The Architect’s Ace Has an Ace
Edition 14 | May 23, 2025
You know that bright blue concrete with embedded glass you dreamed up?
Most crews would’ve walked away. One already had. Instead of starting over, Superior Decorative Concrete stepped in—with samples that actually worked and a company called Innovative Concrete Solutions (ICS) who’s basically a cheat code.
It’s not just a surface finish. It’s a solve.
No drama. No delays. Just results that made the architects look like visionaries.
With FirmeCrete, ICS replaced the failing coating with a finish that matched the original design intent—integrally colored concrete with seeded glass. They installed it, exposed it, and wrapped the whole thing up on time.
But here’s the thing: ICS doesn’t advertise. You kind of have to know someone.
FirmeCrete is what pros pull when the pressure’s on and failure’s not an option. When you want to build something that impresses the top architects, hit us up for who to call.
Concrete Bonds: Honoring Veterans by Building Their Business Futures
This Memorial Day, we pause not only to remember those who served but also to honor those continuing to serve—this time through grit, vision, and concrete. Rick Smith, founder of the Concrete Playbook, is on a mission to help U.S. military veterans transition from the front lines to front offices—building businesses, creating jobs, and laying new foundations for their futures.
After years in the decorative concrete industry, Rick recognized a common thread between veterans and successful contractors: discipline, resilience, and the ability to lead under pressure. That insight sparked the Concrete Playbook—a mentorship-driven business guide and hands-on resource that teaches veterans how to launch and scale concrete-related companies.
“Veterans have the mindset, the grit—it’s just about giving them the blueprint,” says Smith. “The Concrete Playbook isn’t just about concrete—it’s about empowerment, ownership, and legacy.”
Whether it’s training former Marines to start their own resurfacing companies or helping Army veterans set up regional decorative concrete distribution centers, Rick’s playbook is tailored, practical, and rooted in service. This Memorial Day, his work stands as a testament to the idea that honoring veterans means more than a thank you—it means action, opportunity, and the tools to build something lasting.
Stay Tuned In!
For more exciting updates from FirmeCrete, where we continue to push the boundaries of architectural concrete coatings.
More grit, more glass, more greatness coming your way
New looks and new leaders—stay tuned