Whether you’re a fan of industrial design and want to add an edgy look to your home, or you simply need some new decorating ideas, the industrial look is one of today’s most popular styles.
This style features furniture and accessories that combine metal, wood, and other materials in an offbeat yet still elegant manner.
The Industrial Look Explained
The industrial look is characterized by its bold shapes and colors and its mix of raw materials. There are many ways to create industrial home decor from exposed pipes to reclaimed wood furniture.
It gained popularity in the 20th century when industrialization increased metal production and the use of new materials. Today, it’s one of the most sought-after interior design styles, adding an edgy touch to any home.
Creating an Industrial Look at Home
Bringing this style into your own home doesn’t have to be expensive or difficult. Plenty of DIY projects can help you create a unique industrial look on a budget. Below are 17 creative ideas for achieving an industrial look in your own home:
1. Industrial Cart Coffee Table
The cleverly designed coffee table is composed of two old-fashioned factory carts set on either side of wooden boards with wheels attached. The distinctiveness of the design makes it a great focal point for any room. It’s easy to build, and you can find everything you need from a home improvement store.
2. Exposed Brick Wall
An exposed brick wall brings an industrial feel to any room almost instantly. If you don’t have one in your home, it’s fairly easy to create with some faux bricks and mortar. The effect is both edgy and chic. All you need to do is apply the faux brick to a wall and voila—instant industrial style.
Another option to add a similar textured look is using stone veneer. Compared to traditional full stone walls, stone veneer is a lighter and more cost-effective alternative. A slightly different option can be affordable stone veneer from I-XL and other Canadian suppliers. You can find a wide range of choices at online stores. Plus, it’s easier to install than real stone and lighter than concrete panels. You can use it on a fireplace or a kitchen wall to add texture without making the space feel too heavy.
To complement this look, consider hanging artwork you’ve created with the best paint by numbers kits, adding a personal touch that blends creativity with the industrial aesthetic.
3. Industrial Pipe Shelves
The perfect way to show off books or knick-knacks in an industrial style is by putting up some pipe shelves on the wall. Using steel pipes, fittings, and brackets, you can easily install unique-looking shelves that add a touch of character to any room.
The size and design of the shelves can be easily customized according to your own preferences.
4. Reclaimed Wood Wall Art
Reclaimed wood has an inherent industrial look, and you can use it to make some stunning wall art. All you need is a few pieces of wood, a saw, a power drill, and some screws. Hang them in an arrangement that works with your existing decor for the perfect combination of rustic charm and industrial style.
5. Industrial Pipe Lamp
Industrial-style lamps are striking additions to any room’s décor, but they can be pricey. You can easily put together your own version using copper pipes, fittings, light fixtures, and an extension cord! This project isn’t just stylish—it also saves energy since LED bulbs last much longer than traditional ones.
6. Industrial Pallet Headboard
Give your bedroom a unique industrial touch by creating an upcycled headboard out of old pallets. You can either create something basic with just some nails or get more creative and distress the wood for a more rustic effect.
Remember to use pallets with no toxins or chemicals to ensure your safety.
7. Metal and Wood Desk
A combination of metal and wood furniture creates an industrial look that stands out from the crowd. If you don’t want to buy a ready-made desk, you can easily build one yourself using reclaimed wood and metal pipes. This is a great option for those who want to add an industrial touch to their home office. To complement your unique desk, consider exploring the best office chair NZ options to enhance both comfort and style in your workspace.
8. Reclaimed Wood Clock
This is another great way to use reclaimed wood to give your home more of an industrial feel—by making a clock. All you need is a round piece of wood, some screws, and the clock mechanism. Start by drilling holes in the wood, then add screws and attach the mechanism. The result is a unique clock that looks like it came straight from a factory.
9. Industrial Pipe Coat Rack
Instead of hanging your coats on a regular hook or coat hanger, use metal pipes to make an eye-catching industrial pipe coat rack. This project is easy to put together and will add an edgy look to any entryway. Take a Mild Steel Threaded Pipe and add some elbows, T-fittings, and flanges to make a functional piece of art.
10. Industrial Bar Cart
A bar cart doesn’t have to be all brass and glass—you can use reclaimed wood and metal pipes to give it an industrial twist. This project requires some carpentry skills but is fairly straightforward once you get started.
Start by building the frame and adding shelves before attaching the wheels. Then all you have to do is add your favorite drinks and some industrial-style decor.
11. Corkboard Wall Organizer
The corkboard wall organizer combines two different materials in one attractive package. By combining tough metal rails with soft corkboard panels, you can create a chic and functional wall organizer that’s perfect for an office or craft room. You can also add a magnetic board to the middle of the organizer for extra storage space.
12. Industrial Cabinet
Adding some industrial-style cabinets to your kitchen is a great way to give the space an instant makeover. You can find vintage metal filing cabinets at flea markets and then add some wood shelves for an updated look.
You can play around with different stains on the wood and use some industrial-style hardware to give it a unique look.
13. Metal Pipe Magazine Rack
This type of magazine rack looks like it belongs in a hipster café. All you need are some metal pipes, fittings, screws, and a piece of wood to mount the whole thing on.
It adds a touch of sophistication without taking up too much space in your living room or bedroom. You can decide how many shelves you want and how high you want the rack.
14. Corrugated Metal Artwork
Corrugated metal has been used in industrial settings for decades, so why not bring it into your home? You can find large pieces of corrugated metal online and then use them to create a stunning artwork or wall décor piece. Let your creative side shine and create something truly unique.
15. Copper and Wood Coffee Table
This coffee table combines two different materials—copper pipes and reclaimed wood—to create an attractive industrial look. This project requires some carpentry skills but is fairly easy to put together if you have the right tools. With this statement piece in your living room, you’ll be sure to impress any visitors.
16. Raw Steel Fireplace Surround
If you want to give your living room a truly unique look, consider making a raw steel fireplace surround. This project requires some welding skills, but the final result will be worth it. You can add a few wood pieces for an extra touch of rustic charm.
17. Galvanized Metal Planter Box
Planter boxes are a great way to bring some greenery into your home, but why not make them stand out with a galvanized metal exterior? This project is fairly easy, just make sure that you get the right kind of galvanized steel for the job. With a little bit of effort and planning, you can have beautiful planter boxes that will be the envy of the neighborhood.
There You Have It
These are just a few ideas that can help give your home a more industrial feel. With some creativity and the right materials, you can create unique pieces of furniture and décor that will make your home look like it came straight out of an industrial warehouse!
