Photo by Flickr user Tim Seay.
For decades, concrete has been a home improvement material reserved for the exterior of our properties with drab, gray concrete slabs being a common fixture in our gardens, driveways and walkways. However, concrete is now sweeping the interior design scene with more and more homeowners being brave enough to introduce this plush, polished and ultra-contemporary material to their home.
Whilst concrete is certainly not new to home renovation, this hardwearing, sustainable, and beautiful material can add a touch of class and sophistication to all types of properties – in more ways than one! I will explore the top 5 creative uses for concrete within the home.
Flooring
In recent years, polished concrete flooring has become a particularly prominent feature in both modern and traditional residences. This hard flooring option is treated with densifier to fill the naturally occurring pores in the material and polished to a high sheen multiple times using a mixture of heavy duty and fine grade pads.
Polished concrete can be poured or laid in tiles to create a striking finish, the installation of which must be completed by a professional for the best results. When it comes to aftercare, polished concrete flooring is widely known as a ‘maintenance-free’ alternative, great for those looking for a durable and long lasting addition. Polished flooring is available in a variety of finishes, meaning you can put your creative stamp on the finished product.
Countertop
Concrete countertops are also a popular option in both their raw and polished states. It’s not just kitchen worktops that can get the concrete treatment – bathroom vanity tops, desk lids and other furniture surfaces can all be an excellent base for concrete and allow you to get back to basics or create a contemporary look throughout your home.
Concrete worktops are again easy to apply and particularly economical; these smaller applications don’t always need professional installation. If you’re feeling brave, why not put your DIY skills to the test?
Fireplace
Concrete fireplaces can create the ultimate focal point in any living space. From modernist, block installations to ornate applications, concrete fireplaces allow you to get creative with design and finish and craft a unique and captivating addition. Concrete is extremely versatile and gives you the opportunity to experiment with size, thickness and finish to add a bespoke touch to your property.
Sofa
This slightly unusual use would certainly get your neighbours talking. Whilst a concrete sofa may not be the most comfortable addition to your living room, the hardwearing nature of concrete makes it a great fit for those looking to inject creativity into their garden or wider property. Available in a number of custom designs, concrete sofas are created by filling bags with concrete and shaping until the final look is achieved.
Photo from linski design.
Speakers
In a technology-obsessed generation, we all want to introduce the latest and greatest technology to our homes, so why not try the concrete speakers from an Israeli designer? Each speaker weighs 123 pounds and best of all, they are in full working order. Designer Shmuel Linski has pioneered a number of creative concrete designs, including the concrete espresso machine and concrete canoe!
Author Bio: This post was written by Brittany Thorley. She is an avid home improvement blogger and by day works for leading concrete supplier Readymix.