Today we’d like to introduce you to Camila Mesa
Camila, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey with concrete began by chance—I had a bag of cement at home and decided to experiment, blending it with different aggregates just to see what I could create. My first project was making a lamp from that cement and some empty wine bottles I had on hand, aiming to recycle them in a creative way. When COVID-19 hit and materials became scarce, I started working with smaller molds, repurposing discarded parts from medical machines and pill cases, along with earring parts I wasn’t using. It was natural to bring these materials together, and I started making jewelry pieces as gifts for friends, with no intention of turning it into a business.
From the start, Concreta has been about reusing what others might overlook—repurposing materials that might have ended up in landfills. I reuse these parts until they’re truly worn out, and I try to be mindful of resources, even with something as simple as water.
Now, as Concreta grows, I’m focused on creating unique pieces with both beauty and sustainability at their core. Each step has taught me to appreciate concrete’s possibilities and how it can change people’s perceptions about jewelry and recycled materials.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road definitely hasn’t been smooth, working with concrete at such a small scale brings a lot of challenges. One of the biggest technical struggles was developing the right mix to get smooth, shiny, and durable pieces, especially for concrete jewelry where the pieces have to be light but strong. Finding the right balance between thinness for aesthetics and strength took time and a lot of trial and error.
Supply shortages were another challenge, especially during COVID-19, when there were times I had high demand but limited materials. To keep Concreta going, I had to get creative with what was available and constantly experiment.
On top of that, not all the parts I reuse are in great condition, so I have to be careful with selecting and reusing them as sustainably as possible. And honestly, balancing Concreta with the rest of life isn’t easy. I just push through because creating with concrete keeps me inspired and active, and that makes it all worthwhile.
As you know, we’re big fans of Concreta Design. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Concreta is a brand defined by minimalism, elegance, and sustainability. I specialize in creating jewelry that’s lightweight, stylish, and made from concrete, a material that’s rarely used in jewelry but offers incredible versatility and strength. Each piece is designed to be comfortable for daily wear, and I’m especially proud when customers share how much they love their ‘Concretas’ and wear them effortlessly with everything.
Sustainability and creativity are at the heart of Concreta. I’m committed to reusing and repurposing materials as much as possible, aiming to offer unique pieces that are not only beautiful but also mindful of their impact on the environment (I still have a long way to go before I can call Concreta fully sustainable, but I’m in the path to achieve it). My hope is that readers see Concreta as a brand that challenges conventions and brings something refreshingly different to the world of jewelry.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Yes! I’ve been listening to the Sustainability Defined podcast non-stop for months. It’s a perfect blend of ecological insights and humor, keeping me informed on sustainability topics while giving me a good laugh. I’m also currently reading Cradle to Cradle, an inspiring book on sustainable design and the lifecycle of products.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @concreta__design
