HOW TO BRING INDUSTRIAL STYLE INTO THE HOME
The foundation of a home is truly that: it is the core from which the entire house is built and designed. Using this as a basis for aesthetics, industrial design style pulls from factory-focused, 19th Century architecture. It focuses on exposed wood, metal beams, and other primary elements that make up a structure’s composition.
These days, industrial style can be conveyed in a number of different manners. From visible hardware to bronze hues, architects and interior designers are proving that design aesthetic of the Industrial era is alive and well. Check out some ideas of how to incorporate these trends into your home.
1. Weathered Wood
Old factory floors, countertops, and stairs used to almost exclusively outfitted in solid hardwood. Using wood as a foundational design and construction element bring warm, rustic notes into any space.
Wooden accents are also great to pair with metallic fixtures that feature coiled designs, such as the VIGO Edison seen to the right. Pairing wood with metals makes for a perfect mixture between hard and soft, making your space unique and timeless.
2. Farmhouse Kitchen Sinks and Faucets
Perhaps the easiest way to make a statement in your industrial style kitchen is to incorporate the all-in-one VIGO Farmhouse Kitchen Sink Set. Made from 16-gauge, 304 series stainless steel, the VIGO 33 inch Bedford Stainless Steel Farmhouse Kitchen Sink is built for optimal durability. It is easy to clean and stays protected from impact with a stainless-steel bottom grid. The VIGO Weston Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet that goes with this sink is a perfect complement. With a dual-action spray head that easily switches from an aerated stream to a powerful spray with the push of a button, this faucet is as versatile as it is attractive. Included in this set are a drain strainer and matching soap dispenser for added convenience.
3. Concrete
Widely used in old-time factories, mills, and workshops on both the floors as well as structural elements, concrete is an easy way to bring industrialism into the home. Strong, low-cost, and durable, this material is an affordable way to bring immediate style into any space. For those not ready to make the jump into a full concrete jungle, incorporating small accents in the form of planters, table bases, and cinder block shelves are a great way to get started. The VIGO Dianthus Matte Stone Vessel Bathroom Sink pairs well with any concrete foundation.
4. Exposed Brick
A fan favorite, fired clay brick has been used as a building material foundation for hundreds of years throughout the United States. Safe, sturdy, and long lasting, exposed brick is adorned by many and tends to be widely sought-after in houses and apartments alike. Exposed brick pairs well with a variety of different fixtures. Pairing it with a clean white Matte Stone sink is a great way to create visual contrast.
5. STRONG AS STEEL
Steel columns, beams, and trusses are characteristic of industrial factories and mills. Exposing these features throughout the home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom, are ideal ways to bring in old-time charm.
When designing with steel, it’s best to keep simplicity in mind. Simple accessories that enhance the room’s overall structure are the way to go. Instead of trying to make a bold statement, look for pieces that flow with the rest of the room. Consider coiled faucets with high-arched, gooseneck spouts and pull-down functionalities, such as the VIGO Zurich Pull-Down Spray Kitchen Faucet. To add additional functionality, try out the VIGO Dresden Pull-Down Spray Kitchen Faucet, which comes complete with a pot filler spout.
6. Low Lights
Lighting is a great way to enhance all of the fixtures you’ve chosen for your industrial space. From lighting fixtures themselves to grandiose chandeliers, lighting can be versatile and highlight specific features of your entire home. Light quality and intensity may also impact how your pieces are viewed. Consider softer bulbs as an alternative to LED lights, or even try a yellow glow to emulate the classic 19th Century.
7. Repurposed Accents
Construction is everything when it comes to industrial style. Think back to basics with gears, mechanical elements, valves, tile, and hardware. Introduce pieces that expose their foundations and don’t be afraid of a potentially tough exterior. The Industrial era was all about resilience, so incorporating sinks and faucets that show just how much work it takes to maintain brilliance is the way to go.
When shopping for accessories, explore pieces that can be tipped on their sides or installed askew for an interesting interpretation. Perhaps decorate with rust-covered tools or bring a concrete end table into full view to bring it all together.
8. Mix Up Your Materials
The last but possibly most important suggestion we have when designing for the industrial era is to explore the intersection of textures and materials. Instead of thinking one-dimensional with all wood or all stone, combine a few to add dimension. Bring matte stone sinks into exposed brick rooms; incorporate sleek undermount stainless steel kitchen sinks into rooms with tangible concrete. Try out a wall-mount faucet with a vessel vanity sink in the bathroom and get creative! You are only limited by your imagination.
Fall in love with industrial kitchen and bathroom ideas!
