Building Blocks Facades · 13 hours ago
Architectural Sample Development Specialist
Building Blocks Facades is seeking an Architectural Sample Development Specialist who will be responsible for developing high-end UHPC and GFRC samples for architecture firms. The role involves translating design intent into physical samples, ensuring quality and detail, and collaborating with various teams to meet client needs.
Glass Ceramics & Concrete
Responsibilities
Develop UHPC and GFRC architectural samples based on project requirements, mood boards, and specifications from sales and design teams
Mix, pigment, cast, cure, and finish samples using established formulas and experimental mixes
Experiment with new colors, textures, aggregates, and surface treatments to expand our sample library and inspire clients
Match and refine colors using pigments, stains, and additives to meet precise architectural standards
Create and document custom color recipes and finish schedules for project-specific requests
Evaluate color accuracy under different lighting conditions and adjust as needed
Ensure samples meet strict quality standards for color consistency, surface finish, dimensions, and durability
Inspect and refine edges, surfaces, and details to produce clean, professional, 'presentation-ready' pieces
Troubleshoot defects (bubbles, pinholes, color variation, cracks) and refine processes to prevent recurrence
Work closely with the sales team to understand client needs, deadlines, and design intent
Collaborate with engineering, production, and design teams to ensure samples are feasible for full-scale manufacturing
Provide technical input on material capabilities, finish limitations, and best practices when needed
Maintain an organized, efficient, and safe sample lab environment
Keep detailed records of mix designs, pigmentation formulas, curing cycles, and finishing processes
Manage inventory of raw materials, pigments, molds, and tools; flag replenishment needs proactively
Help continuously improve lab workflows, safety protocols, and quality control procedures
Prepare samples for shipment to top architecture and design firms worldwide, ensuring professional presentation and protection
Label and package samples clearly with specifications, mix IDs, and handling notes
Qualification
Required
3+ years of hands-on work in at least one of the following: Fine / plastic arts (e.g., sculpture, ceramics, painting, mixed media), Model making or physical prototyping, Industrial or product design with a strong focus on materials and finishes, Materials / finishes lab, color lab, or sample development role, Craft-based fabrication (e.g., woodworking, metal, resin, composites)
Strong understanding of color theory, pigmentation, and color matching
Excellent visual sensitivity to color, texture, light, and surface quality
Proven craftsmanship in creating physical objects/samples with clean, precise finishes
High attention to detail; you naturally notice and correct small flaws and inconsistencies
Comfort working in a lab / shop environment (dust, pigments, tools, repetitive processes)
Ability to interpret design briefs, mood boards, and visual references and turn them into physical samples
Strong organization and documentation habits (recipes, formulas, process notes)
Clear communication and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset when working with sales, design, and production
Curiosity and experimentation mindset—willingness to test new mixes, finishes, and techniques
Preferred
Studies or training in fine arts, sculpture, industrial design, architecture, materials science, or a related field (degree or equivalent experience)
Experience with concrete, especially UHPC and/or GFRC mix design, casting, and finishing
Experience in architectural precast, decorative concrete, terrazzo, or specialty cementitious finishes
Familiarity with molds and formwork (rubber, fiberglass, CNC-milled molds, etc.)
Experience working with high-end, design-driven clients or projects
Company
Building Blocks Facades
We deliver fully integrated facade systems using ultra high performance concrete (UHPC) and glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) with factory-level quality, predictable schedules, and single-point accountability from design through installation.