Did you know that the industrial look we see in so many modern interiors actually dates back to the 1970s?
Back then, warehouses, mills, and factories were slowly being turned into living accommodation and, rather than conceal the metal, pipework, and bricks, interior designers decided to embrace them.
The industrial look had a resurgence in the late 2000s and it’s hugely popular to this day. The natural colour palette, the visible fixtures, and the open spaces this kind of interior design affords makes it popular, and it works brilliantly in most rooms.
As design statements go, this one really has stood the test of time. Today, we’ll consider how you can make the most of this look in your kitchen.
Key points to bear in mind
When it comes to industrial interior design, there are a few key things to remember if you want to make it work.
- Think about the key themes; ‘raw’, ‘exposed’ and ‘unfinished’ should be words used throughout the design process.
- Neutral colour palettes work best for industrial design, but it pays to add the odd splash of black and dark grey here and there.
- Lean on metallic textures and colours as accents – it’ll give the room some warmth.
- Metal, timber, bricks and tiles will provide a balance between rough and smooth textures.
- Concrete-look worktops will boost the industrial feel while simultaneously providing ease of cleaning.
- Hooks, mesh cages and open shelves are the best options for storage.
- If you can, leave brick walls bare. If you can’t, opt for brick effect tiles or wallpaper.
- Opt for vintage lighting with ribbed glass shades or bulb cages.
- Choose copper, pewter or brass for your taps, handles and accessories.
Has the above whetted your appetite for an industrial design kitchen?
Great! Let’s create it.
It might be time to go blue!
Grey has become a popular colour in kitchen interiors over the last few years. It’s even overtaken white and cream as the new base colour of choice, but there’s a new kid on the block: blue
Colour is a very subjective and personal choice. When it comes to interior design, it’s often hard to explain why you prefer one colour over another due to the fact it’s such a deep-rooted, subconscious choice.
We all see colours differently, too. Back in 2015, the internet was flooded with arguments over the ‘correct’ colour of a particular dress; a viral photo that is the perfect example of how people see colours differently.
The introduction of blue into your kitchen’s colour palette might feel odd at first (cold, even), but it works brilliantly for industrial design. It’s important to remember that it varies from dark inky shades (perfect for shrinking large spaces) to mid blues and denims which are perfect for most spaces.
Even pastel blue will work against the gloriously unrefined edges of your industrial-look kitchen.
Think fusion
Most of our clients find the choice between modern or traditional interior design understandably challenging. But the truth is that most of us prefer to live within a mixture of styles.
It’s possible for both traditional and modern to sit happily alongside one another in your kitchen – and this is particularly the case when it comes to industrial design.
It just takes a little extra thought about how the two styles can complement one another. The trick lies in blending the two styles so that they enhance the overall design.
For instance, a clean, modern layout can be achieved with traditional larder-style cupboards and solid wood drawer boxes. This nods back to the more traditional style of kitchen and craftsmanship with the added practicality of storage. Perfect for industrial inspired spaces!
This is why brick effect tiles work so well; they create a softened look and clean lined modern kitchen. By carefully introducing these traditional touches and embracing exposed industrial elements, you’ll create a kitchen that will last and in which you’ll want to spend a lot of time.
If you’d like to talk more to us about industrial kitchen design or any other form of interior design, just get in touch with the Modern Homes team.