"From a lowly mixture of stone, sand, water, and cement have sprung sidewalks, streets, and skyscrapers, . . . lighthouses and . . . palaces, long bridges and massive dams. In ancient building practices, in modern engineering, and in the architecture of the future, humble concrete plays a mighty role in the creation of the human-made world. With facts and . . . running narrative in the form of repartee-filled speech bubbles, [this book] is . . . informative...

aIn this hands-on guide, concrete artisans Nathan Smith and Michael Snyder offer basic information on how to mix concrete and add color using dyes, paints, and inlaid materials. The twenty step-by-step projects include small items, like a candle holder with an old-world feel and a simple stacked-ring planter, and larger pieces, like an elegant bike rack and a beautiful fire pit that is the perfect gathering place for friends and family. -Amazon

Building a good foundation is critical to any home. Is it glamorous work? No, but it's vital as it provides a solid structure upon which all other work rests. Written by seasoned builders from across the country, this revised edition of Foundations and Concrete Work features 15 new articles from Fine Homebuilding magazine, the most respected residential construction magazine in the country. With more than 300 on-the-job photos and drawings, this resource...

Follow Hester van Overbeek's simple tutorials to make a huge range of unique concrete projects. You will find everything you need to know--what type of concrete to buy, how to use it, and how to decorate it--explained in a comprehensive techniques section. From there you can make chic and on-trend home accessories such as upside-down plant pots, a concrete vase with a wooden base, serving platters, a letter-shaped bookend, fruit bowls, and much more....