Industrial design has surged in popularity over the past few years, known for its raw, edgy aesthetics combined with a sense of modern sophistication. This style, rooted in the architecture of old factories and warehouses, brings a unique charm and character to living spaces. Here’s how to design and style an industrial living room that balances rugged elements with contemporary elegance.
Colour Choices for Walls
When it comes to wall colours in an industrial living room, the key is to keep it neutral and understated. This allows the architectural elements and furniture to stand out. Here are some ideal choices:
Greys and Charcoal: These shades echo the look of concrete and steel, which are quintessential to the industrial aesthetic. Opt for varying tones of grey to add depth without overwhelming the space.
White and Off-White: Crisp white walls can brighten up the room and make it feel more spacious, providing a clean backdrop that highlights the raw textures and bold furniture pieces.
Brick Red or Exposed Brick: If you have a brick wall, embrace it! Exposed brick is a staple in industrial design. If not, a feature wall painted in a rich brick red can mimic this effect and add warmth.
Earthy Tones: Subtle shades like taupe, beige, or even a muted olive green can add a touch of softness to the industrial look, making the space feel inviting and cosy.
Style of Furniture
Industrial furniture is all about combining practicality with rugged beauty. Here are some key features to look for:
Metal and Wood: Furniture pieces that combine metal and reclaimed wood are perfect for an industrial living room. Think coffee tables with steel legs and wooden tops, or shelving units made from metal frames and wooden planks.
Leather Upholstery: Leather sofas and armchairs in rich browns or blacks add a touch of luxury and complement the industrial vibe. They also add a cosy, inviting element to balance the hardness of metal and wood.
Minimalist Design: Opt for furniture with clean lines and simple forms. Overly ornate or decorative pieces can clash with the industrial style. The goal is to keep it functional and straightforward.
Vintage and Repurposed Items: Incorporating vintage or repurposed items can enhance the industrial feel. Think old factory carts as coffee tables, or vintage lockers as storage units.
Style of Wall Art
Wall art in an industrial living room should complement the raw, unfinished look of the space while adding a personal touch. Here are some ideas:
Abstract and Geometric Art: Large, abstract paintings or geometric prints can create a striking focal point. Stick to monochromatic or muted colour palettes to maintain the industrial feel.
Black and White Photography: Framed black and white photographs, especially of urban landscapes or architectural details, fit perfectly with the industrial theme. They add a sophisticated touch without overwhelming the space.
Metal Art and Sculptures: Metal wall art or sculptures can add texture and interest. Look for pieces made from wrought iron, steel, or copper to keep with the industrial material palette.
Repurposed Signs and Letters: Vintage signs, marquee letters, or even old blueprints can be great additions. These elements bring a sense of history and character, reinforcing the industrial aesthetic.
Flooring Choices for an Industrial Living Room
The flooring in an industrial living room plays a crucial role in tying the entire space together. It should complement the raw, rugged aesthetic while providing a durable and practical foundation. Here are some flooring options that work perfectly with industrial design:
Polished Concrete: Polished concrete is the quintessential industrial flooring choice. It offers a sleek, modern look while staying true to the raw, unfinished vibe of industrial spaces. Concrete floors are incredibly durable and easy to maintain, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like living rooms. You can opt for a high-gloss finish for a more modern feel or a matte finish for a softer, more understated look.
Exposed or Distressed Hardwood: Wooden floors with a distressed or weathered finish can add warmth and character to an industrial living room. Look for reclaimed wood or engineered hardwood in wide planks with visible knots, grain, and imperfections. The natural, worn appearance of the wood adds contrast to the metal and concrete elements, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
Luxury Vinyl Planks: Luxury vinyl planks (LVP) offer the look of wood or concrete with added durability and ease of installation. LVP is a great option if you want the aesthetic of hardwood or concrete without the higher cost or maintenance. Choose planks in grey, charcoal, or warm brown tones to match the industrial colour palette.
Stone or Slate Tiles Natural stone or slate tiles can enhance the industrial feel with their rugged texture and organic appearance. These materials are both durable and stylish, providing a tactile contrast to smoother surfaces like metal and glass. Opt for large-format tiles in darker tones to create a seamless, modern look.
Stained Concrete: If you want to add a bit more colour or depth to your industrial living room, consider stained concrete flooring. Stained concrete can be customized with different hues, from earthy browns and deep charcoals to subtle greys and greens. This option allows you to add a unique, personalized touch to your space while still maintaining the industrial aesthetic.
Layering with Rugs: To soften the look and feel of your industrial flooring, consider adding area rugs. Choose rugs made from natural fibres like wool, jute, or sisal, which add texture and warmth to the space. Neutral tones or geometric patterns work well in maintaining the industrial vibe without overpowering the room. A large, plush rug can also help define different areas within an open-plan living space, such as separating the seating area from the rest of the room.;
Final Touches
To complete your industrial living room, consider the following:
Lighting: Industrial spaces often feature bold lighting fixtures. Think oversized pendant lights, exposed bulbs, and metal shades.
Textiles: Soft furnishings like rugs, throws, and cushions in natural fabrics such as wool, linen, and cotton can add warmth and comfort.
Greenery: Adding some indoor plants can soften the space and bring in a touch of nature, which contrasts beautifully with the raw materials.
By carefully selecting colours, furniture, and wall art, you can create an industrial living room that is both stylish and inviting. The key is to balance the rugged, unfinished look with elements of modern elegance to achieve a harmonious and visually appealing space.