Industrial design is a popular trend in home decor, bringing an edgy, urban feel to any space. When it comes to the kitchen, embracing an industrial style can transform the room into a modern, sophisticated space perfect for entertaining. Follow this recipe to create your own industrial-style kitchen that is both stylish and functional.
Choose the Right Materials
Industrial kitchens showcase raw materials like wood, metal, and concrete. When selecting materials, opt for ones that accentuate the industrial aesthetic.
Metals
Metals like stainless steel, galvanized steel, and aluminum are ideal for an industrial kitchen. Use metal for larger features like appliances, sinks, faucets, and range hoods. Brushed stainless steel has an understated look that pairs nicely with an industrial style.
Incorporate metal accents throughout the space. Shop for metal bar stools, kitchen carts, shelving, and cabinet hardware. Wrought iron, brass, and copper offer eye-catching contrast to wood and concrete.
Wood
Wood brings warmth and texture to offset sleek, metal surfaces. Opt for reclaimed or distressed wood with visible markings, knots, and natural variations in color.
Use wood for cabinetry, open shelving, butcher block countertops and islands. Barnwood and reclaimed oak are great wood choices for an industrial vibe.
Concrete
The rawness of concrete complements an industrial design. Concrete countertops are an iconic feature of modern, industrial kitchens. Choose a stained, stamped or polished concrete design for plenty of character.
Concrete floors are another way to incorporate the look. For a softer appearance, coat the floors using concrete stain. Concrete walls, cinder block, and brick are on-trend.
Other Materials
In addition to key materials like metal, wood, and concrete, consider corrugated metal, pipes, galvanized tin, wire mesh shelving, and salvaged items. Use an eclectic mix of elements in your industrial kitchen.
Select a Color Palette
An industrial kitchen utilizes a neutral color palette of grays, blacks, browns, and whites. Pops of color in appliances or decor create visual interest.
Neutral Tones
Paint walls, cabinetry, and fixed elements in neutral, earthy tones. Gray, beige, black, and white work well. Concrete, wood, and metal surfaces should blend with wall colors.
Consider a lighter gray or beige on upper cabinets to contrast lower cabinetry. Black stained wood or concrete countertops pop against white upper cabinetry.
Pops of Color
Add vibrancy with colorful appliances like a fire engine red stove or retro turquoise refrigerator. Open shelving offers a great opportunity to display bright cookware and serveware.
Use color in industrial lighting and metal chairs. Paint an accent wall or island in a bold hue like navy, green, or yellow for a striking focal point.
Embrace Industrial Elements
Incorporate design features that emphasize the industrial style. Think exposed pipes, ductwork, clean lines and mixed materials.
Exposed Structures
Leave structural elements like beams, ceiling joints, pipes and HVAC systems exposed. Paint pipes and vents in a coordinating color.
Add interest by running electrical conduits and pipes horizontally along the ceiling and vertically down walls. Leave some areas unfinished for a raw, gritty appearance.
Minimalist Design
Keep the space looking sleek and uncluttered. Opt for minimal ornamentation and understated, geometric lines over intricate detailing.
Built-in, clutter-free storage like drawers, cabinetry and open shelving maintain a streamlined look. Avoid draping kitchen islands with ornate molding or legs.
Factory Inspired Lighting
Create an industrial vibe with edgy, factory inspired lighting. Use pendant lights over islands and dining areas. Go for metal cages, filament bulbs, and flexible task lighting.
Uniform ceiling lights paired with statement fixtures make a bold impact. Use rectangular sconces, track lighting or exposed Edison style bulbs throughout the kitchen.
Include Industrial Touches
Strategically blend industrial elements throughout your space. Little details go a long way in reinforcing the overall aesthetic.
Hardware
Metal hardware makes a big impact with little effort. Swap out standard knobs for industrial pipe handles, finger pulls or oversized lever handles.
Opt for exposed hinges on cabinets and doors for a more mechanical look. Wrap faucets and fixtures with corrugated tubes.
Furniture
Industrial furniture includes clean lines, metal accents, and a mix of materials. Incorporate pieces like metal stools, rolling carts, and butcher block islands.
Use reclaimed wood dining tables and exposed frame seating. Shop vintage finds like factory carts and old machinery parts to display.
Accent Pieces
Display functional items like colanders, pots, pans and utensils on open shelving or racks for an industrial flair.
Incorporate clocks, signs, and postage in metal frames. Repurpose old crates, pallets, and baskets for storage around the kitchen.
Design an Efficient Layout
An industrial kitchen should be stylish and highly functional. Keep these layout tips in mind:
- Create dedicated prepping, cooking, cleaning, and dining zones.
- Maximize natural light and space with large windows, high ceilings, and minimal upper cabinetry.
- Allow room for large appliances and substantial work areas.
- Incorporate multipurpose islands with seating and storage.
- Use shelving and racks for frequently used cookware and utensils.
- Ensure lighting is bright, uniform, and strategically placed over key areas.
Though industrial design embraces a gritty, unfinished look, maintain order so the space remains user-friendly. Store items conveniently without cluttering counters or creating safety hazards.
FAQs About Creating an Industrial Kitchen
What are the key features of an industrial kitchen?
Some hallmarks of the industrial kitchen style include exposed metals, wood and concrete materials, pops of color, factory lighting, minimal ornamentation, and a functional layout.
What type of flooring works best?
Concrete, stained concrete, or wood floors suit an industrial kitchen. For softer flooring, consider polished concrete or grey washed wood. Tile also pairs well with the aesthetic.
What is the best color scheme?
Stick to a neutral palette of grays, whites, blacks and browns. Add color through appliances, stools, lighting fixtures or an accent wall. Avoid elaborate wall colors or patterns.
What kind of cabinetry should I choose?
Opt for streamlined Shaker or flat panel cabinetry. Paint cabinets white, black or grey for a clean, neutral appearance. Distressed wood cabinets also work for an industrial vibe.
How do I add warmth to an industrial space?
Warmth comes from wood elements and pops of color. Incorporate reclaimed wood furnishings and shelving. Paint or finish a brick accent wall in a bold, inviting tone. Use colorful appliances and decor items.
What type of island works with this look?
Choose an island with stainless steel or butcher block countertop materials. Opt for minimal ornamentation like an exposed table frame. Include seating and storage for functionality.
How can I fully commit to the aesthetic?
Expose pipes, HVAC systems, ceiling joints and fixtures. Leave some concrete, brick or wood partially unfinished. Use primarily metal, leather, or wood bar stools. Limit upper cabinetry for an open appearance.
Conclusion
Creating a stylish, industrial kitchen means embracing raw materials like wood, concrete, and metal paired with a neutral color palette and edgy accents. Focus on minimal ornamentation and a functional layout. Expose structural elements and unfinished areas for an authentic vibe. Include pops of color and warmth through furnishings and decor.
Follow this industrial kitchen recipe to craft a sophisticated, urban space perfect for cooking and entertaining with an edge. Pay attention to all the little details, from your choice of materials down to the hardware. With an eclectic mix of elements and commitment to the aesthetic, your new modern kitchen will impress guests with its bold, industrial charm.
