Architectural/Decorative Concrete

Location: Burien

Owner/developer: Private residence

Project team: Diamond Landscaping, general contractor; R.C. Concrete, concrete contractor; R. Connors Inc., architect; and Stoneway Concrete, ready-mix supplier

A homeowner in Burien was considering using concrete paving stone until his builder suggested stamped decorative concrete instead.

A major consideration in the selection of decorative concrete was the site’s adjacent hillside. It was important that storm-water runoff be controlled, otherwise the hillside could become unstable and jeopardize the home. The owner was able to address storm-water concerns and sub-grade stability by using concrete.

Concrete also has lower maintenance costs versus paving stone, and is more versatile in regard to color, texture and application.

Stamped and colored concrete was used on many of the home’s exterior surfaces.

For the Burien home, 20 different concrete pours were needed, including pumping through over 300 feet of steel line.

The project includes decorative stamped stairs, stamped cast-in-place concrete walls, architectural walls, a water feature, concrete counter tops and barbecue, and a stamped concrete overlay on wood on removable walls for access to a hot tub. The owner selected the stamp patterns, joint design and colors.

Finalists in the category included concrete work at the International Museum of Glass in Tacoma and a memorial courtyard for the First Presbyterian Church in Bellevue.