People renovate houses with an interior style in mind. Some like contemporary, others prefer traditional, and some go for an eclectic mix of styles. But one interior style has been gaining popularity in recent years: industrial.
An industrial-style interior takes its cue from the rough-and-tumble world of factories and warehouses. This type of interior usually features exposed brick walls, concrete floors, metal fixtures, and vintage furniture.
If you’re thinking of renovating your home in an industrial style, there are a few tips you can keep in mind.
Incorporate Metal Accents
One great way to add an industrial touch to your home is by using metal fixtures. This can include light fixtures, door handles, cabinet hardware, plumbing fixtures, and even metal railings and staircases. Since metal is so versatile, you can use it in various ways to create an industrial look.
You can find all sorts of vintage and antique metal fixtures at salvage stores or online. But if you want to take your renovation to the next level, consider having your metal accents customized. There are many reliable providers of custom metal fabrication services that can create one-of-a-kind pieces for your home.
For example, you’ve been wanting to replace your old spiral staircase. But instead of opting for a traditional staircase, you can have a custom metal spiral staircase fabricated. This will add an instant industrial touch to your home.
Or maybe you are after a more modern industrial look? In that case, consider having custom metal furniture made. This includes coffee tables, dining tables, beds, and shelving units. The key is finding a reputable metal fabrication service provider that sells quality metals and offers powder coating services. This way, you can be sure that your custom furniture will last many years.
Exposed Brick Walls Are a Key Element
One of the key components of industrial style design is exposed materials. Many industrial-style homes will feature exposed brick walls. This raw and unfinished look gives the space an industrial feel.
Instead of hiding your brick walls behind drywall or paneling, consider showing them off. You can even use them as a design element by painting them a unique color or hanging artwork on them.
If your home has no exposed brick walls, you can create the look by installing thin brick veneer. Make sure to choose a brick with a rough texture for an authentic look. You also have the option to install exposed concrete walls to get the same effect.
Concrete Floors Give an Industrial Space a Raw Feel
Are you tired of your tile or hardwood floors? Then consider installing concrete floors. This flooring gives the space a raw and unfinished feel without being too cold or industrial. It’s also very durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
If you’re worried about cold concrete floors, you can always install radiant heating underneath. This will keep your feet warm and toasty all winter long.
If you’re not ready to commit to concrete floors, you can also try using laminate or vinyl flooring that looks like concrete. These materials are much more affordable and easier to install than actual concrete. Just make sure to choose a high-quality product, so it seems realistic.
Keep the Colour Scheme Simple
Many homeowners joined the industrial design trend by painting their walls white. This gives the space a clean and minimalistic look. But if you want to add more color to your home, consider using neutral tones such as gray, black, or brown. These colors will give your home the same feel without making it look too plain.
You can also use bolder colors if you want to make a statement. But be careful not to use too many colors, as this can make the space look busy and cluttered. An industrial-style interior should have a simple color scheme usually limited to just a few shades.
The most common colors used in industrial-style interiors are black, white, grey, and brown. This palette creates a stark contrast that highlights the raw materials used in the design scheme. Don’t forget to choose low volatile organic compounds (VOC) paint to reduce harmful toxins in the air.
Use Natural Light Where Possible
In an industrial-style home, it’s crucial to use natural light as much as possible. This is because the interior is usually quite dark due to dark colors. So if you have large windows, make sure to keep them uncovered. And if you don’t have many windows, consider installing skylights.
You can also use mirrors to reflect light and make the space feel brighter. When using mirrors, place them opposite windows to reflect the natural light into the room. Also, choose big and bold mirrors as they will make a statement in your home.
If you want more privacy, you can always use window treatments such as blinds or curtains. But avoid using heavy drapes, as this will make the space feel smaller and darker.
Lighting is an essential element in an industrial style interior. You want to use a mix of natural and artificial light to brighten up the space. Use floor, table, and pendant lights to add more light to the room. And make sure to use light bulbs with a high wattage, so the space is well-lit.
An industrial-style interior could be perfect for you if you’re drawn to clean lines and minimalist aesthetics. This design style is all about raw materials, neutral colors, natural light, and bold statement pieces. So if you’re looking to give your home a makeover, consider using these design tips.
