If your idea of concrete is set in stone, then think again.
One Bermuda company is producing fun, innovative furniture and countertops in ways you never imagined.
The Concrete Factory was founded by Russell Steinhoff in January, 2010.
After 23 years of working in construction as a mason he was inspired to concentrate on concrete.
“I decided it was time. I’d always enjoyed doing unique pieces with concrete while I was in construction so it was a natural progression,” said Mr Steinhoff.
Imagination
He attended the Concrete Countertop Institute in Raleigh, North Carolina, to learn about the diversity of the material, its templating, sealing and polishing.
He then set up his workshop in Well Bottom, Warwick, assisted by fellow mason Tyrone Smith.
“Concrete is not just grey and bland, it can be anything or any colour you like,” said Mr Steinhoff.
“We can create it in any colour you can imagine, as I have access to a company which supplies the pigments of Benjamin Moore paints.
“You could have it in monotone or you could add rocks, sand or crushed glass to it. Or you could go for a marbleized look. You can even add shells or stone — whatever you like.”
At the Home Show, people will be able to see a vanity sink made by The Concrete Factory containing fibre optic lights mixed in with the concrete.
Mr Steinhoff said he can also produce furniture with ‘glow-in-the-dark’ stones.
“It’s amazing what you can do,” he said.
Although sinks and countertops are the company’s “main bread and butter”, it has also created a stone chair lounger, coffee tables and house signs.
Mr Steinhoff said: “I hope the Home Show will give people an idea of what is available with concrete, that it’s not just for your floors. It is a wonderful product, very versatile and creative. You can just let your mind run.
“Whatever is in your imagination, we can try to make it come true.”
The Concrete Factory is offering Home Show attendees a 10 per cent discount on purchases before March 16, if they arrange an appointment for an estimate. For more information on The Concrete Factory contact 535-2630 or e-mail info@concretefactorybda.com. Website www.concretefactorybda.com.