Tag Archives: Concrete Walkways

Colorado Hardscapes at USAFA: Consistency, Craft, and Cost-Smart Concrete

Academy Aesthetics and Architectural Alignment

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) demands precision, permanence, and polished presentation—and Colorado Hardscapes has consistently delivered to that standard.  Their decorative concrete portfolio at the Academy showcases a deep command of Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems and an ability to align with rigorous design controls.  Across plazas, promenades, and high-visibility public spaces, the team merges performance with architectural intent.  The result is a campus palette that reads cohesive, contemporary, and distinctly USAFA.  From subgrade strategy to surface sheen, each step is engineered for longevity and legibility.  That commitment to quality control, color consistency, and texture uniformity has turned a vendor relationship into a trusted partnership.  In every pour, the team balances beauty, budget, and durability to advance the Academy’s mission-minded aesthetic.

Trailblazing Texture and Thoughtful Transitions

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.Colorado Hardscapes’ collaboration with USAFA dates to 2010 when they helped redevelop the mix design for the exterior terrazzo exposed aggregate paving used throughout the campus. Combining specialty rock with the custom Air Force Brown integral color, the ream refined the look, improved the mix design, and updated the installation method that now delivers both elegance and endurance to the paving. Historically, marble bands framed the exposed aggregate fields – but innovation introduced Bomanite Revealed as a cost-smart, visual equivalent alternative for certain installations. The Bomanite Revealed banding still provides the USAFA’s crisp, white banding language, while stabilizing material availability, mitigating weather concerns, and reducing the cost without diminishing design intent. The Academy gained a replicable specification that looks premium and scales across projects.

Visitor Center Vision and Value Engineering

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.The new Visitor Center became the first USAFA project to deploy Bomanite Revealed for its 21″ white bands, setting a precedent for precision and performance.  Spanning roughly 18,000 square feet, the scope included about 13,000 square feet of exposed aggregate fields and 5,000 square feet of bands, all coordinated on a strict 7′ module.  Delays in rock sourcing and a winter start demanded process inversion: bands had to be placed before the fields.  Even so, crews poured 166 yards in cold conditions without sacrificing finish quality, color control, or texture.  The refined sequencing, meticulous curing, and proactive protection delivered uniform results free of blemishes.  By substituting Revealed for marble, the team achieved the same crisp aesthetic at a lower, more predictable cost.  The outcome is a timeless entry sequence that communicates USAFA’s brand of precision to every visitor.

Cyberworx Calculus and Concrete Craft

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

At Cyberworx (about 9,500 square feet), Colorado Hardscapes navigated complex structural requirements to maintain USAFA’s disciplined geometry.  Working together with USAFA’s civil engineering team, they solved mix design nuances and devised a unique footer system—complete with reinforced haunches—to support marble band loads.  Panels were poured at approximately 8″ thickness, cut on a 7′ grid, with alternating 21″ bands and 26′-3″ panels for rigorous repetition.  This tailored structure secured alignment, avoided settlement, and preserved the knife-edge clarity of the bands through seasonal shifts.  Every control joint, sawcut, and edge detail was coordinated for uniformity and longevity.  Despite first-of-its-kind engineering on campus, QC metrics were met without compromise.  The project stands as a case study in marrying structural logic with architectural language.

 

Wecker Hall Winter Wins and Workmanship

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.Wecker Hall (about 9,970 square feet) pivoted mid-stream from broom finishes to Bomanite Sandscape® Texture fields with white Bomanite Revealed bands.  The revised layout introduced 30′ panel modules while retaining 21″ and 42″ banding to echo Academy standards.  Winter weather required continuous covering, uncovering, and temperature management to protect color, hydration, and surface profile.  Even under those constraints, the team delivered surfaces free of blanket marks or cold-weather artifacts.  The Sandscape Texture in Air Force Brown paired with crisp white bands achieved the signature USAFA contrast at a controlled cost.  Bomanite Revealed again proved its value as a marble alternative that resists weathering and supply volatility.  The result is a durable, disciplined hardscape that reads refined from every approach.

Proficiency, Precision, and Programmatic Partnership

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.Across these projects—and many more—Colorado Hardscapes has demonstrated unmatched proficiency under USAFA’s exacting expectations.  Their approach blends preconstruction planning, mix mockups, and methodical field execution to ensure repeatable results.  From logistics to layout, the team calibrates sequences that respect schedule, season, and specification.  They anticipate constraints, optimize pour breaks, and maintain color/texture continuity across large square footages.  That rigor is how high-stakes public spaces achieve “always-on” visual quality.  The team’s constant communication with designers, construction managers, and facilities stewards ensures intent is protected from submittal to final seal.  In short, they turn demanding design doctrines into reliable construction realities.

Decade of Discipline: Halls, Memorials, and Heritage

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.The USAFA relationship spans over a decade, maturing from early finish mockups to trusted-partner delivery on marquee spaces.  Landmark efforts at Vandenberg Hall, the Asian Memorial Air Gardens, the HH-3 Memorial, and other campus features illustrate consistent execution at scale.  Each assignment reinforced the Academy’s identity through disciplined grids, precise bands, and uniform exposed aggregate fields.  Tactically, the team fine-tuned jointing patterns, sawcut sequencing, and curing protocols to fit the Academy’s climatic realities.  Strategically, they helped standardize a materials kit that repeats quality and reduces total cost of ownership.  That institutional memory pays off with faster approvals, fewer surprises, and stronger lifecycle performance.  The campus reads cohesive because the details have been stress-tested across many sites and seasons.

Systems Synergy for Strength, Safety, and Style

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.By specifying Bomanite Sandscape® Texture, Bomanite Sandscape® Refined, and Bomanite Revealed, USAFA gains a synergy of slip-resistance, structural stamina, and signature style.  Exposed aggregate fields provide traction and texture while retaining a refined, architectural look that photographs beautifully.  Bomanite Revealed bands deliver the bright, marble-like accent lines that USAFA favors—without the cost, lead-time risk, or maintenance burden of stone.  Color control with Air Force Brown, repeatable aggregate exposure, and consistent panel modules all reinforce the Academy’s visual identity.  At the Air Gardens alone, Colorado Hardscapes restored 15 reflecting pools, cut eight miles of sawcuts, and coordinated bridge lighting underneath 20 bridges—evidence of capacity, coordination, and craft.  These systems scale across plazas, promenades, and perimeters, ensuring campus continuity project after project.  The net effect is a campus surface language that is safer underfoot, sturdier under stress, and striking at scale.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Colorado Hardscapes’ USAFA program earned the 2024 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project – GRAND AWARD – Gold Award, recognizing exemplary innovation and execution.  The honor specifically celebrates their cost-smart shift from marble to Bomanite Revealed, their exacting control of modular geometry, and their winter-season workmanship. It also acknowledges the team’s elegant integration of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture and Bomanite Sandscape® Refined to meet the Academy’s visual and performance targets.  From the Visitor Center to Cyberworx to Wecker Hall, the work proves that disciplined detailing can coexist with budget stewardship.  The award affirms Colorado Hardscapes as the benchmark for exposed aggregate excellence in mission-critical environments.  Most importantly, it underscores how repeatable specifications, rigorous QC, and responsive engineering elevate public space for decades.  At USAFA, every band, panel, and pour now speaks fluently in the Academy’s architectural dialect—durable, dignified, and definitively award-winning.

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape and Bomanite Revealed at USAFA in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

Connecticut Bomanite Crafts Campus Continuity with Captivating Concrete at Yale

Pedestrian Pathway Perfection

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.Few campus landmarks carry both the weight of history and the daily wear of thousands of footsteps quite like Gibbs Court, the prominent pedestrian corridor linking Yale University’s Sterling Chemistry and Sloane Physics Laboratories.  Honoring the legacy of Josiah Willard Gibbs, this redesigned hardscape project demanded a finish that could balance beauty with durability in one of the university’s busiest spaces.  Connecticut Bomanite Systems was selected as the installer due to their trusted track record of delivering exceptional decorative concrete projects for Yale.  Turner Construction Inc. served as the general contractor, while the architectural vision was crafted by Stantec.  Together, the project team chose Bomanite Sandscape® Texture, a surface known for its refined aesthetic and high-performance qualities.  This decorative concrete solution offered slip resistance, long-lasting strength, and low maintenance—crucial for institutional use where safety and endurance are paramount.  The decision set the stage for an innovative installation that would elevate Gibbs Court into a functional yet commemorative landmark.

Challenging Construction Circumstances

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.Executing the project at Yale was far from simple, as the construction sequence introduced unique challenges that tested the experience and creativity of the team.  The main section of Gibbs Court was poured and sealed in the fall, only to be buried under metal plates and dirt for more than eight months while a massive underground tunnel excavation for steam lines proceeded nearby.  Heavy machinery, constant traffic, and prolonged cover put significant pressure on the newly installed decorative concrete slab.  Remarkably, the Bomanite Sandscape® Texture surface withstood these extreme conditions, maintaining integrity despite unpredictable curing.  When crews returned, the original installation stood strong, showcasing the resilience and reliability of Bomanite’s engineered systems.  This stage of the project demonstrated how advanced decorative concrete technology can endure even the most demanding construction environments.

Supplier Setbacks Surmounted

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.

 

As work resumed, the Connecticut Bomanite Systems crew faced another hurdle: the original concrete supplier had depleted the sand needed for consistency with the initial pour.  Switching bins or sourcing substitutes could have created visible differences in color, texture, and finish, jeopardizing the project’s continuity.  To solve this issue, a new supplier was identified, and the team worked with meticulous precision to replicate the exact appearance of the earlier installation.  This level of craftsmanship highlights the artistry required in decorative concrete work, where even slight variations can affect the overall harmony of a high-profile campus setting.  By carefully managing mix design, finishing, and curing processes, the installers ensured a seamless transition between phases.  Their success reinforced why Connecticut Bomanite Systems is trusted for technically demanding and architecturally sensitive projects.

 

 

Safety, Signage, and Surroundings

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.Beyond the decorative paving, the Gibbs Court renovation introduced a series of upgrades that enhance the pedestrian experience across the corridor.  New lighting systems were added to ensure visibility and safety during evening hours, while expanded security measures provided an added layer of comfort for daily users.  Upgraded signage improved navigation between the laboratories and surrounding facilities, aligning the space with Yale’s broader campus identity.  Landscaping enhancements added greenery and texture, creating a more welcoming environment that balances the surrounding architecture with natural beauty.  These holistic improvements transformed Gibbs Court from a utilitarian passageway into a vibrant, multi-functional campus connector.  The result is a safer, more aesthetically appealing public space that encourages both academic and social engagement.

Bomanite Sandscape® Surface Strengths

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.The selection of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture was not accidental, but a deliberate choice rooted in its proven performance benefits for high-traffic, high-visibility applications.  This decorative concrete finish provides an elegant, sandblasted look while incorporating exposed fine aggregates, giving the surface both beauty and texture.  It is exceptionally slip-resistant, an essential feature in pedestrian corridors that experience heavy foot traffic in varying weather conditions.  Maintenance requirements are minimal, making it cost-effective for long-term institutional management.  Its durability ensures that the surface maintains its appeal even after years of use, resisting the wear that often diminishes other paving options.  For Yale University, this meant a dependable solution that met stringent performance requirements without compromising on design.  Gibbs Court is now a showcase of how Bomanite Sandscape® Texture can seamlessly merge functionality with visual sophistication.

Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Excellence

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.

 

The Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems, of which Bomanite Sandscape® Texture is a part, provide unmatched versatility and reliability in decorative hardscape design.  These systems utilize carefully selected aggregates combined with specialized finishing techniques to deliver surfaces that are both strong and stylish.  The exposed aggregate finish creates natural slip resistance while offering visual depth and texture that enhance architectural surroundings.  Such systems are known for their sustainability advantages, given their longevity and reduced maintenance requirements, which align with institutional goals for durability and cost efficiency.  Design flexibility allows architects and planners to customize textures, colors, and aggregates to suit project-specific visions.  By employing Exposed Aggregate Systems, institutions like Yale benefit from surfaces that are not only practical but also elevate the aesthetic character of their campus landscapes.

 

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.The Yale Gibbs Court project earned Connecticut Bomanite Systems the 2024 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project – Honorable Mention Award, further underscoring the excellence of their concrete craftsmanship.  This recognition celebrates the ability to combine technical problem-solving with architectural artistry in a setting of historical and academic significance.  Connecticut Bomanite Systems demonstrated how innovative use of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture could overcome logistical hurdles, supplier shortages, and construction complications while still achieving a flawless finish.  The award highlights not just the success of the Gibbs Court renovation but also the broader value of Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems in institutional projects nationwide.  Yale University now benefits from a hardscape solution that blends durability, beauty, and performance in equal measure.  This accolade stands as a testament to how decorative concrete, when executed with precision and expertise, can transform even the most functional spaces into award-winning landmarks.

Bomanite Sandscape Texture by Connecticut Bomanite Systems at Yale Gibbs Court.

Colorado Hardscapes Creates Captivating Curb Appeal

Custom Concrete for a Complex Site

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture at a Cherry Hills private residence.Located in the prestigious Cherry Hills neighborhood of Colorado, this award-winning residential concrete project required a custom solution to meet both aesthetic ambitions and technical complexities.  Spearheaded by Bomanite Licensee Colorado Hardscapes, the project was completed in collaboration with general contractor Anderson Construction, Phase One Landscapes, and the homeowner, combining high-end design with strategic site planning. The centerpiece of the installation was a steep, lower-level driveway, which demanded precision grading and drainage engineering to prevent water intrusion into the below-grade garage.  A custom Capitol Hill finish of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture was applied, incorporating a distinctive 3′ × 6′ linear scoring pattern that echoed the home’s architectural rhythm and elevated curb appeal.  To handle runoff from the sloped surface, a 12″ ACO trench drain was expertly installed along the base of the driveway, integrated seamlessly into the hardscape.  The combination of slope-sensitive grading, premium materials, and detail-driven execution resulted in a polished, performance-focused solution tailored for both form and function.

Patios, Pathways, and Precision in Every Pour

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture at a Cherry Hills private residence.Beyond the driveway, the project included patios and stepstone walkways that added usable outdoor living space while reflecting the home’s refined aesthetic.  These areas were poured using Bomanite Sandscape® Refined in the luminous Whitestone color, chosen to contrast sharply with the darker exterior tones of the home while providing a bright, clean finish.  The transitions between driveway and patios were carefully coordinated to maintain elevation consistency and allow for smooth pedestrian access across the property.  A free-draining gravel base was installed beneath all concrete elements to encourage subsurface water movement, ensuring long-term durability and preventing freeze-thaw damage.  The thoughtful integration of walkways and patios into the site’s natural topography emphasized usability while respecting the visual language of landscape architecture.  Every element—from concrete mix to scoring pattern to drainage detail—was curated with intention, resulting in a visually cohesive and technically sound design.  This meticulous attention to detail reflects Colorado Hardscapes’ commitment to quality decorative concrete craftsmanship in every square foot.

Exposed Aggregate Advantages & Aesthetic Appeal

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Refined at a Cherry Hills private residence.Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems are engineered to deliver long-lasting durability and upscale texture for residential and commercial applications alike.  Their carefully curated aggregate blends and controlled exposure techniques create a visually appealing, non-slip surface ideal for driveways, walkways, and outdoor gathering areas.  These systems perform exceptionally well in freeze-thaw environments, resisting cracking, scaling, and surface wear, which is critical in Colorado’s challenging climate.  Owners benefit from design flexibility with a wide variety of aggregate colors, sizes, and textures that can be customized to fit architectural styles.  These finishes are also highly stain-resistant and easy to maintain, offering excellent lifecycle value while minimizing upkeep.  The result is a concrete solution that blends strength, safety, and stunning good looks, elevating outdoor spaces from ordinary to outstanding.

Surface Sophistication with Safety

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture at a Cherry Hills private residence.Bomanite Sandscape® Texture and Bomanite Sandscape® Refined each offer distinctive advantages, making them perfect companions for multi-surface residential projects like the Cherry Hills installation.  Bomanite Sandscape® Texture provides a sand-blasted finish with a uniform feel and excellent slip resistance, ideal for sloped driveways and high-traffic paths.  Its fine texture enhances visual depth without compromising surface performance, while its dense matrix resists weathering and chemical exposure.  Bomanite Sandscape® Refined on the other hand, brings a smooth, subtle sparkle to decorative surfaces, ideal for patios, courtyards, and architectural stepstones that demand a more polished look.  Together, they provide complementary aesthetics and performance characteristics that balance traction, elegance, and environmental compatibility.  Their integration into a single, seamless project showcases the design versatility and functional benefits of the Bomanite Sandscape® line.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture at a Cherry Hills private residence.This project earned Colorado Hardscapes the 2024 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project – Bronze Award, a testament to the team’s innovation, technical skill, and design excellence. The careful blend of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture and Bomanite Sandscape® Refined, combined with drainage systems and custom scoring patterns, exemplifies what is possible when form meets function in residential concrete.  Each phase of the project—from design to installation—was executed with a deep understanding of the site’s unique challenges and the homeowner’s vision.  The success of this effort was due to coordinated scheduling, strategic material selections, and expert craftsmanship at every level.  The resulting driveway and patios are not just durable—they’re a showcase of how decorative concrete can elevate a property’s value and beauty.  This Cherry Hills residence now stands as a benchmark in eco-conscious, award-winning concrete design.

Colorado Hardscapes installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture at a Cherry Hills private residence.

Colorado Hardscapes Crafts Commemorative Creations

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

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

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

Timely Teamwork for Timeless Tribute

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

 

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

 

 

Connecticut Bomanite Systems Sidewalks Modernize Museum

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.

 

Following the Yale Peabody Museum’s sesquicentennial anniversary in 2016, the Museum was delighted to announce a major renovation project, the first renovation of the space since 1925.  This initiative aims to reinvent the Peabody for the 21st century and beyond, cementing its status as a center for cutting-edge research, exceptional education, and awe-inspiring exhibitions.  From the skeletons of enormous dinosaurs to cultural artifacts spanning the globe, natural history collections are more than mere curiosities—they serve as the bedrock of our understanding of the natural world.  The construction and transformation, beginning in 2020, took over four years to complete.

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.

 

 

Yale University engaged Turner Construction Inc. as the General Contractor and Centerbrook Architects and Planners Centerbrook as the Project Designer.  Because of a long term relationship with the University, Connecticut Bomanite Systems was selected to create additional matching decorative concrete sidewalks connecting the museum building and terraces to the parking lot and to the previous work they did in the Sachem Woods Park.  In the beginning, Connecticut Bomanite Systems created more than 20 samples to get one that was finally chosen.  The result is a custom yellow/brown aggregate from New England and a custom integral color.

Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Blend Durability with Design

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems are revitalizing the traditional decorative concrete industry with a fresh approach that incorporates cutting-edge systems, more durable products, and diverse mix designs.  This method marries the structural resilience needed in many construction applications with the aesthetic appeal that designers and homeowners covet.  Originally, exposed aggregate finishes were the understated yet practical choice, known for their unassuming, sometimes irregular appearance and tendency to lose visual appeal over time as the aggregates dislodged from the surface.

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.However, the landscape of decorative concrete has dramatically changed.  Leveraging advancements in technology and creative product development, Bomanite LLC has introduced innovative solutions that reimagine this classic decorative concrete technique.  Today, products like Bomanite Alloy, Bomanite Sandscape® Texture, Bomanite Sandscape Refined, and Bomanite Revealed™ offer an array of modernized mixes.  These options come with an extensive selection of colors, textures, and aggregate choices, ensuring that each installation is both unique and tailored to meet specific design visions and functional demands.  These new systems not only enhance the visual aspect of concrete but also improve its longevity and durability, making the finished product more appealing and reliable than before.

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.

 

In essence, Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems are transforming a once traditional method into a contemporary design staple.  With these advancements, Bomanite is positioned at the forefront of the industry, providing cost-effective and robust solutions for a wide range of design needs.  The modernized systems deliver on both aesthetic and functional levels, offering designers and architects the tools to unlock the full potential of concrete in any project.  Whether for commercial spaces, residential areas, or large-scale urban developments, Bomanite’s solutions exemplify how concrete can be both beautiful and brilliantly functional.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.

For this project Connecticut Bomanite Systems received the 2023 Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project Honorable Mention.  Their concrete craftsmen focus on finding creative solutions to technical challenges in every project.  They have consistently met and surpassed expectations for all stakeholders, a testament to their enduring relationship with Yale University.  This long-standing partnership reflects their commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt and deliver distinguishing results.  They played a crucial role in the comprehensive project to reinvent the Peabody for the modern era and future generations, enhancing the experience for students, faculty, and visitors.

 

Yale Peabody Museum in New Haven, CT, features Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems installed by Connecticut Bomanite Systems.

 

Connecticut Bomanite Constructs Country Club Decorative Concrete

Sleepy Hollow Country Club features Bomanite Imprint Systems using Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate pattern on patios and sidewalks.Nestled within the storied landscapes of America, Sleepy Hollow Country Club in Briarcliff Manor, NY, carries the distinction of being one of the nation’s oldest country clubs.  This prestigious club, steeped in history, faced the delicate challenge of updating its facilities without compromising its venerable heritage.  Connecticut Bomanite Systems rose to the occasion, partnering with Viking Construction and the club to reimagine its patios and sidewalks.  Their mission was to integrate the new with the old harmoniously, ensuring that the fresh concrete work would complement, rather than overshadow, the club’s rich past.  The club chose Bomanite Imprint Systems consisting of a 10,287 SF saw cut into a 4’x4′ pattern of Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate with seal gray CH field and flamed granite with gunmetal gray CH border.  This choice was emblematic of a commitment to preserving the club’s character while embracing modernity and resilience.

Bomanite Imprint Integrates Tradition

Sleepy Hollow Country Club features Bomanite Imprint Systems using Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate pattern on patios and sidewalks.The versatility of Bomanite Imprint Systems played a pivotal role in this endeavor.  With over 400 unique patterns, textures, and color schemes at their disposal, Sleepy Hollow Country Club was empowered to select a design that resonated with its historical essence while providing an updated and durable surface.  This custom-tailored solution ensured that the new additions would stand the test of time, both aesthetically and functionally.  The project was not just about renovation; it was about bridging eras, crafting spaces that honor the past while welcoming the future.  Connecticut Bomanite Systems has the expertise and the trained decorative concrete artisans to bring that vision to reality.

Sleepy Hollow Country Club features Bomanite Imprint Systems using Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate pattern on patios and sidewalks.

 

 

Durability is a hallmark of the Bomanite Imprint Systems, a feature that was put to the test during the filming of an episode of “Law and Order” at the club.  The production’s rigorous demands, involving heavy equipment and constant foot traffic, posed no threat to the newly installed pathways and patios.  This resilience is a testament to Bomanite’s innovative approach to decorative concrete design, utilizing molds derived from natural materials like stone and wood, as well as more unconventional elements such as metal and plastic.  This adaptability ensures that each project can be as unique as the client’s imagination, incorporating custom images, logos, and textures to create a truly personalized space.

Bomanite Builds Beautiful Legacy

Sleepy Hollow Country Club features Bomanite Imprint Systems using Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate pattern on patios and sidewalks.Adding to the aesthetic and functional benefits of the Bomanite Imprint Systems is the Bomacron series, which introduces an additional layer of texture and depth.  This cast-in-place, colored, and imprinted concrete offers an intricate level of detail, providing a tactile quality that enhances the visual appeal.  The result is a seamless integration of new and old, where innovation meets tradition.  Sleepy Hollow Country Club’s decision to employ these advanced Bomanite decorative concrete solutions reflects a broader commitment to maintaining its historical integrity while ensuring its facilities meet the highest standards of quality and durability.  This project stands as a beacon of how heritage and progress can coexist, creating spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.

 

Sleepy Hollow Country Club features Bomanite Imprint Systems using Bomanite English Sidewalk Slate pattern on patios and sidewalks.

 

Architectural Concrete & Design’s Courtyard Creation at Utah State Board of Education

Architectural Concrete & Design installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture decorative concrete at Utah State Board of Education.In July 2022, the Utah State Board of Education, in Salt Lake City, UT, witnessed a remarkable transformation of its courtyard, a project that not only redefined its outdoor space but also set a new standard for design innovation.  Bomanite Licensee Architectural Concrete & Design, a firm renowned for its expertise in architectural decorative concrete, took on the challenge to install a new courtyard with Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems using Bomanite Sandscape® Texture.  This project was unique in its approach, employing two pours of two integral colors – Bomanite Coloration Concentrate “Dark Gray DM” and “Pewter DM” – to create a visually striking and highly functional outdoor area.  The goal was not merely to renovate the existing space but to elevate it into a modern, aesthetically pleasing, and multi-functional courtyard.  Working with an in-house design team, Architectural Concrete & Design envisioned a space that could seamlessly blend with the architectural ethos of the USBE building while introducing an element of contemporary elegance.  The decision to use Bomanite Sandscape® Texture in two contrasting colors was driven by a desire to create a dynamic and engaging environment that could inspire creativity and tranquility.

Two-Phase Pour Precision and Expertise

Architectural Concrete & Design installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture decorative concrete at Utah State Board of Education.The installation process is a testament to Architectural Concrete & Design’s mastery and concrete craftsmanship.  The project was executed in two phases to accommodate the two-color scheme.  Precision was key, as the team of concrete artisans meticulously planned the pours to ensure sharp, clean lines between the colors, achieving a seamless transition that visually expanded the space.  One of the significant challenges faced during the installation was maintaining the integrity of the design amidst the logistical complexities of executing two separate pours, creating an intricate interplay of shades that added depth and dimension to the courtyard.  This project has not only enhanced the aesthetic and functional value of the courtyard but also demonstrated the potential of architectural concrete to bring design visions to life.

 

Durability Meets Design

Architectural Concrete & Design installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture decorative concrete at Utah State Board of Education.One of the project’s core considerations was selecting a material that could withstand the rigors of Utah’s climate while maintaining its visual integrity.  Bomanite Sandscape® Texture, known for its durability, low maintenance, and the ability to incorporate multiple colors into the design, can withstand the rigors of high foot traffic and provides a non-skid surface.  It was an ideal choice, ensuring that the courtyard would remain a vibrant and inviting space for years to come.  It is now a visually appealing outdoor space and a picturesque setting for photos of smiling award recipients.  Architectural Concrete & Design, through their creative use of Bomanite Sandscape® Texture and meeting design goals, has showcased the transformative power of architectural decorative concrete.  This project stands as a beacon of modern design, inspiring future projects to push the boundaries of creativity and functionality.

Architectural Concrete & Design installed Bomanite Sandscape Texture decorative concrete at Utah State Board of Education.

Concrete Arts Achieves Award for Steps

Concrete Arts installed Bomanite Regular Slate Texture decorative concrete on residential backyard steps in Hudson, WI.When a homeowner purchased a home overlooking beautiful Lake Mallalieu in Hudson, WI, the backyard steep hill down to the lake became an immediate issue.  There was a compelling need for mobility accessible access to the lake, as well as the existing old timber and paver stair system was falling apart.  Craig Primoli of Yardmasters Landscapes & Nursery was hired as the Project Designer.  The architect selected for the project not only specified a trolley system to meet the mobility accessible requirements but also wanted a set of concrete steps to provide longevity and more stability, while creating a safer option for the homeowner.  Bomanite Licensee Concrete Arts was chosen to install decorative concrete and bring the vision of the planners to life.

Concrete Arts installed Bomanite Regular Slate Texture decorative concrete on residential backyard steps in Hudson, WI.

 

Concrete Arts came in and laid out the outside forms and established the elevations.  A series of 18-inch diameter and 6-foot-deep frost footings were excavated and poured for stability.  The forms for the riser system were then installed and the pouring was scheduled.  There are 49 risers in the stair system.  Bomanite Slate Gray Integral Color was used with a custom form liner for the steps to make the edges look like rocks, and Bomacron Regular Slate Texture, part of the Bomanite Imprint Systems, was used for the flat surfaces.  Together, these techniques created a one-of-a-kind stair system that is strikingly beautiful yet functional.

Bomanite Imprint Systems Not Limited by Imagination

Concrete Arts installed Bomanite Regular Slate Texture decorative concrete on residential backyard steps in Hudson, WI.Bomanite Imprint Systems deliver durable, cast-in-place concrete flooring and paving solutions, providing a unique architectural flair that is resilient against heavy traffic and various environmental challenges.  For over fifty years, these systems have offered an extensive selection of colors, textures, and patterns to both homeowners and designers, all at a cost significantly lower than conventional materials.  With more than 100 patterns and numerous custom tooling choices, along with a broad range of standard and custom color options, Bomanite Imprint Systems ensures versatility.  Available textures include those resembling natural elements like slate, granite, limestone, sandstone, cobblestone, and used brick.  For architectural paving that stands out, Bomanite Imprint Systems are the unparalleled choice.

Bomanite Licensees Lift Project Expectations

Concrete Arts installed Bomanite Regular Slate Texture decorative concrete on residential backyard steps in Hudson, WI.

 

Since its inception in 1993, Concrete Arts has earned a distinguished reputation in the field of architectural concrete, serving a broad spectrum of projects throughout Wisconsin and Minnesota.  Catering to both commercial and residential clients, their unmatched technical expertise, a hallmark of the Bomanite Licensee network, is paired with superior customer service to guarantee top-quality products, processes, and workmanship for every undertaking.  Recognized as a reliable partner by owners, architects, contractors, and landscape architects, Concrete Arts is celebrated for the long-lasting value its decorative concrete brings to various projects.  Their foundation in deep technical knowledge enables them to offer innovative, tailor-made, and practical solutions that are delivered within budget and schedule constraints.  Their showroom, showcasing a wide array of samples, provides designers, builders, and clients a chance to explore the endless possibilities offered by decorative concrete.

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Concrete Arts installed Bomanite Regular Slate Texture decorative concrete on residential backyard steps in Hudson, WI.

 

Concrete Arts earned the 2022 Silver Award for Best Bomanite Imprint Systems Project.  Because of the sheer steepness of the hill being worked on, this project presented its own exceptional set of challenges.  The trained concrete craftsmen at Concrete Arts pride themselves in having created a company culture of commitment, and thus they accept these types of challenges with the knowledge they can create innovative, customized, functional solutions.  The stunning results of this project far exceeded the expectations of all stakeholders involved.

 

After/Before comparison:

Decorative concrete steps featuring Bomanite Regular Slate Texture installed in Hudson, WI, by Concrete Arts. ` BEFORE: Decorative concrete steps featuring Bomanite Regular Slate Texture installed in Hudson, WI, by Concrete Arts.

Carolina Bomanite Installs Bomanite Imprint Systems to Create Custom Decorative Concrete

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.The Wilson Center for Nature Discovery is located about halfway up Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina and was constructed as part of an $8.37M addition and expansion plan.  This new space doubles the size of the original Nature Museum, offering more than a dozen new state-of-the-art interactive exhibits that help explore the natural history, flora, fauna, geology, and weather of the mountain.  To optimize the natural surroundings at Grandfather Mountain, moveable walls and large banks of windows were incorporated, helping to bring the great outdoors inside.

Bomanite at its Best

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.

 

In the spring of 2022, Bomanite Licensee Carolina Bomanite Corporation was asked by friend and colleague, Landscape Architect Ron Cutlip, about installing a series of walkways and plaza space for the new addition to this iconic North Carolina tourist destination property.  After a site visit by owners John and Donna Fletcher on a blustery early spring day with winds gusting to 30 mph and the temps below freezing, the decision was made to utilize Carolina Bomanite and its team of skilled craftsmen to perform the design build concrete work.

 

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.The installation features Bomanite Imprint Systems and showcases the Bomacron Slate Texture pattern with various custom animal print installations including deer, racoon, bear, eagle, and turkey prints.  The selection of Bomanite Imprinting Tools is unsurpassed in the industry with well over 400 distinct patterns and associated textures.  Bomanite molds are developed from natural products such as stone or wood as well as unconventional surfaces like metal, plastic, or whatever your imagination brings to the table.  The animal print installations were coordinated with help from multiple naturalists employed by the Conservancy to ensure realism.  The naturalists, landscape architect, and Carolina Bomanite finishers collaborated to apply the prints based on a realistic situation – for example, was the bear trotting, walking, loping, or galloping – this approach was applied to each animal print installation, guaranteeing technical accuracy, and creating exceptional and extraordinary concrete.

Expertise Executed

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.

 

Due to a tight timeframe revolving around one of North Carolina’s top summer tourist destination points, work was accelerated with assistance from employees of the Conservancy, including use of their heavy equipment and the equipment operator.  Due to the harsh winter temps and weather, all concrete was placed on a minimum of 6”-8” of coarse aggregate.  Even during the late spring and summer install months, it was not uncommon to see fog, sleet, snow, freezing rain, and bright sunshine all in the same day.  Owens Corning partnered with Carolina Bomanite to proudly donate the Pinkbar+ composite rebar for this project.

 

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.

 

Along with the plaza and walkways, Carolina Bomanite also constructed seat walls cast in place with 300-million-year-old hand and machine placed boulders that later were planted with material native to the mountain in their crooks and niches.  Linville stone, a local source material, capped off these natural looking seat walls that are a welcome respite after climbing the mile high swinging bridge located at the top of this 1,400-acre property.

 

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.The transformation of a once barren hillside area was developed into a connector path and plaza leading to the animal habitat where the public can view otter, elk, bald eagles, and black bears.  The property is a habitat for 16 distinct ecological communities and 73 rare or endangered species and great care not to disturb the surrounding flora was critical due to the sensitive nature of this property earmarked as a United Nations Biosphere Reserve.

 

Award Winning Decorative Concrete

Carolina Bomanite installed Bomanite Imprint Systems outside of the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery at Grandfather Mountain in Linville, North Carolina.

 

With the goal to enhance the Conservation Campus and share the wonders of Grandfather Mountain with more visitors more broadly and deeply than ever before, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery provides the perfect platform for discovery.  Whether experiencing the 16 natural communities that comprise Grandfather Mountain, following migration patterns throughout the park, or exploring the diverse species at the Fauna Wall, the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery offers an educational experience that everyone can enjoy.  Carolina Bomanite’s stunning installation enhanced the inherent beauty and wonder that puts Wilson Center for Nature Discovery on the top list of museums to visit and it’s no wonder they were awarded the 2022 Gold Award for Best Bomanite Imprint Systems Project.  With over 49 years in the architectural concrete business, Carolina Bomanite provides unparalleled expertise and dedication to excellence, which are inherent in the flawless installation of durable and distinct decorative concrete at Wilson Center for Nature Discovery.

Jeffco Concrete Installs Bomanite Imprint Sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield

Jeffco Concrete installed strikingly beautiful Bomanite Imprint Systems sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL.

 

 

Ironically, Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL, needs to be just as concerned about the health and well-being of their buildings’ aesthetics as they do to the rest of their business model.  Their sidewalks were beyond the point of repair and seriously needed to be replaced.  They contracted the architectural design team at Birchfield, Penuel & Associates, LLC, to create their vision of durable, easily maintained, yet strikingly beautiful sidewalks.  The bid was awarded to Murray Construction as the main contractor.  Bomanite Licensee, Jeffco Concrete, was chosen to install the decorative concrete sidewalks because of their sterling reputation in the area and their expertise in artisanship and installation.

 

 

Accept No Substitutes for Bomanite Imprint Systems

Jeffco Concrete installed strikingly beautiful Bomanite Imprint Systems sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL.

 

 

The chosen pattern for this project was Bomanite Running Bond Belgian Block with Used Brick Border, all part of the Bomanite Imprint Systems, a cast-in-place decorative concrete flooring and paving solution that adds a distinctive architectural touch to  any project.  With more than 400 patterns and custom tooling options, for over six decades Bomanite Imprint Systems has provided design professionals a virtually limitless palette of textures, and patterns.  The texture choices are from many natural textures including slate, granite, limestone, sandstone, cobblestone, and used brick.  The patterns and textures are limited only by your imagination because custom patterns, tooling, and textures can be created and are also available through the Bomanite Licensees network.

 

Bomanite Concrete Craftsmen Construct Stunning Sidewalks

Jeffco Concrete installed strikingly beautiful Bomanite Imprint Systems sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL.

 

Since 1986, Bomanite Licensee Jeffco Concrete and its Bomanite trained team of decorative concrete craftsmen has been performing Bomanite Imprint Systems installations for residential and commercial customers in the Southeast.  They routinely meet and exceed their clients’ expectations and have won 50+ awards for their work.  They turn deadlines and project specs into works of art that are delivered on time and within budget.  This project is no exception, and all stakeholders were pleasantly excited about the results.

 

Jeffco Concrete installed strikingly beautiful Bomanite Imprint Systems sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL.

 

In this project the Bomanite Color Hardener used was French Gray and the Bomanite Release Agent was Cobblestone Gray creating a realistic depth of color and design.  The 5,681 square feet of sidewalks were formed and finished at a 4” depth with a full imprint.  This completed project has the durability to stand up to the toughest traffic loads and environmental conditions. These Bomanite Imprint sidewalks draw the eye to their design detail, add to the aesthetics of the buildings and the landscape, and will provide a beautiful walk for all visitors for years to come.

Jeffco Concrete installed strikingly beautiful Bomanite Imprint Systems sidewalks at Blue Cross Blue Shield in Birmingham, AL.