You won’t believe all of the unexpected and creative cinder block projects that you can make – from home decor to yard accessories.
creative things to do with cinder blocks
Straying far from their original purpose, cinder blocks are now being used in all sorts of creative DIYs for the home. They are relatively inexpensive and easy to find. Plus: they resist the elements, so you can use them for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Cinder block furniture is trending in a big way: from shelves to tables, benches, and more. There are so many interesting cinder block projects worth checking out if you need to make some frugal updates to your home, backyard, or patio.
There’s nothing complicated about stacking concrete blocks, so once you get some inspiration you might come up with something entirely unique!
Ways to use concrete blocks
1. DIY Concrete Block Bookshelf
I was first turned on to the idea of using concrete blocks for furniture when I was a grad student in need of extra shelving in our apartment. Paver blocks were the perfect solution for my concrete block bookshelf project and it came together pretty easily.
2. Stenciled Cinder Block Planter Tutorial
Add a bit of curb-appeal to your home by crafting this pretty cinder block planter from Reality Daydream. It would make a beautiful addition for your front porch or backyard seating area. Choose any color of spray paint and any stencil design to create a totally customized look.
3. Easy Cinder Block Shelves (Perfect For Plants)
Here is a really easy way to build cinder block shelves in your yard. You simply need to attach the boards to the stacked cinder blocks using construction adhesive and you are ready to display your gorgeous potted plants. Nevertheless, these shelves can be used for storage too!
4. Cinder Block Centerpieces
Paint a small cinder block so make a modern and minimalist centerpiece. Painted numbers make for a beautiful wedding table decor, but these flowers would look great anywhere.
5. DIY Cinder Block Lounger
Creating an outdoor living space will turn your backyard into an oasis of relaxation, so don’t let your limited budget get in your way. This cinder block lounger from Our Crafty Mom only requires stacking the blocks and putting the posts through the openings.
6. 3 DIY Cinder Block Projects
Learn how to use cinder blocks to give your backyard an upgrade without breaking the bank! This post from Craft Box Girls includes three easy cinder block projects: a tiered planter, a gardening shelf, and a really cool bench.
7. DIY Cinder Block Bench
An outdoor cinder block bench like this project from Fab Everyday would make a nice addition to any garden. Bonus: there are no woodworking skills required. The natural wood looks gorgeous as is but you can stain or paint it if you want to.
8. Weekend DIY Grill Station
Making your own DIY grill station is such an exciting project! It’s definitely practical to add some counter space for your outdoor grill and this DIY from Our Fifth House uses inexpensive cinder blocks. Even more, you can use the same method to create an outdoor buffet table.
9. How To Make A Cinder Block Nightstand
Living in a small apartment definitely brings it’s fair share of decorating challenges. But it also comes with plenty of unique opportunities, like being able to think outside the box when it comes to storage. I’m seriously in love with this cinder block nightstand from Dwell.
10. DIY Cinder Block Table
A cinder block table is just as easy to make and this project from The Merry Thought works well even in small spaces. It’s a wonderful way to add some desk space to a small living room.
11. DIY Cinder Block Raised Garden Bed
Making raised garden beds can actually be fun if you decide to use cinder blocks. Try this easy project, and your garden will be functional and eye-pleasing at the same time.
12. Make A Cinder Block Bed
Need a bedframe? Love minimalist style? Give this unique cinder block bed project a try.
13. DIY Painted Cinder Block Planters
Give your patio a quick refresh with some cute cinder block planters from Design Improvised. The painting is done using stencils and doesn’t take long at all.
14. DIY Cinder Block Plant Bench
Displaying plants on an outdoor bench is a wonderful way to add more green to your porch or backyard. Like with most cinder block furniture DIYs, this tutorial from Fab Everyday is a breeze.
15. Make an Outdoor Bar using Cinder Blocks
It seems like everyone and their mom is focused on sprucing up their outdoor living spaces these days. Use concrete blocks to make a totally customized outdoor bar and seating are.
16. Turn an leftover cinder block into a gorgeous house planter
Remnants of construction projects past don’t have to go to waste. Grab a few basic craft supplies and upcycle an old cinder block into a pretty little house plant pot.
17. Home Office Cinder Block Shelves
First of all, you all know how much I love wooden crates. I use them for TONS of projects. This DIY cinder block bookshelf has tons of room for office storage.
Don’t forget to PIN these concrete block projects for later:
P.S. If you love the look of concrete in your home decor, check out this DIY skim coat concrete tabletop that I made a few years ago.
