The industrial interior aesthetic has steadily gained traction among design enthusiasts who appreciate the perfect blend of form and function. This distinctive style, inspired by the factories and warehouses of the past, is all about celebrating raw beauty and architectural elements.
If you’re ready to transform your home into a chic and functional haven that embraces the industrial era, here are some tips to help you achieve an industrial interior space.
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Choose Microcement For Floors And Walls
One of the most effective ways to achieve an industrial interior aesthetic is by incorporating microcement into your design. Microcement, a polymer-modified cement-based coating, has become increasingly popular due to its durability, water resistance, and ability to adhere to various surfaces, including floors, walls, and countertops.
This versatile material adds a sleek and modern touch to your space without the hassle of installing traditional concrete or exposed brick. You can also mix and match different shades and finishes of microcement to add depth and interest to your design.
While microcement can cost up to £120 a square metre, the investment is often worth it for those seeking a unique and eye-catching design element. The installation process is relatively quick and easy compared to other materials, allowing you to transform your space quickly.
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Select Reclaimed And Salvaged Furniture For A Unique Space
Choosing the right furniture is essential to creating an authentic and unique atmosphere. One of the most effective ways to achieve this look is by incorporating reclaimed and salvaged furniture into your space.
- Reclaimed Furniture: These are pieces made from previously used materials, such as wood from old barns, warehouses, or factories. These materials’ aged appearance and natural imperfections perfectly align with an industrial design’s raw and unfinished aesthetic.
- Salvaged Furniture: These pieces are rescued and repurposed from old buildings and structures, often maintaining their original form and function.
Consider sourcing furniture from local antique stores or flea markets. You can also try looking at online marketplaces specializing in vintage and repurposed items to create a unique space.
Look for pieces that showcase the natural beauty of their materials, such as exposed metal frameworks, worn leather upholstery, or weathered wooden surfaces. These elements will contribute to the overall industrial aesthetic and help to tell a story within your space.
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Use A Neutral Palette For A Cohesive Look
Gray is the quintessential industrial colour, evoking the look of concrete, steel, and other raw materials associated with the style. Start by selecting a grey shade that complements your space’s other elements, such as flooring, walls, or countertops. It will create a harmonious backdrop for your furniture and accessories.
Once you’ve established your base colour of grey, layer in other neutral shades to add depth and interest to your design. Consider incorporating beige or taupe for warmth, white for brightness and contrast, or black for a bold and dramatic touch. You can also prevent your neutral palette from feeling flat or monotonous by combining a mix of textures throughout your space.
While a neutral palette is the foundation of an industrial-style space, don’t be afraid to incorporate small pops of colour for added personality. You can achieve this through artwork, decorative accessories, or a statement piece. Stick to muted or earthy tones, such as burnt orange, deep green, or mustard yellow, to maintain the industrial vibe.
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Incorporate Iron, Steel, And Copper Elements
A key aspect of achieving an industrial interior aesthetic is incorporating metallic elements like iron, steel, and copper.
- Iron And Steel Accents: To incorporate these materials into your design, consider using iron or steel elements for furniture frames, shelving units, and lighting fixtures. You can also introduce these metals through smaller accents, such as drawer pulls, decorative brackets, or curtain rods.
- Copper Accents And Features: Copper adds warmth and a touch of elegance to industrial spaces. Its natural patina, which develops over time, contributes to the aged and weathered appearance that defines the industrial aesthetic. Introduce copper to your design through pendant lights, plumbing fixtures, or decorative accessories.
- Exposed Mechanical Elements: Embrace the mechanical aspects of your space by leaving elements like pipes, ductwork, and metal beams exposed. It adds visual interest and reinforces the raw and functional nature of the industrial aesthetic.
With their raw and unfinished appearance, these materials perfectly embody the spirit of the industrial era and can be used in various ways to create a beautiful space.
Takeaway
Achieving an industrial interior aesthetic is an exciting and rewarding process that allows you to create a living space that pays homage to the past and embraces modern sensibilities. You can create a stunning industrial-inspired, stylish, and functional environment by incorporating key elements such as reclaimed and salvaged furniture, iron, steel, and copper accents, and a neutral colour palette.
As you embark on your industrial design journey, remember that this aesthetic is all about celebrating beauty in imperfection and embracing the character of your space.