The industrial look is becoming increasingly popular in modern home design but we can’t all be lucky enough to live in a converted warehouse so how do we capture that raw, utilitarian look for ourselves? The easiest way to add industrial appeal to any home is by using industrial materials and concrete is the obvious choice. Easily customized, hard-wearing, and highly versatile, there has been a huge rise in the use of concrete for counters and other home décor accents. Tile manufacturers have begun replicating the look of concrete in large format designs and designers across the industry have embraced this popular medium.
Lighting
These concrete pendant lights are from a series called Heavy designed by Benjamin Hubert. They are made of slip cast thin walled concrete and come in a variety of styles, shapes, and shades. They can be wall mounted or hung as is from the ceiling for a variety of lighting options.
Seating
Despite the hardness and density of concrete, Florian Schmid has created a charming series of concrete stools called during a project called Stitching Concrete. These stools are made by folding fabric impregnated with concrete into shape and then drenching them with water. Once soaked, it can be manipulated for a few hours before it hardens. Before hardening, the edges are stitched together with a brightly colored thread in order to create the effect you see here.
Decoration
Swedish designer Johan Forsberg has created a series of clocks to help spruce up your home with some nice industrial design. These stylish and contemporary designs add a bit of flair to any space and are available in a variety of styles and shades.
Shelving
These charming concrete shelves have rounded corners and wood interiors to soften the overall effect of the concrete and create an almost whimsical piece that nonetheless retains its industrial cred. Designed by kaschkasch, these shelves are a great way to show off your knickknacks or organize your books.
Kitchen Cabinets
Made of ultra-thin 8mm concrete which is light, sturdy, heat-resistant, and hygienic these kitchen counters not only look great but they are a great investment which will surely stand the test of time. Created by Steininger Designers, these brushed concrete counters and cabinets are sure to be a lovely complement to stainless steel appliances.
Bathing
This Concrete Soft bathtub was designed by Gigi Rossi of Glass Idromassaggio. It is made of DuctalR concrete and it adds a dramatic and utilitarian flair to this bathroom.
Wall Coverings
If you really want to go all out with your industrial themed home, the best way to make a statement is with these tactile, decorative tiles with weight, depth, and texture. Creating by Daniel Ogassian, al LA-based artisan turned industrial designer, these wall tiles capture the architectural and industrial attitude of concrete in tile form.
The benefits of concrete floor polishing are amazing and these are just some of the great examples of how concrete can be used to accent your modern home décor. As such a versatile and strong substance, concrete can be turned into just about anything and will have excellent staying power.