We are thrilled to be featured in the latest issue of CONCRETE (the magazine of The Concrete Society). This special feature, titled “Concrete From China Clay Waste,” highlights our recent collaboration on a stunning public art installation in Swindon city centre.

A Project Close to Home: Sophie’s Story

This feature holds a special place in our hearts as it was documented by Sophie Hodson, a photography student at Falmouth University and the daughter of our Production Director.

Sophie is currently in her second year studying for a BA(Hons) in Marine and Natural History Photography. Having studied the craft through GCSE and A-level, she was drawn to this distinctive course by her passion for storytelling and the natural world. Her studies combine the exploration of land and marine environments with an emphasis on history and conservation.

Reflecting on the project, Sophie shared:

“This article focused on a local conservation story which is raising awareness of global issues, inspiring me to highlight sustainability initiatives in the precast concrete industry, and the opportunities to drive positive change for our planet.”

As she looks toward the future, Sophie plans to travel the world to continue telling conservation stories from both above and below the water through her camera lens.

The Journey from “Cornish Alps” to Swindon

The project explores the sustainable potential of the waste produced during China clay extraction in Cornwall. For every 1 tonne of usable clay, 9 tonnes of waste material are created, forming pyramid-like spoil heaps known as the “Cornish Alps”.

Working alongside artist and designer Charlotte Kidger, the MASS Concrete team spent over 15 months refining unique compilations to turn this waste into a valuable commodity. The sculptures, commissioned by Ginkgo Projects for Zurich Insurance, utilised:

  • China clay stent.

  • Recycled TV screens repurposed as aggregates.

  • Construction waste, including brick chippings.

Crafting Sustainability

The production process at our Dorset workshop involved meticulous batching, moulding, and finishing. The final result is the Waste-based Terrazzo Family, a series of tactile, “Brutalist” sculptures that celebrate the beauty of end-of-life materials.

In a wonderful gesture toward the community, local primary schools created time capsules that were cast within the concrete spheres. This project stands as a powerful symbol of how sustainability and circular economy values can be beautifully embedded within the public sector.

Read the full feature in Volume 60, Issue 2 of CONCRETE Magazine, or as shown below. 

Follow Sophie’s work: