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Image source: Forma Studios<\/a><\/p>\n Concrete might seem like an unusual choice of material for home interior design, but it has been growing in popularity for some years now. From entire homes<\/a> clad (internally and externally) in monolithic grey slabs to subtle accents and features in otherwise conventional family homes, concrete is the material of the moment.<\/p>\n A Brief History of Concrete<\/strong><\/p>\n Many people think concrete is a relatively modern material but there\u2019s evidence to suggest it\u2019s been used for thousands of years. It was certainly used by the Ancient Romans who built the Colosseum and Pantheon, two of Rome\u2019s most striking structures, with this material. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, concrete fell out of use until the mid-18th<\/sup> century but today it is the most widely used man-made material.<\/p>\n Concrete is a composite material made from water, aggregate (coarse particles like sand, crushed stones and gravel) and cement. Additives and reinforcements are often included in this base mixture to achieve particular physical and aesthetic properties.<\/p>\n I think concrete is so hugely popular because it\u2019s versatile, strong, low-cost and very easy to make and work with. Innovative designers have caught onto the benefits of concrete and have been turning it to many new and unusual uses.<\/p>\n Concrete in Interior Design<\/strong><\/p>\n Concrete is one of my favourite raw materials to use in interior design. It\u2019s cool, contemporary and minimalist, yet somehow still warm and inviting.<\/p>\n Everything from lighting to furniture, sinks and flooring has been cast in this clever material. And I\u2019m really enjoying the work of designers like Johan Forsberg<\/a> who experiment and play with it. Forsberg has used concrete to create fun and functional wall art, clocks and furniture. Just look at these incredible comic strip style pieces.<\/a><\/p>\n Concrete can be incorporated into your home in more practical ways too. Take for example Forma Studio\u2019s<\/a> beautifully understated sinks. They stand-out but don\u2019t show-off, which is a rare quality in such a unique design. The concrete flows, almost organically, and wouldn\u2019t look out of place in any modern kitchen or bathroom.<\/p>\n