Industrial interior design: how to create it

Hey there! If you’re a fan of raw, edgy, and effortlessly cool spaces, then industrial interior design might just be your jam. Let’s dive into what makes this style so unique, when to use it, and some tips on getting it just right.

What is Industrial Interior Design?
Industrial interior design is all about embracing the raw, unfinished look of warehouses, factories, and other industrial spaces. Think exposed brick walls, metal beams, and concrete floors. It’s a style that celebrates the beauty of raw materials and rugged textures. The vibe is gritty, edgy, and undeniably cool.
When to Use Industrial Interior Design
Industrial design works best in spaces that have an authentic, raw structure to build upon. Here are some perfect scenarios:
● Lofts and Converted Warehouses: These spaces often come with high ceilings, large windows, and exposed structures, making them ideal for an industrial makeover.
● Urban Apartments: If you’re living in the city, industrial design can add a trendy, sophisticated edge to your home.
● Open-Plan Spaces: Industrial design thrives in large, open areas where you can really showcase those bold, structural elements.

When Not to Use Industrial Interior Design

While industrial design is super versatile, it’s not for every space:
●Small, Cozy Rooms: The bold, heavy elements can overwhelm small spaces, making them feel cramped.
● Traditional Homes: If your home has a lot of ornate, historical details, the raw, unfinished look of industrial design might clash.
● Warm, Inviting Spaces: Industrial design tends to be on the cooler side, both in color and feel. If you’re after a warm, cozy vibe, you might want to look elsewhere.

Characteristic Colors and Materials
Colors:
●Neutral Tones: Think blacks, whites, grays, and browns. These form the base of the industrial color palette.
●Bold Accents: Occasionally, pops of bold colors like red, blue, or green can be used to add interest.
Materials:
●Exposed Brick: A staple of industrial design, adding texture and warmth.
● Metal: Steel, iron, and aluminum are used for everything from beams to furniture.
● Concrete: Floors, countertops, and even walls can feature this versatile material.
● Wood: Often used to soften the space, reclaimed wood adds a touch of warmth and history.
● Leather: Perfect for furniture, adding a rugged, yet sophisticated touch.

Combining Industrial with Other Styles
Works Well With:
●Modern: Both styles share clean lines and a minimalist approach, making them a natural fit.
● Rustic: The warmth of rustic design balances the coolness of industrial elements, creating a cozy, lived-in feel.
● Scandinavian: The simplicity and functionality of Scandinavian design complement industrial elements beautifully.

Industrial + Rustic Interior Design

This living room interior design combines Industrial and Rustic styles, featuring exposed brick walls, metal beams, and concrete floors, alongside rustic elements like reclaimed wood furniture, a stone fireplace, and cozy textiles. The furniture includes a mix of metal and wood, with leather seating adding warmth. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space, creating a gritty, edgy, and cozy atmosphere.

Industrial + Scandinavian Interior Design

This living room interior design combines Industrial and Scandinavian styles, featuring exposed brick walls, metal beams, and concrete floors, alongside Scandinavian elements like light wood furniture, cozy textiles, and a neutral color palette. The furniture includes a mix of metal and wood with simple, functional designs. Large windows allow natural light to flood the space,
creating a serene and airy atmosphere with minimal decor.

Not So Great With:

●Traditional: The ornate details and rich colors of traditional design
often clash with the raw simplicity of industrial style.
● Bohemian: The eclectic, colorful nature of boho design can feel out of
place against the stark, raw backdrop of industrial interiors.
● Glam: The opulence and shine of glam design can clash with the
rugged, unfinished look of industrial spaces.

Industrial interior design is all about celebrating the beauty in raw, unfinished materials and creating a space that feels effortlessly cool. It’s perfect for urban lofts and open-plan spaces but might not be the best choice for small or traditionally styled homes. Stick to a neutral color palette, embrace materials like metal, brick, and concrete, and don’t be afraid to mix in a bit of wood or
leather to warm things up. And remember, industrial design is all about balance —combining rugged elements with clean lines and minimalist decor to create a space that feels both edgy and inviting. Happy decorating!