Seattle’s unique blend of urban energy and lush greenery has played a huge role in shaping my personal aesthetic. Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by a skyline of modern skyscrapers, shipyards, and that ever-present misty rain, which pushed me toward an “industrial vine” or “urban ivy” style. I find myself drawn to major 20th-century design movements like Brutalism—celebrating raw, concrete forms—and Bauhaus, emphasizing functional minimalism. Hints of mid-century modern show up, too, especially in the way I like to showcase materials like steel and wood without unnecessary embellishment.

Reflecting on my past, gritty waterfronts and small concert venues around Seattle left a deep impression on me with their exposed beams, metal details, and unrefined finishes. The city’s coffee culture also influences my aesthetic, as there’s something truly comforting about enjoying an espresso in a space with concrete-like textures softened by climbing greenery.

For my current project, I want to build a shelf to display my coffee cups and espresso tools in a way that blends industrial style with organic accents. Although I love the look of true concrete, working with concrete can be challenging. That’s why I’m considering constructing the shelf primarily out of wood—both for its workability and overall feasibility. To achieve that signature industrial vibe, I plan to coat the wooden surfaces with plaster or a concrete-like finish, giving it the rugged, cold-stone appearance I’m after. This approach should strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics.

Example of coffee shelf for espresso set up

In addition to holding my favorite mugs and portafilter in the open sections, the shelf will include a drawer that neatly stores smaller items like brushes and cleaning tools. I also hope to integrate real or faux vine elements to soften the shelf’s industrial edges, bringing a touch of Seattle’s iconic greenery into the design.

Citations

https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/old-concrete-wall-and-ivy

www.reddit.com/r/espresso/comments/jg6poy/added_floating_shelves_and_finished_my_setup_today

https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/transportation/an-old-highway-520-crossbeam-could-be-urban-ruins-honoring-anti-freeway-activists/

2 Comments. Leave new

  • Max Williams
    March 9, 2025 1:39 pm

    I’m a big fan of this aesthetic, as someone with family in the Seattle area I’ve always appreciated the rainy vibes in combination with the bustling city aesthetic whenever I visit. I think you’re idea for a faux industrial coffee stand is unique while really embodying the things that you like about your home town, I especially like the idea of plastering wood to get a concrete look without actually having to pour concrete. There was one thing I was curious about, the title of your post is Urban Ivy and I really like that signature element of Seattles aesthetic, so do you plan on adding some vine like details to your project?

  • Ariana Ramirez
    March 5, 2025 8:38 pm

    Hey Kyle,
    This is Michael and Ari ;-;
    I like the idea of mixing trying to blend in your industrial style with an organic accent, as it is a unique idea. I also really liked how you brought up the brutalist architecture that you saw around you as a source of inspiration
    I love the idea of making a functional piece. Since you are into coffee, you can make a piece that will help keep all your coffee supplies nice and organized. I like how you are still keeping with the industrial style but using something simpler to use than concrete. I like using a wood finish to create a concrete-like look.
    Overall I think this will be a very cute project.

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