Experimental colored concrete wonder house

Concrete – the material of choice

Inspired by the surrounding Victorian architecture, the designers quickly get the idea of using concrete as the material of choice. Textured concrete*, for example, is used innovatively, not only as a supporting structure or as an architectural finish, but as a combination of both. Thus, moss-green patterned columns and beams support the salmon-pink textured wall panels in the first-floor bathroom.

The highlight, however, is pigmented concrete: the pigmentation process involves coloring the concrete with iron oxide or chromium pigments. In the example of the Victorian house, Bayferrox®110 or Colortherm® GN is used. In order to color the concrete through, extensive expertise is required in the interaction between the concrete technology and the color pigment used. LANXESS experts therefore worked closely with the architectures and provided advice with the necessary know-how. 

The entire renovation- including 

• stairs, 
• counters, 
• sinks, 
• floors, 
• benches, 
• bathtub and 
• basin 

is casted in pigmented concrete. 

The kitchen counters were designed in a red color. The bathtub, counter, sink and benches in the upstairs bathroom are made of green concrete. This creates a hammam-like atmosphere in the room. Brass fixtures complement the concrete perfectly.

Award-winning architecture

The architectural firm even received an award for this idea. The project was awarded the "Don't Move, Improve!" 2021 Award. The award is given annually by New London Architecture to showcase the diversity of homes in London. 

*In textured concrete, the surface is sculptured.