Concrete design: Creating distinctive workplace experiences

Polished concrete: Contemporary precision 

Polished concrete represents the refined end of the spectrum, delivering high-gloss surfaces through grinding and sealing processes that expose aggregate and create reflective qualities. This finish works particularly well in tech companies, professional services firms, and organisations emphasising innovation and precision. 

Key benefits of polished concrete: 

• Light amplification: Reflective surfaces enhance natural light distribution, reducing artificial office lighting requirements 
• Exceptional durability: Maintains professional appearance under heavy use without showing wear patterns 
• Stain resistance: Sealed surface resists moisture, staining, and damage with minimal intervention 
• Low maintenance: Simple cleaning protocols keep surfaces pristine over extended periods 

High-traffic circulation areas benefit from polished concrete's durability. Unlike carpet or vinyl that show wear patterns and require periodic replacement, polished concrete maintains professional appearance under heavy use. Office reception areas, corridors, and breakout spaces particularly suit this application where first impressions and traffic volumes count. 

Microcement: Seamless transformation 

Microcement and microtopping systems apply thin concrete layers over existing substrates, delivering concrete aesthetics without structural requirements or the disruption of removing existing floors. This approach has revolutionised office refurbishment by making concrete's visual impact accessible to listed buildings where structural alterations aren't permitted or projects requiring faster turnaround. 

Key advantages of microcement: 

• Minimal disruption: Faster installation with less operational impact 
• Joint-free surfaces: Creates visual flow and reduces maintenance concerns 
• Versatile application: Suitable for floors, walls, furniture, and bathroom surfaces 
• Hand-trowelled character: Subtle variations add warmth and human touch 
• Lightweight solution: Ideal for structures with limited load capacity 

The continuous surfaces possible with microcement create visual flow that makes spaces feel larger and more cohesive. This consistency strengthens brand expression whilst demonstrating design sophistication through material restraint. 

 Thermal comfort integration 

Concrete's thermal mass affects indoor climate by absorbing and releasing heat slowly, which can moderate temperature swings when properly managed. Concrete's thermal mass supports comfort when combined with appropriate HVAC and soft furnishings, creating environments that feel physically and psychologically welcoming. 

Underfloor heating paired with polished concrete creates efficient, comfortable warmth whilst showcasing the material's thermal conductivity, delivering responsive temperature control without visible heating elements. 

Pairing concrete with soft furnishings, textiles, and warm materials creates thermal comfort through both physical and psychological means. The visual presence of rugs, upholstered furniture, and timber elements makes spaces feel warmer whilst concrete's thermal properties work strategically within broader sustainability objectives. 

Craft and authenticity messaging 

Creative industries and luxury brands embrace concrete's textured expressions to communicate craftsmanship and material integrity. 

How concrete supports craft-focused brand narratives: 

• Hand-trowelled finishes: Microcement reveals artisanal attention and bespoke quality
• Material juxtaposition: Raw concrete paired with refined office furniture creates sophisticated tension
• Custom elements: Bespoke aggregates or sculptural forms demonstrate investment in uniqueness
• Textured surfaces: Celebrates making processes and material authenticity
• Design confidence: Material mixing signals expertise and cultural fluency 

These applications transform functional material into branded features that create distinctive workplace identity impossible to replicate.