We're fans of any DIY that is simple, has great impact and uses supplies that are easily findable. So when we saw this great modern planter idea filled with easy to grow succulents we were intrigued. When we heard how simple it is to put together, especially in a small space like a back patio or deck, we were sold.
This bit of inspiration comes from Annette over at Pot-ted, a nursery and patioscaping company (and also one of our favorite shops for great plant containers, mid century outdoor furniture and succulents galore). When we were in the other day she showed us pictures of the planter she had just built. Here's how she did it:
"The wall was built with 12" cinder blocks (the kind you would use to build a column) and we used Liquid nails to hold them together because I didn't want grout lines and also it gave us more flexibility. In fact in order to make bottoms for the blocks that are sticking forward, we cut pieces of cinder block to fit the inside and then liquid nailed them in. We love liquid nails."
The planting is new and as it fills in and starts trailing, this baby is going to look even better. What we love about the use of cinder blocks is how many different iterations you could make depending on how much space you have. Also, they're really cheap and can be painted if you want to match them to your decor.
(Images: Annette Guttierez)
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
This is a really great idea! I love the mention of painting them too. This could work really well next to a building. Or with larger plantings, or an array of overflowing and smaller ones. Great idea.
http://tearinguphouses.blogspot.com
view k51279's profile
I love the way this looks -- and so simple. Do they sell these at Potted?
view sweetbiscuit's profile
ok is that not the cutest pup?
view LoriSF's profile
oooooooh... this is getting bookmarked! It seems modern and bold/simple outdoor stuff is always really expensive. It's nice to see something that fits my taste AND budget! :)
view CozyLittleCave's profile
what kind of dog is that? so cute!
view youenjoymyself's profile
great idea and GREAT puppy!
view Bridget212323's profile
This is absolutely brilliant! I love it!
view rusticmodern's profile
he's a golden retriever/chow mix. and very sweet, to boot. he's actually around 4 years old (we're not certain about this, since he just showed up at our doorstep one day).
glad you're enjoying the wall! its even more beautiful in real life.
view jaytee's profile
Very clever! Love a good diy!
~Tracy @
http://www.dailydecorator.com
view Daily Decorator's profile
I saved this idea, thx :)
view Lizzykewl's profile
We don't actually make the walls at Pot-ted but we could come and make one for you at your home (or come in and well tell you how). Depending on where you put it, there are endless possibilities on the design...falling forward, doing a corner...whatever you want. It's just cinderblocks from a building supply lot.
view Cancangirl's profile
I think it could be interesting to arrange the blocks in something other than straight 'one-block-on-top-of-the-other' columns... maybe stagger them a bit, (the way the blocks in the background wall shown in the photo are staggered) to produce a more 'organic' effect?
That arrangement -- plus the natural aging and mellowing of the blocks' patina, plus of course the eventual increased growth of the plants -- could make for a nice finished product.
view mirandabee's profile
this is such a great idea! i am bookmarking it for our next summer project.
and that pup is adorable!
view brand-eye's profile
i have a black thumb but would actually try this. super cool! nice job!
seriously, we need to start pet therapy :) too many cute companions pop up in pics not to!
view rstrtz's profile
Amazing! A truly great DIY as it, in no way, looks like a DIY. Architectural, modern and I love your puppy!!!!!
view jeffnyc's profile
if anyone is interested, you can find more photos of the work annette did in our backyard here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/49254603@N00/
she added a fountain area and additional succulent bowls. she rocks!
view jaytee's profile
Could this work as a low retaining wall? Say, 4-6 blocks high? Or would you have to build a retaining wall behind it and then use this as a decorative facade?
view rockalita's profile
wow I love this - will have to replicate =)
view lovelyrita's profile
These cinderblocks are what you would use to build a retaining wall (although you would use mortar and rebar to add strength). I would, however, hire a professional mason if I were building this wall to keep earth from falling on my house. But you could show the photo to your mason and tell him this is the effect you are going for. Because the blocks actually aren't stacked up on each other (some are pulled forward for effect) he or she would have to make some structural adjustments, but totally doable.
view Cancangirl's profile
Amazing and wonderful. I'm really loving the fountain you built out of cinder blocks. Any way to get the plans for that?
view kuroneko's profile
What a wonderful inspiration - this project meets all the criteria for a great DIY. Adaptable, affordable and beautiful.
view the mem's profile
I am not surprised this came from the uber-creative (and resourceful) mind of Annette Gutierrez! Her Los Feliz shop is filled with hip and fabulous concepts in innovative outdoor living. If in So. Cal: check it out!
view terrasculpture's profile
awesome!! this is so gorgeous - can't wait to do something like this on my own little patio. great effect in a small space.
and yes, that is the most adorable puppy! :)
view nikki moore - photography and vintage treasures's profile
Jaytee - small world, followed the link to the pics on flikr to save for my DIY planter file and I see an old neighbor, Lingka in your pics. Tell her Courtney from Costa Mesa says hi! Love your planter, and cute pup!
view ut0piaseeker's profile
Planter and Pupkie= Priceless!
Katy
http://fengshuibyfishgirl.com
view fishgirl's profile
courtney - small world, for sure! i have sent ling your hello... i have met you before, actually. too funny!
glad you like the planter - i still get happy every time i look at it.
view jaytee's profile