Architectural Concrete in Interiors – Guide and Applications

Practical Coolness

Architectural concrete is one of the most iconic materials in contemporary interior design. Although often associated with rawness and a cool, industrial feel, its popularity continues to grow. When properly designed and applied, concrete can be not only visually striking but also practical and timeless. It is widely used in both residential and commercial spaces – from living rooms and kitchens to restaurants, offices and boutiques.

1. What is Architectural Concrete?

Architectural concrete is a specialised type of concrete where the visual effect is just as important as structural strength. Unlike structural concrete, its purpose isn’t to bear loads, but to create a distinctive aesthetic – raw, natural and minimalist.

📐 A brief historical background

While architectural concrete may seem like a modern invention, its conscious use for design purposes dates back to the early 20th century. The pioneer of this approach is widely considered to be Le Corbusier, who in the 1920s and 30s utilised béton brut (raw concrete) as a deliberate design element in modernist architecture.

In later decades, concrete became a hallmark of brutalism (e.g. in the work of Breuer or Kenzo Tange), and with advances in materials and techniques, it has gradually entered interior design – not just structurally, but as a surface finish in its own right.

🔍 Contemporary formats and finishes

In today’s interiors, architectural concrete typically appears in two main forms:

• Prefabricated concrete panels – available in standard sizes (e.g. 60×60 cm, 100×50 cm, 120×60 cm), these are mounted to walls using adhesive or mechanical fixings. They come in a variety of textures (smooth, porous, board-formed), colours (from light grey to anthracite), and shapes.

• Hand-applied decorative coatings – often referred to as concrete plaster or structural coatings, these are applied manually using a trowel and finished according to the designer’s vision. This method allows great freedom in creating unique and varied surfaces – from nearly smooth to boldly textured, revealing the 'life' of the material.

🧱 Aesthetic and Style

Architectural concrete is most commonly associated with loft and industrial interiors, where rawness and exposed materials take centre stage.
However, it is increasingly used in:

• Modernist interiors – as a backdrop for clean lines and natural materials

• Japandi style – where its neutrality and texture complement wood and subdued textiles

• Soft minimalism – where excess is avoided, and concrete becomes a quiet yet expressive carrier of elegance

Concrete can be matte, semi-glossy, polished, porous or board-formed, depending on the production and finishing technique.

2. Wall Applications

Walls finished in architectural concrete are the most common and visually effective way to introduce the material into interiors. Thanks to a wide range of technical solutions, concrete can be used in modern and classical spaces alike – either as a dominant decorative feature or a backdrop for other materials.

➡️ Prefabricated Concrete Panels

Ideal for those seeking consistency and quick installation, these panels come in various sizes (60×60 cm, 120×60 cm, 100×50 cm), thicknesses (typically 10–15 mm), and finishes:

• Smooth

• With air pockets (bubble effect)

• Board-formed (wood grain effect)

They are mounted with adhesive or visible mechanical systems (e.g. spacer bolts with decorative heads). Popular in:

• Living rooms (as a backdrop for TVs)

• Hallways and staircases

• Commercial spaces where durability and visual impact are key

➡️ Hand-applied decorative coatings

For a more artistic and bespoke effect, decorative mineral or resin-based coatings are applied by hand. These allow for:

• Tonal variations

• Unique textures

• Subtle trowel marks or cement drips

• Surfaces that respond to light throughout the day
  

A favourite in bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms and restaurants, where individuality and tactile quality are valued.

🔧 Technical Guidance

✅ Substrate preparation is crucial, regardless of whether you’re using panels or coatings.

Requirements:

• Proper levelling of the wall

• Removal of dust and grease

• Priming with a product compatible with the system used

⚠️ Neglecting these steps may result in delamination, cracking or blotching after drying.

✅ Impregnation is a must, especially in kitchens, bathrooms and hallways where the surface is exposed to moisture, stains or grease.

Recommended protection includes:

• Acrylic or polyurethane sealers

• Matte or satin lacquer finishes

• Specialised silicone-based protective products (for humid environments)
  

💡 Properly sealed concrete is easy to clean, more resistant to abrasion, and retains its natural appearance.

3. Floor Applications

While cast concrete is sometimes used in domestic spaces, it involves several challenges – such as thickness, weight, shrinkage and the need for expansion joints. That’s why microcement is now the go-to solution for achieving the concrete look on floors in homes.

🔧 Microcement – a modern alternative

Microcement is a blend of cement, resins and pigments, forming a seamless, thin (2–3 mm) layer with a concrete-like appearance.

Can be applied directly over:

• Ceramic tiles

• Old screeds

• Anhydrite substrates

• Even OSB boards or furniture tops (with proper priming)
  

✅ Benefits of microcement:

• Seamless, joint-free surface – ideal for visually enlarging spaces

• High abrasion resistance and water resistance (with PU topcoat)

• Compatible with underfloor heating

• Wide range of finishes – from rough and textured to silky smooth
  

Perfect for:

• Bathrooms and wet zones

• Kitchens and high-traffic areas

• Modern and loft-style living rooms

• Stairs, window sills, even furniture
  

🛠️ Note: microcement requires skilled application. It’s best to use complete systems from reputable manufacturers, including primer, base coat, finish layer and protective lacquer.

4. What to Combine It With?

Architectural concrete has many faces – from cold and industrial to warm and decorative. Its biggest advantage is how well it pairs with other materials, creating striking yet harmonious combinations. It’s a colour-neutral material with a strong texture, capable of acting as either a backdrop or the focal point of an interior.

🪵 Natural Wood

This is the most classic and contrasting pairing. Wood warms the raw nature of concrete, adding softness and organic texture. Especially suitable types include:

• light oak,

• brushed ash,

• reclaimed boards with visible knots.

This combination works perfectly in living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms, where it balances both function and aesthetics.

⚫ Black Metal

Steel elements (such as furniture legs, lamp fittings, and loft-style glazing) bring a technical, structured rhythm to interiors. This is the essence of industrial style – particularly effective when metal, concrete, and wood are combined into one composition.

🪟 Glass

Glass adds lightness and transparency, softening the heaviness of materials like concrete and metal. It’s ideal for partition walls, shower screens, tables, or balustrades. It helps the space feel larger and more modern.

🧵 Textiles

To counterbalance concrete’s coolness, introduce soft, natural fabrics such as:

• linen curtains,

• wool throws,

• cotton or jute rugs,

• velvet cushions.

Textiles bring warmth and allow the interior’s character to shift with seasons or the lifestyle of its inhabitants.

🌿 Plants

Houseplants are the simplest way to bring life into a concrete interior. Their greenery contrasts beautifully with the greys of walls and floors, bringing rhythm and freshness.

Consider:

• monstera,

• ficus,

• palms,

• succulents in clay pots.

Plants act as an organic counterpoint to the hard surfaces and muted colour palette.

5. How to Avoid Mistakes?

Architectural concrete is impressive – but only when applied properly. Unlike some decorative plasters or wallpapers, it can’t be easily corrected or covered up. That’s why it’s crucial to avoid typical execution errors that could ruin both the look and durability.

Surface Preparation

The vast majority of issues with decorative concrete come from poor surface preparation. The substrate must be flat, dry, solid, and primed – otherwise, the material can peel, crack, or cure unevenly.

⚠️ Improper substrate preparation is the most common reason for complaints.
Every system (whether it’s microcement or decorative compound) has its dedicated primer – don’t skip this step or replace it randomly.

Concrete Application

Applying the material requires skill. Too dry a mixture, rushing the application, or using too much force can lead to streaks, stains, cracks, and uneven texture. It should be spread with confident, fluid movements – ideally by someone experienced in working with this medium.

⚠️ Mistakes during application are hard to fix.
Always test on a wall fragment or sample board before starting on the main surface.

Impregnation and Protection

Concrete – especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways – must be protected from water, stains, and chemicals. Despite its tough appearance, unsealed concrete can absorb moisture and dirt like a sponge.

⚠️ Skipping impregnation leads to permanent stains.
Use a sealant or protective lacquer suited to the room’s conditions. For wet areas, use polyurethane coatings; for dry ones, acrylic or silicate sealers.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Proper maintenance is just as important as installation. Use mild cleaners – ideally ones designed for mineral surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, alcohol-based cleaners, or scrubbing agents.

⚠️ Aggressive cleaners can damage the finish and discolour the concrete.
Stubborn stains may require reapplication of the finish.

👉 Always choose complete systems from trusted manufacturers that include: primer, base coat, finish, and sealant or lacquer. When paired with good installation practices, this guarantees your concrete will not only look stunning but last for years.

Summary

Architectural concrete is a material with enormous potential – both visually and functionally. It brings modernity, texture, and character to interiors but demands precision during application. When chosen and applied correctly, it often becomes the standout feature of a design.

For designers, it’s a powerful tool to set the mood. For contractors, a rewarding challenge. And for the investor – a durable, timeless solution that stands firm against changing trends.

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❓Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between architectural concrete and regular concrete?
Architectural concrete serves a decorative purpose – it has a controlled texture, colour, and finish. Standard structural concrete is designed to bear loads and doesn’t need to be aesthetically pleasing.

Can architectural concrete be used in bathrooms?
Yes – but only with proper sealing. Impregnation or varnishing is essential to prevent the concrete from absorbing water and becoming stained.

Which is better: concrete panels or decorative compound?
Panels are quicker to install and ensure consistency. Decorative compound offers more creative freedom, a unique texture, and can be applied to irregular surfaces.

How should the substrate be prepared for decorative concrete?
The surface must be level, dry, clean, and properly primed. For compound application – smooth and absorbent. For panels – also well levelled and aligned.

Is microcement the same as concrete?
No. Microcement is a thin-layer coating with a concrete-like appearance, made from cement and resins. It’s flexible, lightweight, and ideal for floors, stairs, and furniture.

Can microcement be applied over old tiles?
Yes – provided the tiles are stable, degreased, and properly primed. Microcement is suitable for renovation without removing existing ceramic tiles.

How should concrete surfaces be maintained?
Use mild, pH-neutral cleaning agents. Avoid bleach, ammonia, and abrasive products. Reapply sealant regularly if the surface is exposed to heavy use.