Style edit: Creating an industrial inspired scheme

Inspired by New York lofts and converted warehouses, the industrial look has been going from strength to strength in recent years. Originally developed to embrace the unique features of renovated factories, this aesthetic can be recreated in any type of home, by finding the right balance of finishes and materials.

The industrial look exudes effortless style by leaving the interior with an ‘unfinished’ air by exposing pipework, leaving plaster bare or using materials often regarded as waste.

Because this look draws character from the building itself, wall design plays a huge part in creating an authentic industrial look, with metal and concrete elements being key. US brand NLXL is known for the exquisite textures of its wallcoverings, with the Concrete and Brooklyn Tins collections giving the perfect backdrop for this look.

The importance of texture carries through into the fabrics for this look, with aged leather and rough wool or jute complementing an unrefined backdrop. Keeping your colour palette earthy and neutral, with true black, deep grey, rich tan and white will give a minimalist vibe, while bringing in plains in soft shades of mustard and rose will add warmth and depth. Used sparingly, painterly florals can provide a stunning contrast to stark surroundings, acting as a feminine, balancing element in your room – Osborne & Little’s Fullerton or Designer’s Guild’s Fleurs du Jour would be particularly breath-taking in a curtain or headboard.

Much of the journey of creating an industrial look is about discovering what will work with the structure and architecture of your home, exposing any original features that might lend themselves to the look along the way. Where this isn’t possible, there are clever tricks that will help you to add industrial style to a cottage or new build home. Large, iron-framed windows are often a feature, ensuring that the space is flooded with the light it needs, but you can recreate this with a large window mirror mounted or propped against a wall. 

Although it makes a bold statement, there’s no need to be intimidated by the industrial look – it’s yours to use as inspiration in your home to whatever degree you wish. You can keep it as a subtle influence with one or two elements or go all out; the choice is yours. Explore our carefully curated range of fabrics and wallcoverings to find the perfect pieces for your home.

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