One type of decorative concrete that is seen more often than most others in Canada is the exposed aggregate concrete. It is found being used as large bays for footpaths or low-speed traffic areas, as decorative vertical walls, and in dozens of different pre-cast units, ranging from block pavers, to decorative patio flags/slabs and to large pre-cast construction sections for multi-storey buildings.
The basic premise of an exposed aggregate concrete is that the brute strength of concrete is combined with the aesthetic appeal of a decorative aggregate and you have, hopefully, the ideal combination of looks, strength, mouldability and relative low production cost. The cost can be further controlled by limiting the use of the decorative aggregate, which is commonly the most expensive constituent of the concrete, to the top layer or face of the unit or structure.