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Today's Concrete: Warm and Wonderful
7 Things to Like About Using Concrete in Your Home's Interior
I started JASON BALL interiors out of a passion for the design and building process. For me, it's all about learning about my clients and creating a personalized space that fits the way they live.
I started JASON BALL interiors out of a passion for the design and building... More »
The techniques and treatments used in today's concrete have come along way since cinderblock homes and warehouse floors. Everyone has heard about or seen concrete countertops, and concrete sinks are becoming commonplace. But there are so many more ways in which concrete can be used in the home that won't leave you with that cold, cinderblock feeling. So have fun and use your imagination. Here are 8 great things about concrete to help get you started.
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| 1. You can use concrete's architectural strength as a design element. This staircase is a perfect example of how concrete can be used to great effect. With its sweeping stainless steel handrail and strong horizontal treads, this form of concrete fits beautifully into this California home.
Tip: If you're thinking about using concrete in your home, be sure to work with a qualified and reputable concrete contractor. Depending on the implementation and area in which your installing the concrete, you might want to check with an structural engineer to make sure your home can handle the extra material weight. |
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2. Concrete can be made to look like other materials. The makers of this fireplace surround decided to leave the wood imprint created by the pouring forms. Notice how the strong horizontal lines of the surround and additional texture play counterpoint to the vertical lines of the smooth wood surfaces surrounding it.
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by Concreteworks
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| 3. Concrete's natural properties add function. The designer of this fireplace surround used concrete in several smart ways. First, it acts as a heat shield between the fire and the TV hanging on the surround. Second, the raised hearth and heat shield add a much needed horizontal element. Third, the two concrete elements are the third of the dark gray elements - notice the vent pipes - satisfying the rule of threes. |
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4. Mold-formed concrete can take any form. This light cast concrete is mold-formed to look like a traditional limestone surround. Pairing it with a mosaic tile aids completes the Italian-inspired look we were aiming for.
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| 5. You can use concrete's natural color to your advantage. This room setting has concrete all over the place — floors, steps, columns, bookshelves, entertainment shelf. A simple wax sealer maintains the light gray color and adds some sheen to the surface. By combining with wood tones, a "cement" colored sectional and an area rug with rich, warm tones, this concrete palace is warm and inviting. |
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by Elliott Kaufman
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| 6. Concrete is a smart alternative to the painted feature wall. The large wall in the stairwell strengthens the industrial feeling of this space. The bleached wood behind the blue-gray sectional, and the toe-curling texture of the area rug soften the space. The large wall of windows adds the necessary amount of light to balance out the "heavy" wall of concrete. |
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7. Concrete plays a special role in traditional interiors. Rather than needing to soften the concrete table, the concrete is used to add a hard edge to this ornate, traditional hallway. One single counterpoint is all it takes.
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| Tip: If you're going to use concrete for furniture, use upholstery and accessories to soften its hardness. This dining room in a contemporary home mixes a traditional chandelier and area rug with transitional built-ins and a modern concrete table. The blue upholstered chairs add interest and softness to the hard edges of the table.
Have you thought about using concrete in your home? Next: See more photos of concrete used in home design |
Ideabook published on March 12, 2011.
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I'd choose a suitable porcelain alternative in large formats to achieve the 'look' without the headache! That way you'll always maintain design integrity.
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