5. The Brutalist Concrete Block
The brutalist aesthetic—raw, unrefined, and structural—has found a new home in modern contemporary living rooms. A concrete block coffee table is bold, unapologetic, and provides a stark contrast to soft, plush furniture like velvet sofas or shag rugs.
How to Make
Look for a coffee table that is cast from architectural-grade concrete. You want a piece that emphasizes form—perhaps a cuboid or a hollowed-out “C” shape. To prevent the table from feeling too industrial or “garage-like,” style it with high-contrast, soft items. A plush, faux-fur throw draped over a nearby chair or a delicate ceramic vase on the table itself will balance the density and roughness of the concrete.
Things Needed
- Architectural concrete block table
- Concrete sealer (to prevent stains)
- Plush throw blanket (for contrast)
- Delicate ceramic vase
