Landscaping: Concrete Hardscapes

A new stamping pattern, a really cool countertop or an unusual color effect always draws an excited crowd at a concrete training school or trade show.

Many decorative concrete contractors grew up in the industry — often their dads were in the trade — and they learned the basics of working with concrete at an early age. But as the demand for decorative work has increased, contractors have tackled new techniques with an enthusiasm fueled not just by the money to be made. Unlike plain old slab work, decorative concrete brings creativity to the forefront.

We present to you here four people who fell in love with the possibilities inherent in concrete — its fluidity, endless possibilities for color and shading, and longevity. They have taken a substance usually thought of as mundane and used its natural characteristics to create enduring works of art.

Buddy Rhodes Studio
Based in San Francisco, Buddy Rhodes has built a successful business around the artistic side of decorative concrete. He produces indoor and outdoor floor tiles, pre-cast counters for kitchen and bath, sinks and tubs, surrounds, and unique architectural elements ranging from colorful spheres to outdoor benches and tables. A former potter who switched to concrete more than 20 years ago, Rhodes' pieces capitalize on concrete's strength and versatility while still reflecting the earthy, handmade quality of pottery.

Rhodes uses his own concrete mix — which he also sells to contractors — to create hollow three-dimensional pieces. The water/cement ratio is about one part water to 10 parts mix. "The mix is very plastic, very claylike," Rhodes says. "It can be pushed up on the inside of a mold and it will stick there." The concrete is colored with integral color.