Optimo - Chicago Concrete Studio

Go back in time with jet black concrete featuring an edge profile designed by Graham Thompson owner and master craftsman of Optimo Hats, to mimic hat form contour. With the curved vertical concrete partitions separating the white oak and the electrical cast in the heated service counter, the Optimo store has always been one of our favorite concrete installations to date. Style and elegance in a clean and inviting environment where the GFRC concrete surface is warm to the touch.

Get Creative With CCS

Texture & Finish
We have 15 years of casting experience to create the exact texture/finish you want for your space and the desired aesthetic. We have a collection of our own standard finishes and we can also work with you to create a custom finish.
Match Any Color
We are the only concrete fabrication company who can formulate concrete mix to match the color wheels of Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Farrow Ball, and the full Pantone range. We can also match the color of an existing item in your space. Our color options are truly unlimited.
Unique Shapes & Fit
One of the biggest advantages of concrete is that it can be custom-molded as a single piece into any size and shape to fit your space. We have CNC capabilities for laser precision and we can come out for field measurement and installation.
Inlays
Incorporating metal, wood, or other inlays to your concrete slab is a unique way to add diversity and personalize your project. We have the technology to seamlessly cut and blend different materials together.
Terrazo & Exposed Aggregates
Ready to have some fun? Create your own terrazzo or exposed aggregate finish by mixing in any material you want. We can source hundreds of unique stones and aggregates, and customize the color matrix of the concrete to accompany those aggregates.
Unique Molds
We use 3D rendering and CNC capabilities to create unique cladding surfaces and textured panels for all types of concrete products. Create the special effect you want for your wall panels, sink, or furniture!
Edge Profile
We can cast concrete slabs into any edge profile and thickness you want, from fractured rock to a full bullnose.
Integrated Features
We can accommodate any integrated feature into your project whether it's for design or functionality. Embrace the flexibility of GFRC concrete to make a creative space that impresses your guests!
Cutouts & Signage
GFRC is a wonderful medium for customs signs, relief panels, and cutouts of intricate designs and shapes. Get creative with the signage for your business or residence!

Our Process

1
How to Get Started
Fill out our contact form, give us a call, or email us anytime. You can share preliminary info about your project such as photos, drawings, measurements, sketches on napkins, or any form of creativity that expresses what you want to make. Our studio is open 7 days a week by appointment only, and we love having guests drop in to discuss their project. We can also bring samples of our concrete to your home or business within Chicagoland.
2
Design & Quote
Custom concrete projects offer unlimited options for color, texture, shape, and creativity. Whether you are a DIY homeowner or professional designer/architect, we will be happy to walk you through the design process and provide a quote for your project. We have CNC capabilities, so DWG and DXF files are welcome!
3
Measurement & Digital Shop Drawing
For projects within 150 miles of Chicago, we will usually come out and measure using laser technology. Many projects don't require field measurement. Either way, we will work with you to get the accurate measurements we need. Usually within 3 days of receiving measurements, we will provide digital shop drawings for your project including layout, dimensions, seaming, color, and any other details.
4
Custom Fabrication
Everything we make is fabricated at our Blue Island studio using custom molds with CNC-routering and hand sculpting. We do not do any of our casting or finish work at your location. Our products leave our studio fully ready for installation. We typically complete smaller projects within 2-3 weeks and larger projects within 3-6 weeks, after we receive your approval of our digital shop drawings. We are known for our communication and flexibility to meet delivery deadlines!
5
Delivery/Installation or Shipping
For projects within 150 miles of Chicago, we offer delivery and installation. We also ship to all 50 states and can set up shipping or work with a shipper of your choice. Clients come to us from across the country because we can fabricate and ship with faster turnaround times and lower costs than typical shops.

Why Architects and Designers Partner With CCS

A&D clients across the country come to us for our large project capabilities, competitive pricing, and fast lead times.

Made in Chicago.
Shipped Anywhere.

Expert Project Management
Our #1 priority is the same as yours—a successful project. Through 15 years of managing custom concrete projects, we’ve seen it all. We know how to catch problems before they happen, and that’s why our A&D partners spec Chicago Concrete Studio for their projects. Our entire process is seamless from conception to delivery.
Just the Right Size Company
There’s few concrete fabricators in the country that can match our capabilities. Need a 20 ft. sink? 50 tabletops? We’ve never had a job that was too big. Still, we remain a small local shop that takes pride in providing a more personal client experience than the big companies. Tommy (Owner) is still the one who picks up the phone when you call.
Passion for Collaboration
We love collaborating with architects and designers on distinctive projects that leverage the customizable properties of concrete. We have the expertise to turn your imagination into reality. Have a challenging mold? Want to mix a unique material into the concrete? Need to match the color from a photo? We’ve done it all for clients.
Predictable Pricing
No one likes surprises, and neither do we. We're always transparent about costs from the start.