8,817 square feet of Bomanite Sandscape Refined decorative concrete pavement installed in the Bomanite Coquina color. The second of the Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed was 1,352 square feet of Bomanite Alloy pavement in the Bomanite Café au Lait color. Bomanite Alloy utilizes advanced application procedures to produce a finished product that showcases the seeded aggregate, with a low life cycle cost due to the pre-aged nature of the surface.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Established in 2002, Bomanite of Tulsa has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its excellence in crafting architectural concrete through the cast-in-place method. For this project, Bomanite of Tulsa received the coveted 2022 Bronze Award for Best Bomanite Imprint Systems Project. The hallmark of working with Bomanite of Tulsa lies in their collaborative and transparent communication approach. Their decorative concrete artisans take pride in delivering concrete products that not only endure but also maintain a remarkable appearance over time. Bomanite of Tulsa is dedicated to comprehending the unique challenges and opportunities associated with each project, crafting concrete solutions that are not only aesthetically suitable but also cost-effective and durable. Their team seamlessly integrates with clients to visualize and actualize superior construction quality while adhering to project budget and schedule constraints. Students, Faculty, and visitors will enjoy the beauty of this project for a lifetime.

Bomanite of Tulsa installed Bomanite Granite Setts imprinted decorative concrete pavement at Tulsa Tech in Tulsa, OK.

Colorado Hardscapes Executes Expert Installation of Bomanite Sandscape Refined

September 29, 2023

Located in the vibrant heart of the central business district between 16^th and 17^th Streets in downtown Denver, Republic Plaza is a 56-story iconic high-rise building. Built in 1984, Republic Plaza includes 1.2 million SF of office space and three retail levels and rising 717 feet currently holds the title of tallest building in the entire Rocky Mountain region.

Republic Plaza recently underwent renovations to the main lobby, lower-level concourse, and exterior plaza that leads to the 16th Street Pedestrian Mall. Bomanite Licensee Colorado Hardscapes was selected to create decorative concrete elements in the exterior plaza area. Originally, the plans called for precast benches and planter walls. Colorado Hardscapes asked general contractor The Weitz Company if they would consider a cast-in-place option instead. After looking at the numbers, Weitz was interested in seeing other cast-in-place benches installed by Colorado Hardscapes and following their portfolio review, approved moving forward with a mock-up of cast-in-place benches utilizing Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems and featuring Bomanite Sandscape Refined.

Republic Plaza in downtown Denver, Colorado features a stunning installation of Bomanite Sandscape Refined cast-in-place benches and planter walls by Bomanite Licensee Colorado Hardscapes.

Bomanite Sandscape Refined Showcases Product Consistency

One of the most difficult aspects of this project was the shape of the wall. Not only did it include a reverse batter, 2” bull nose, and channel for lighting, but it was also on a curve. Colorado Hardscapes knew that a mock-up was the best option for this project to establish expectations and to address any issues they might encounter. By utilizing custom CNC contoured foam, they were able to cast the desired shape at their design center. Colorado Hardscapes typically uses this method for their water feature basins, but it also worked out perfectly for the specialty benches.

Once everyone approved the mock-up, the Colorado Hardscapes crew started on site. In total, they installed 156 linear feet of Sandscape Refined curved benches and 189 linear feet of Sandscape Refined planter walls with a more conventional shape. The biggest challenges of this project were the difficult access and hot summer temperatures. Working right off 16th street, they were limited to only using Tremont Street for access in addition to the complications of downtown in general. This required them to place the benches in smaller loads. Despite placing multiple batches, the Sandscape Refined showcases a consistent finish and color from one side of a pour joint to the next.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

With its superior structural capacities, faster production time, and cost-effectiveness, cast-in-place concrete offers an outstanding solution for various construction projects. Colorado Hardscapes discussed with the client how this method could benefit them in terms of visual appeal and utility features, and they were able to gain the client’s trust with their successful installation using cast-in place methods.

Colorado Hardscapes showcased confidence in their ability as a Bomanite Licensed Contractor and utilized previous successes by taking potential clients to past projects, proving their ability to create amazing results. The mock-ups they created were an invaluable resource, and moreover, by speaking up about cast-in-place concrete, they saved the owner a significant amount of money on the project while creating an end-product even more beautiful than the original precast option. The 2022 Silver Award for Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project was awarded to Colorado Hardscapes for their superior effort on this project – not only did they go the extra mile to provide the client with resources that would gain their trust, but they also provided an exceptional product that will stand out and be a feature at Republic Plaza.

Bomanite Toronto Provides Private Residence with Refined Revamp

July 15, 2022

Every homeowner seeks that special WOW factor that says elegant, opulent, and posh when it comes to curb appeal. These Toronto, CA, homeowners achieved it by contracting Bomanite Licensee, Bomanite Toronto, to complete a full home decorative concrete project which included the front driveway, back patio, pool deck and stairs. The project was a total 2,200 sq. ft. of concrete using Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems including two of those systems, Bomanite Sandscape® Texture and Bomanite Sandscape Refined. The front driveway was completed in a natural exposed aggregate using Bomanite Sandscape® Texture which is designed for outdoor applications creating consistent texture and durable hardscapes. Utilizing specialized mix designs, additives, topical treatments and advanced application procedures, Bomanite Sandscape® Texture resembles sand blasted concrete. The final product is a monolithic concrete slab with a low life cycle cost due to the pre-aged nature of the surface and is a unique and beautiful alternate to other decorative concrete finishes.

On the back patio, pool deck and stairs, Bomanite Toronto installed Bomanite Sandscape Refined to emulate Indiana Limestone. The effect is nothing less than stunning! Beyond the aesthetic appeal, this extremely light color creates a light-reflecting surface which helps eliminate the heat island effect of normal concrete and keeps the concrete temperature low and walkable for bare feet. The finished Bomanite Sandscape Refined product resembles fine textured stone or etched limestone block with light sand exposure throughout the surface. The resulting texture is known as “sugar cube finish”, meaning the feel of the concrete mimics the texture of formed sugar cubes. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is an architectural exposed concrete with a very fine exposure depth and longer lasting than paved stone. With the additional desirable attributes of a more durable abrasion-resistant surface that is more cost effective than natural materials, Bomanite Sandscape Refined is the perfect solution for this project.

Expertise Meets Customers’ Needs

Bomanite Toronto Ltd. operates under three guarantees: top quality, unbeatable value, and professional service. They only work with a network of licensed concrete contractors with the specific skills and necessary resources to maintain its high standard of quality and provide the expected caliber of decorative concrete services. This highly skilled network of concrete craftsmen has access to the manufacturing and technical support from Bomanite. Bomanite Toronto prides itself in corporate responsibility and a vast quantity of projects that showcase their abilities to provide spectacular solutions and solve specific project specifications.

A visit to Bomanite Toronto’s extensive showroom stimulates your imagination and allows you to realize the possibilities. Bomanite Toronto is proud of providing customers with outstanding outcomes. Through hard work and quality performance, they have been able to complete beautiful results for over 40 years. They excel at decorative outdoor living spaces. At Bomanite Toronto Ltd. you will find and explore concrete flooring and paving that is innovative enough to capture and complement the beauty of the surrounding environment, yet durable and easy to maintain. It’s a fun experience seeing possibilities in decorative concrete you haven’t even imagined yet.

Only Bomanite Licensed Contractors have access to Bomanite products, systems, technology, training and tools. This is the only way to maintain quality and it’s worked for over sixty years. Experience. Consistency. Training. Service. Support. Quality products installed by quality people. Bomanite architectural concrete products offer the design flexibility and versatility you’ve only dreamed about. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is an architectural exposed concrete with a very fine exposure depth using non-native quartz aggregates bond in Bomanite Color Hardener that is surface seeded on concrete. The Bomanite Sandscape Refined System utilizes specialized concrete mix designs, dry shake color hardener and/or integral color, topical treatments and advanced application procedures to produce a finished product that showcases the fine aggregate. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is intended for both new construction and major renovation projects.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Bomanite Toronto earned the 2021 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project Bronze Award for this project by making Bomanite Sandscape Refined the star of the show. This project is another example of their enduring and established concrete craftsmanship. The homeowners will enjoy the pristine beauty of their backyard and appreciate the low maintenance, walkability, and durability qualities built into the design and choice of their decorative concrete. The finished project is sure to be the eye-catching envy of the neighborhood for many years to come.

Colorado Hardscapes Transforms Entry Terrace with Bomanite Decorative Concrete

February 15, 2022

The Campus at Waterview is a building portfolio in the Denver Tech Center that consists of three Class-A LEED Certified office buildings. Each building has stunning views of the mountains and offers a variety of amenities, including proximity to shopping, restaurants, and public transportation. The Waterview buildings were constructed between 1999 and 2001 with various remodels taking place since 2014.

The entry terrace at Waterview III was remodeled and included renovation of the exterior entry paving. It was ultimately decided by the contractor, the landscape architect, and the project designer that Colorado Hardscapes would perform the decorative concrete work, even though the bidding process indicated another contractor. A two-decade long relationship between Solara Designs and Colorado Hardscapes heavily influenced this decision and all parties agreed that Colorado Hardscapes was the optimal choice and only firm capable of executing the desired design.

Customization at its Finest

The landscape architect visited the design center at Colorado Hardscapes and after extensive discussion with Project Manager John Buteyn and consideration of numerous samples, a custom color palate was requested. Colorado Hardscapes was more than happy to accommodate this request, from which the final design and materials were selected.

Colorado Hardscapes utilized Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems, including Bomanite Sandscape Texture and Sandscape Refined. Sandscape Texture with a custom dark brown color was selected for the field areas and two colors of Sandscape Refined, white and light gray, were used to create the accent banding.

Durable and Decorative Concrete

Bomanite Sandscape Texture is designed for outdoor applications where an alternate to conventional concrete finishes is required. Sandscape Texture, one of four Exposed Aggregate Systems offered by Bomanite for architectural concrete surfaces, utilizes specialized concrete mix designs, additives, topical treatments, and advanced application procedures. The finished Sandscape Texture product resembles sand blasted concrete and can incorporate specialized colored sands in the concrete and aggregates exceeding 3/8” in diameter. The final product is an economical alternate to other decorative finishes while producing a monolithic concrete slab with a low life cycle cost due to the pre-aged nature of the surface. Applications include plazas, shopping centers, schools, and exterior walkways—anywhere improved wear resistance for light- to moderate-duty vehicular or foot traffic is necessary. These highly durable surfaces are available in a multitude of standard and custom options, including light-reflective formulations that reduce heat island effect.

Bomanite Sandscape Refined is a fine aggregate exposed aggregate concrete system engineered for outdoor applications. Sandscape Refined is another of the four Exposed Aggregate Systems offered by Bomanite for architectural concrete surfaces and utilizes specialized Bomanite Color Hardener blends, standard or decorative aggregates, and advanced application procedures. The finished Sandscape Refined product resembles fine textured stone or etched limestone block with light sand exposure throughout the surface. Due to the use of Bomanite Color Hardener, these highly durable surfaces are available in a multitude of standard and custom colors.

Design Changes Result in Design Wins

Additionally, the raised planters also feature a Sandscape Refined finish. The planter bed walls were originally going to be pre-cast, but after deliberations between the landscape architect and Colorado Hardscapes, it was decided to use Sandscape Refined. The planter walls were covered in a light color hardener and did not require the use of white cement. The use of Sandscape Refined provided an excellent alternative to the imported precast planters that had originally been considered.

The texture and colors of the Sandscape Texture and Sandscape Refined are a perfect complement to the precast concrete on the building and accentuate the building’s architecture and design aesthetic while adding durability and beautiful detail to the Waterview Campus. The superior decorative concrete installation by Colorado Hardscapes showcases their commitment to providing the highest quality decorative and architectural concrete and their willingness to go above and beyond on every single job.

Veterans Memorial Plaza Honors Men and Women Who Served and Sacrificed

November 15, 2021

The City of Carrollton, Texas is proud to honor our country’s veterans with exhibitions located throughout the city. The Veterans Memorial Plaza is the newest display and was created to honor veterans across all branches of the military who have served around the world. Carrollton’s Mayor Kevin Falconer stated, “The purpose of the Veterans Memorial Plaza is to remember and honor those men and women who served and sacrificed in defense of our great nation while we educate future generations about the courage and valor exhibited by these veterans.”

Featured at the memorial are five illuminated panels that showcase each military branch and a large ground-level concrete map of the world. The world map design includes bronze stars that highlight where the major conflicts took place with an American flag placed over Washington D.C. An area of the plaza was raised, allowing visitors to view the memorial from an elevated surface and giving them the opportunity to absorb the history of our nation while remembering and honoring those who have served.

Structural Integrity Meets Distinct Design Aesthetic

Bomanite Licensee Texas Bomanite was brought into this special project to create the entire ground-level concrete map of the continents, along with the star decorations within the map. They installed Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems using Bomanite Sandscape Refined coupled with the Bomanite Antico finishing process to create approximately 3,000 square feet of distinct decorative concrete.

Bomanite Sandscape Refined is an architectural exposed concrete with a very fine exposure depth and in this case was paired with the Bomanite Antico process to create a surface with fissures, voids, and other random effects not normally seen with traditional finished concrete. Sandscape Refined Antico is a unique aesthetically pleasing alternative system that is suited for exterior applications and provides long term durability, low maintenance, and high safety features.

The continents were further distinguished by adding a sandblast finish and the entire map was tinted using Bomanite Buckskin Con-Color to create consistency across the hardscape while adding beautiful coloration that emphasizes the unique textural detail.

Technical Expertise and Exceptional Results

From the conceptual stage and specification development right through to a customized maintenance program, Bomanite professionals bring unmatched expertise with superior Bomanite systems. Bomanite product lines deliver the best possible combination of creative design options and technical expertise. Texas Bomanite’s goal in constructing the plaza hardscape was to provide structural integrity while maintaining the designer’s intent and creating a unique and stunning design aesthetic.

Their technical expertise, exceptional planning, communication, and execution resulted in an exceptional project. Former Carrollton Mayor Ron Branson, a U.S. Air Force and Vietnam War veteran, said the memorial will pay tribute to veterans who did not stand by in the face of danger, but instead volunteered to place themselves in harm’s way for the good of others. The outstanding installation of Bomanite Sandscape Refined Antico earned Texas Bomanite the 2020 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project Honorable Mention Award and provided a durable, distinct, and remarkable feature that will honor veterans for years to come.

Bomanite Toronto Designs an Award Winning Contemporary Backyard with Bomanite Sandscape Refined Exposed Aggregate

November 19, 2020

The Homeowners sought out Bomanite Toronto located in Canada for a sleek backyard patio and pool deck that would be an entertaining space with easy maintenance. Choosing a design for your outdoor living space is an important decision. Working with Bomanite Toronto’s Design Team, the homeowners visited their concrete design center to find inspiration to create their vision. Bomanite Toronto’s Design Center offers a large selection of decorative concrete forms, patterns and finishes along with project photos, floor plans and samples to help build the couple’s beautiful contemporary outdoor living space.

A plan was devised for the 1,500 sq. ft. space that satisfied all of the homeowner’s needs for them to enjoy any season or time of day. An area for dining, lounging and entertaining were designed. The Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Sandscape Refined System was the final selection for the complete patio and pool deck surface. Choosing concrete as the base with a fine aggregate finish delivers the industrial feel with a modernity style. Wood walls and new plantings soften any hard edges and add privacy, while a pool water feature reduces any neighboring sounds. Artificial Grass strips provide design and functionality. Installed to mitigate drainage issues the grass strips reflect the modern style and define separate areas of use.

The Bomanite Sandscape Refined System utilizes specialized concrete mix designs, dry shake color hardener and/or integral color, topical treatments and advanced application procedures to produce a finished product that showcases the fine aggregate. The final product is a unique alternate to other decorative concrete finishes that produces a contemporary monolithic concrete slab with a low life cycle cost due to the pre-aged nature of the surface. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is versatile and suited for exterior applications both new construction and major renovation projects. It is a perfect choice anywhere that improved wear resistance for light- to moderate-duty vehicular or foot traffic combined with an architectural finish is a necessity.

Due to the use of Bomanite Color Hardener, these highly durable surfaces are available in a multitude of colors, including cost effective light-reflective formulations that may not require the use of white cement to reduce heat island effect. Not only does Bomanite Sandscape Refined create the durability needed for busy backyard entertaining but also provides the low-maintenance requirements for a space built for recreation and relaxation, sunbathing by day, dining by moonlight or conversing by fire all awhile beautifully enhancing your home’s exterior.

Bomanite Toronto earned the 2019 Honorable Mention Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Project under 6,000 sq, ft Award for creating a contemporary outdoor space designed for entertaining and easy maintenance with the Bomanite Sandscape Refined System.

Colorado Hardscapes Earns Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Award for Outstanding Work on the CoLab LEED Gold Co-housing Community Development

June 24, 2020

CoLab is an impressive 7-story podium student housing residential development with 253 apartment units that house 727 individual bedrooms and includes top-notch amenities. The 5-story residential component sits atop a 2-story partially buried parking garage creating a unique above ground level installation for outdoor amenities. Colorado Hardscapes, a Bomanite Decorative Concrete Contractor worked with Landscape Architect, Britina Designs to make the outdoor living space a stylish modern green community. Environmentally conscious, CoLab chose materials and systems to minimize waste and maximize energy.

The CoLab Student Living Housing Community, a USGBC Gold LEED project, brings the outdoors in with smartly styled study spaces, a rooftop deck and several lush outdoor gathering areas for tenants to enjoy; the pool court (Resort-Style Pool), Fire Court (Outdoor Lounge) and Water Court (Table Games) all featuring decorative concrete. During the design stage Britina Designs visited Colorado Hardscapes Showroom viewing several samples of different concrete systems and to determine the final finishes, aggregates and colors.

Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Sandscape Texture was chosen for the general walkways and courtyards with an inviting eye-catching alternating band of color panels of flatwork. The Bomanite Sandscape Texture was also incorporated into the pool coping with a child safety grip and coordinating color. Bomanite Sandscape Texture utilizes specialized concrete mix designs, additives, decorative mineral aggregates, topical treatments and advanced application procedures to produce a finished product that resembles sand blasted concrete through fine “quarried stone”. Bomanite Sandscape Texture typically involves the use of Bomanite Integral Color and may incorporate specialized natural, regionally selected and qualified sands such as slag, granite, quartz or limestone.

The Bomanite Sandscape Refined Series is similar in design to conventional Sandscape, based on the exposure of fine quartz aggregates but bound in Bomanite Color Hardener. The resulting texture is known as “sugar cube finish”; the feel of the concrete mimics the texture of formed sugar cubes. Due to the use of Bomanite Color Hardener, the Bomanite Sandscape Texture Refined Series is available in a multitude of standard and custom options, including cost effective light-reflective formulations that do not require the use of white cement to reduce heat island effect. The Sandscape Refined Architectural Concrete Finish was installed around the firepit lounge area and included amber glass and crushed mirror glass for a natural reflective nighttime sheen.

The Bomanite Toppings Systems Micro-Top ST, a spray applied concrete resurfacing product, has excellent adhesion and weather resistance with the ability to withstand prolonged pedestrian and light duty vehicular traffic. Bomanite Micro-Top ST provides a tough, slip resistant water-retardant coating that substantially reduces water penetration, freeze-thaw scaling and concrete carbonation making it perfect choice for the exterior areas of this Denver Community Housing development. Colorado Hardscapes placed the Micro-Top ST on curbs, steps and walls with a custom color match to complement the surrounding finishes. Once the finish was complete the owners loved the look so much that they requested an additional application to the front foundation.

A popular growing technique, Colorado Hardscapes installed Board-formed Concrete, for the fire pit, water features and outdoor kitchen BBQ. Board-formed Concrete is a process of patterning concrete that leaves a wood grain image on the finished face of the concrete. Because concrete is extremely well-suited as a finished material in modern design, by imprinting the wood grain on the surface, it visually softens and warms concrete’s somewhat cooler appearance while still allowing concrete to express the construction technique giving a modern yet rustic organic vibe to these CoLab outdoor hangouts.

CoLab achieved LEED GOLD certification with the collaboration efforts from the owner/developer, designers, contractors, and consultants that led to points in the following categories: High Efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems; Energy Efficient Appliances; High Efficiency Hot Water Heating; Energy Efficient Lighting; Indoor Environment Quality; Innovation & Design Process; and Material and Resources. Making a LEED Gold certified community, CoLab provides the peace of mind to tenants of knowing their community was built and operates in an environmentally friendly manner with the generated benefits of energy-efficiency and cost-savings. Everyone worked together to transform a great design into reality, a stylish decorative green living community.

Colorado Hardscapes earned the Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Award Over 6,000 sq. ft Bronze Award for their outstanding and contributing decorative concrete work on the CoLab LEED Gold Co-housing Community Development.

Colorado Hardscapes Sails Away with a Silver Award for the Bomanite Sandscape Refined Modern Port-Cochere at the 50 Fifty DTC

September 25, 2019

50 Fifty DTC is a unique tower that contains a six-story office building above eight levels of parking (two underground) in the Denver Tech Center of Colorado. The area is known for its typical suburban office complex featuring buildings set among a sea of asphalt parking lots and expansive lawns. With the densification of the area the client wanted something different and design inspired by nautical nuances. The office building’s design was driven by a desire to express a strong sense of style on a highly visible property. Every material selected for the construction of 50 FIFTY was considered with only quality and performance in mind. From the handpicked granite to local artwork adorning the hallways, there were no short cuts taken, only design excellence.

50 Fifty DTC incorporates Bomanite Sandscape Refined Exposed Aggregate for the decorative concrete curbs and walkways and under the porte cochere installed by Colorado Hardscapes in Denver, CO to bring the Nautical Design to life

The 50 Fifty DTC office building employs floor-to-ceiling performance glass, and strategically placed light wells to both maximize site effectiveness and promote workplace wellness and sustainable design. 100% covered, secured parking at 3.5 spaces per 1,000 SF, Common Conference Room, Collaborative Lounge and Work Space Areas, State-of-the-Art Fitness Center, Secure Bicycle Storage & Mechanics Station, all with expansive views and high-end finishes appeal to companies who want the amenities and style of an urban location.

Bomanite Licensee, Colorado Hardscapes’ scope of work was concentrated on the building’s grand porte-cochère. Tucked beneath a series of V-shaped structural members, the design creates a dramatic entry and is intricately articulated with lighting both above and below to resemble the motion of waves lapping against a vessel. Guests are greeted with a direct view into the marble-lined lobby through the elegant interior glass curtains. An adjacent terrace offers a semi-private garden level space.

The architects plan called for Bomanite’s Sandscape Refined Exposed Aggregate System, using a white Color Hardener and combining locally-sourced aggregates with crushed mirror glass to resemble the sun reflecting off the water for the curbs and walkways. The design called for a great deal of precision related to saw cuts both as joints and aesthetic elements. Saw-cut joints radiate toward the building in diverging rays and special, radius-cut joints were fit-out with illumination to mimic the undulating LED lights integrated overhead. Recognizing the difficulties with delivering a uniform finish with the Bomanite Sandscape Refined System on complex, curved, and multi-level surfaces, Colorado Hardscapes worked to address this challenge with additional technical training and multiple testing to produce the expected quality and hi-end result. The detailed walkways and curbs seamlessly match the interior décor which contrasts against the dark-grey Integrally Colored concrete broom finished drive lanes, creating a black-tie luxury experience.

Bomanite Sandscape Refined is an architectural exposed concrete with a very fine exposure depth. The Sandscape Refined System utilizes specialized concrete mix designs, dry shake color hardener and/or integral color, topical treatments and advanced application procedures to produce a finished product that showcases the fine aggregate. The final product is a unique alternate to other decorative concrete finishes that produces a monolithic concrete slab with a low life cycle cost due to the pre-aged nature of the surface. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is suited for exterior applications both new construction and major renovation projects. Bomanite Sandscape Refined is a perfect choice anywhere that improved wear resistance for light- to moderate-duty vehicular or foot traffic combined with an architectural finish is necessary. Due to the use of Bomanite Color Hardener, these highly durable surfaces are available in a multitude of colors, including cost effective light-reflective formulations that may not require the use of white cement to reduce heat island effect.

This Nautical themed office complex with its floor-to-ceiling glass, natural light that fills every office and core space, environmentally friendly products, water saving landscape design, creates an extremely energy efficient building. The sustainable design, materials and construction allow 50 Fifty to seek LEED Gold certification with this stunning sophisticated design.

AWARDS: 2018 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Silver Award

Bomanite Annual Awards Announced

April 1, 2019

Bomanite is pleased to present the Annual Decorative Concrete Project Award winners! The Bomanite Company held their Annual Conference in Denver, CO March of this year, where winners of the Bomanite Annual Awards Program were announced at the Annual Banquet Dinner.

Bomanite Licensee Harrington Bomanite Corp. located in Massachusetts received the Bomanite Outstanding Project Grand Award as well as the Best Imprint Systems Gold Award for their winning ideas at the Castaway Island – Canobie Lake Park. The Tidal River project addition of 45,000 sq. ft. was completed with the Bomanite Imprint systems with over 9 color hardeners, 4 Release Agents and 4 different patterns. The detail and work showcased vast talent and design to be able to incorporate a drainage system in the 2 plus acre site that satisfied state and local environmental concerns. The meandering brook concept of stamped concrete stole the show.

Bomel Construction Company Inc. located in Irvine, California stepped away with the Best Exposed Aggregate Gold project for their work on the Banc of California LAFC Stadium. The exterior hardscape incorporated the Bomanite Sandscape Texture and Alloy systems along with a sculpted honeycomb seating element. In all, over 150,000 sq ft of hardscape was installed.

Bomanite Licensee, Colorado Hardscapes, located in Denver, CO, was awarded the Gold Award for the Best Toppings Project for their work at the Coloradan. Breaking the mold of a traditional planter and seat wall surface, Bomanite Micro-Top ST delivered a sand-finished surface that accomplished the original architectural intent.

Heritage Bomanite, located in Fresno, California received the Gold Award for the Best Specialty Project. The grand display of the Clovis Community Hospital Cancer Center Fountain with cascading and bubbling water provides a space of serenity for patients and their visiting family members.

Premier Concrete Construction, Bomanite Licensee located in New Hampshire grabbed a Gold for the Best Grasscrete Project. Their work on the Wendt Residence showcases the sustainability and strength that can be used with the Pervious Concrete System incorporating a backyard area that that can accommodate large delivery vehicles for the Artist/Musicians studio and most important storm water management.

Additional awards were given for Silver, Bronze and Honorable Mention categories, to view all the winners and their amazing projects, please click here.

We’d like to thank all the Bomanite licensed contractors who submitted entries for this year’s award contest. The Bomanite Decorative Concrete Annual Project Awards has been a tradition for more than 50 years for Bomanite Licensed Contractors to submit their outstanding projects for the year. Bomanite Licensees compete among the best of the best to be recognized for their hard work and creative talents. The winners are announced at the Bomanite Annual Conference, held in various cities from year to year. This is a taste of artwork and craftsmanship in the decorative concrete market that can be achieved by the Bomanite network of decorative concrete craftsmen. Please take a look at the award-winning projects.

2018 List of Bomanite Award Winners

Bomanite Previous Concrete Systems Project

Gold Award: Premier Concrete Construction, LLC – Wendt Residence Backyard – Grasscrete
Silver Award: Premier Concrete Construction, LLC – Robichaud Residence Driveway – Grasscrete

Bomanite Specialty Project

Gold Award: Heritage Bomanite – Clovis Community Hospital Cancer Center Fountain – Bomanite Coloration Systems
Silver Award: Musselman & Hall Contractors, LLC – Harrisburg High School Logo – Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Alloy
Bronze Award: Concrete Arts – Backyard Resort – Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems; Revealed, Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Antico, Bomanite Imprint Systems, Bomanite Thin-Set Toppings Systems

Bomanite Custom Polishing Systems Project

Honorable Mention: Mussleman & Hall Contractors, LLC – Starbucks Brookside – Bomanite Custom Polishing System Modena SL
Honorable Mention: Texas Bomanite – Cypress Waters Business Complex – Bomanite Custom Polishing System VitraFlor
Honorable Mention: Beyond Concrete – Angelina’s Restaurant – Bomanite Custom Polishing System Modena SL

Bomanite Toppings Systems Project

Gold Award: Colorado Hardscapes – The Coloradan Planter Walls – Bomanite Micro-Top ST Toppings Systems
Silver Award: Premier Concrete Construction, LLC – Robichaud Residence Hockey Rink – Bomanite Broadcast Aggregate Topping System
Bronze Award: Musselman & Hall Contractors, LLC – Elmwood Restaurant – Bomanite Micro-Top Toppings Systems

Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project

Gold Award: Bomel Construction Company, Inc. – Banc of California LAFC Stadium – Bomanite Exposed System Sandscape Texture, Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Alloy
Silver Award: Colorado Hardscapes – 50Fifty DTC – Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Sandscape Refined
Bronze Award: Beyond Concrete – World Trade Center – Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Alloy

Bomanite Imprint Systems Project

Gold Award: Harrington Bomanite Corp. – Castaway Island, Canobie Lake Park – Bomanite Imprint Systems
Silver Award: Colorado Hardscapes – Gaylord Rockies Resort – Bomanite Imprint Systems
Bronze Award: Connecticut Bomanite Systems –Insurance Co Plaza – Bomanite Imprint Systems

Bomanite Outstanding GRAND AWARD

GRAND Award: Harrington Bomanite Corp. – Castaway Island, Canobie Lake Park – Bomanite Imprint Systems

Tag Archives: Bomanite Sandscape Refined

Colorado Hardscapes Crafts Commemorative Creations

Monumental Mission in Memorial Making

Decorative Designs and Detailed Work

Timely Teamwork for Timeless Tribute

Innovative Story Wall

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Bomanite of Tulsa Transforms Tulsa Tech’s Entrance

Bomanite Granite Setts Set Standard for Cobblestone Look

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Colorado Hardscapes Executes Expert Installation of Bomanite Sandscape Refined

Bomanite Sandscape Refined Showcases Product Consistency

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Bomanite Toronto Provides Private Residence with Refined Revamp

Expertise Meets Customers’ Needs

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Colorado Hardscapes Transforms Entry Terrace with Bomanite Decorative Concrete

Customization at its Finest

Durable and Decorative Concrete

Design Changes Result in Design Wins

Veterans Memorial Plaza Honors Men and Women Who Served and Sacrificed

Bomanite Toronto Designs an Award Winning Contemporary Backyard with Bomanite Sandscape Refined Exposed Aggregate

Colorado Hardscapes Earns Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Award for Outstanding Work on the CoLab LEED Gold Co-housing Community Development

Colorado Hardscapes Sails Away with a Silver Award for the Bomanite Sandscape Refined Modern Port-Cochere at the 50 Fifty DTC

Bomanite Annual Awards Announced

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