A home’s foundation — exposed beams, brick, metal and other construction components — may also function as the foundation for industrial style. This look evolved from the massive factories of the 19th century, which were finally abandoned and remodeled to havens for architects, artists and other creative professionals, who enjoy the interesting architecture, open space and acoustics.
Nowadays the industrial fashion that stems from these imaginative living spaces has caught on with more people than attic dwellers. Whether you’ve got a more contemporary or classic approach, industrial components may add a border your house. Here you will learn about a few of the basic elements of the style and ways to incorporate them in your property.
Groundswell Design Group, LLC
1. Weathered wood. The wood on older factory floors and furnishings suffered some severe wear and tear out of its rough surroundings. Most factories-turned-industrial-lofts are prized for its rich patina that’s developed on the wood, adding heat and nostalgia into the space.
Get this look: Hit your local salvage yard, flea market or swap meet to reclaim a weathered wood slice out of its former factory glory. Old floors are great for new paneled walls or islands, and older window frames and doorways can become new wall hangings, headboards, tables and artwork.
Modern Craft Construction, LLC
2. Construction systems. HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems were often left exposed in these older industrial factories. Since the spaces were purely functional, there was little need to conceal the building’s structural components.
Get this look: Exposed ductwork and pipes don’t pair well with all today’s interiors. But, it is possible to introduce cool industrial components in subtler ways, such as incorporating an exposed bit of duct in the kitchen. Also, try using galvanized pipe for DIY table thighs, shelving brackets or a coatrack. Get creative!
InDesign / Lori Ludwick
3. Exposed brick. Fired clay brick was used as a construction material for centuries in the USA. This carefully crafted structural component is known for its durability and longevity, so it adorned several of the nation’s first factories.
Get this look: We’re not blessed enough to possess this architectural jewel hiding our existing drywall. But, bricks or brick veneer can always be inserted. If you are not searching for a focal wall, then try restricting this substance into a kitchen backsplash, fireplace surround or entryway.
Cornerstone Architects
4. Lighting. Industrial pendant fixtures with porcelain enameled shades, cast aluminum bulb cagessteel or ribbed glass colors were just one of the favorite light types that illuminated the older factories.
Get this look: Nowadays dozens of contemporary lighting producers concentrate in this look. Look for a significant pendant in your price range and add it over a dining area, an island, an entryway or a hallway to get a subtle industrial area.
5. Concrete. Concrete was widely used in older factories, mills and workshops to both flooring and structural work. Due to its durability, very low cost and durability, this substance worked well in 19th-century industrial factories.
Get this look: Staining and shining are popular and relatively inexpensive options for those stuck with existing concrete. Not ready to adopt this material on your flooring? Simple accessories such as cement planters, table foundations or DIY cinder block cushions might help mimic the look.
Jamie Laubhan-Oliver
6. Steel. Industrial factories and mills had metal columns, beams and trusses. Much like the exposed construction systems, there was little reason to cover these structural requirements.
Get this look: Stick to simple, steel accessories and furnishings to give your house an understated industrial touch. The cleaner the lines, the closer to the industrial look.
Duffy Design Group
7. Repurposed furnishings. Gears, mechanical apparatus, work pieces, valves, gears, hardware and tile are just a few of the nonstructural elements salvaged from older factories. Their robust construction makes for incredible, creative furnishing chances.
Get this look: Salvaged industrial components and older factory pieces look great when mixed with other design fashions or just by themselves. Try tipping an old gear over on its side and top it with a bit of glass for an impromptu side desk, or simply put a selection of old tools out on screen.
More: So Your Style Is: Industrial