Industrial interior design has been making waves in commercial spaces for a long time, and in recent years, we are seeing more homeowners adopting this hip aesthetic for their own dwellings as well.
For those who are just getting into industrial interior design, this popular style mainly features a raw and “unfinished” look, coupled with the use of a neutral colour palette and generous wood and metal surfaces. For those who are still confused, fret not! We’ve rounded up some of the most prevalent elements of industrial interior design as summarised from Decoist to help you get started.
Exposed Pipes and Ducts
Pictures (from left): Decoist, HGTV
Gone are the days when pipes and ducts are never to be seen – in fact, industrial interior design does the opposite by embracing exposed pipes and ducts as a key element of the overall design. While we often see commercial spaces using dark colours such as grey to achieve the industrial look, we recommend using white in your homes instead – first, white brightens up the space and makes your home look bigger – definitely a plus in Singapore! Second, white provides a sharp contrast to the metallic tones of the exposed pipes and ducts, creating a more visually interesting space.
Pictures (from left): Design*Sponge, Babble
Apart from using them as fixtures, you can also incorporate exposed pipes in your furniture choices. For example, make exposed pipes go beyond being merely decorative by incorporating them in your kitchen shelving, or by using them to hang often used kitchen tools.
Wood, Metal and Brick
Pictures (from left): Loombrand, Kukun
If you’re after the industrial look, remember, wood, metal and brick are your best friends! The pairing of these three materials is the most foolproof way to achieve the industrial aesthetic, and the best part is, feel free to mix and match to your heart’s fancy! For example, pair grunge brick walls with wooden floor panels before completing the look with metal furniture. Otherwise, complement wooden wall panels with metal window frames. The possibilities are endless! For the overall colour palette, take your cue from these materials and opt for a neutral palette of monochrome and earth tones to keep it coherent.
Vintage Furniture
With the skeleton of the house completed, let’s not forget about the details – picking out the right furniture. Keep the entire look consistent by choosing furniture that likewise uses metal and wood in their designs. While you can probably find many new pieces that seek to emulate the industrial aesthetic, we also suggest scouring antique stores for timeless vintage finds that truly lend an industrial air to your home!
Picture: Forbes
Metal bar stools are an economical way to instantly make your kitchen space industrial chic.
Picture: Apartment Therapy
Exposed bulbs are another simple and budget-friendly way to add some industrial chic to your home.
Picture: Little House of Four
Visit antique and vintage stores to find timeless furniture pieces that bring a genuine vintage vibe to your home.
