Industrial homes replicate the raw, unfinished feel of warehouses through the use of rough materials and repurposed products. This style ranges from fully converted urban lofts and commercial buildings to traditional homes with industrial home design. Industrial style incorporates rough metal, concrete, cinder block, cables, bolts and exposed brick in both the architecture and decor. It has an edgy, unpolished feel, though industrial architecture is not always paired with industrial home decor. In the past few years, industrial design has become increasingly popular and it’s easy to see why. The look is based on combining the best aspects of old-world charm with modern sleekness. In essence, it’s a perfect compromise. However, there’s one big misconception keeping this style from becoming a household staple. Typically when we think of industrial design we think of lofts and big open windows and exposed brick. In the suburban atmosphere we may feel the design is not traditional enough. We are here to tell you you couldn’t be further from the truth. We would like to give you a few suggestion of how every room in your home can benefit from a dose of industrial style.
Use a Cool Color palette
When you think about an industrial color scheme, you probably envision gray, gray and gray, with a little black and white thrown in for kicks. And while it’s true that the range of colors in this style tends to be narrower than in others, there’s wiggle room in the palette — as long as you don’t overdo it. Start with a background of neutrals that have cool undertones, and then you could bring in a measured dose of citron, tangerine, fuchsia or another saturated hue. Or go dark and moody, indigo, plum, moss. Don’t forget that natural materials also count as neutrals. If you’re lucky enough to live in a home with brick walls or exposed duct work, those should absolutely take center stage. Even if not, you could also consider incorporating a variety of wood, stone and metal pieces into your design.
Create an Open Layout
You can create greater impact by grouping like objects together or turning salvaged finds into furniture. Industrial style had its genesis in big, cavernous buildings – warehouses, garages, packing plants – so it only makes sense that an open floor plan is a hallmark of the look. High ceilings cap expansive rooms that often serve multiple functions, such as a kitchen, dining room and living area all blended into one. Since we typically think of that urban loft space as the industrial ideal, it is important to try and re-create that feeling regardless of your surroundings. If you have the square footage, go all in on an open concept layout. If not, focus on making the room feel as open as possible. This means making sure your design includes plenty of negative space. Instead of filling the room with lots of clutter, make sure its function is the focus. Keep any pathways to travel around the room as wide as you can and try to limit any purchases with pieces that pull double duty in terms of usage and aesthetic value.
Mix Wood and Metal Furniture
If there’s a go-to industrial material, it’s metal. Tin, steel, iron and aluminum create a clean, cool, functional sensibility and lend just the right touch of sleekness without feeling too upscale. Anything that can be forged or welded is fair game: exposed ductwork, stairwells, countertops, divider walls. When shopping for wooden pieces, there’s a certain look you’ll want to go after. Instead of searching for new, totally finished items, concentrate on finding furniture that looks like it has a history. This weathered look can be achieved in a variety of ways. While you’ll pay a premium for it in stores, you can save by following a tutorial or combing through yard sales and secondhand stores to find hidden treasures.
Add in Industrial Accessories
Industrial style erases the line between trash and treasure and reveals beauty. Singular finds with emphatic lines and forms, from old parking meters and typewriter tables to overscale bolts and gears, give the look its characteristic strength. And if they look a little shopworn, so much the better. Vintage photographs are great additions. Lighting fixtures that feature Edition bulbs fit the bill nicely. Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong here. If a striking object or a collection of pieces speaks to you, display it with pride. You can create greater impact by grouping like objects together. The key to creating your industrial design is finding ways to make it feel as though you really are inside a turn-of-the-century factory.
Industrial Design Can be an Asset in Any Room
There’s no questioning why so many people have fallen in love with industrial design. It allows us the freedom to embrace antique beauty while still enjoying modern conveniences. However, it’s important to remember that this look isn’t reserved solely for city dwellers. Use these tips as a guide and you’ll be able to re-create this aesthetic, no matter where you live. If you’re considering renovating your home a wonderful way to bring in industrial details is to find architectural focal points that need a new face. Fireplaces and accent walls can be refaced with industrial exposed materials to create a finished look that is industrial inspired while leaving the rest of your room looking modern and clean. Concrete is a great finish to work with, as it is functional structurally and can be polished for a high gloss or left matte or unfinished for a rustic appeal. Leave nail heads and seams exposed to bring out the industrial appeal of this versatile building material. Concrete can be used on floors, countertops, sinks, bathtubs, fireplaces and more.
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About Business Concepts Remodeling
Building Concepts specializes in custom remodeling projects across the Greater Cincinnati Area. Our comprehensive residential and commercial experience has built a reliable reputation you can trust. Everyday we work to build trust through communication and attention to detail. We strive to enhance the lives of our clients by providing high quality solutions with hands on service. Throughout the remodeling project, minimal disruption to your home or office is our highest priority.
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