Text provided by Studio Niruk
Originating from attempts to make concrete lighter, Corcrete is the result of Studio Niruk’s material experimentation. Using a special production process in partnership with Belgian manufacturers Hartis, the material is crafted from a mix of cement, cork and sand, and can be used in various applications, from coverings, surfaces and furniture. Compared to conventional concrete materials Corcrete is around 40% lighter, thanks to the addition of excess cork granulate from Portuguese cork production, and uses much less sand in the production process – an increasingly scarce resource.
The first touch of Corcrete feels velvety and warm. The natural material cork unfolds its unmistakable visual and tactile aesthetics in combination with the cool concrete. The granules becoming visible once the cast surface is sanded and the vibrant terrazzo effect revealed. Produced in white, black and grey – the material is produced completely bespoke with no standard dimensions, allowing for flexibility across different projects.