The trend of renovating and repurposing old warehouses, barns, and industrial halls has given birth to the popularity of industrial design. In a sort of backward evolution, the rugged aesthetics of industrial facilities, including old factories, mills, warehouses, and workshops, have inspired some of today’s most eclectic home interior designs.

    Styles range from rustic exposed finishes and bare structural elements to early electricity lighting themes, letting industrial design give something to everyone. It stands out as a trend that will cause many iterations.


    1. Seek Inspiration from Historic Buildings

    Industrial design is an umbrella term for many different approaches. If you aren’t sure what type of industrial features you want, take a look at buildings with historical significance and grasp creative ideas that inspired their furnishings. 

    Exposed brick walls, bare steel columns, and timber roof trusses have been predominant in waterfront warehouses and manufacturing districts. If needed, travel to the nearest town with a rich history and see if any revitalization of older buildings has taken place. Many cities across the country have a dedicated warehouse district with many industrial characteristics. 

    Worldwide, downtown warehouses and industrial facilities transform into galleries, upscale condos, and even innovative office buildings. Look for creative ways these buildings blend industrial architecture with modern design. Pay attention to lighting fixtures, exposed building materials, and deliberate incorporation of structural elements into living spaces.


    2. Mix Modern and Industrial

    industrial-pendant lighting
    Source: Canva

    The art of adding industrial elements to your home includes the finesse of mixing and matching some contemporary styles with the industrial backdrop. After all, no one wants to live in a home resembling a movie set.

    The easiest space to achieve this is the kitchen. Today’s appliances come in modern, sleek, stainless steel hardware, and it’s relatively easy to match the cabinetry with the appliance front panels for a nod to industrial machining elements. 

    Exposed pendant lighting, such as oversized Edison-style filament bulbs, can cast a new light on old rustic metallic fixtures and a heavy hardwood workbench-style countertop.

    In living areas, combine industrial focal points like a brick fireplace or concrete coffee table with mid-century modern furnishings. The juxtaposition of elegant furniture against rugged industrial accents creates an exciting look.


    3. Choose Your Favorite Metal

    copper kitchen utensils
    Source: Canva

    The Industrial Revolution fueled iron and steel production in the United States and Europe, giving way to the widespread application of metal elements in both structural solutions and furnishings. Industrially manufactured metals were prominent in plumbing and lighting fixtures and cabinet and door hardware.

    Designers can use wrought iron as an ornamental element in an industrially inspired interior. You should also consider non-ferrous, colored metals such as brushed nickel, copper, brass, and bronze for an organic industrial appeal.

    Metallic finishes and hardware lend an industrial vibe. Go for a coordinated look by choosing one or two metallic finishes and using them consistently throughout the home.


    4. Add an Industrial-Inspired Focal Point

    If you’re renovating your home, make an industrial backdrop by giving the place an architectural focal point. Focal points can include statement walls, exposed brick fireplaces, or concrete fixtures. For example, refacing a fireplace with exposed materials creates an industrial-inspired look while leaving the rest of the room modern and clean.

    Thanks to its structure and finishes, concrete is a resourceful material. Exposed aggregates allow decorative concrete with a polished stone look, tracing to your geographic region’s rock.

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    Use concrete for countertops, sinks, and bathtubs. Exposed concrete adds an organic, rugged feel while looking polished and intentional.


    5. Use Rustic Wood Finishes

    Wood inherently lends itself to industrial design. Unfinished, unpainted wood exposes raw grains and textures contrasting metals and masonry. 

    Use reclaimed, barn, or distressed wood. Apply dark stains accentuating the natural patina. Structural beams are a classic industrial addition. Additionally, weathered or barn wood works for beams, mantels, shelving, and accent walls.


    6. Show Off Masonry

    brick fireplace
    Source: Canva

    Brick, stone, and concrete constructions thrived during the industrial era thanks to material innovations. Exposing masonry gives a warehouse look. Add a brick accent wall or stone fireplace. Sandblasting also achieves a worn, timeworn appearance.

    Furthermore, masonry materials like brick, concrete, and stone lend themselves to industrial design’s utilitarian origins focused on function over form. Use masonry to add raw textures contrasting drywall and other uniform building materials.


    7. Incorporate Industrial Lighting

    Industrial Lighting
    Source: Canva

    Industrial lighting relies on exposed bulbs and minimal ornamentation to create a functional, back-to-basics aesthetic. Nothing transforms a space quicker than lighting fixtures

    Swap dome lights for Edison or filament bulbs for instant industrial flair. Maximize natural light with large windows, skylights or solar tubes, and minimize ornamentation on coverings to maintain a clean aesthetic. Use pendant lights, resembling early electrical lamps, with exposed wires and bare bulbs. Track lighting also achieves an industrial vibe. Opt for matte or brass finishes, and mix metals to add personality while keeping the look cohesive.


    So, Is Industrial Design Right for You?

    Industrial design allows incorporating as many or as few industrial elements as you wish. Small doses of metals, bulbs, or reclaimed wood can spice up traditional decor.

    Before an industrial remodel, evaluate how the aesthetic fits your lifestyle and tastes. It can have downsides like echoey acoustics and cold ambiance. However, with enough balance of warmth, color, and soft textures, an industrial design will make a great addition to your home. 

    Incorporating industrial accents into modern design is safer than completely converting your home into an industrial space. Bridge modern comforts with raw, utilitarian materials honoring the past.


    FAQs About Industrial Design

    What are the defining features of industrial design?

    Prominent industrial interior features include exposed brick, ductwork, concrete, metal elements, distressed wood, vintage lighting, and minimalist, functional furniture.


    What colors work well with industrial design?

    Neutral, earthy palettes work best. Black, white, gray, brown, and terracotta are common. Add pops of color through accessories rather than major finishes.


    How much does an industrial home renovation cost?

    Costs are comparable to other major renovations. Exposed brick starts around $10 per square foot, and concrete countertops average $80 to $100 per square foot. Architectural elements like steel beams could add tens of thousands, depending on materials and labor.


    What furniture styles pair well with industrial decor?

    Opt for clean lines and practical shapes. Mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern, and industrial vintage styles work beautifully. Tufted leather sofas can also add softness. Avoid ornate traditional styles.


    How do I warm up an industrial space?

    Add natural elements like wood furniture, plants, cozy textiles, and subtle colors. Place area rugs on concrete floors. Install window treatments to soften large windows. Add shelving and bookcases to absorb sound.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Lauren Greene

    Staff Writer

    Lauren Greene is a passionate storyteller with over 4 years of experience writing and editing. She attributes her expertise from working at local magazines, newspapers, and corporate marketing and communications teams. She has worked on content with topics ranging from plant care, home decor, and home improvement. Lauren resides in Raleigh with her adorable Shih Tzu. You can catch Lauren attending to her plants, spending time with her puppy, enjoying the greenway, or lifting weights at the gym when she’s not writing or researching the latest home improvement topics.

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    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

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