Why Concrete Block Ideas Can Transform Your Home
Commonly considered dull and utilitarian, concrete blocks are often overlooked. Unearth the creative potential of concrete blocks and transform them into stunning home additions. These concrete block ideas can showcase your creativity and DIY spirit to your guests.
Design Evolution
Concrete blocks have traditionally been used as building elements to create walls, floors and foundations of buildings. Thought to be purely functional, concrete blocks have found a new meaning in recent times.
Now treated as design elements, concrete blocks have gained attention as versatile and decorative additions to your home. People have come up with creative concrete block ideas that have transformed the look of their indoors and outdoors.
Cost-Effective
Concrete blocks are often less expensive than bricks or natural stone, making them affordable. They are also available in large sizes so you don’t need a lot of them for your projects. Due to their longevity, replacement and maintenance costs are lower. Also, less mortar is required compared to bricklaying. This cuts down on material costs.
DIY Concrete Block Ideas for a Creative Twist
Concrete blocks are available as cored concrete blocks and interlocking ones. Both can be used for different designs and purposes. You can select the dimensions of the concrete blocks based on the concrete block idea you choose.
Outdoor Bar
Building an outdoor bar out of concrete blocks is an affordable and simple concrete block idea. Concrete blocks make the bar sturdy and able to withstand harsh weather conditions. Before you begin, decide on the dimensions of your bar and where you want to build it. You’ll need concrete glue, a saw and a drill for this project. The concrete blocks will make the base of the bar and the bar top can be made from cedar wood boards.
Concrete blocks will create the legs of the bar and the farther apart they are, the wider the bar will be. Attach them using concrete glue. Then, stack and tape the wooden boards together to make the bar top. Make sure the boards are in line with the concrete base. Attach the braces and apron to the bar top using screws. Sanding all the edges is also recommended.
Paint the bar top any color you like and attach it to the bar base using concrete glue. The hollow areas inside the blocks are perfect for storing items like glassware and shakers. You can place plants in the cubbies for a more natural look.
Wear appropriate safety gear while sanding and drilling. Work in a ventilated area to avoid dust exposure.
Cinder Block Bench
This concrete block idea is low maintenance and easy to build. Decide on the size and shape of your bench before you begin. Consider where you want to place it and how many people you want to accommodate. You’ll need concrete block, construction adhesive, wooden planks for the seat and a saw.
Lay out the first row of concrete blocks in your desired shape. Before you place your second row of blocks, apply construction adhesive generously. Keep layering the rows till you reach your required height.
For the seat, cut the wooden planks to your desired length to fit the top of the concrete block base. Ensure the wooden planks are level and securely attached to the base with the adhesive. Sand the wood planks for a smooth finish and paint it a color that complements your décor. Apply a wood sealer to protect your seat from weather damage.
Succulent Container
Concrete blocks can be repurposed to create stylish succulent containers. They are weather-resistant and available in a variety of sizes and shapes. You can use a single concrete block and place a succulent plant in it.
Or, get a big concrete block to place a small group of succulents together. This is a visually appealing way to add a touch of greenery to your space. Place this block anywhere you like and drill drainage holes to let excess water seep away.
While drilling, use a drill bit that is designed for concrete.
Vertical Garden
Stack multiple concrete blocks on top of each other in different configurations to create a vertical garden. You can make it simple and symmetrical or make a unique shaped garden.
This concrete block idea is perfect to save space and add greenery to small spaces. Add multiple plants and flowers that are suitable for vertical growing.
Concrete Block Nightstand
This DIY concrete block idea is perfect for an industrial-style bedroom. You’ll need concrete blocks, wood for the top and screws. Choose your concrete blocks based on the height and weight capacity you need.
For the top, cut the wood and sand its edges. Stain the wood and apply a wood sealant to prevent damage. Apply a concrete sealant to prevent stains. Assemble the blocks in your desired configuration and make sure they are level. Lastly, drill pilot holes onto the top of the concrete blocks and secure the wood top with screws.
DIY Birdhouse
Go beyond wooden birdhouses and opt for concrete ones to make a durable birdhouse. Choose a hollow concrete block and make sure the entrance is big enough based on the bird you want to attract.
You can add a perch inside the birdhouse for nesting. Drill drainage holes to prevent moisture buildup and mount it in a safe location. Use concrete screws and anchors to mount it onto a wall and ensure it’s stable enough. You can also mount it on a wooden or metal post with a mounting bracket.
Storage Unit
Concrete blocks can be highly practical and stylish as storage solutions. These blocks can make an ideal modular storage unit. You can customize it as needed and stack them in various configurations. Add shelves by cutting wooden planks to fit the width and place them on top of the blocks. Dividers can enhance the functionality of the unit.
Applying a waterproof sealant can protect the blocks from moisture. If you plan to store heavy objects, reinforce the storage unit with brackets or wooden supports. Lastly, avoid any accidents by making sure the blocks are stable and secure. You can do this by using glue and wood screws.
Bookshelf
This DIY project with concrete blocks adds a modern and minimalist look to your home. You can use a few blocks to make a small structure. Or make a large bookshelf with many blocks. Use a measuring level to make sure the blocks are level before starting with this project.
Secure the blocks together using construction adhesive or wood screws. Use wooden planks to create shelves and attach them to the blocks with wood glue or screws. Add plants or artwork to your concrete block bookshelf for a natural look.
Customize Your Concrete Blocks
The natural color of concrete blocks often offers a neutral and timeless appeal. But, you can also spruce it up and add some color. Paint or stain these concrete block ideas using a high quality acrylic latex paint. Make sure to use a concrete and masonry bonding primer for better adhesion of paint to the wall.
You can decorate the concrete blocks using a stencil and create designs that reflect your creativity. Broken tiles are a great idea to decorate the surface of your concrete blocks. You can also create a mosaic pattern on the blocks by using glue to stick them in varying designs.