Create an industrial-style kitchen with concrete

Far from being an ordinary construction material, in its exposed, uncovered state, concrete has a bold, utilitarian quality. Hard-wearing and versatile, it can be cast into shapes and slabs, or poured, smoothed and polished, making it suitable for floors, worktops and even kitchen cabinetry. Concrete is a resilient and hard-working surface, too, and in terms of performance, is similar to a natural stone or wood. However, working with concrete demands expertise in design and installation, which is reflected in the price. Don't be surprised by quotes that push this material into the luxury-buy bracket. These products are an investment, but a beautifully bespoke concrete finish is designed to last a lifetime. Here are some of our favourite uses of concrete in the kitchen.

German kitchen manufacturer Leicht
has introduced a stylish new Concrete scheme (above) to its sleek portfolio.
Fine concrete is sprayed on to lacquered MDF bases, creating a durable
yet lightweight finish that adds a cool industrial edge. Available in
three colourways, the range starts at £15,000.

A mix of materials and textures will soften the utilitarian feel of large-format concrete floor tiles. These Concrete Coal floor tiles, £19.84 each, are from Topps Tiles

This 4m-long island worktop with end panels was cast off-site and installed by Mortise Concrete. It costs around £3,300. Kitchen by Archic.

An exposed concrete floor has a smooth, contemporary look and brings with it a sculptural quality. It can be on the noisy side and a little unforgiving underfoot, but concrete conducts heat well and is a suitable pairing with underfloor heating.

Modulnova's Twenty Cemento cabinets are wrapped in a liquid-cement coating. It comes in six colours. Complete kitchens from £25,000, DesignSpaceLondon