The Ultimate Guide to Industrial Interior Design

The industrial interior design style, with its raw and unpretentious aesthetic, has captured the hearts of many. It’s a celebration of the beauty found in utilitarian objects and raw materials. If you’re drawn to the edgy and exposed elements of this style, this guide will help you transform your space into an industrial haven.

Industrial interior living room with raw materials and neutral colors

Caption: The industrial style embraces raw materials and neutral tones to create a relaxed, stylish space.

Key Features of Industrial Style

  • Exposed Materials: The industrial style is all about showcasing the building blocks of your home. Think exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and visible ductwork. These elements add a sense of history and authenticity to your space.
  • Metal Accents: Metal is a key player in industrial design. Incorporate metal accents through furniture, lighting fixtures, and decorative objects. Steel, iron, and copper are popular choices.
  • Neutral Color Palette: Stick to a neutral color scheme with shades of gray, black, white, and brown. These colors create a clean backdrop for the raw materials and industrial elements.
  • Minimalist Approach: Embrace a minimalist mindset when it comes to furniture and décor. Choose pieces that are functional and uncluttered.
Living room with exposed brick, metal fixtures, and a neutral color scheme

Caption: Key elements of industrial design: raw materials, metal accents, and minimalist décor.

Furniture

Industrial-style furniture is characterized by ruggedness and functionality, often crafted from raw materials like wood and metal.

  • Metal Pipe Furniture: Furniture constructed with exposed metal pipes adds an edgy, utilitarian feel.
  • Tolix Side Chair: The iconic Tolix chair, with its metal frame, is a staple of industrial-style design.
  • Reclaimed Wood Furniture: Furniture made from reclaimed wood adds warmth and character to an industrial space.
  • Leather and Linen Upholstery: Opt for furniture upholstered in leather or linen to complement the natural and earthy elements of industrial design.
Industrial-style furniture with metal and reclaimed wood

Caption: Industrial furniture often blends metal and wood for a rugged look.

Décor and Accessories

Industrial décor emphasizes functionality and simplicity, often incorporating vintage elements that add character to the space.

  • Vintage Industrial Objects: Consider items like gears, pulleys, and factory signage.
  • Edison Bulbs: Exposed Edison bulbs are a staple of industrial lighting, creating a warm, inviting glow.
  • Metal Wall Art: Hang metal wall art featuring geometric patterns or industrial motifs to add visual interest.
Edison bulbs and vintage gears on a minimalist wall

Caption: Industrial décor often combines vintage objects with minimalist lighting.

Rugs

For an industrial space, choose rugs with simple patterns and neutral colors to enhance warmth and texture without overpowering the space.

  • Geometric Rugs: Geometric patterns add subtle visual interest.
  • Neutral-Toned Rugs: Stick to colors like gray, black, or brown to complement the industrial theme.
  • Natural Fiber Rugs: Jute or sisal rugs add warmth and texture to the space.
Neutral-toned geometric rug on a concrete floor

Caption: Neutral and geometric rugs complement industrial aesthetics.

Lighting

Industrial lighting typically features exposed bulbs and a utilitarian design that often serves as a focal point in the room.

  • Open Cage Lights: These lights with Edison bulbs add warmth while showcasing the beauty of the exposed bulb.
  • Track Lighting: Track lighting allows you to direct light where needed.
  • Steampunk Lighting: Steampunk-inspired lighting adds an imaginative, vintage vibe.
Open cage lights over a dining table in an industrial setting

Caption: Open cage lights create a warm, industrial atmosphere.

Wall Art

Industrial wall art is bold and impactful, often featuring machinery-inspired elements or raw metal structures.

  • Framed Schematics and Patents: These add an intellectual, industrial edge.
  • Vintage Posters: Posters featuring industrial themes or old advertisements create a nostalgic display.
  • Metal Wall Sculptures: Metal sculptures with geometric shapes add dimension and texture.
Framed vintage patent drawings on an exposed brick wall

Caption: Industrial wall art brings machinery and history to life.

Embrace the Industrial Aesthetic

Industrial interior design is all about embracing the beauty of raw materials and utilitarian objects. Incorporating these elements creates a home that is both stylish and functional. Remember to keep it simple, focus on functionality, and let the materials speak for themselves. With creativity, you can transform your space into an industrial haven that reflects your unique style.