Concretecube: Pushing the Boundaries of Concrete Design

Unleashing the Potential of Decorative Concrete

Orbán's inspiration for Concretecube stemmed from a university project focused on material experimentation. Seeking to explore the inherent potential of concrete, she embarked on a journey to redefine its characteristics and push the boundaries of its applications. Orbán posed thought-provoking questions: What is the relationship between concrete and the materials used for molds? How can concrete be modified while retaining its essential qualities?

Within the project, Orbán experimented with a variety of molds made from materials such as PP foil, transparent foil, cork, foamboard, cardboard, decor foam, and patterned papers. She also mixed concrete with other materials, including wax, decor sand, decor glass, and various paints and pigments. The result? A collection of unique cubes with concave and convex surfaces, painted with ink and pigments, and boasting a range of textures from soft and rough to glossy.

Concretecube challenges the stereotypes associated with concrete, proving that its characteristics can be altered to create new material qualities and impressions. Orbán's unconventional surfaces and unexpected combinations of materials have opened up exciting possibilities for the future of concrete design.

The technical specifications of the project reveal the meticulous attention to detail. The submitted experimental project consists of 32 concrete cubes, each measuring 55x55x55mm and weighing 300g. These cubes serve as decorative objects, inviting viewers to engage with their aesthetic appeal.

Concretecube has garnered recognition and acclaim within the design community. The project was exhibited at the Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design in Budapest in May 2016 and at Talente in Munich, Germany in March 2017. The innovative approach and artistic vision showcased in Concretecube have earned Emese Orbán the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Street and City Furniture Design category.

Concretecube is not just a design project; it represents a paradigm shift in the way we perceive concrete. Orbán's research and experimentation have paved the way for a new era of concrete design, challenging preconceived notions and inspiring future generations of designers to explore the untapped potential of this versatile material.