Branson Boardwalk Aquarium Shines Brightly with Custom Bomanite Imprint Systems

The Aquarium at the Boardwalk is one of the latest adventures in Branson, Missouri that focuses on fun for all.  Branson’s developing entertainment complex begins with some features that visitors can expect to enjoy at the Aquarium; more than 250 different animal species, an original 5D submarine adventure to the bottom of the sea, a 24-foot high Kelp Forest climbing structure for kids, stingrays, a beautiful 16-foot view of a coral reef, two mirrored art installations that give the sense of infinite ocean life, lionfish, and more than 7,200 individual sea animals! Visitors will also meet the Aquarium’s characters Aquarius, the wise and helpful Giant Pacific Octopus, and Finn, the adventurous Golden Puffer. Not only will these animals be the first they see on the Boardwalk, Aquarius is represented in numerous ways throughout the experience.

This first phase and 21-month build was designed by PGAV Destinations, a leading master planner and designer with major attractions including theme parks, aquariums, museums, zoos, heritage sites, lodging, and branded destinations. Before stepping inside the aquarium, guests are mesmerized by the exterior of the building— Aquarius, a striking 55-foot tall reflective stainless-steel sculpture of a giant Pacific octopus. The 46,000 square-foot home for saltwater species of all kinds, collectively supports an impressive 400,000 gallons of aquatic life. This grand entrance needed a remarkable outdoor paving plan that would accentuate the sculpture and lead visitors to the main park attraction. PGAV Destinations having worked with Bomanite Licensee, Musselman & Hall Contractors, LLC previously on the St. Louis Aquarium project, called upon them again for their decorative concrete expertise.

Sam Kroesen, Musselman & Hall Project Manager worked with PGAV Destinations to help develop the best system and products to showcase the architectural specifications for the walkway and entrance to the Aquarium. Reviewing samples and coloring methods to create a realistic looking boardwalk while showcasing the entrance was the goal. The Bomanite Imprint Systems stamped concrete with custom patterns to fit the winding pathway was the material of choice.

Creating a custom unique large hexagon stamp provided dimension and an artisanal element for the field around Aquarius. Leading up to and twisting around the large mirrored octopus was a custom 8’ radiused plank board pattern, creating that beach boardwalk feel. Bomanite Imprint Systems are available in over 400 differing patterns that can resemble real wood, stone or natural textures. Custom stamped concrete patterns are endless and provide the flexibility, strength and durability that other paving materials lack.

A total of 18,000 square feet of imprinted concrete custom patterns were installed using Bomanite Autumn Brown Integral Color for the boardwalk path and a 1:1 mix of Bomanite Moccasin Integral Color and Bomanite Sand Integral Color for the Hexagon paving. Initially the clients had chosen a Color Hardener sample, with the need to cut costs and stay within budget, Kroesen was instrumental in solving the dilemma by mixing onsite Integral Colors to match the color selected. A final touch of Mirrored glass was hand broadcast into the boardwalk path to provide sparkle and complement Aquarius.

This thematic installation of Bomanite Decorative Concrete offers versatility in design, long-term durability, low-maintenance, weather-resistant features and environmentally friendly attributes earning Musselman & Hall Contractors the GOLD Award for the Best Bomanite Imprint Systems Project.

Visit the Aquarium At The Boardwalk:  https://www.aquariumattheboardwalk.com/

View the Buildout Time-Lapse Video: https://youtu.be/7TEMGSqxnIE

Choctaw Cultural Center Showcases Colorful Entrance with Bomanite Revealed Glass Aggregate Flooring

The Choctaw Cultural Center in Durant, Oklahoma is dedicated to preserving and perpetuating Choctaw culture and history through exhibitions and programs. The newly finished cultural center is over 100,000 square feet and houses two exhibit halls, a Permanent Exhibit Hall: A four-part story focusing on the history of the Choctaw tribe from ancestral times (circa 1250) to current day in Oklahoma; and a Temporary Exhibit Hall: For traveling exhibits, community curated exhibits and special events throughout the year. Also included is an art gallery, auditorium, Children’s Luksi (turtle) activity center, state-of-the art classrooms, offices, the Champuli Restaurant and Hvshi Gift Store. The surrounding site incorporates a stickball field, living village and a traditional mound.

Bomanite of Tulsa, Inc. had the pleasure of working with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma as well as architects, JCJ Architecture to bring to life the art and design for the interior entrance flooring of the new facility. The architects crafted textures and patterns with intention and local sourced materials. Following a journey through 14,000 years and over hundreds of miles, immersive exhibits convey each component of the Choctaw story through authentic and historically accurate landscapes, pictures, artwork and artifacts.

Throughout the Choctaw Cultural Center, small design details are placed that reflect the Choctaw culture. For example, the diamond is an important symbol to the Chahta people and often represents the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake. The diamond pattern is replicated in the decorative concrete pathway that sits between the hardwood and stone flooring. The project was unusual for Bomanite of Tulsa as in working with the designer’s intent the chosen Bomanite Exposed Aggregate System Revealed and Bomanite Sandscape Texture are traditionally exterior applications, however the clients truly desired the exposed look with bright native American colors to go with the additional rustic flooring materials for the interior space. Bomanite Revealed is a sustainable finishing option that incorporates a unique binder and color blending process with specialty aggregates that works for projects requiring a highly decorative and durable finish. The Bomanite Revealed with solid glass aggregates in white, black, red and yellow was selected for the vibrant diamond border as well as the circle surrounding the firepit.

Once the newly poured concrete base slab was readied and hardwood flooring and stone accent flooring were installed, Bomanite of Tulsa had to make sure the Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems were level with the existing surfaces. The need was met by building up the area by 1 inch to 1 ½ inches. Providing a technically challenging project, a bonded application for both systems were used. Expansion joints had to run through the borders as well as be incorporated in the diamond pattern, brass divider strips were used to set apart the different colors of glass aggregates. The Bomanite Sandscape Texture in Autumn Brown utilizes specialized concrete mix designs containing select sands and aggregates was the choice for the pathway between the stonework. Matching the Sandscape color to the stone provided for a cohesive design. The natural non-skid properties and abrasion resistant aggregates make both Bomanite Revealed and Bomanite Sandscape Texture the perfect choice for entries, municipal or public works projects, hospitals, educational facilities, museums, pool decks, plazas and more.

The Choctaw Cultural Center offers visitors a truly unique experience with textural variation and distinct decorative detail. With the Bomanite Decorative Concrete Systems a variety of modernized mixes and an unlimited palette of colors, textures and locally sourced aggregate options are available to choose from, providing cost-effective solutions that are more durable than ever for that creative artistic expression.

Bomanite of Tulsa, Inc. Tulsa OK, received the Best Bomanite Exposed Aggregate Systems Project GOLD AWARD for their brilliant work on the Choctaw Cultural Center and Museum. The Choctaw Cultural Center welcomes all visitors to explore the rich history, culture, and experiences of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma and its community and now have a rich and beautiful Bomanite Decorative Concrete Interior entry area.