Concrete
Concrete brings architectural weight, raw texture, and a grounded presence into furniture design. SENTIENT works with cast and precast concrete for tabletops, bases, and accent elements, typically pairing it with solid wood or metal to balance the mass with warmth and detail. The material reads as honest and industrial, and it holds its own alongside the most refined hardwoods in our mixed-material compositions.
Types
Standard cast concrete is the traditional approach, poured into custom molds and cured to produce dense, heavy surfaces with the full tactile character of the material. GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) replaces much of that mass with glass fiber reinforcement, bringing the weight down significantly while maintaining compressive strength in the range of 8,000 to 10,000 PSI. Polished concrete delivers a smooth, refined surface that reads more finished, while pigmented mixes allow custom colors matched to a specific project or palette. Each type can be cast in custom shapes and textures, giving concrete a versatility that the material’s raw reputation does not always suggest.
Characteristics
Concrete is heavy, fire-resistant, and almost impossible to dent. Standard cast concrete carries serious weight, which limits its use in certain applications, but GFRC solves this by reducing weight to roughly 10 pounds per square foot compared to over 12 for traditional pours. All concrete surfaces can be sealed to resist staining, though the material remains porous at a micro level and absorbs liquids if left unsealed. Color varies naturally with mix design and curing conditions, and hairline surface cracks can develop over time. These are cosmetic rather than structural, and many designers consider them part of the material’s honest character.
Common Uses
Concrete shows up in dining and coffee tabletops, furniture bases and pedestals, architectural accent panels, countertops, and outdoor furniture where its mass and weather resistance are advantages. It pairs well with live edge wood slabs, steel frames, and brass accents, creating mixed-material compositions that balance industrial weight with refined detail.
We integrate concrete into mixed-material compositions, pairing it with walnut, steel, or brass for a grounded, architectural feel. For lighter applications, GFRC gives us the concrete aesthetic without the extreme weight, opening up designs that would be impractical with standard poured concrete. We control the color, texture, and surface finish to match each project’s intent.
Care and Maintenance
For sealed concrete, wipe surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid acidic liquids like citrus juice or vinegar on unsealed surfaces, as they can etch and stain. Reseal concrete every six to 12 months for pieces in heavy use, applying a water-based sealant to a clean, dry surface and allowing at least six hours to cure. Use coasters and trivets to protect against heat and moisture rings. Hairline cracks may develop over time but are cosmetic rather than structural.
Related Materials
Glass
Tempered, laminated, and specialty glass for tabletops and accents.
Stone
Marble, quartzite, granite, and engineered stone for statement surfaces.
Custom Texture
Tactile, project-specific surface treatments across wood, metal, and composites.
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