Concrete ranks as the second most consumed material on Earth, primarily associated with large-scale infrastructure like buildings, bridges, and roadways. However, concrete’s versatility extends far beyond these grand applications; it’s a surprisingly adaptable material for smaller, artistic creations. In recent years, concrete has found a place in crafting unique, eye-catching pieces, including jewelry, decorative objects, and home accents. Its raw, industrial look combined with its customizable texture and color makes it ideal for small-scale, personalized projects.

Here are five surprising uses for concrete that you might not expect:

1. Concrete watches

Transforming concrete into fashionable timepieces may sound like a fantasy, but Taipei’s 22STUDIO has made it a reality. Founded in 2005, 22STUDIO was born from a passion for the raw, unrefined beauty of concrete, inspired by Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Their handcrafted watches capture concrete’s raw beauty and strength, appealing to individuals looking for unique, authentic accessories. Each piece undergoes careful casting and curing, emphasizing concrete’s natural textures.

2. Concrete bowties

Jean-Paul Abi Awad, an architect with a passion for concrete, is redefining jewelry design with his brand, Zeolli. A graduate of the Lebanese University of Fine Arts, Jean-Paul ventured into concrete jewelry shortly after completing his Master’s in Architecture in 2014. Fascinated by concrete’s raw appeal, he embraced the challenge of working with this unconventional material, requiring him to master unique tools and techniques not typically found in jewelry making.

After years of experimentation, Jean-Paul developed Zeolli, a line that seamlessly blends industrial design with minimalist aesthetics. His bow tie collection, launched in 2019, showcasing clean lines and a bold, modern look, appealing to both men and women who value originality and architectural influence in their accessories.

3. Concrete Pens

In addition to their innovative watches, 22STUDIO crafts concrete pens that bring the same raw, industrial charm to writing tools. Each pen is designed to highlight concrete’s unique texture and weight, giving writers a distinctive experience with every use. The concrete body provides a solid, balanced feel in hand, making the pens both functional and aesthetically striking. Like their watches, these pens are designed for those who appreciate minimalist design and the understated elegance of concrete, adding a refined touch to everyday writing essentials.

4. Miniature Concrete Architecture

Material Immaterial Studio delves into the raw elegance of concrete by creating architecture-inspired miniature sculptures. Their collection features handcrafted pieces that celebrate the beauty of form and structure on a small scale. Among their standout items are miniature concrete homes, each crafted to echo the simplicity and essence of modern architecture. They also offer unique rolling ball sculptures, where concrete pathways guide a small ball, highlighting the material’s versatility and adding an interactive element to their art.

One of their most intriguing creations is their concrete chess set, inspired by the grand architectural designs of Roman amphitheaters. The chessboard and pieces are crafted with clean, geometric lines that mimic the tiers and columns found in these ancient structures, bringing a sense of timelessness and architectural sophistication to each game.

5. Concrete Home Accessories

Kim Kardashian has joined the concrete accessories trend with her SKKN line, making a bold move in home decor. The collection introduces concrete-inspired pieces that blend minimalist design with a chic, industrial vibe.

Each piece embodies concrete’s raw, understated elegance, showcasing clean lines and muted colors that complement a variety of decor styles, from contemporary to rustic. Designed to be both functional and visually striking, the SKKN concrete accessories add a touch of sophistication to everyday essentials. Pieces include a vanity tray, canister, waste basket and tissue box.

Let me know what you think of these unusual creative concrete applications!

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