Design Style Series: Industrial Design

A blend of modern, low profile furniture and rustic decor - these are features of Industrial Design style. Do you love the look of metal pipes, Edison bulbs, and reclaimed wood? If so, this might be the design style for you! In this post, I explain the elements that are used in Industrial Design style.

Wood & Metal Furniture With a Worn Finish

A desk with a distressed wood top and steel base or unfinished wood planks resting on metal pipes for wall-mounted storage are some examples of furniture pieces that could be used in an industrial-style room. You will typically see unfinished materials or a worn rustic finish instead of polished and shiny. Look for medium to dark wood tones or even pieces with a distressed painted finish.

Neutral Color Palette

With all of that texture going on, a neutral palette allows the mix of materials and unique architecture of an Industrial style room to stand out. But that doesn’t mean an Industrial style space can’t have any color! If you’re decorating a space at home, consider choosing one accent color to mix in with a mostly neutral color palette. If your space already has industrial architecture and materials, like concrete floors, you may look to decorate with warmer hues to contrast with what might otherwise feel like a cold space. I also love the way the leaves of live plants pop in a space with mostly neutral colors.

Metal Task Lighting

Having a mix of lighting sources is so important for creating a comfortable and functional space. There are various types of light fixtures that could be used in an Industrial style room that adds to the cool rustic feel. Your room may need an oversized metal pendant light or a unique chandelier with Edison bulbs. One key lighting element is task lighting, which should be incorporated where needed - for a cozy corner designed for reading or a desk lamp to provide appropriate lighting for a workspace.

Minimal Accessories

Industrial style spaces tend to be more minimal, with fewer accessories and more large statement-making pieces. For art, think oversized - abstract paintings, old signs, framed patent prints, and black and white photography prints. If you are decorating a room in your home in this style, consider adding live plants, a few throw pillows and blankets, and antique decor!

Vintage Items

You can incorporate so much character and continue with the Industrial look with antique finds and salvaged decor. As I mentioned before, old signs could be used as art, or you could repurpose wooden storage crates. For furniture, look for vintage metal cabinets, antique wooden trunks, metal chairs, and more.

What's your favorite element of Industrial Design style? I hope you found this blog post helpful!

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