Whether you live in a historic loft or factory or simply want to pretend that you do, the modern industrial interior design style is the way to go. Not only is it just the right amount of edgy and cool, but it’s also laid-back enough to feel comfortable and welcoming. This is one of the most unique home designs due to its use of modern touches, natural light and raw materials.
While you might not think of industrial design as cozy, using materials in a rough-and-ready form brings a certain type of natural beauty that other spaces don’t quite have. If you want your home to embody minimalism and visual interest, then this design is your cup of tea — or black coffee if that’s more your speed.
Not sure how to get the look? We can help! Because industrial rooms take a certain balancing act to get just right, it helps to follow best practices — which we’ve listed below. Happy decorating!
What Is Industrial Interior Design?
As the name suggests, industrial interior design is a style that draws inspiration from old factories, warehouses and other industrial spaces. It’s known for its raw, unfinished look and celebrates materials and industrial elements that are usually hidden in other design styles, like rafters, ceiling beams or pipes.
This style is very minimal in nature, but that doesn’t mean it looks like an echoing warehouse just waiting to be filled. These spaces are often elevated and neat, like the modern farmhouse look’s chic older sister.
But what makes an industrial space different from all the rest? If you want to emulate this style in your own home, here’s what to include:
Exposed Materials
The most obvious sign of an industrial style home is exposed materials like pipes, metal, concrete and brick. While your home might be gifted with some of these elements naturally, you can also intentionally create exposure by raising your ceilings and not covering the inner workings of your home, like air ducts and water pipes.
Additionally, you can put in a brick or concrete accent wall to add a rugged appearance. Just be sure that it looks time-worn and historic to accomplish the industrial look. Another easy way to bring more natural texture to your space is by putting in large wooden ceiling beams in a dark stain or black.
Neutral Palette
With the use of so many dark metals, woods and brick, the color palette follows suit. You’ll generally see neutrals like whites, blacks and grays with the occasional browns, rust reds and navy blues. For the best outcome, balance bold and neutral tones for a cohesive look. For example, if you have an exposed brick wall, pair it with subtle colors. On the other hand, if your space is largely gray or brown, try adding a pop of color like a deep maroon or forest green.
Utilitarian Vibes
Utilitarianism values function and practicality over aesthetics. That’s not to say your home shouldn’t look stunning, but ensure that each piece of furniture and decor serves a purpose and adds to the space’s overall effect. Think a sturdy dining room table, a coffee table with drawers and a leather ottoman that has built-in storage.
Open Spaces
Modern industrial interior design style is largely open concept, like a factory building or warehouse. You can open up your home by sticking with thin, multi-purpose furniture that sits high off the ground and optimizing mirrors and natural light. However, you can break up the large space into separate rooms with strategic furniture placement and area rugs.
Edison Bulb Lighting
Nothing says industrial quite like funky lighting fixtures with exposed bulbs. The most popular? Edison bulbs, a vintage-looking, warm industrial lighting option that helps accentuate and brighten the surrounding decor and furniture. These bulbs work great above a kitchen island or do wonders as wall sconces in a living room or primary bedroom. They’re paired back enough not to steal focus away from other elements while still being visually interesting.
Open Shelving
You won’t see closed cabinets in industrial kitchens. Make your shelves act as a museum, showcasing your kitchenware and utensils with pipe shelving that utilizes both thick wood and metal support. And this look doesn’t just win hardware in your kitchen; it also stuns in living rooms. Pick your most aesthetically pleasing knick-knacks and photos for a beautiful display.
Vintage or Reclaimed Furniture
Many industrial spaces have rich histories that you can pay homage to through your furniture choice. For instance, rather than choose brand-new pieces, pick ones that tell a story, like a repurposed dining room table and chairs or a vintage chaise lounge. Vintage furniture builds an inviting home that will leave people talking, whether it’s about your industrial lighting fixtures or one-of-a-kind coffee table.
Metal Fixtures and Accents
Whether it’s your nightstand or coffee table legs, the drapery fixtures or the lamps throughout your space, metal accents create a cohesive, industrial finish. One place where metal fixtures thrive is in your five-star industrial bathroom. Opt for metal mirrors and sink accessories that add rawness and distressed texture.
Mixed metals and natural elements thrive in this interior design style.Large Windows With Black Frames
Any industrial home calls for three things: sun, sun and more sun. And how can you optimize natural light? By making your windows as large as possible, of course! Enter dark frames. If the window frames aren’t already black, get a charcoal or dark paint and ensure they match the rest of your space. Use sheer or light-filtering window treatments to allow maximum natural light to flood the space.
Balancing Raw Textures With Comfortable Furnishings
An industrial home is all about harmony: you don’t want to lean too far on the rugged or soft sides of design. It requires a perfect marriage of the two, which can be difficult to achieve without a bit of design knowledge.
First, it’s important to find lighting fixtures that are both practical and on-theme. Utilize sleek and chic options with clean lines and minimalist designs while providing a warm glow rather than fluorescent.
Industrial style thrives on character, and nothing adds personality like repurposed furniture. Think weathered book shelves, distressed leather chairs or salvaged old factory parts turned into industrial decor. These elements provide authenticity and a sense of history, while also reducing waste in the grand scheme of things.
To keep an industrial space from feeling too cold or stark, balance out raw architectural elements like a polished concrete floor and metal door with warm tones and organic textures. Consider soft area rugs, linen throw blankets or cushions in earthy tones like rust, olive or warm neutrals. Introducing natural elements like wood and greenery softens the look and creates a more lived-in atmosphere without compromising the aesthetic.
Working With a Pro
Remodeling your home is a big decision — and choosing the right design partner can make all the difference. Decorating Den Interiors offers a personalized, stress-free experience that transforms your vision into a beautifully designed reality.
Here’s why homeowners love working with us:
- Personalized, in-home design consultation.
- Access to a wide range of products.
- Full-service project management.
- Experienced, award-winning designers.
- Budget-conscious planning.
- Stress-free projects.
Ready to experience what it’s like to work with an expert interior designer? Find a local decorator to get started recreating your home for the better.
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