Creating a Brutalist Concrete Laptop Stand

As a passionate admirer of brutalist architecture, I embarked on a project to create a unique laptop stand that embodies the raw, industrial aesthetic of the 1960s concrete buildings. This stand isn't just a functional piece; it's a statement of style, featuring a beton brut surface texture and weighing in as possibly the heaviest laptop stand around. It includes practical elements like two 2.1 amp USB charge ports, a three-pin plug socket, and an integral plant pot, all designed to echo the themes of urban decay and dilapidation.

## Key Features

The stand showcases a brutalist style overhang and an urban decay aesthetic, complete with a damaged corner and rusted rebar. The exposed copper wire and artificially rusted penpot further enhance the theme, while the integral plant pot, housing a string of pearls plant, adds a touch of nature to the industrial design.

## Crafting the Stand

The construction process was meticulous, involving two main concrete pours for the base and side walls. I intentionally mixed the concrete unevenly to create a weathered look, exposing gravel and creating a textured surface. For smaller components like plant pots, quick-drying cement was used, while larger pieces required slow-drying cement and careful removal of air bubbles using unconventional tools.

## Plant Pot and Exposed Wire

The plant pot is ingeniously crafted from a ghee tin, secured with bolts and encased in concrete. I chose a string of pearls plant for its cascading effect, reminiscent of derelict buildings. The exposed wire, though not live, is designed to appear damaged, adding to the stand's theme of decay. Achieving the right corrosion effect involved wrapping the wire in kitchen paper and spraying it with ammonia and water.

## Penpot and Final Thoughts

The penpot underwent a similar rusting process, using salt water and peroxide, and was enhanced with moss-like texture using acrylic paint mixed with sand. Despite its weight, which required a trolley for transportation, the laptop stand is a proud centerpiece on my desk, perfectly capturing the brutalist and urban decay themes I love.