Industrial interior design is an interesting style that is inspired by industrial places such as factories, warehouses, and other industrial structures. This design style celebrates the beauty of raw and unfinished architectural elements, fusing functionality and aesthetics to create aesthetically appealing and one-of-a-kind settings. This architectural style has grown from its beginnings in the industrial revolution to become an increasingly common choice for both residential and business interiors.
History of Industrial Interior Design
The history of industrial interior design can be traced back to the late 18th to early 19th century Industrial Revolution. With the advent of mechanization and the growth of factories, this age saw a substantial change in production methods. Industrialization changed not just the manufacturing of commodities, but also the design and architecture of spaces in which these things were produced.
Factories were generally big, open-plan buildings with high ceilings and vast floor designs during the early phases of the Industrial Revolution. These areas were created to house heavy equipment, manufacturing lines, and expanding staff. These industrial buildings’ designs often included exposed brickwork, metal beams, and wide windows to maximize natural light and ventilation.
Industrial design initially prioritized efficiency and practicality above beauty. However, industrial areas’ utilitarianism inspired a new design style. Designers and architects saw the charm and character of factories and warehouses when they were reused or turned into residential spaces. Industrial interior design emerged in the mid-20th century. Abandoned factories and warehouses were turned into residential lofts, exhibiting the industrial interiors’ raw and original qualities.
Ricardo Bofill discovered an abandoned cement plant from the turn of the century in 1973, complete with over 30 silos, underground galleries, and massive machine rooms. He converted this vacant area into the Taller de Arquitectura (RBTA) headquarters as well as his apartment.
The “industrial chic” concept fueled the growth of the industrial interior design movement in the 1960s and 1970s. Salvaged materials, exposed brick walls, and metal accents became popular design components, expressing an opposing opinion of traditional ideas of luxury and wealth.
Industrial interior design expanded in the late 20th century. Urban rehabilitation initiatives revived industrial buildings into creative studios, art galleries, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Raw materials, wide spaces, and industrial designs created a fascinating atmosphere. Industrial interior design is still a prominent and influential trend today. It has spread beyond loft conversions and industrial structures, infiltrating a wide range of design genres and contexts. Industrial design elements may be seen in modern houses, commercial areas, and even modern office settings.
The project by Guallart Architects emphasizes the renovation of two structures that housed a small textile factory and a residence at the beginning of the 20th century in the Rec neighborhood of Igualada, close to Barcelona, transforming the old leather tanning industry.
Characteristics of Industrial Interior Design
- Structural elements are visible such as exposed brick walls, exposed beams, or open ductwork.
- The interiors have rough wood or concrete floors highlighting the architectural elements.
- The color palette is neutral with a focus on deeper tones like blacks, grays, and whites.
- Raw materials, often leather and wood, are used repeatedly in chairs, tables, couches, and other home design pieces.
- Steel and dark metal are used extensively, both structurally in beams and columns and decoratively in furniture, fixtures, and artwork.
- The volume of the space is huge, indicating high ceilings.
- The interiors have large windows invading in huge amount of natural light.
- It has a minimalist spirit—excessive adornment and detail are unusual in industrial settings.
- Lighting is essential in industrial design. To offer both practical and attractive lighting, exposed bulbs, pendant lights, and industrial-style fixtures with metal finishes are widely employed.
- Adding historic or salvaged chunks to the room, such as old signage, metal lockers, or repurposed industrial equipment.
- Large-scale industrial-themed artworks or photos may be used to accent industrial interiors. Metal sculptures, exposed gears, and old tools may also add interest and accentuate the industrial theme.
Lastly, industrial interior design combines the character of industrial spaces into aesthetically appealing and useful interiors. This design style produces visually appealing and welcoming environments by embracing raw and unfinished aspects, using a variety of textures and materials, and emphasizing simplicity and authenticity. Industrial interior design, whether used in residential lofts, fashionable eateries, or contemporary office spaces, has a distinct and timeless charm that continues to fascinate and inspire.
References
- 14 best modern industrial interior design style ideas – foyr (2022) Create Beautiful 3D Designs. Available at: https://foyr.com/learn/modern-industrial-interior-design-style/.
- Curated Interior (2020) 15 industrial home decor elements, Curated Interior. Available at: https://curatedinterior.com/industrial-decor/.
- Four types of industrial style decor (2018) Home Designing. Available at: https://www.home-designing.com/four-types-of-industrial-style-decor.
- Industrial interior design style: Definition along with 5+ tips to embrace it (no date) Livspace Magazine. Available at: https://www.livspace.com/in/magazine/industrial-style-interior-design.
- Industrial style living room design: The essential guide (2017) Home Designing. Available at: https://www.home-designing.com/industrial-style-living-room-design-ideas-tips.
- McLaughlin, K. (2023) Industrial interior design: Everything you need to know about this raw and commanding style, Architectural Digest. Available at: https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/industrial-interior-design-101.
- Simmons, K. (2014) Industrial interior design: Everything you need to know [+40 photos], decoist. Available at: https://www.decoist.com/2014-01-20/industrial-interior-designs/?chrome=1.
- (No date) Masterclass.com. Available at: https://www.masterclass.com/articles/industrial-interior-design-explained.
