Industrial style kitchens are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners looking to give their cooking space an edgy, modern update. This bold and practical design aesthetic features exposed materials, high ceilings, oversized lighting fixtures, and expansive countertops. If you’re considering remodeling your kitchen with an industrial look, here are two stunning examples that opened this week to fuel your inspiration.
The Rustic Warehouse
This new 3,000 square foot showroom located in Dallas, TX showcases a jaw-dropping industrial style kitchen overflowing with character. Designed to mimic an urban loft, this space incorporates reclaimed wood, brick walls, and steel accents for an authentic warehouse vibe.
Exposed Beams and Piping
One of the defining characteristics of industrial design is leaving structural elements exposed rather than hiding them behind drywall. This kitchen features weathered wood ceiling beams intersected by drainage pipes and venting ductwork finished in matte black. The visual interest of the crisscrossing lines draws the eye up to take in the double height ceiling. The wooden posts and steel pipe rails along the mezzanine above the kitchen reinforce the warehouse aesthetic.
Natural Brick Backsplash
The expansive kitchen island is framed by a stunning natural brick backsplash in varied earth tones. Brick walls provide texture and a raw, rustic feel that creates an ideal backdrop for the stainless steel appliances and counters. The uneven and organic shapes of the reclaimed bricks inject more personality into the space.
Concrete Countertops
Quartz was passed over for concrete on the kitchen countertops, a common choice in industrial builds. The neutral gray tone and smooth finish complement the other materials nicely. Concrete also withstands high heat, scratches, and stains, making it highly functional for serious cooks. The countertop extends to an eat-in dining bar that seats 5 people.
Galvanized Metal Accents
The open shelves lining the back wall are metal rather than wood, calling to mind pipes and vents. Galvanized steel, aluminum, and tin are often seen in industrial kitchens since these metals withstand moisture and wear. The shelf brackets, dining pendants, and bar stools also incorporate galvanized metal for a cohesive look.
Oversized Vent Hood
A showstopping copper vent hood with exposed metal ductwork dominates the cooking area. Outsized range hoods accentuate the high ceilings by drawing the eye skyward. Copper offers a beautiful patina that will develop an aged look over time. The large scale provides high impact while also proving highly functional.
Statement Lighting
Five rectangular steel and glass light pendants light up the expansive kitchen island, providing both task lighting and industrial style. The elongated shape mimics the lines of the floor to ceiling windows on the far wall. Their black metallic framework calls out the dark accents on the pipes, range hood, and shelves.
The Modern Loft
Located in Miami, FL, this new model home shows off an industrial kitchen design with a slightly more polished look. The brighter color scheme and abundance of windows create an airy, loft-like feel. Sophisticated details like pendant lighting and subway tile backsplash balance the more rugged warehouse elements.
Polished Concrete Flooring
The kitchen flooring consists of stained and scored concrete in a dark charcoal shade. Concrete flooring carries through the industrial vibe while feeling a bit more refined thanks to the glossy sealant. Scored lines add visual interest and texture underfoot. The floor flows seamlessly from the kitchen into the living areas for cohesion.
White Cabinetry
Bright white cabinetry pops against the concrete floor and stainless steel accents. Shaker style doors with integrated handles keep the aesthetic clean and streamlined. Glass front cabinets allow the white dishes to show as decorative items. The brightness balances the deeply toned wood ceiling beams.
Steel Window Frames
Floor to ceiling windows along the back wall usher in abundant natural light. The metal window frames feel industrial, while the expanse of glass prevents the kitchen from feeling closed in. A steel window above the sizable kitchen island provides a picturesque focal point.
Subway Tile Backsplash
Behind the stove, a classic white subway tile backsplash adds refined contrast. The tiles create a clean backdrop for the stainless appliances and exposed shelving. Subway tile offers durability and moisture resistance making it highly functional, while the organized grid pattern lends an industrial, structural look.
Edison Bulb Pendants
Vintage-style Edison bulbs in black wire cages hang over the central kitchen island. These iconic bulbs give off a warm, retro glow that feels industrial yet inviting. Paired with the light wood bar stools, they inject organic contrast against all the steel, tile, and concrete.
Open Shelving
Iron pipe brackets display open oak shelving along the back wall, designed for stowing cooking ware and showing off decorative tableware. The mixture of wood and black pipe fittings ties the space together in an on-trend way. The organized items on display also provide a pleasing sense of order.
Design Elements to Incorporate
If these stunning industrial kitchens have inspired you to tackle your own remodeling project, here are some key elements to incorporate in order to achieve an authentic look.
Metal Accents
Include visible metal components like brackets, hardware, appliances, and lighting fixtures. Stainless steel and black pipes or fittings are most common. Copper and galvanized metal also fit right in.
Wood Accents
Reclaimed or distresses wood brings organic warmth. Weathered wood beams or posts add authenticity. Shelving, flooring or furniture made from lighter woods provides balance.
Concrete Surfaces
Concrete counters, floors, walls and even furnishings are on theme. Consider polished concrete or raw finishes like exposed aggregate.
Glass/Metal Doors
Install floor to ceiling walls of glass or opt for metal barn doors. Window walls usher in natural light while metal doors slide smoothly out of view.
High Ceilings
Soaring ceilings are essential for an expansive, lofty vibe. Exposed beams/joists, sizable venting and dramatic light fixtures stand out.
Brick/Stone
Natural materials like brick, stone and wood create rustic contrast to metal fixtures. Salvaged brick makes great backsplashes.
Statement Lighting
Use oversized pendant lamps, linear fixtures and exposed Edison bulbs. Stainless, copper and brass finishes keep it industrial.
Minimalist Style
Simplify the decorative scheme with muted colors, tidy open shelves, and understated hardware. Avoid ornate detailing.
Design Considerations
Here are some key factors to weigh when planning your industrial kitchen remodel.
Lighting Needs
Industrial spaces can lack sufficient natural light, so ample lighting is key. Use statement light fixtures while also providing sufficient task lighting.
Noise Control
All the hard surfaces may lead to an echoey, noisy environment. Incorporate sound-absorbing materials like upholstered seating, rugs and acoustic panels.
Contrasting Textures
Balance industrial materials like metal and concrete with contrasts like warm wood, organic textiles and glassware. This prevents a cold or sterile look.
Intentional Finishes
Distressed or patinated metals and wood with visible age, wear and repairs boost authenticity. However, avoid anything that looks dirty, broken, or poorly maintained.
Structural Elements
Ceiling beams, air ducts, and pipework can be left exposed but avoid unattractive clutter. Place them purposefully not randomly. Consult engineers on soundness.
Consistent Design
Carry industrial elements like metal finishes and concrete floors throughout adjacent spaces, including living rooms. This creates better flow.
Merging Old + New
Thoughtfully combining salvaged materials with new creates the most interesting blend. Do not overdo patinas or faux aging techniques.
Storage Solutions
Open shelving looks great but requires tidy organization. Supplement with sizable pantry cabinets to stow clutter out of view.
Cooking Efficiency
Ensure the space functions flawlessly for cooking, baking and cleaning up. Place appliances thoughtfully with ample counters and quality ventilation.
Inspiring Industrial Kitchen Ideas
The following examples showcase creative ways to implement industrial elements in your own reimagined kitchen.
Exposed Brick Wall
Salvaged brick clads a wall or just the backsplash area for texture. Tuck herb planters into crevices. Add floating shelves for organic contrast.
Dark Color Scheme
Use deeply toned metals, natural wood, concrete, and brick instead of bright white and stainless steel for cozy moodiness. Warm pendant lights prevent gloominess.
Vintage Furnishings
Incorporate reclaimed wood dining tables or retro upholstered chairs. Display antique glassware. Avoid overtly modern pieces.
Urban Architectural Features
Mimic commercial spaces with roll-up garage doors, entry style swing doors, fire doors, and caged pendant lights.
Polished Industrial
For a cleaner modern edge, opt for smooth concrete floors, glossy white subway tile, and sleek cabinetry mixed with black steel accents.
Rustic Touches
Add sliding barn doors, galvanized metal cabinets, butcher block islands, and farmhouse sinks for a countryside feel.
Restaurant Inspired
Invest in commercial grade stainless appliances and prep sinks. Built-in banquette seating saves space. Add menu rails or communal tables.
Masculine Look
Use darker woods, black Leatherette stools, exposed stone, metal hardware and minimal decor for rugged appeal.
Splash Of Color
Paint the ceiling beams or brick wall an energetic hue like fire engine red. Glossy red bar stools make a bold statement.
Factory Pipes
Incorporate actual vintage factory carts or pipework as functional features like open shelving. Source safely from industrial supply retailers.
Weathered Metals
Aim for patinated copper sinks, rust or zinc finished pendants, and aged tin ceiling tiles. Avoid anything too tarnished.
Popular Materials for Industrial Kitchens
Here are some of the most commonly utilized materials for achieving an authentic industrial vibe:
Steel
Used for brackets, shelves, appliances, sinks, and pendant lights. Often finished in black or matte tones. Stainless steel provides contrast.
Wood
Salvaged beams, posts and furniture add organic warmth. Oak, cedar, birch, and pine have the right distressed look.
Concrete
Polished concrete floors and walls add durable neutral texture. Concrete counters offer rugged good looks.
Brick
Reclaimed brick backsplashes and accent walls provide visual interest with varied earth tones. Use full bricks or thin sliced veneer.
Glass
Windows, cabinets doors, pendant lights and furnishings allow light to penetrate. Transparent glass and opaque milk glass both apply.
Metal Pipe
Black or galvanized pipe brings urban edge to shelves, railing, chairs and pendant lights. Copper offers a warmer vibe.
Subway Tile
Classic white 3×6” or 4×12” subway tiles make sleek backsplashes with grout adding gridded texture.
Edison Bulbs
Visible filaments create ambient retro lighting. Use antique bulbs or replica LEDs with exposed cages and wiring.
7 Tips for Executing an Industrial Kitchen Remodel
If this trend speaks to you but the prospect of a full remodel feels daunting, here are helpful tips for executing it successfully:
Establish Overall Vision
Compile inspiration images and examples that exemplify your perfect blend of industrial style before discussing plans with contractors.
Evaluate Layout
Assess how the space currently functions and what you’d like to change for better efficiency. This will inform structural changes needed.
Update Key Surfaces
Swapping countertops and backsplashes make a big impact economically. New flooring, lighting and cabinet paint also go far.
Expose Architecture
Remove unnecessary walls, drop ceilings, and cladding to reveal pipes, beams, metal framing, etc if structurally viable.
Source Salvaged Items
Add character with reclaimed wood beams and brick walls. Check architectural salvage warehouses and reuse stores.
Incorporate Metal and Wood
Add black steel, copper or zinc accents. Bring in oak, cedar and pine wood for shelving, seating and tables.
Factor In Functionality
Ensure great ventilation, ample lighting and smart storage solutions so the space works hard for you. Style must align with purpose.
Common Questions About Industrial Kitchens
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about creating this popular design aesthetic in your own home:
Are industrial kitchens expensive?
They can be, due to the use of concrete, steel, high-end finishes and commercial grade appliances. Exposing pipes and beams also takes labor. However, you can save by refinishing existing surfaces like cabinets rather than replacing.
What colors work best?
Neutral palettes are most common – think white, black, gray, wood tones, raw metal and concrete. Pops of color can come from stools, tiles, small appliances and decor.
How do you warm up an industrial space?
Add wood elements for organic warmth – reclaimed beams, live edge shelving, butcher block islands. Incorporate textiles like area rugs, curtains and upholstered seating. Pendant lights cast cozy ambient glow.
What kind of cabinets are best?
Simple shaker style cabinets in matte white or light wood tones fit best. Stainless steel or metal cabinets also apply. Glass front doors maintain openness.
How durable are concrete counters?
Concrete offers great durability, resisting heat, scratches, and stains. However, drops and impacts can chip the surface, so take care. Sealing protects from acidic foods and stains.
Should everything match?
Cohesion matters more than matching. Tie the look together with consistent finishes and complementary textures and hues rather than identical pieces. Too uniform looks flat.
How do you decorate an industrial kitchen?
Use minimal, purposeful decor. Open shelving displaying glassware, cookware and greenery looks fitting. Add whimsical vintage pieces like factory carts and old clocks for character without clutter.
Key Takeaways
- Industrial kitchens are great for cooks wanting an edgy, urban look full of unique materials like brick, concrete and steel. Exposed architectural elements like beams and ductwork add authenticity.
- Incorporating reclaimed wood and vintage factory pieces provide an organic contrast to the metal and concrete. This warms up the space both visually and energetically.
- Practical lighting, durable surfaces, ample prep space and smart ventilation make these kitchens highly functional for busy cooking. Concrete counters withstand heavy use.
- The simplified minimalist aesthetic relies on tidy organization rather than knick-knacks for decor. Glass front cabinets and open shelving display items in an orderly, geometric style true to industrial spaces.
- While exposing pipes and beams takes labor, you can stretch your remodel budget through strategic updates rather than fully gutting. Prioritize surfacing materials, lighting and openings first.
- To prevent an overly cold or sterile look, bring in woods, textiles, curated decor and ample lighting. Also ensure the space remains clean and well maintained.
In summary, industrial kitchens merge rugged materials with sleek, pared-down styling for spaces equal parts edgy and practical. This trend brings unique personality to cook spaces craving an urban loft upgrade. Even incorporating just a few key elements like a steel prep sink or brick backsplash shifts your kitchen toward this direction to create the aesthetic you’re dreaming of.
