Stainless steel appliances and counters are an industrial kitchen staple, providing a sleek, modern look that contrasts the warmth of wood and brick. A brushed metal backsplash is another subtle yet striking option.
Rustic textiles, like linen table runners or cotton dish towels, soften the raw elements of an industrial kitchen and introduce a sense of comfort and style.
Metal Accents and Fixtures
Metal is a common theme in industrial kitchen design ideas, whether through stainless steel appliances or concrete countertops. You can also incorporate copper accents, such as a copper-topped island or copper light fixtures, to bring in a modern color that works well with the industrial look.
Exposed brick walls are a classic way to achieve an industrial look in your kitchen. You can also create an industrial feel with exposed ductwork, timber beams, or polished concrete floors.
Wooden elements like reclaimed flooring and dining tables soften the industrial aesthetic. They also add warmth and organic beauty to the space. Pair these natural touches with sleek, metallic accents in the form of steel shelving and hardware to keep your kitchen feeling edgy yet balanced. You can even use artwork to elevate the industrial style and infuse your kitchen with personality.
Rustic Textiles
Decorative elements that incorporate raw materials add a striking contrast to industrial kitchens. Metal pieces—from repurposed steel shelving units to industrial filament bulb lighting—amplify the rustic aesthetic with a raw, functional edge.
Exposed brick walls are a classic feature in industrial kitchens, but if you don’t have exposed brick, try using wallpaper or faux brick finishes to create the look. You can also use natural wood in cabinetry to complement the raw textures and brushed metal accents.
Rustic backsplashes also work well in industrial-style kitchens, says Parker. Look for ceramic tiles that have a rough, earthy finish or even a copper or reclaimed-brick pattern to bring a touch of natural texture to your space. You can also use standard glass jars to store your dry goods for an instantly industrial aesthetic.
Plants and Greenery
Infuse your industrial kitchen with natural elements to soften the raw, edgy aesthetic. Easy-to-care-for plants like succulents or herbs introduce a pop of color while improving air quality and hanging planters or window sill gardens let you add greenery without taking up valuable counter space.
Exposed brick walls are a common feature in industrial kitchens, adding a warm, textured appearance and defining the style. Similarly, wood accents like exposed shelves and a butcher block countertop provide warmth and character.
Lighting is key to industrial design, showcasing the raw, edgy materials and utilitarian features of this style. Pendant lights and Edison bulbs are classic options, while track lighting is versatile and customizable. Layering different types of lighting ensures optimal ambiance and functionality. Consider ambient lighting for overall illumination, task lighting for specific work areas, and accent lighting to showcase decor and other special features.
Statement Islands
Create a focal point in your kitchen with a sleek, industrial-inspired island. This countertop style works best with minimalist design, allowing the island to shine as a stylish element that doesn’t compete with other elements in the room.
A butcher block countertop is another great way to add industrial flair to your kitchen. These durable surfaces are designed to be cut directly on and develop a natural, weathered look over time.
Open shelving can also make a statement in an industrial kitchen by displaying your favorite cookware and glassware. It’s a convenient way to keep frequently used items within reach and free up storage space in your pantry.
Bold pendant lights are another eye-catching feature that can elevate your island. Look for styles with metal shades or Edison bulbs to add industrial flair to your kitchen.
Bar Stools
The popularity of the industrial decor trend continues to surge, and a key component of this style is kitchen bar stools. Whether completing a full renovation or just updating a small home space, these chairs help to tie together the look and provide comfortable seating for eating and entertaining.
Kitchen bar stools come in a variety of designs to suit any aesthetic. Metal frames offer a sleek, utilitarian feel that is perfect for a modern industrial design, while wood styles add a softer look to farmhouse-inspired or minimalist spaces. Natural materials like rattan also work well for rustic kitchens that crave warmth and texture.
If you prefer a more refined style, consider leather kitchen bar stools in rich tones of brown and cognac. These elegant accents are stylish and timeless, and they can balance the colder tones of black hardware and exposed brick.
Furniture
While neutral shades are a staple of industrial kitchen design, incorporating metal elements in various finishes provides visual contrast and depth. Mixing cool-toned stainless steel with warm brass or wrought iron in fixtures and cabinet hardware can create a balanced look that’s still visually striking.
Similarly, reclaimed wood surfaces are a common feature of industrial kitchens, blending raw texture with contemporary style. Sun-dried fir wood, for example, can conjure ideas of railroad sleepers or beams while featuring an elegantly modern finish.
Open shelving is another popular feature of industrial kitchens, bringing a sense of raw, rugged charm to the space. If your open shelves are a bit too high to reach, look for a furniture design like ladders or a free-standing ladder that can be moved around the room.
Lighting
One of the keys to a successful industrial kitchen design is incorporating the right lighting designs. Hanging pendant lights or Edison bulbs with a rustic finish can add an edgy aesthetic to your kitchen, while providing ample task lighting for all your cooking endeavors. Simple wooden accessories like storage crates or cutting boards can also elevate your space.
When it comes to colour, dark shades are on-trend in industrial kitchens. However, be careful not to go overboard with dark colors, as they can make a small space feel claustrophobic. If you’re a fan of darker hues, try mixing in some warm-toned metals and a neutral shade or two to break up the monochrome palette. This will help the raw elements of your industrial kitchen shine and create a balanced, inviting atmosphere.