If you love the look of old warehouses, loft apartments, or anything with a raw vibe, then industrial design is likely your thing. The ethos of this style is to show off what’s usually hidden—pipes, brick walls, and rough materials like concrete and metal.

Industrial design interior design remains popular because there’s something effortlessly cool about it. It strips everything back to the basics in a way that feels thoughtful, not unfinished. People know it and love it as a look that’s confident without having to try too hard.

History of Industrial Interior Design

In the Western hemisphere, industrial design has its roots in the early 1900s. During WWI, the U.S. became a major production powerhouse, building massive factories to support the war effort. These buildings were made to be practical, not necessarily pretty (which is exactly what gives them their charm today!).

Following WWII, people started converting these old industrial spaces into homes, especially in big cities like New York and London. Artists and creatives were drawn to the high ceilings, big windows, and open layouts. Over time, the look caught on and became a style of its own.

Industrial Design Interior Design Principles

Industrial design’s MO is honesty. It confidently shows off the bones of a space instead of covering them up.

Here are the key characteristics of industrial design broken down:

Exposed Structure

Instead of hiding pipes, beams, or ducts, industrial interiors embrace them as features and focal points. These raw elements add character and tell the story of the space’s original purpose.

Mixed Materials

This style blends metal, concrete, reclaimed wood, leather, and glass. The combination of rough, rustic and smooth textures creates balance and depth without feeling over-designed.

Neutral, Earthy Colours

Greys, blacks, whites, and natural tones like rust, tan, and wood grain dominate. A palette like this keeps things grounded and lets the materials speak for themselves.

Functional, Minimal Furniture

Pieces are simple and practical, usually displaying clean lines and sturdy builds. You might see vintage items, metal stools, or wood-and-steel shelving that look like they could’ve come from a factory floor.

Get the scoop on minimalism.

Statement Lighting

Lighting is a big part of the industrial feel. Anything from metal pendant lights, cage lights, and Edison bulbs. These add warmth and bring a bit more of that classic old-world touch into the space.

Open & Airy Layouts

Open floor plans, high ceilings, and large windows help this style breathe. Even in smaller spaces, this sense of openness can be created by keeping layouts simple and clutter to a minimum.

How to Incorporate Industrial Interior Design Elements in Your Home

You don’t need to live in a downtown loft to bring industrial style into your space! Below are a few simple ways to work the look into your home.

Bring in Texture with Materials

Look for ways to add texture using industrial materials. A metal coffee table, wood and pipe shelving, or a concrete-look planter can totally shift the vibe. Even small touches like leather cushions or a raw wood bench can easily blend that industrial feel into your existing style..

Add Industrial Lighting

Swap out standard fixtures for something with a little more edge. Try matte black sconces, factory-style pendants, or Edison bulb lamps and see how they feel. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to set the tone without a big budget.

Use Open Shelving

In kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways, open shelving is a great way to echo the look of old workshops and warehouses. Choose shelves with black brackets and natural wood for a clean, industrial mix.

Mix Old & New

Pair vintage pieces, like a repurposed locker or an old drafting stool, with modern elements for a balanced feel. The contrast adds warmth and stops the space from feeling too cold or rigid.

Final Framework

Industrial design doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s strong, straightforward, and built to last.

The beauty of industrial design interior design is in its simplicity. You don’t need much, just the right mix of materials and an eye for balance. Keep it neutral, keep it honest, and let the space speak for itself!

Want to give your space an industrial makeover? Contact MMID to book a consultation in Calgary or explore our virtual eDesign services if you live out of town!