The industrial style: Elegance with an edge

Industrial style: Factory charm meets urban comfort

The industrial style first emerged in the 1960s and 1970s, primarily in major cities like New York and London. During this time, creatives began repurposing abandoned factory buildings as affordable spaces to live and work, drawn to their raw, untreated surfaces and industrial elements for their authenticity and unique character. These spaces were enhanced with furniture and accessories that complemented the raw, functional, yet cosy nature of the interiors. By the 1990s and 2000s, the industrial trend had gained wider recognition, including in Switzerland, where it evolved into a well-established interior design style. Today, with IKEA, you can bring this timeless, urban industrial style into your own home – no need to move into an old factory to achieve the look.

Colours, shapes, and materials that define the industrial style

The industrial style thrives on raw aesthetics and the nostalgic charm of the industrial era. Its colour palette is dominated by earthy, muted tones: rust brown, anthracite, concrete grey, and deep black often take centre stage. These shades are beautifully offset by warm accents in copper or brass. Functionality is key when it comes to shapes – expect clean lines, sturdy constructions, and visible joints as defining features. Materials are equally important: untreated wood with visible grain, rough metal with patina, raw concrete, and textured stone all lend the style its distinctive character. Glass, often used in large windows or as room dividers, adds a sense of light and openness. Leather, typically worn and weathered, introduces a cosy and inviting element to balance the harder materials. This mix of hard and soft textures, combined with matte and glossy surfaces, creates bold contrasts that are signature to the industrial look. The result is a design style that is both raw and welcoming, urban and timeless – perfect for anyone seeking a unique and characterful interior.

Everything you need for a stylish and atmospheric industrial interior

Whether you’re looking to enhance your industrial home with a few key pieces or fully embrace the industrial style throughout your space, we’ve got the furniture, décor, and accessories for every room. In the living room, timeless sideboards and chests of drawers with a raw metal finish make striking statements, while elegant black garage cabinets and shelving units provide practical storage solutions. A leather sofa serves as the centrepiece of the room, complemented by black lamps and simple mirrors with metal frames to create stylish accents. In the bedroom, a bed with a sturdy wooden frame offers a snug and inviting retreat. Wooden walls or wallpapers with a brick or concrete effect beautifully emphasise the classic industrial aesthetic. Metal bedside tables and décor crafted from wood or stone complete the look. For smaller rooms, less is often more. Dark industrial colours like black or deep grey can feel overwhelming in compact spaces, so consider pure white furniture with clean lines to create a sense of calm and spaciousness – perfect for a peaceful retreat at the end of the day. The industrial style is also a fantastic choice for home offices or kitchens. Generous storage solutions with a raw, industrial charm, minimalist desks and workspaces made from metal and wood, and functional small storage options allow you to highlight the industrial aesthetic while creating an environment that keeps you focused and productive.   

From industrial to Scandi: Mixing styles with ease

Did you know you can seamlessly combine the industrial style with other interior design trends? For example, blending the natural warmth of the Scandi style with the raw charm of industrial design creates a beautiful and balanced look. If a purely industrial interior feels too bold or harsh, you can soften it with vibrant, warm accents inspired by the Boho style. Alternatively, try the delightful fusion of industrial and country styles, often called “Cottage Industrial”. This combination brings together metal, leather, and stone with cosy farmhouse elements for a unique twist. It’s also an excellent opportunity to incorporate vintage-style furniture and accessories to add character and charm. Need help designing your space? Our interior design service is here to guide you with expert advice and personalised solutions. Let’s bring your vision to life!