What’s the difference between cinder block and concrete blocks?

A cinder block is created with a double-cube hollow design, while concrete blocks are solid. Cinder blocks are lighter than concrete blocks, and therefore, easier for brick masons to handle. While concrete blocks are made of Portland cement and small gravel, cinder blocks mix Portland cement with the remnants of burned coal (cinders).

What are the dimensions of a cinder block?

Most common cinder blocks are 7 5/8” by 7 5/8” by 15 5/8”. This odd measurement is to allow for a 3/8” mortar joint between blocks, resulting in finished dimensions of 8” by 8” by 16”.

How much does a cinder block cost?

Expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $2.50 per block, depending on where you live and shop. Some home improvement retailers offer discounts for buying in bulk. Look online for people selling leftover cinder blocks or ask friends to give you any unused bricks after they’ve completed their own DIY cinder block projects.

10 Creative Ways to Use Cinder Blocks in Your Home

“The simple things are also the most extraordinary things, and only the wise can see them.” – Paulo Coelho

Few things are more lowly than the common cinder block. But few things are more adaptable, more transformable than this basic concrete box.

From fire pits to planters, from benches to walls, it’s easy and affordable to create something delightfully useful out of these basic concrete objects.

Scroll through our best cinder block ideas then head to your local home improvement warehouse to start your own DIY cinder block project.

1. Build an Outdoor Cinder Block Bench

If you’re looking for an outdoor project that has both moxie and character, try creating a bench with cinder blocks! To construct your outdoor bench with cinder blocks, all you need are four sturdy wooden planks and eight comfortable cinder blocks. S

tack the blocks two-by-two and create four short columns. Place the wooden planks across the columns to create a bench seat. With this creative feat of practical construction, you will have an outdoor seating area that is fun and functional!

DIY outdoor seating area with cinder block and wood bench, matching table, and fire pit on a patio, creating a cozy backyard setup — Source: @_apmadeit via Instagram

DIY outdoor bench made from cinder blocks and yellow wooden beams, set under a tree for a rustic backyard seating area — Source: @brians.big.adventures via Instagram

DIY backyard seating area with a cinder block bench, striped cushion, and tiki torches, set near a fire pit for a cozy outdoor gathering space — Source: @candicetumlinson via Instagram

DIY cinder block and wooden bench with a rustic design, painted armrests, and firewood storage underneath, creating a functional outdoor seating area — Source: @diylexxi via Instagram

DIY cinder block and wood bench in a front yard, framed by a picket fence and a blooming pink rose, creating a charming outdoor seating area — Source: @docjj522 via Instagram

DIY cinder block bench with navy cushions, built-in armrests, and a hidden green kiddie pool underneath, creating a multi-functional outdoor space — Source: @gingerswilrule via Instagram

Modern outdoor seating area with L-shaped cinder block benches, black tufted cushions, a fire pit, and potted plants on a brick patio — Source: @mincerepublic via Instagram

DIY cinder block bench with natural wood beams and bold red cushions, creating a stylish and comfortable outdoor seating area against a brick wall — Source: @mz_valdivia_4evaaa via Instagram

DIY cinder block bench with wooden seating and blue-striped cushions, creating a cozy and functional outdoor seating area on a wooden deck — Source: @spartan_in_training84 via Instagram

DIY cinder block and wooden beam bench painted in sleek gray, creating a modern and sturdy outdoor seating area under a covered patio — Source: @soflorealty via Instagram

DIY cinder block bench with bright yellow and blue cushions, set under a covered patio with a grill and cozy seating area for outdoor relaxation — Source: @trellofalltrades via Instagram

2. Use As An Artistic Piece

For cinder blocks, the options are virtually endless. Whether you’re looking to liven up your backyard or add a touch of creativity to your patio area, cinder blocks can be used in plenty of ways to spruce up any outdoor space with ease. Opt for building a cinder block sculpture for an attention-grabbing focal point sure to turn heads.

Or, if you’re going for something slightly more subtle, try carving into them and painting the decorative features; this could easily create a beautiful mosaic art piece. No matter which routes you take with cinder block ideas, you’ll be able to make any garden or patio area look its best in no time!

Creative cinder block craft covered in blue bubble wrap, decorated with vibrant flowers and artistic elements, resembling a unique miniature building — Source: @beevcmit via Instagram

Miniature cinder blocks with intricate cutout designs stacked on a wooden surface, next to a small penguin figurine, creating a unique display — Source: @sure_plays_a_mean_pinball via Instagram

DIY mosaic cinder block planter with vibrant blue and multicolored tile accents, paired with potted snake plants for a decorative outdoor touch — Source: @cindysart68 via Instagram

3. Build a TV Wall Shelf

Why not transform old cinder blocks into TV wall shelves? You actually just need some basic supplies to create this chic piece – cinder blocks, wood planks, as well as all the materials associated with preparing your TV wall for mounting.

Try stacking three cinder blocks together and securing two wood planks across the top. Secure the shelf to the wall for an industrial yet decorative addition to your living room. It’s amazing how just a few simple materials can transform any space into something special!

DIY entertainment center made from cinder blocks and wooden planks, supporting a large TV, speakers, and decor for a modern and functional setup — Source: @bilel_b94 via Instagram

4. Design Stunning Planter Boxes

Cinder block planter boxes are a creative way to bring life and organic beauty to your outdoor space. Not only do planter boxes look great, but they can also be used in multiple ways.

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not create tiers of planter boxes along the edges of your patio or garden? This can provide color and texture to enhance the atmosphere of your outdoor area, as well as make planting options abundant.

For example, you might decide to have different plants in each planter box, ranging from flowering shrubs to herb gardens! Whatever route you choose, planter boxes are sure to brighten up any outdoor space.

Stacked cinder block planters with intricate black floral designs, filled with succulents and cacti, set against a gravel and brick wall — Source: @albina.manning via Instagram

Modern cinder block planter display with red, black, and white blocks arranged in a tiered design, showcasing succulents and greenery against a wall — Source: @builditbecky via Instagram

Decorative cinder block planter with mosaic tile design, holding two potted snake plants, adding a colorful and artistic touch to an outdoor space — Source: @cindysart68 via Instagram

Modern interior with decorative cinder block partitions, geometric patterns, and stylish planters, creating a sleek, minimalist design with natural elements — Source: @cubicproducts via Instagram

Colorful DIY cinder block planter with geometric yellow, blue, and white accents, filled with succulents and cacti, adding charm to a garden setting — Source: @josiasia via Instagram

Creative DIY cinder block planter arrangement with colorful blocks and vibrant succulents, forming a unique geometric display in a garden setting — Source: @triple_s_chemicals via Instagram

Colorful DIY cinder block planter wall with geometric red, yellow, and blue accents, showcasing succulents and greenery against a modern outdoor backdrop — Source: @rad_rachel via Instagram

Tiered DIY cinder block planter filled with succulents, cacti, and greenery, creating a stylish and space-saving vertical garden in a backyard setting — Source: @2philthy2 via Instagram

Tiered cinder block planter filled with colorful flowers and succulents, featuring built-in side pockets for greenery, set on artificial grass — Source: @createandcapturelife via Instagram

Colorful cinder blocks used as planters with succulents and flowers on a patio, an American flag decoration is visible — Source: @teddytorres via Instagram

Tiered DIY cinder block planter with colorful flowers, creating a stylish and space-efficient vertical garden against a wooden fence on gravel ground — Source: @cwolstenholme via Instagram

Stacked white cinder block planter with cascading succulents, a ceramic rooster, and potted flowers, set against a beige wall — Source: @jenis_cookies_and_more via Instagram

Turquoise cinder blocks with plants, a portable light, and a brown chair on a concrete patio in front of a sliding glass door — Source: @taylorann via Instagram

Tiered DIY cinder block planter wall with succulents and vibrant greenery, creating a stunning vertical garden against a blue house backdrop — Source: @playing.with.dirt via Instagram

A painted cinder block planter with "Welcome" written on it, filled with colorful flowers, placed on a stone pathway — Source: @albina.manning via Instagram

Tiered cinder block planter arranged in a pyramid shape, filled with colorful flowers and greenery, placed in a garden corner against a fence — Source: @cwolstenholme via Instagram

5. Elevate Your Plant Shelves

Adding cinder block shelves to your home is a great way to bring natural and rustic charm while displaying greenery. Using cinder blocks to create the foundation of a shelf adds texture and character. To use cinder block shelves for potted plants, measure out and drill support holes in each cinder block and secure them together with brackets.

Place a wooden board on top of the cinder blocks to provide stability for the plants, making sure that it fits perfectly within the length and width of your cinder block shelf set-up. Once assembled, fill up each shelf with beautiful potted plants to instantly transform any room into a nature paradise.

Vibrant DIY plant shelf made from colorful cinder blocks and wooden planks, showcasing a variety of succulents and decorative pots on a patio — Source: @plantlady18 via Instagram

Rustic DIY plant stand made from cinder blocks and a concrete slab, holding terracotta pots with succulents and flowers, set near a greenhouse — Source: @shellsbackyard via Instagram

Tiered DIY cinder block plant stand with black-painted blocks and terracotta pots, creating a stylish vertical garden against a concrete wall — Source: @kwakulus via Instagram

Outdoor shelving with potted plants on cinder blocks against a gray wall, featuring various pots and decorative stones — Source: @t_lily via Instagram

Rustic DIY cinder block bar with built-in succulent planters, a wooden countertop, and charming decor, creating a functional and stylish outdoor space — Source: @collectingthemoments_onebyone via Instagram

DIY indoor plant shelf made from cinder blocks and wooden planks, decorated with potted greenery, personal items, and rustic decor for a cozy touch — Source: @lilplantbabe via Instagram

Stylish DIY cinder block bar with built-in flower planters, a wooden top, and vibrant decor, creating a functional and eye-catching outdoor setup — Source: @dibaccorj via Instagram

5. Optimize Under-Bed Organization

Add a little creativity to your under-the-bed storage or shoe shelf by using cinder blocks. Cinder blocks offer the best mix of practicality, flexibility, and stability all in one. The stable base can easily hold many items under your bed, such as sweaters, shoes, and even small tools.

With some straps and foam pads, they can be used as shelves for displaying frequently used items like books, baskets, and picture frames. Not only will cinder blocks improve the look of your home décor but they are also a cost-effective solution for tidying up your bed area.

Industrial-style DIY bed frame made from cinder blocks, offering built-in storage, set against an exposed brick wall for a modern, rustic bedroom look — Source: @dibaccorj via Instagram

6. Turn Cinder Blocks into a Table

Bring industrial chic style to your home with cinder block tables! For a rustic but glamorous look, cinder blocks can be paired with a glass or wood countertop. As cinder blocks are made of concrete and come in various shapes and sizes, they are the perfect material for an urban-chic centerpiece to any room.

Whether you’re looking for a sturdy outdoor table for guests or need extra seating for an unexpected party, cinder block tables provide the perfect mix of function and form. And best of all? They are affordable too!

DIY outdoor table with green-painted cinder blocks as legs and a sleek glass top, paired with a matching bench for a modern and vibrant patio setup — Source: @prettygladstoned via Instagram

DIY outdoor bar made from cinder blocks and a wooden countertop, decorated with string lights, stools, and wine storage for a cozy backyard setup — Source: @tankpresentsunplugged via Instagram

7. Make a Cinder Block Raised Bed

Create your own raised garden spot with a cinder block plant bed! Constructing raised beds is an accessible and creative gardening solution that can help you gain more control over the environment around your plants. With cinder block raised beds, you can choose how big or small to make them and how wide you want the pathways in between.

This makes them ideal for vegetable gardens as they’re super efficient when it comes to space-saving, plus the blocks are great at retaining moisture around the roots through their breathable yet permeable build. For those of us in colder climates, raised beds allow our soil to warm up quicker during spring planting!

Raised DIY cinder block garden bed with multiple levels, growing vegetables and plants, supported by a sprinkler system for easy backyard gardening — Source: @boss_mom_and_granny via Instagram

Tiered DIY cinder block planter wall with succulents and flowers, set against a white wall with a decorative sun sculpture for a modern garden display — Source: @candacefaulkner via Instagram

Terracotta planters arranged in a tiered pattern hold various succulents and cacti against a metal fence in an outdoor setting — Source: @loreleilowry via Instagram

Vibrant tiered DIY cinder block planter painted in pastel shades, filled with colorful flowers, creating a lively and charming garden display — Source: @channchangarden via Instagram

Raised DIY cinder block garden bed with multiple sections, growing herbs, vegetables, and greenery, featuring a trellis for climbing plants in a lush backyard — Source: @coreywatson772 via Instagram

Charming DIY cinder block garden bed with blooming flowers, decorative bunny statues, and gravel accents, creating a cozy and whimsical outdoor space — Source: @enjoythepresentbyme via Instagram

Multi-level DIY cinder block garden bed painted red, featuring herbs, vegetables, and trellised plants, creating a functional and organized backyard space — Source: @sarabeth68 via Instagram

Vibrant DIY cinder block raised garden bed painted bright blue, featuring colorful flowers, tomato cages, and decorative garden art in a backyard setting — Source: @tgeldes34 via Instagram

8. Create a Sofa with Cushions

Add a cinder block sofa to your home for an easy, yet creative seating solution. Complete with throw pillows, blankets, and cushions, cinder blocks can make for a comfortable and stylish piece of furniture that will fit any budget.

A cinder block sofa is perfect for evening cuddle sessions in front of the TV or even as a stylish guest bed quickly converted from couch to futon. An innovative cinder block sofa is the new trend setter for savvy homeowners looking for cost-effective seating options.

DIY outdoor cinder block bench and lounger with wooden beams and bold red cushions, creating a stylish and comfortable seating area on a wooden deck — Source: @ergyshyseni via Instagram

DIY cinder block bench with a bright blue cushion and rustic camping-themed pillows, creating a cozy and stylish outdoor seating area — Source: @ashleysbookcase via Instagram

Cozy DIY cinder block bench with colorful blocks, soft cushions, and string lights, set under an illuminated umbrella for a charming backyard retreat — Source: @triplemoonfoco via Instagram

Modern outdoor lounge area with a built-in concrete bench, decorative cinder block privacy wall, and cozy cushions, creating a stylish backyard retreat — Source: @cubicproducts via Instagram

Cozy front porch seating area with DIY cinder block benches, a matching table, blue cushions, and potted plants, creating a welcoming outdoor retreat — Source: @vanessainspired via Instagram

DIY outdoor cinder block bench painted green, featuring striped cushions, built-in side tables, and storage, creating a cozy and functional patio seating area — Source: @sasha1876 via Instagram

DIY outdoor lounge area with cinder block benches, wooden seating, vibrant red cushions, and string lights under a pergola, creating a cozy backyard retreat — Source: @zach_walker1243 via Instagram

Minimalist DIY balcony seating with cinder blocks and wooden planks, paired with a wood-paneled accent wall and a potted plant for a modern, cozy look — Source: @britchi2 via Instagram

9. Paint Cinder Pots For A Creative Flair

Cinder blocks provide a fantastic foundation for a creative project. Spice up an old cinder block wall with some decorative designs, or build an entire cinder block sculpture!

For more ambitious projects, why not create something totally unique; a garden pathway or make use of cinder blocks and other materials to build furniture outside?

There are plenty of cinder block project ideas on the internet for inspiration, but the possibilities are truly endless.

DIY painted cinder block planter with vibrant hand-painted designs, filled with sunflowers and greenery, creating a charming and artistic garden border — Source: @brandy6709 via Instagram

Modern DIY cinder block planters with geometric yellow and gray designs, filled with succulents, creating a stylish and minimalist outdoor decor piece — Source: @goodstuffpartners via Instagram

Vibrant DIY cinder block display with hand-painted artistic designs, featuring floral, abstract, and portrait themes, creating a unique and colorful decor piece — Source: @lelo_furniture via Instagram

Modern DIY cinder block planter wall painted black, arranged in a tiered design, and filled with colorful flowers and herbs for a stylish outdoor display — Source: @melissa_dreamin_big via Instagram

Bright and colorful DIY cinder block plant shelf with yellow-painted blocks and wooden planks, displaying vibrant flowers and succulents against a blue wall — Source: @ohmy_cactus.gt via Instagram

DIY red-painted cinder block planter arranged in a tiered corner design, ready for planting, creating a structured and decorative garden bed — Source: @rdnkchk79 via Instagram

Super Mario-themed DIY cinder block planter, painted like brick blocks with question mark cubes, decorated with green pots and gaming-inspired figurines — Source: @stperez31 via Instagram

Stacked decorative cinder blocks with various patterns and designs against a dark wooden wall — Source: @rpm_art via Instagram

10. Enhance Privacy with a Cinder Block Wall

If you’re looking for a creative cinder block project to work on, consider building a patio privacy wall! It helps to add some extra outdoor space and let’s be honest- it can look pretty cool too!

Not only that, but it can also bring some cozy warmth into your backyard if you decide to build an exposed brick wall with the blocks. Overall, this kind of project is a great DIY option if you’re looking to add something unique and special to your yard!