High gloss Geoshine™. Bluestone with standard grey base. Winning Design 2011 – Hospitality Design in alterations/additions. Fish & Chip Co-op. San Remo.
An award-winning transformation of the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op features a show-stopping polished concrete floor created by Geocrete’s leading artisan Paul Warner.
The project is one of several collaborations between Geocrete, TS Constructions and Darren Brown Design, including a stunning new home in Inverloch.
Once a tired and drab fish and chip shop, the Co-op is now a major tourist destination, where customers dine on freshly caught fish in a chic and modern eatery whilst enjoying the magnificent coastal views of the San Remo pier and bridge. Extended and revamped in 2010, the renovation received accolades from the Victorian Building Designers Association, with Darren Brown Design winning the hospitality award for “additions and alterations”.
The design incorporates natural timber detailing, an expansive interior and extensive use of windows and balconies that maximise its shore-front position. A standout feature is the 180m2 Geoshine™ polished concrete floor, with its spectacular full stone exposure and high-gloss finish.
Supplied by Donmix, the floor uses a traditional bluestone mix, but with an unusual twist: the atypically large amount of matrix on display highlights the sizable 20mm aggregate. According to Paul Warner, what was an unusual look at the time has now come back into fashion. “Darren Brown helped the owners choose the floor’s mix, and they were absolutely delighted with the results. At the time, polished concrete was rarely used, and they were thrilled to have something so special and unique.”
Although once uncommon, Paul said polished concrete is now in high demand in commercial settings. “It stands up to heavy foot traffic and the everyday rigours of a business premise, whilst turning customers’ heads with its eye-catching expansiveness and breathtaking shine.”
According to Paul, polished concrete also has the impressive ability to weather the abrasive nature of sand, so it’s a perfect choice in a beachfront location. “It’s an incredible product that is highly resistant to abrasion, requires minimal maintenance and will retain its beauty for years to come.”
