SCC says swinging sixties could return concrete-wise

SCC Design Build believe advancements in architectural concrete could result in a new age of building designs that evoke those seen in the 60s and 70s.

This comes from the Commercial Director of the Stockport-based company, Jim Durkan, who believes he has seen a surge in interest for both architectural and decorative concrete.

Known for its work in precast concrete solutions, SCC Design Build typically produce standard facades for a variety of projects. 

Architectural concrete is concrete that offers not only impressive visuals. but serves a structural function also, whilst decorative concrete is commonly concrete flatwork or building elements such as panels, that purely enhance texture or colour and are not structural building members.

He commented on how we are seeing constant changes in our cities’ skylines, with architects seeking to create buildings with visual interest that resonate with character of the surroundings.

The versatility of architectural concrete means it can be moulded into almost all shapes and can take on a whole host of colours, which give designers plenty of options to experiment with ideas.

Precast and coloured concrete saw its popularity boom in the sixties and seventies, with the Barbican and the National Theatre in London, and even Sydney Opera House, being constructed in this period all examples of concrete buildings.

Jim firmly believes that the upcoming years could see a completely new generation of buildings in keeping with this increased popularity in architectural concrete.

“At the moment, high-tech architecture is very popular. These buildings often feature steel structures and curtain walling in combination with concrete, creating a sleek but technical and detailed exterior,” he said.

“It will be interesting to see how this style can be blended with architectural concrete in the future.

“As well as being a very versatile material, concrete is also naturally fire resistant and much less susceptible to corrosion than steel. Architectural concrete offers architects the opportunity to combine the safety aspects of this material with pleasing and unique aesthetics.”