How Architects in Perth Use Architectural Concrete in Modern Builds

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Concrete as a Design Statement in Perth
2. Architect Insight: Why Concrete Appeals to Modern Designers
3. The Most Popular Applications in Perth Builds
4. Architectural Concrete and Landscaping Integration
5. Working Together: Architects, Builders & Concreters
6. Conclusion: Why Handmade Concreting Is the Trusted Partner
7. FAQs About Architectural Concrete in Perth

1. Concrete as a Design Statement in Perth

Concrete has come a long way from being just a structural material. In Perth’s modern architecture, it has evolved into a design statement, celebrated for its clean lines, sculptural quality, and ability to blend seamlessly with other materials. Architects are using architectural concrete to create spaces that feel both grounded and luxurious — from minimalist interiors to bold outdoor landscapes.

Unlike timber or stone, concrete is highly adaptable. It can be poured, honed, polished, or textured to match a project’s aesthetic while still offering long-term durability. For this reason, more Perth architects are turning to specialist concreters like Handmade Concreting to bring their design visions to life.tional, and timeless spaces.

2. Architect Insight: Why Concrete Appeals to Modern Designers

Architects choose architectural concrete because it:

• Bridges function and form — equally strong and stylish.
• Complements other design elements like glass, steel, and timber.
• Adapts to Perth’s lifestyle — perfect for indoor–outdoor living.
• Provides longevity in Perth’s hot summers and coastal conditions.
• Offers limitless design potential with colours, aggregates, and textures.

3. The Most Popular Applications in Perth Builds

Architectural concrete is proving to be one of the most versatile design materials in modern construction. In Perth, where homes often combine coastal influences with contemporary architecture, these are the applications architects and designers are choosing most:

Driveways & Alfrescos

Honed concrete is the top pick for driveways and alfresco areas across suburbs like Scarborough, Joondalup, and City Beach. Its smooth, matte finish is slip-resistant and easy to maintain, making it perfect for high-traffic zones. Architects love it because it creates a seamless link between the street frontage and the outdoor entertaining space, tying the entire property together.

📍 Design tip: Pair a honed concrete driveway with matching alfresco flooring for a consistent look that enhances curb appeal.

Interior Floors

Polished concrete floors remain a signature of modern Perth interiors. From open-plan living rooms in Mount Lawley to luxury builds in Dalkeith, polished floors provide a high-end finish that reflects light and adds spaciousness. They’re incredibly durable, resisting scratches, stains, and daily wear, which makes them a practical choice for families.

📍 Design tip: Architects often pair polished concrete with timber, glass, or steel to soften the industrial edge and create warmth indoors.

Custom Benchtops & Furniture

Concrete benchtops, stair treads, and custom furniture pieces are growing in popularity in Fremantle warehouse conversions and Subiaco renovations. Unlike factory-made surfaces, each piece is unique, with variations in colour and texture that give it a handcrafted, bespoke feel. Architects often use these features to add contrast to otherwise minimal designs, making the concrete the hero element of the space.

📍 Design tip: Use coloured or pigmented mixes for a modern twist that ties into the home’s interior palette.

Pool Surrounds

With Perth’s hot summers, pool design is a big focus for architects. Architectural concrete offers slip resistance, UV stability, and cool-to-touch finishes, making it ideal for pool surrounds. Exposed aggregate is often chosen for its texture, while honed concrete is favoured for its sleek, resort-style look.

📍 Design tip: Light-coloured mixes are particularly popular in Carine, Floreat, and coastal suburbs, as they help keep surfaces cooler underfoot.

Feature Walls & Landscaping

Concrete isn’t just underfoot — it’s also making its mark vertically. Feature walls, planter boxes, and retaining walls are being used in Claremont, Cottesloe, and Subiaco landscapes to add architectural depth. Unlike brick or timber, concrete delivers bold lines and sculptural qualities that fit seamlessly into both modern and traditional gardens.

📍 Design tip: Add integrated lighting or climbing plants to soften the look while keeping the architectural impact.

4. Architectural Concrete and Landscaping Integration

In Perth, where outdoor living is central to the lifestyle, architectural concrete is becoming the backbone of landscape design. Unlike timber decking or pavers, which can fade, shift, or deteriorate, concrete provides a long-lasting, low-maintenance foundation for gardens and entertaining spaces.

Architects and landscapers are increasingly using architectural concrete to:

• Frame gardens with retaining walls that double as sculptural features.
• Create planter boxes and garden edging with honed or textured finishes that complement surrounding greenery.
• Design built-in seating and firepit surrounds that feel permanent, grounding the space while reducing clutter.
• Link indoor and outdoor areas by using the same honed or exposed aggregate finish across alfresco floors and landscaping paths.

One landscape architect we spoke to described it as “the glue that ties an outdoor design together.” Concrete provides the structural base while greenery and natural materials add softness. In suburbs like Subiaco, Scarborough, and Fremantle, this integration creates resort-style gardens that are functional year-round.

5. Working Together: Architects, Builders & Concreters

Architectural concrete isn’t a standalone element — its success depends on collaboration between architects, builders, landscapers, and concreters. Each plays a critical role in delivering the final vision:

• Architects bring the design intent, specifying the finish, tone, and placement of concrete elements.
• Builders prepare the structure and ensure the project is technically sound.
• Landscapers integrate the concrete into gardens, pools, and outdoor features for a cohesive look.
• Concreters, like Handmade Concreting, handle the detail: pouring, honing, polishing, sealing, and finishing so the concrete matches the architect’s design.

When this collaboration flows smoothly, the result is functional, beautiful, and long-lasting spaces that deliver both for the client and for the design professionals involved.

At Handmade Concreting, we regularly partner with Perth architects and landscapers to ensure their vision is realised. By consulting early in the design phase, we can recommend the right mix, finish, and sealing process for each environment — whether it’s a polished interior floor in Mount Lawley or an exposed aggregate alfresco in Rockingham.

6. Conclusion: Why Handmade Concreting Is the Trusted Partner

Architectural concrete has become a hallmark of Perth’s modern architecture. From high-end residential builds to commercial landscapes, it’s the material that combines strength, versatility, and beauty.

At Handmade Concreting, we’re proud to work alongside Perth’s architects, builders, and landscapers to deliver tailored concrete finishes that elevate every project.

📞 Thinking about architectural concrete for your next project? Contact Handmade Concreting today to collaborate with Perth’s trusted concreting specialists.

8. FAQs About Architectural Concrete

Why are architects turning to architectural concrete?

  Because it offers design freedom, durability, and timeless appeal that other materials can’t match.

Does architectural concrete work for both residential and commercial builds?

Yes. It’s used in homes, offices, retail spaces, and public landscapes across Perth.

Is it more expensive than standard concrete?

It can cost more due to custom finishes, but it offers superior design flexibility and long-term value.

Do you collaborate with architects directly?

Absolutely. Handmade Concreting works hand-in-hand with architects, builders, and landscapers to bring design visions to life.

What Perth areas do you service?

We work across the Perth metro, including Joondalup, Scarborough, Fremantle, Rockingham, and Mandurah.

🔗   Related Links:

• Architectural Concrete Services Page
• Explore Exposed Aggregate Options in Perth