When it comes to home designing, few styles make a statement as bold and unapologetic as industrial design. Defined by exposed materials, minimal ornamentation and a focus on functionality, industrial design adds a bold sense of character to any living space.
The Essence of Industrial Design.
The one phrase that captures the ethos of industrial design is: function over form. At its core, this design celebrates the beauty of the unfinished. Industrial style makes spaces feel more authentic, functional and brimming with personality.
The Industrial Evolution:
- The Factory Age (1760–1840)
The Industrial Revolution brought about massive factories and warehouses, built purely for their efficiency. Exposed brick and iron frameworks offered aesthetic appeal and practicality. - Early 20th Century (1900–1930)
The Bauhaus movement, a German style of art and architecture, emerged in 1919. It focused on utility and was designed using clean lines and simple geometric shapes, laying the foundation for industrial aesthetics. - Post-War Era (1945–1970
As cities modernised and factories shut down, they left behind sprawling, abandoned buildings in cities like New York and London. Artists moved into these spaces, transforming them into homes. - Late 20th Century (1980–2000)
What started as an underground movement slowly gained traction. Commercial spaces, restaurants and eventually homes started adopting the industrial aesthetic. - Contemporary Industrial Design (2000–Present): A Fusion of Styles
Today, there has also been a shift towards a more sustainable approach to design, leading to an increase in the use of upcycled and eco-friendly materials, managing to keep this style relevant.
The Building Blocks of Industrial Style.
- Brick and Concrete: Exposed brick walls or polished concrete floors are the backbone of this aesthetic, lending a sense of permanence and texture.
- Metal Accents: From steel beams to cast-iron fixtures, metal elements add structure and shine. Pieces like blackened steel furniture or copper light fixtures complete the look.
- Wooden Details: Weathered wood offsets the coolness of metal and concrete, bringing a warm tone.
- Glass: Often used in partitions or oversized windows, glass creates a sense of openness.
- Reclaimed & Raw Materials: The industrial aesthetic thrives on repurposed and salvaged elements, such as old factory doors, vintage signage or repurposed wood panels, adding a unique personality to each home interior design.
Key Elements of Industrial Home Design.
- Open Layouts: Old factories were always known to be spacious and uncluttered. This translates into open-plan living spaces in industrial interiors.
- Functional Furniture: Every piece of furniture should serve a purpose. Brownie points if it’s made from repurposed materials. Items with clean lines and sturdy builds fit in perfectly.
- Neutral Colour Palette: Stick to blacks, greys, whites and earthy tones to maintain the industrial vibe. Pops of colour can be added sparingly through decoration items for home.
- Statement Lighting: Pendant lights, exposed bulb fixtures and oversized lamps become focal points in an industrial space.
- Industrial Decor Accents: Incorporate subtle yet impactful details like vintage gears, metal wall art, distressed leather seating or warehouse-inspired shelving for an authentic industrial touch.
Making Your Home Industrious.
- In the Living Room: Add a vintage leather sofa and a metal mesh TV unit to tie the space together.
- In the Kitchen: Open shelving with metal brackets, stainless steel appliances and concrete countertops give your kitchen an industrial vibe.
- In the Bedroom: A bed frame made in metal or wood with industrial-style pendant lights is perfect for an industrial bedroom.
- In the Bathroom: Concrete or stone finishes, matte black fixtures and industrial-style mirrors or glass partitions create a raw yet refined look.
- In Smaller Spaces: Focus on small-scale decoration items for home, like industrial-inspired planters, framed blueprints, or a gear-shaped clock, to bring the style to life.
Why Industrial Design?
- Timeless Appeal: There’s always new ways to improve functionality, keeping this style à la mode.
- Durability: Built on sturdy, hardwearing materials, industrial spaces are built to last.
- Customisable: Be it a modern look or a vintage look, this style can adapt to all your fancies.
- Versatility: Industrial design can seamlessly integrate into various types of spaces, from homes to offices.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many industrial designs incorporate reclaimed materials, making them an environmentally conscious choice for modern homeowners.
Go Industrial with the Best in the Industry: Design Qandy
At Design Qandy, we understand that your home is an extension of your identity. That’s why we blend the raw elegance of industrial design with your unique preferences, ensuring every detail feels personal and purposeful. Whether you’re just starting to design your home or looking to redefine your space with industrial elements, we’re here to guide you.
Take the DQ Style Test to uncover the aesthetic that aligns with your vision.
