Concrete has been used as a building material for a long time. Which makes a lot of sense. After all, concrete can withstand harsh weather conditions, support heavy loads, and resist wear and tear.
However, advancements in technology and design mean that today concrete has found its way into many other fields, including furniture design.
There are three main reasons why concrete for furniture is more popular than ever:
Durability
Versatility
Recyclability
Concrete for furniture is durable
The same characteristics that make concrete such a useful building material also apply when it is used to make furniture. Primarily, its durability.
Concrete furniture can last for decades, making it an excellent investment for those who want furniture that will last a lifetime. Additionally, concrete is resistant to water, fire, and insects, making it an ideal material for outdoor furniture. So, even though it may be exposed to the elements, as long as your concrete furniture is expertly finished with high-quality products, it will last 30 years or more.
Concrete for furniture is versatile
Concrete can be moulded into any shape, which means that furniture designers can create unique, bespoke, innovative designs that are not possible with other materials. Indeed, Richard Rogers, the famous architect of buildings such as the Pompidou centre and the Millennium Dome, said that, "Concrete is a material that demands to be used creatively."
For example, concrete chairs can be designed with unusual shapes and curves, making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Concrete sinks can be inlaid with designs and have shaped edge forms. Tables can be standalone or incorporate seating into the moulded shape. The possibilities are virtually endless, so you can have truly one-of-a-kind furniture that speaks to your personal sense of style.
Concrete for furniture is recyclable
At the end of its (long) life, concrete furniture doesn't have to go into landfill, as a lot of other types of manufactured furniture inevitability does – which is especially bad for those pieces that contain harmful chemicals, as these can leach into soil and waterways as the furniture degrades.
Concrete furniture can be recycled. It can be ground up and the various materials separated from one another. These can then variously be used for creating new bases for building, gravel for paths and driveways, landscaping features such as garden walls, or even as aggregate for new concrete – which could even make its way into new furniture! Recycling concrete furniture reduces waste, conserves natural resources and saves on disposal costs.
Further considerations
There are a lot of positives for using concrete for furniture in your home. It is, however, worth bearing in mind that it is heavier than traditional furniture. Of course, the weight of your piece of concrete furniture will depend on its size, shape and thickness, but you will need probably need to consider the surface it will sit on and ensure it has sufficient strength to hold the piece.
It may also mean you need to use sliders to move your pieces of concrete furniture, rather than lifting and shifting them to a new position. A Tinney & Co. concrete craftsperson can advise on all the requirements of your unique pieces of concrete furniture in terms of underlying surface and means of movement.
Conclusion
Concrete furniture is an innovative option for those who want furniture that is durable, versatile and recyclable. It is also an excellent choice for those who value bespoke design and uniqueness in their interiors.
If you are interested in incorporating concrete furniture into your home, business or outdoor space, get in touch.