Design: The Brynn Olson Group LLC

Classic industrial style strives to bring the look of an industrial building home with high ceilings, exposed beams, and metal accents. From converted factories to rustic lofts, this style is all about creating a streamlined design with mixed materials. See our breakdown of the key elements of industrial style below for how to get the look in your own home.

Industrial Must-Haves

• Furniture with clean lines, metal, leather, or wood
• Colour palettes with cream, grey, brown, tan, and black
• Vintage accents inspired by retro appliances, gears, or gadgets
• Minimal, subtle patterns and streamlined upholstery
• Spaces with high ceilings, exposed architecture, and an open concept 

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Neutral Tones

Design: Fitzsimmons Architects

Design: Studio Frank 

Most industrial spaces feature a neutral palette, letting bold architectural features and dynamic textures take the stage. Dark greys, browns, and black are go-to picks; for a pop of colour, add in small decorative elements, like a bright red coffee table book or a colourful wall art piece. When it comes to the larger elements, like a dining table or sofa, it's all about natural wood finishes and
neutral upholstery.   

Metal Accents

Design: Havenly

Design: Jessie D. Miller Design

Design: BHDM Design LLC

Metal furniture and decor often acts as the focal point in industrial spaces. From headboards to side tables, metal is the material of choice. For a more rustic look, consider mixing materials, like a coffee table with a distressed wood top and metal base. In a modern industrial space, stainless steel or other more polished metals add a crisp, streamlined look. Finish your space with retro metal decor, like an old industrial fan or vintage sewing machine. 

Architectural Spaces

Design: Peggy Leung Design

Design: Fitzsimmons Architects

Design: Dement Designs

One of the most iconic aspects of industrial style is the architecture itself. From soaring lofted ceilings to exposed brick walls to floating staircases, interesting designs bring character to this look. Don't have high ceilings or exposed brick? No problem! Channel an industrial feel with exposed filament lightbulbs, brick backsplash in the kitchen, or stainless steel accents. Overall, industrial spaces showcase mixed materials, exposed designs, and rustic yet streamlined accents.  

An Iconic Element

If one piece of furniture could encapsulate the industrial look perfectly, then the metal and wood bookcase would be it.

Combining two of the key aspects of industrial style (warm, natural wood and cool, sleek metal), this piece is a must-have for anyone incorporating this look into their home.

Try it as a stand-in for the traditional dining room hutch, or simply as an accent piece to display books, accents, or a record player (for the full urban loft vibe) in your living room. This bookcase blends rustic materials with clean lines, just like the style it encompasses.   

Editors' Tips for Perfecting the Look

Design: Jerrica Zarich Interior Design

Design: Antonio Martins Interior Design

• Add softness to an industrial space with hide rugs, oversized seating, and leather upholstery.
• Hang lighting that looks like it belongs in a factory or old-fashioned school.
• Mix and match new pieces with thrift store or flea market finds for well-curated style.
• Infuse life into industrial spaces, which can feel stark and cold, with plants in every room.
• Allow wall art to show off your personality, whether you'd prefer vintage illustrations, black and white photography, or modern art.