There are a lot of different ways to decorate your home – be it vintage, minimalistic, Scandinavian, contemporary, or – well – industrial. Industrial design pays homage to the raw, unfinished beauty of warehouses, factories, and urban lofts. It is characterised by its rugged charm, exposed structural elements, and utilitarian aesthetics and simply celebrates the beauty of industrial materials and craftsmanship.
Sounds like the opposite of cosiness? It absolutely isn’t! What makes industrial design stand out from the rest is its unpredictability and freedom to combine it with whatever you prefer. Due to its purely neutral base, anything can be introduced as combination, making it an exciting alternative to modern interior.
Raw Materials and Textures
Raw materials and textures are the bread and butter for industrial interior, by embracing the imperfections and weathered charm they bring. You can start by selecting materials such as exposed walls of facing or engineering bricks, reclaimed wood, concrete floors, and metal accents to establish an authentic industrial aesthetic – they will add a great, stunning visual interest.
Add to that some mix and matches to create contrast and further depth in your space. You can, for example, combine rough-hewn wood with sleek metal finishes, or juxtapose the smoothness of concrete with the warmth of leather upholstery. Really, there is no limit here. Industrial design thrives on the marriage of contrasting elements, creating a dynamic and captivating environment.
Functional Furnishings with Urban Flair
When it comes to selecting furniture for your industrial inspired home, prioritising functionality and utility while incorporating elements of urban flair can go a long way. Though you can combine it with nearly anything, including colours, especially pieces with clean lines, sturdy construction, and a utilitarian aesthetic reminiscent of vintage or minimalistic furniture is perfect.
Due to the neutrality of the space, choosing furnishings made from reclaimed materials or vintage pieces with an extra portion of character and authenticity fit fantastically to your space. Multipurpose furniture solutions that maximise space efficiency and adaptability, such as modular shelving units, storage benches, and adjustable-height tables, are also a great addition.
Urban Accents and Industrial Lighting
And lastly, you should set a focus on enhancing the vibes of your home with accents and statement lightning fixtures that command the attention to where you want it and add drama to your space. Exposed lightbulbs, metal cages, or pulley systems can create striking focal points in your room, and pendant lights, Edison bulbs, and factory-style sconces are equally popular choices.
This interior is especially great for experiments with unconventional lighting arrangements to highlight architectural features or create visual interest in unexpected places – so go wild! Instead of simply illuminating, they should also contribute to the overall ambiance and character.
The good news is that a lot of these things can be installed into your already existing home – even if it’s not initially designed to be industrial.
