DIY Cinder Block Bench: Create a Stylish Outdoor Seating Solution
A few years ago, I constructed a sizable planter wall using cinder blocks, and ever since then, I’ve had cinder block benches in my sights. Unfortunately, our previous house didn’t offer a suitable location for one, so I had to put that idea on hold.
However, after moving to a new house last year, I had the perfect opportunity. Although the bench was a bit too large for our recently revamped paver patio, it found its ideal spot at the front end of our driveway, where a garden bed area awaited.
This placement not only served as a convenient loading and unloading spot for our cars but also added a charming touch to the overall landscape, thanks in part to the picket fence acting as a backdrop. Furthermore, given that we frequently engage in DIY projects on our driveway, having a nearby spot to sit and take a break was highly desirable. From this vantage point, we also enjoyed a lovely view of our front yard.
However, there was one challenge to overcome. The chosen location happened to be on a slope, with a noticeable 7-inch difference from one end to the other. We didn’t want to find ourselves constantly sliding down the bench whenever we sat down. Therefore, we had to undertake some additional site preparation work before constructing this cool and minimalist outdoor bench.
Fortunately, the task wasn’t too arduous. We decided to build up one end by creating a raised bed using timbers, which effectively leveled the surface. Although it required an extra day of work, the end result was worth the effort.
By the way, it’s worth mentioning that cinder blocks are often referred to as concrete blocks or cement blocks. They are composed of a mixture of concrete and other aggregates, sometimes including fly ash. Personally, I associate cinder blocks with the hollow variety and consider concrete blocks as the solid and more slender ones.
The versatility of these blocks as a building material is truly remarkable. They can be employed in countless ways, offering endless possibilities.
In addition to that, here are some fantastic and cost-effective concepts for outdoor furniture that you can easily create by incorporating a few wooden elements:
- Coffee table
- Side table
- Outdoor kitchen
- Garden beds
- Outdoor bar
- Bookshelves (topped with wooden planks)
- Garden bench
- Cinder block planter wall
With just a little creativity and the combination of these blocks with wood, you can bring these ideas to life, enhancing your outdoor space with functional and stylish furniture pieces.
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