TreHus recently collaborated with Dian Mullis, owner of Pro Concrete Countertops, on remodeling two kitchens in the Isles Artisan Duplex project. TreHus ASID Designer Morgan Froemming said, “Dian offers a distinctive product that allows us to deliver custom finishes to our clients affordably. She comes up with creative design solutions, and her product is multifaceted.” Dian’s journey with concrete countertops began in 2014, sparked by a project in her own home. Despite a bustling career as a director of engineering, she decided in 2019 to turn her passion into a business and enrolled in a class to learn more about the trade.

Morgan, the lead designer on the project, worked closely with Dian to design the countertops. Morgan shared, “We drew inspiration from a terrazzo tile whose color and texture didn’t quite match our vision. Dian then presented us with various aggregates – varying in size, color, and material – offering endless possibilities. Together, we crafted a blend that complimented the space and surrounding finishes.” This particular design requires intensive labor, going through multiple phases of wet grinding to expose the aggregates and refine the product (watch the behind-the-scenes of this process here).

There are several benefits of using concrete over other materials – chief among them being its customizability. Dian explained, “You can choose exactly what you want because everything is made to order. Since concrete is a liquid stone that cures solid, endless shapes can be created.” The color is also fully customizable, so the options for design and pattern are endless. Virtually anything can be created out of concrete, including fireplace surrounds, bathroom vanities, and seamless, integrated products such as a continuous sink and counter piece. Its sustainability is also notable, as each product is poured to exact dimensions and there is no wasted material. Additionally, when concrete is created it uses an exothermic chemical reaction, generating its own heat without external energy.

Despite the challenges of running her own business, Dian finds the journey gratifying. Dian said, “It is never complete; there is always more to do. It can be exhausting yet very rewarding. We often wonder if we are ‘good enough’ or ‘smart enough,’ but when I look back on all the things I’ve made and look forward to my goals and plans, I feel grateful to be where I am right now.”

This collaboration between TreHus and Pro Concrete Countertops not only highlights the beauty and functionality of customized concrete countertops but also celebrates the innovative spirit and dedication of small business owners like Dian Mullis.

Check out the Pro Concrete Countertops website for more examples of Dian’s stunning work!