Mordecai Children's Garden Grand Opening

It was a beautiful cool Colorado morning at today's ribbon cutting ceremony introducing the new Mordecai Children's Garden at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The Colorado Children's Choral led the festivities in joyful song, Olivia met Digger the Marmot mascot, and Janet Mordecai shared her appreciation to everyone involved.

Janet Mordecai sharing her appreciation

Olivia announcing "Digger's" new name

CEO Bryan Vogt thanked everyone involved as well.

Here is a short video clip of Bryan thanking all of the subcontractors involved on this project:

Sculpted rock mountain atop parking structure

Colorado Hardscapes is proud of their sculpted shotcrete work at Marmot Mountain and Pika Peak. Complete with exposed aggregate colored concrete, an artificial tree, a split and polished boulder and artificial tree stump tables and chairs. Pika Peak was constructed over the parking deck structure so is built on a foam structure due to weight constraints. It was a great team of Mundus Bishop, GH Phipps, di Giacomo and Colorado Hardscapes working together. It turned out spectacular and is a project that everyone involved should be proud of. As Roger with GH Phipps put it, "This is one for the resume".

Children's Choral on the Bridge between Marmot Mountain and Pika Peak

Cave at Marmot Mountain

Pika Peak

Concrete tree stump tables and chairs

Marmot Mountain

Split and polished boulder at Marmot Mountain

Marmot Mountain through the Mistery Forest

Attractive Pervious Concrete –Oxymoron or Reality?

Pervious concrete – porous yet strong concrete that allows water to soak through – has been around for a long time. In most applications its utilitarian appeal usually trumps any aesthetic appeal. However, to trained eyes in the decorative concrete industry the puffed rice cereal look is not only ugly, but the rough surface makes it difficult to walk on, especially in high heels or barefeet.

Colorado Hardscapes appreciates the benefits, including the LEED requirements, of pervious concrete. We also strive for innovation in concrete. In an attempt to offer LEED and other sustainable projects something more elegant than dressing up pervious concrete with integral or topical color, something that would add curb appeal along with the benefits of free-draining paving, our research and development department has been tinkering with a few solutions. While these solutions are still in the R & D stage, they offer a lot of promise to marry the aesthetics with the practical.

The one we are most excited about is shown to the right. Using Colorado Hardscapes’ Navajo White Sandscape Texture™ and a series of precise sawcuts an aesthetically unique and functional pervious surface was created. The benefits? The high-class finish of Sandscape Texture™, a pervious surface that drains at a similar rate to the traditional pervious concrete, and the SRI value of the Navajo White color (tested at an SRI of 60)! This type of application is a system that can apply regardless of the selected color and texture, so suddenly the choices become almost endless. Can you hear the LEED points racking up?

To see this sample in action, visit our Design Center at 8085 E. Harvard Ave., Denver, CO 80231. For more information about pervious concrete, either traditional or this technique, contact Karen Van Heukelem at kvanheukelem@coloradohardscapes.com or John Buteyn at jbuteyn@coloradohardscapes.com or 303-750-8200.

Spring Patio Party

Despite the snow and rain, our Spring Party at Colorado Hardscapes was a success on May 13th! The Design Center was bustling with activity while dicussions of water features, flooring, pervious paving, di Giacomo rockscapes, Sandscape Texture, glow in the dark concrete, Lithocrete, and Bomanite were being had.

We had a great turn out of Landscape Architects, Owners, General Contractors and Architects. Following the educational tour, we enjoyed Purple Avacado Catering, beverages, and great networking.

Rock artisan Philip di Giacomo even flew in from California from the event.

The Evolution of a Rock Artisan

Phillip di Giacomo and his brother Donald formed di Giacomo, Inc. in 1964, after successfully helping a friend build a waterfall. They focused on rock construction, using both real and artificial rocks.

As an artist who uses concrete as his medium, Phillip believes that the purpose of his art is to improve people’s lives through active rock formations. He says, “We’re not trying to show a snapshot of nature; we’re trying to show a moving picture of nature.” In nature, pieces of rock (talus) fall from a larger rock formation; if the talus falls in the water and rolls downstream it is called a traction load. Form and color show where the rock broke and what the elements have done to it over time (weathering). “It’s all part of a story,” says di Giacomo. When a rock falls from a formation it may fall at an affecting tilt; reproducing this look must be done in a manner that reflects the art of nature.

While recreating rocks to mimic what he sees in nature is key to what he offers, Phillip cares much more about the theme and the message than any technical problems that may arise. His real concern is that people, especially families, get along and that humans appreciate and care for nature. “I want to change the quality of people’s lives,” he says.

Phillip has worked with a number of landscape architects over the years; most of them rely on his vast knowledge of rocks to create the desired effects. When he first started, he copied nature. However, he soon learned that he needed to recreate the spirit of the stone instead. He made it his mission to study books to help him better understand trees and stones. He also credits his work to magnificent landscapes, such as Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, as well as peaceful scenes such as a small country stream.

When working with landscape architects, he designs each rock formation in collaboration with the design team to create a geologic habitat that complements the project requirements. Maquettes (precise three dimensional sculptured models) provide the opportunity to clearly see what the rock will look like in all its detail, from any point of view. These maquettes detail the rock’s every crack, crevice, its shape, talus, and the geological metamorphosis of the formation. Once the maquette is approved by the owner, the project is built directly from the maquette.

As Phillip grew older and wanted to spend more time with his grandchildren, he found it more difficult to be so intimately involved in each job. He began looking for a partner, vowing that he would never compromise the quality of his work. He says that “over the years prospective partners suggested I compromise my work and the quality of my finished product, just so I could make a bigger buck. But when it comes to creating rock, I never compromise.” That tenacious attitude has given di Giacomo, Inc. the international reputation as the premier designer and constructor of naturalistic rock environments.

His search for a partner that matched with his philosophies ended in 2007. The partnership between di Giacomo and Colorado Hardscapes began in August of that year. Phillip says, “When Colorado Hardscapes said ‘great is not great enough’, I accepted the challenge. A great partner doesn’t ask you to compromise, that’s why my new partner is Colorado Hardscapes. And together we’re striving to be better than ever.” Colorado Hardscapes changed everything by changing nothing which gave Phillip more time to create and be himself. Phillip is excited about the partnership and says, “Some people think I’m demanding. They should meet my new partners.”

Phillip’s role in this new partnership is creating and consulting. He brought his crew of artisans to Colorado and they work together with Colorado Hardscapes’ crews. Phillip di Giacomo continues his creative work in the California studio, and continues to participate in project meetings. Recent public projects created by this new partnership include Asbury Green, Westminster City Center Park, and the Denver Botanic Gardens’ Mordecai Children’s Garden Pika Peak and Marmot Mountain. He says, “While everything has changed, we still make the best rock. Nothing has really changed.”



- Written and Edited by Colorado Hardscapes (Chuck Lau, Shirley Van Heukelem and Karen Van Heukelem)

Concrete as an artform?

I am fortunate to work with Philip di Giacomo, an unparalleled rock artisan, on a regular basis and learn not only his techniques, but also the inspiration and theory behind his art pieces.

When working on a new feature, di Giacomo's first questions are not about location, grading, site conditions, or even cost. His primary focus in the beginning and throughout the entire project is on the end user. What can he offer the child playing on this playground, or the elderly couple with grandchildren in this backyard that will bring them closer and expose them to new adventures and experiences? He takes the time to learn about the owners and creates a work of art that caters to their needs.

di Giacomo and I are currently working on maquettes for the Pika Peak and Marmot Mountain features at the new Denver Botanic Mordecai Children's Garden. Mundus Bishop created a great interactive design for children to explore and learn. We turned their initial drawings into a 3-dimensional art piece, bringing it to life with the children in our own lives in mind.

While keeping the geomorphisis of rock in mind, with proper rift, grain, hard grain, and talus, we are striving to bring a new experience to the children who visit the garden, molding each feature into an artfully educational experience. Instead of just a cave for children to explore, di Giacomo explains the need to have sunlight enter the cave so that children can explore in a non-intimidating environment; and the need to make it just deep enough for adventure, without parents losing the ability to see their children.
Peek holes overlooking the mountains to the west are created via a descending fissure in the rock. This allows for children from 2 to 14 to be able to share in the experience and interact with the person next to them since they are all sharing one view. Taking these kinds of details into consideration along with the proper aging and weathering of rocks will produce the desired affect every time.
It is an honor to work with di Giacomo. He is an active member of society, a grandfather, and an artist. He is proof that no matter what the medium, successful art positively impacts the viewers' quality of life.



-->visit the di Giacomo website here

The Truth about Interior Concrete Flooring

What to look for when choosing your concrete floor

I hear it about once a week, a client comes into our showroom and says something along the lines of, “I want a concrete floor because I want a durable no-maintenance floor.” If only it were that easy! We need to first address the many different definitions of concrete floors. Let’s begin with overlays. Overlays are applied over existing floors and add anywhere from a credit card thickness to 3/4” to the existing slab, depending on which finish is selected: stamped, broomed or troweled. Another option utilizes architectural concrete applications of 3” thick or more. These options offer finishes that range from staining and sealing to varying levels of polishing that add a densifier to the surface. Decorative saw cuts can also be used to break up colors into patterns or separate rooms and boundaries. Finally, starting from the ground up by pouring a fresh slab allows a change in the mix design; the options with this choice are limitless.

Now that we know the basic definitions and processes, let’s address the common myths:

Myth #1: Concrete is maintenance free. The truth: Nothing, I repeat, nothing, is maintenance free. The lowest maintenance choice would be a true polished concrete floor. These require no re-sealing or re-waxing and can be cleaned with a neutral sealer.Over time, they may require re-burnishing or diamond polishing to restore the shine. All other concrete floors require some degree of maintenance through re-sealing and/or re-waxing.

Retail flooring with obvious traffic wear is everywhere. This chronic problem is due to improper installation or maintenance. The floor at Colorado College in Colorado Springs gives us a fine example of a well-maintained floor. This floor was placed around a decade ago and still has its original gloss levels due to the level of maintenance taken by the on-site staff.

Myth #2: All concrete polishing processes are virtually the same. The truth: Far from it – every contractor and architect has his/her own interpretation of what a polished floor is and should be. Some think a couple passes of a polisher qualifies a floor as “polished”. However, the true benefits of a polished floor come from a thorough process which includes a densifier and stain blocker worked into the floor with the passes of the diamond grinding and polishing pads. We recommend the Bomanite Polishing system, which is a seven-step process. Learn more about Bomanite’s different systems here.

Myth #3: Concrete floors are the most durable flooring option. The truth: The durability of the floor depends on the process. If you choose a polished floor, I would agree, apolished concrete floor is extremely durable. However, if you choose a micro-topping system, it has many of the same characteristics of a fine wood floor. It can be dinged, dented and scratched.

Your choice of flooring will depend on what is most important to you – maintenance-free, aesthetics, or a combination of both. Each application has its benefits.

--> Visit Colorado Hardscapes' website or Design Center for examples of different finishes, applications, and specifications.

Unveiling the true characteristics of concrete

Concrete is not new. The technology of concrete is not new. Both have been utilized for thousands of years. However, re-discovering the aesthetic characteristics of concrete is a pleasing trend that has re-emerged in the design community. Whether it is a water feature splash pad, sidewalk, pool deck, or a grand entry to a luxurious hotel, Bomanite’s® Sandscape Texture™ brings out the true potential of today’s concrete: beautifully utilitarian concrete.

What do most people see when they think of concrete? Unfortunately, most people visualize the broom finish marks on the surface of the watery cement paste. What a shame. Concrete loses its art and beauty at the surface and is seen as merely serving its utilitarian purpose.

To overcome this perception, Colorado Hardscapes and Bomanite® developed Sandscape Texture™ to complement their exposed aggregate systems. Unlike the exposed aggregate of the past, with its rough, uneven, and foot-grating surface, Sandscape Texture™ refined the process to unveil the art beneath the surface of concrete. It reveals what concrete is: a mixture of water, cement, fine aggregate (sand) and course aggregate (rocks).

Sandscape Texture™ is the uniform finish of exposing the fine aggregate of the concrete surface. This makes for an ideal finish for several reasons.

· First, the Sandscape Texture™ process is a delicate procedure that, when done correctly, results in a consistently textured finish. Poorly executed copies of this process show the inconsistent texture of deep and light etching. Sandscape Texture™ has a uniform finish with the same level of etching across the entire surface.

· Second, it ages beautifully. The walking surface of Sandscape Texture™ is the sand surface; when that is walked off, there is more sand, so it wears evenly. Other non-exposed finishes show wear by cutting down to that sandy layer. Sandscape Texture™ merely brings the finish to that layer to eliminate that problem.

· Finally, it holds color beautifully. Although Colorado Hardscapes recommends an integral color over a topical stain or dye for most concrete applications, Sandscape Texture™ holds surface-applied colors better than standard

finishes. The stain will typically penetrate past the sandy surface to the cementitious layer. The color will not walk off as quickly as it would in other finishes.

Creative variations to Sandscape Texture™ abound. Varying the etch level, seeding decorative aggregate per the Lithocrete® standards, applying similar finishes of Aggretex®, or even changing the integral color or the aggregate in the mix allows designers an almost unlimited variety of finishes. It lends itself well to special scoring, staining and theming. Sandscape Texture™ is ideal for pool decks because it is smooth enough to walk on with bare feet, but yet has an excellent non-slip surface. According to Landscape Architect James S. Ramos of Nuszer Kopatz, “Incorporating Sandscape Texture™ colors and finish in our projects allows us to develop a level of detail that adds to the beauty and quality of our designs. It’s especially nice for pool decks and spray grounds and a great surface for bare feet.”

The trend by Landscape Architects to specify Sandscape Texture™ as their finish of choice is becoming more prevalent in Colorado. Words such as “authentic, natural, honest, and historic, with more the character of stone or other natural paving materials” aptly describe their love of the product. It has been embraced as a desired pavement finish in Class A commercial facilities and many high end residential projects. It combines the desired combination of aesthetics, durability, cost-effectiveness, and design flexibility. “In the current economy we have been working very hard with developers to get anticipated construction costs in line with their budgets,” said Gary L. Worthley, ASLA of LandWorks Design, Inc. “I appreciate the fact that we can get a more refined finish with the Sandscape Texture™ and we have been able to reduce cost by eliminating integral color and introducing local colored aggregates.”

Examples of this finish can be seen in the Denver Technological Center (DTC), downtown plazas, resort towns, high-end residential paving, and local shopping centers.