Fair-faced concrete decoration
Exposed concrete refers to architectural fair-faced concrete, made from a mixture of cement, mortar, and water. After pouring and removing the formwork, it retains the original mold texture, seams, and coloration. It is often used on structural beams, columns, partitions, and walls. The material itself is highly moldable and remains a prominent element in architectural expression today. The renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando is internationally known for his extensive use of exposed concrete in residential and public buildings, such as his “Church Trilogy” (Church of the Wind, Church of the Light, Church on the Water), which embody the philosophy of coexistence with nature. With concrete, glass, and steel framing, Ando created architecture rich in Zen aesthetics, inspiring global architectural trends. The gray tones and raw, unfinished look of exposed concrete integrate into home design, presenting a pure, serene, and rustic beauty—its unique charm remains timeless.
The production process of exposed concrete is complex and requires a high level of craftsmanship. It is technically demanding in both design and construction, and the work hours are lengthy. It tests the architect’s skills and is relatively costly. Therefore, there are now alternative finishes such as “faux exposed concrete paint,” which replicate the look and texture of real concr