Warm, masculine, and definitely sexy, industrial chic is a style of decorating that just keeps getting more popular. While it used to be reserved for converted lofts and factories, industrial chic is now being seen in all kinds of buildings – both urban and rural.

What Is Industrial Chic

Industrial chic (or urban industrial as it’s sometimes called) combines utilitarian design with worn textures and the warmth of raw, aged woods.

It’s all about mixing raw materials (galvanized metal, glass and reclaimed woods) while keeping the shapes and silhouettes relatively simple. Industrial chic is a no nonsense style that makes use of vintage and salvaged items, and is often favored by fans of “green” design. It has many things in common with modern farmhouse style, but is much more edgy.

Common Elements

There are a few common elements that tend to be found in urban industrial spaces.

• Exposed brick walls
• Cements floors
• Raw, unfinished materials
• Sleek, metal and glass lighting
• Exposed beams
• Stainless steel accents

Get the Look

The key to achieving a no-frills industrial look is simplicity. Avoid excess furniture and accessories and keep only what’s needed. The interest and depth in the space will be found in the mix of textures and patina.

• Start with a neutral color palette (grey, white, black beige), then layer in some warm wood tones. Look for woods that have some wear and tear. Scratches, knots, and nicks will just add to the authenticity of the look.

• Be sure to also add plenty of metal. Whether it’s metal windows and railings, or metal furniture and lighting, galvanized metals and steel will combine brilliantly with the wood.
• If you have exposed beams, pipes or brick in your space leave them as is. Industrial chic spaces are often wide, open rooms that feature these elements.
• For a fun and elegant juxtaposition, add a feminine piece such as a drippy, crystal chandelier to an urban industrial space.
• If a whole room isn’t for you try incorporating a few pieces. A reclaimed wood coffee table, or a set of galvanized metal dining chairs can add an element of industrial chic.

 

Where to Shop

Items that fit the industrial chic look can be found all over the place. Secondhand stores and salvage shops can be great, but so can some major retailers.

Restoration Hardware

Restoration Hardware is the grand poobah of mass market industrial chic. Practically every piece of their inventory fits the look, so go wild.

CB2

At first glance it might not seem so, but the modern sibling of retailer Crate and Barrel is great if you want one or two pieces to get the look of industrial chic. Some of their lighting and accessories in particular suit the look very well.

Antique Farmhouse

Almost everything this online retailer has to offer can fit the look of industrial chic – almost. Stay away from anything too cutesy and stick with items that have clean lines.

Ballard Designs

Like with CB2, you have to look a little more carefully to find industrial chic items here, but there are definitely some great contenders.

Habitat for Humanity Restore

The Restore is great for finding salvaged items like mantels and doors. You never know what you’re going to find so check back often.

 

Click here for more examples of industrial chic rooms.