Decorating with Unusual Materials: Concrete, Mesh, Foam

Decorating your space with unconventional materials is a great way to infuse creativity and uniqueness into your home.
While traditional materials like wood, fabric, and metal often dominate the interior design world, concrete, mesh, and foam are becoming more popular due to their versatility and bold aesthetic.
These materials are not only functional but also allow you to push the boundaries of design and add an industrial or modern touch to your home decor.
Find Perfect Pieces to Complete Your Interior Style!
- SPACE-SAVING CORNER DESIGN: This corner shelf features a...
- 5 TIER MULTIPURPOSE SHELVES: This corner bookshelf is...
- WEIGHT CAPACITY: Each shelf of this 5-tier display shelf...
- What You Get: You will get more quantity and more multiple...
- Why Choose Us?: Mckanti is committed to making better...
- No More Fear of Spills: Mckanti drink coasters are...
- BUILDABLE PLANT DECOR – Enjoy a mindful, nature-inspired...
- AUTHENTIC DETAILS – The artificial plant has realistic...
- LUCKY PLANT – Representing the season of summer in...
In this article, we will explore how to incorporate these materials into your space and the ways they can transform your interiors. From the sleek, minimalist vibe of concrete to the airy, innovative nature of foam and mesh, the possibilities are endless.
Concrete: Strong and Sleek
The Beauty of Concrete in Interior Design
Concrete has long been associated with industrial buildings and urban landscapes, but it has recently found its way into modern interiors. When used correctly, concrete can add an edgy, contemporary flair to any room.
Its raw, unfinished texture pairs beautifully with other materials like wood, glass, or metal, making it incredibly versatile.
One of the key benefits of concrete is its durability. Whether it's used for countertops, flooring, or decorative elements like wall panels, concrete is a sturdy material that can withstand the test of time.
It adds a bold, urban feel to a space, perfect for those who want to evoke a modern or industrial aesthetic.

Concrete in Furniture and Accessories
Concrete can be used in various ways to create unique, functional furniture pieces. Concrete tables, for instance, are incredibly popular in living rooms and dining areas.
They offer a minimalist look that can complement both traditional and modern furniture. Similarly, concrete shelves and planters can add a rustic touch to your space while providing functionality.
For a more artistic approach, concrete sculptures or wall art can serve as striking focal points. These pieces are ideal for adding texture and character to a room.
When paired with softer materials like plush cushions or warm wood accents, concrete furniture creates a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
Concrete Flooring and Walls
If you're aiming for an industrial look, consider concrete flooring for your home. Polished concrete floors offer a sleek, reflective surface that can help open up smaller spaces, making them look more expansive.
Concrete can also be used for accent walls, particularly in living rooms or kitchens, where the raw texture of the material adds depth and interest. It's a bold design choice that can set your space apart.
Mesh: Airy and Light
The Versatility of Mesh in Design
Mesh is another unconventional material that can make a statement in interior decorating. Though it is typically associated with industrial settings, mesh offers a level of lightness and transparency that can be perfect for creating airy, contemporary spaces.
Mesh can be used in various applications, from light fixtures to room dividers, and even in furniture designs. It’s a material that brings an industrial edge without being overwhelming, providing structure and texture without blocking light or air circulation.

Mesh Room Dividers and Curtains
Using mesh as a room divider is a brilliant way to add visual interest to open-plan spaces. A mesh curtain can separate areas without closing off the room entirely, maintaining a sense of openness while still creating a functional distinction.
Whether in a loft apartment or a spacious living room, mesh dividers are an excellent choice for creating cozy, yet connected, spaces.
Mesh for Lighting Fixtures
Mesh lighting is another popular trend. Industrial-style mesh pendant lights can transform a room with their minimalist yet bold design. These lights are often paired with exposed bulbs to create a stylish contrast.
Mesh sconces and chandeliers add an edgy, contemporary look to any room, perfect for kitchens, dining rooms, or living areas.
Foam: Soft and Sculptural
Foam's Role in Modern Interior Design
When most people think of foam, they probably imagine soft, squishy materials used for mattresses or cushions. However, foam has found a place in modern interior design as a sculptural and artistic material.
Foam can be used to create larger-than-life furniture pieces, abstract wall art, and even innovative decorative elements.
One of the main advantages of foam is its flexibility. Foam can be molded into various shapes, sizes, and textures, allowing designers to create custom pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind.
It’s lightweight and easy to manipulate, making it an excellent choice for furniture designers and artists looking to experiment with new forms.

Foam Furniture: Comfort and Creativity
Foam is most commonly used in furniture upholstery, particularly for creating comfy, cushiony seating options. Foam-based furniture like ottomans, poufs, and chairs can bring a fun, soft texture to a room.
Whether you opt for a large foam sectional or individual foam cushions, the material creates a relaxed and cozy atmosphere.
Moreover, foam can also be used to create modular seating arrangements that allow for flexible design choices. These pieces can be rearranged to suit your space, making foam an ideal material for adaptable and innovative home decor.
Foam Wall Art and Sculptures
Foam is a unique material for creating 3D wall art or sculptures. Designers use foam to construct large, abstract art pieces that can dramatically change the look of a room.
Whether it's a foam-based mural, a large foam flower wall, or a geometric foam sculpture, this material can add both texture and depth to a space. The foam’s soft appearance contrasts beautifully with harder materials like concrete, metal, or glass.
Combining Concrete, Mesh, and Foam
A Harmonious Blend of Materials
One of the most exciting things about using concrete, mesh, and foam in your home is how well these materials complement each other. Concrete brings a strong, industrial edge, while mesh offers lightness and transparency.
Foam, on the other hand, adds comfort and softness. When combined, these materials can create a dynamic, well-rounded space that feels modern yet inviting.
For example, imagine a living room with a concrete coffee table, mesh pendant lighting, and foam-based cushions on the sofa. The contrast of hard and soft materials makes for an engaging and balanced design.
Similarly, a bedroom with concrete floors, foam wall art, and mesh curtains can feel both cozy and industrial at the same time.

Tips for Mixing Materials
When mixing concrete, mesh, and foam in your home, keep the following tips in mind:
- Balance is key: Mix hard and soft elements to create harmony in your design. For example, use foam cushions to soften the hardness of concrete furniture.
- Color matters: Choose neutral tones for concrete to keep the space grounded. Allow mesh and foam to bring in pops of color and texture.
- Don’t overcrowd: Less is more when working with unusual materials. Allow each material to shine and don’t overwhelm the space with too many contrasting textures.
Crafting Unconventional Comfort
Decorating with unusual materials like concrete, mesh, and foam allows you to create a home that is truly reflective of your personality and style.
Whether you’re looking to achieve an industrial chic look or a contemporary minimalist vibe, these materials offer a range of possibilities. By combining these elements thoughtfully, you can design a space that is not only functional but also visually striking.
So, why not take a risk and incorporate concrete, mesh, and foam into your next home decor project? Your space will be transformed with these unique and bold materials.
Did you find this post Useful or Inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your HOME Board on Pinterest!


More Home Tips 👇🏼👇🏼