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INDUSTRIAL STYLE
“This style mixes industrial-style elements with modern decor to create an eclectic and unique look that feels both old and new at the same time.”
Industrial interior design is a modern decor style inspired by factories, warehouses and similar industrial era settings.
If you have been looking for an inspiring way to incorporate elements of an urban aesthetic into your space, then industrial interior design is certainly worth exploring. This stile is inspired by the industrial-style architecture of factories, warehouses and workshops from approximately 1870 to 1950. The result is a modern clean look that mixes texture and materials in an unexpected way; giving your space a unique, one-of-a kind spin on design. Let's take a closer look into this popular style.
Industrial Style
The industrial interior design style goes back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, drawing on materials and objects used in factories and warehouses. Supplies such as hard metals, concrete, exposed brick, and sustainable wooden floors embody the contemporary spirit of the industrial style. The idea behind it was to mimic the utilitarian spaces developed in factory factories, thereby creating a unique room that has both a raw and an unfinished feel. While this look was popularised by hip restaurants and retail stores during the mid-2000s, its roots remain firmly planted in traditional industrial environments.
“By combining the right elements, you can create a stunning industrial interior that reflects your own unique style. Whether it’s a subtle nod to the past with vintage pieces or a full-fledged embrace of raw and unfinished materials, there are so many ways to bring this industrial look to life.”
Where does this style work best
The industrial design style is ideally suited for commercial buildings such as warehouses, loft apartments, retail stores and cafes. This style works best when the building has high ceilings and large, open spaces which allow for the incorporation of raw materials like brick, stone and wood which are integral to this look.
Industrial interior design is also great for modern office spaces, business wanting to add a touch of sophistication or creativity to their workplace as well as creating an urban edge to your business space.
“To achieve a fully authentic industrial look and feel, it is important to understand the tone each element evokes: hard angles juxtaposed with soft tones, metals paired with warm woods, old blending with new and most importantly, utter timeless simplicity.”
Industrial Elements and Characteristics
Industrial style interior design has a distinct look that is easily noticeable when walking into any space showcasing the aesthetic. Furniture pieces often use materials such as raw wood, metal and concrete to create an industrial-style atmosphere. Additionally, many elements of industrial home decor are articulated interiors, simplified lines and vintage inspired details. The overall effect of the look is inviting yet spacious giving off a feeling of comfort as if one was in an industrial loft.
To achieve a fully authentic industrial interior design, it is important to understand the tone each element evokes: hard angles juxtaposed with soft tones, metals paired with warm woods, old blending with new and most importantly, timeless simplicity.
Raw Materials for a True Industrial Feel
Industrial interior design style is gaining popularity due to its combination of unfinished materials like exposed brick and metal materials - and simple, functional design. Incorporating functional raw materials like metal, wood, stone and concrete give an industrial space a unique look that feels authentic and durable. Industrial style furniture pieces made with aged metals and reclaimed woods provide a vintage feel to the space while bold wall art in industrial textures such as brick or wood paneling really make the room stand out. For accentuating industrial trends in any area, exposed pipes, rugged materials and it’s utilitarian aesthetic all come together to create an inviting yet edgy space.
Hard-Edged Geometric Shapes in Furniture and Decor
When it comes to decorating in an industrial interior design style, hard-edged geometric shapes are necessary for a cohesive look. Furniture with sharp angles combined with metal accents create a bold and edgy feel which will add an industrial flair to any space. Structural details enhance the overall aesthetic of the room and can also provide functional benefits. Unexpected touches of hard geometric shapes like wall art and light fixtures draw the eye toward different spaces around the room, creating an interesting balance.
To add an even more striking effect, use different materials in collaboration with these shapes such as wood tones, mixed metals, stones and concrete to give your home or workplace a bold and modern feel.
“Through careful selection of pieces that reflect the industrial style aesthetic you are sure to end up with a space that is timelessly stylish and unmistakably modern.”
Contrast with Dark and Light Colours
Industrial interior design is all about juxtaposing dark and light colours to create a dynamic contrast that brings energy to a room. By strategically incorporating natural textures, industrial-style lighting and furniture with a modern aesthetic, it’s easy to evoke an industrial yet stylish vibe. Pops of blacks, blues and greys are balanced with lighter options, allowing for different colours to stand out without competing for attention. This pairing of light and dark hues also helps emphasise the geometric shapes found in many common industrial fabrics and furniture pieces.
Ways to Accessorise
Accessorising an interior with an industrial theme in mind requires that the chosen pieces are bold and sturdy, creating the feeling of a warehouse-style atmosphere. To add a professional look, consider furniture made from raw materials such as steel and wood, as well as accessories featuring utilitarian designs for texture and tone.
Utilitarian lighting can range from Edison bulbs to floor lamps with adjustable arms.
Earth tones such as browns, blues and greys add to the understated, yet classic style that is achievable with industrial interior design. Similarly, artwork should feature bold shapes and muted colours to complete your décor in a mindful way that pays homage to this visual concept.
All in all, by carefully selecting your items for an industrial design scheme you can craft a space that looks cohesive yet classic with just the right amount of flair.
“Industrial design style can be a great source of inspiration for any space that is looking to have an edgy, modern feel.”
Industrial style recreates a truly unique atmosphere reminiscent of an urban setting with its eclectic blend of modern convenience and vintage aesthetic. It is an ideal high-end interior style choice for both residential homes or hospitality areas alike that allows those who try it to revel in a chic yet comfortable design direction.