Concrete and cinder blocks have a very raw, industrial look, and this feature is something you can really capitalize on in your home. The grey template also gives you a lot to work with since you can paint the blocks as you wish, and the grainy texture that you get with some of them just adds another great design element. There are a number of creative ways to repurpose these blocks in and outside your home to make something beautiful.
So should you use cinder or concrete? Both are made from cement and aggregates; the aggregates in concrete blocks contain finely crushed stone or sand, whereas the aggregates in cinder blocks contain coal ash or cinders, thus making these a lot lighter, but not as strong. For the DIY projects below, it doesn't really matter which you choose – see what you can get your hands on and just take it from there.
Easy Outdoor Bench
This bench is perfect for a porch or patio; I just love the industrial-type look that mixes with comfort when you add some nice cushions. You'll also be happy to know that not only is this a very affordable project, but it's also quick: you won't need any more than an hour.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: TheBasement
Solid Bench
You'll need more blocks for this particular bench than with others, but if you can get a good deal and prefer something that looks bolder and more solid, then this is definitely the way to go.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: C.R.A.F.T
Work Desk
This is an ideal desk for all you minimalists out there. It's also really quick and easy to make: you just need four blocks and a wooden board. The gaps in the blocks can act as drawers, or you can find some pretty decorative pieces to keep there.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: TheMerryThought
Garden Planter
Don't have much of a garden but still want some plant life outside? No problem! The holes in the cinder blacks are perfect for potted plants. All you need to do is arrange them in your own way to bring nature that little bit closer.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: TheGardenGlove and Createsie
Planter Bar
Well here you get the best of both worlds: a stunning concrete planter with a touch of elegant nature, combined with a place to keep and serve your drinks (or snacks) from when you spend the day outside with some friends.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: HuntedInterior
Centerpiece/Table Number
I really love contrasts, so to me, this cinder flower pot idea really is beautiful; the dainty, pretty, natural flowers directly contradicts the cold, hard, angular cinder block, and that's why they work so well together. This would make a great centerpiece/table number for a wedding or any event.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: GreyLikesWeddings
Concrete Vase
You don't have to wait for a special occasion to use your block as a centerpiece, you can paint the block and turn it into a vase to brighten up any part of your home. It's so simple, yet so striking.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: DesignImprovised
Bed Base
You can make a really cool bed base just by laying out your blocks, and placing a piece of plywood on top to rest the mattress on. These could be painted to match your room, and my favorite part is the little storage nooks you get from the holes – perfect for shoes!
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: Remodelista and DesignSponge
Shelving Unit
You don't have to fork out wads of cash for an appealing and functional shelving unit; a few blocks and some wooden board is really all you need. You also won't have to fuss with the construction since you truly only need these two materials – no nails or glue.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: SianPascal
Raised Bed Garden
Cinder blocks make a great barrier if you want make your very own raised bed garden, and you can even use the little holes to plant even more flowers or herbs. The only other supplies you'll need are a couple of cardboard boxes, soil and your plants.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: Diyncrafts
Stacked Storage
This is the most obvious way to create some storage shelves in your home without needing any wooden shelves in between. Simply stack the blocks however you want and then fill the gaps. You could also paint the blocks if you're not a fan of gray and prefer a pop of color.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: Instagram
Entertainment Center
The ideal TV stand can sometimes be quite difficult to find depending on just how much space you need and how much space you actually have. I love this idea of easily constructing one yourself so that you have space for everything you need (DVDs, game consoles, games, speakers etc.). The black shelves give it a classier feel, and if it were me, I'd paint the blocks so that it looks less industrial.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: ParkAvenue
Nightstand
A few well-placed blocks gives you a nice little nightstand with space for your books and a clip-on light. Just make sure you have enough space between the stand and your bed so that you won't accidentally bump your head when you roll over!
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: Dwell
Outdoor/Dining Table
This modern table is just beautiful, and as you can see, it's really easy to make yourself. I think it would look great as a dining table since there isn't much risk of anyone breaking their toes on the centered concrete blocks.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: ImprovisedLife
Fire Pit
All you need is 16 concrete blocks to make a nice, smallish fire pit in your back yard around which you can socialize, keep warm, or make some yummy s'mores. As far as DIY fire pits go, this is one of the easier ones to make.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: MustAddFabricSoftener
Totem Sculpture
Concrete or cinder blocks don't have to be used purely for functional reasons, you can use them to decorate like this cute totem. Paint or mosaic them however you like and stack them up to decorate any space of your garden or home.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: Flickr
Low Shelf
A low shelf like this is a great way to store some stuff without taking up too much wall space; that way you can still make the room look spacious. All you need to do is prop up the blocks and get a board cut to shape that you want.
DIY Instructions and Project Credit: EmmaDime
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