Microcement furniture

Why microcement suits furniture

Microcement furniture turns a table, bench or plinth into a single continuous form. Because the finish is applied by hand in thin layers, it can wrap edges and curves without joins, giving even a simple piece a sculptural, monolithic quality.

It is also a way to connect furniture with architecture. A coffee table in the same tone as the floor, or a bench that appears to grow out of a wall, makes a room feel composed rather than furnished piece by piece. If the material is new to you, what microcement is is a useful place to start.

Existing pieces and purpose-built forms

There are two starting points, and each is planned differently:

• Renewing an existing piece. It must be rigid and stable, with a surface the finish can bond to. Metal, marble and tiled tops can be suitable; natural timber is not advised, because it moves as temperature and humidity change.
• Building something new. A custom piece can be designed around a suitable, stable substrate from the start, giving more control over shape, edges and weight.

In both cases, the construction is reviewed before any recommendation is made. Pieces assembled from parts that could move at different rates, such as mixed materials joined together, may not be suitable.

Pieces that work well

Microcement suits furniture with generous, simple surfaces: coffee and side tables, dining and console tables, built-in benches, plinths, shelving, and reception or display counters. Very slender or flexible elements are generally less suited, because any flex in the piece can show in the finish. Built-in pieces, such as a bench that runs along a wall or a plinth that doubles as a step, often work especially well, since they are rigid by nature and connect directly to the room.

Think about use as well as form. A coffee table sees drinks and the occasional pair of feet, while a dining table sees hot dishes, cutlery and daily wiping. Those uses shape the sealer, texture and colour we recommend. For kitchen and bathroom tops, see benchtops and vanities.

Colour, texture and edge detail

White and pale finishes such as Blanco and Alaska give furniture a soft, gallery-like presence, Camel brings warmth, and Gris Marengo or Graphite read as solid and grounded. Keep texture smooth on tabletops that need to be wiped often, and allow more movement on bases and sides.

Edges are where furniture is touched and knocked most, so softened or rounded profiles are usually more forgiving than sharp corners. Browse the range on colours and textures, then send an enquiry to talk through the piece and its finish.

Caring for microcement furniture

Use coasters under glasses and mugs, put hot dishes on trivets or placemats, and wipe spills promptly, particularly oil, wine, coffee and acidic foods such as citrus or vinegar. Clean with a damp microfibre cloth and a pH-neutral product, avoid abrasive pads, and see the cleaning and maintenance guide for sealer upkeep over time.