When you hear the word “concrete” what are the first words that come to mind?
This was the question I recently asked on social media.
Responses were: Steady, immovable, solid, fickle, ancient, concrete jungle, evidence that can’t be refuted, durable, long lasting, cute pots and succulents, swimming pools, sidewalks, fixed in place, and reliable.
Interestingly, the word “elegant” was not mentioned.
For centuries, we have used concrete for buildings, infrastructure, walls, and art. Concrete is commonly an unfinished gray, rough surface that is either outdoors or covered with something more beautiful.
I have come to know a man who is changing this concept of concrete.
Ted Allen, owner of An Elegant Surface has been doing countertops, floors, walls and basically any surface in concrete for four years. He described concrete with the words “unlimited uses.”
Allen has a background in construction and owned his own general contracting business.
About four years ago, he was looking to upgrade his home. He began exploring different counter top and flooring options.
This research led him to a process using concrete, finished with a decorative coating. It was cheaper and had many benefits compared to other types of surfaces.
He decided to use this process in his home and fell in love with the results. This prompted him to start An Elegant Surface.
“Concrete counters are far less expensive than marble or many other counter top options. It is more durable than many other types and the finish I use has an antibacterial/antifungal property that most countertops don’t have” explained Allen.
When asked about flooring, he replied, “Concrete floors have a completely smooth surface without grout lines. Boards and nails don’t come up or tiles won’t break or come loose because it is seamless. Spills are easier to clean and they won’t stain or seep into the flooring.”
Allen is the only business in the area (that he knows of) that specializes in decorative concrete surfaces.
He has had to overcome fears of failure and venturing into something he knew little about at first.
He has sought out mentors and training and has become more than just a contractor, he is an artist.
When asked what advice he would give to an aspiring entrepreneur, he said, “Get as much coaching and mentoring as you can. Listen and act on the advice of these mentors.”
Thanks to Allen, I can say that I see concrete as beautiful, versatile, marble-like, comfortable, and most importantly “Elegant!”
Learn more at www.anelegantsurface.com or by contacting Allen at ted@anelegantsurface.com or (435) 749-0289.
An Elegant Surface: Small business owner finds unlimited uses for concrete
Examples of some of the concrete work performed by An Elegant Surface include this front porch, right two photos, and the kitchen counters above.