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Surprising Uses for Cinder Blocks

Cement blocks, commonly used to strengthen and insulate a building, are usually covered up. Left bare, they can also offer a minimalist variation on the traditional red brick theme.

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The dining area features a distinctive cinder block fireplace. Molded plastic side chairs are arranged around a Segmented Base table, all by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. The space is illuminated by a Saucer pendant lamp by George Nelson from Modernica.
The dining area features a distinctive cinder block fireplace. Molded plastic side chairs are arranged around a Segmented Base table, all by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. The space is illuminated by a Saucer pendant lamp by George Nelson from Modernica.
For bedrooms that have windows, it can be challenging to place the bed so that it doesn't obstruct views. At this home with clerestory windows, the platform bed in the master bedroom can sit comfortably below the window while still allowing in daylight. The wood bed frame, crafted by a local woodworker, gives the illusion of a taller ceiling because it’s so low.
For bedrooms that have windows, it can be challenging to place the bed so that it doesn't obstruct views. At this home with clerestory windows, the platform bed in the master bedroom can sit comfortably below the window while still allowing in daylight. The wood bed frame, crafted by a local woodworker, gives the illusion of a taller ceiling because it’s so low.
The couple’s son Dylan and dog Petra enjoy the deck while Mary Kate and Thomas work in the kitchen below. Sliding doors open to the outdoors on both sides.
The couple’s son Dylan and dog Petra enjoy the deck while Mary Kate and Thomas work in the kitchen below. Sliding doors open to the outdoors on both sides.
Anne Suttles waters the bamboo muhly, palo verde, strawberry tree, and magic carpet thyme thriving in their Austin yard.
Anne Suttles waters the bamboo muhly, palo verde, strawberry tree, and magic carpet thyme thriving in their Austin yard.
A wall of burnished concrete block protectively isolates their indoor and outdoor living areas from the busy road.
A wall of burnished concrete block protectively isolates their indoor and outdoor living areas from the busy road.
The courtyard with its fire pit and infinity pond—extends the living area outdoors. The family has hosted events, weddings, and even a funeral here, and annual solstice parties are always a big hit with the neighbors.
The courtyard with its fire pit and infinity pond—extends the living area outdoors. The family has hosted events, weddings, and even a funeral here, and annual solstice parties are always a big hit with the neighbors.
With neighboring duplexes supplying rental income, two Knoxville architects patiently—and affordably—craft their dream home. Their deck has a two-sided concrete block fireplace and antique wooden furniture.
With neighboring duplexes supplying rental income, two Knoxville architects patiently—and affordably—craft their dream home. Their deck has a two-sided concrete block fireplace and antique wooden furniture.