Are you a fan of modern spaces characterized by a slightly cold yet elegant finish that catches the eye? Do you appreciate unconventional solutions, industrial design, and furniture that boasts exceptional durability? If so, the industrial and loft styles are sure to appeal to you.
The Origins of Industrial and Loft Styles
While many people today consider industrial style to be something fresh and modern, it is important to emphasize that its history dates back to the 1950s, when the United States faced a significant crisis. Previously, homes and apartments were furnished with classic wooden furniture, and the layout of the rooms did not feature open spaces, but rather several rooms that delineated different zones. However, as the recession hit, vacant industrial spaces, often abandoned factories, stores, or similar buildings, were transformed by developers into apartments.
The unusual layout and characteristic industrial finishes gave birth to a completely new style, now well-known as industrial style. Initially, the main goal of industrial style was, of course, to cut costs, which is why remnants from factories were used to furnish new living spaces — this is why industrial apartments often feature so many simple, metal furniture pieces.
Today, this type of atmosphere is perceived as modern, unconventional, and often even luxurious. Designers from around the world appreciate such interiors mainly for their creativity and excellent use of open space. It is worth noting the origin of the term loft. Apartments created from abandoned factories typically featured significant height and large open spaces, making it difficult to create standard rooms. Today's perception of loft-style apartments refers to those with open spaces without divisions into separate rooms.
Industrial and Loft Styles — Classification
Currently, industrial style is experiencing a true renaissance. Many people value it for its unconventional approach to form and timeless functionality. Today, industrial style can be observed not only in post-industrial buildings but also in new apartments and freshly built houses. Based on the aforementioned differences, a classification of industrial style has emerged, distinguishing two types: the first is known as hard industrial, which refers to interiors maintained in an industrial atmosphere created in a post-industrial space, while the second type is the opposite of the former, namely soft industrial, which refers to industrial interiors in new buildings.
Creating an apartment or house in industrial style is certainly easier in a building such as an old warehouse, factory, manufactory, or even a defunct steel mill, as these originally served as the basis for creating residential interiors in this style. However, regardless of the space you have, we have compiled several tips to help you create a design worthy of a master.
How to Create an Interior in Industrial Style?
The foundation for creating an interior in industrial style is its appropriate finishing. By this, we primarily mean taking care of basic elements such as floors, walls, ceilings, and the materials used for interior finishing. Industrial style thrives in high spaces with brick walls, industrial lighting, and, above all, large windows that let in the precious sunlight. This well-prepared base is half the success in designing the interior of your dreams. It is worth mentioning that in loft interiors, you can combine elements that may not seem to go well together at first glance. A perfect example could be red brick laid on a wall in the living room or kitchen, combined with a cold, metal dining table or a concrete floor. Brick adds a warm atmosphere to a stark interior, while metal elements serve not only as practical everyday items but also as home decor that perfectly fits the discussed style.
As mentioned, poured concrete floors are a great way to create the atmosphere of post-industrial interiors. This method is a true hit among interior design trends and is gaining popularity each year. Over time, concrete develops a characteristic texture and tends to have small cracks that give it an old-school design.
Once the entire base of the room is ready, it's time to choose furniture and home accessories. When selecting furniture for an industrial-style interior, it's worth opting for unusual forms and interesting materials. To create a comfortable yet striking living room, choose a well-fitted sofa that meets all your needs. To achieve the perfect balance between the coldness and rawness of the interior and its cozy character, consider a sofa upholstered in leather or faux leather. This material contrasts beautifully with metal and adds elegance and sophistication to the room. Speaking of furniture, it should primarily be pieces with character that stand out with their unique style. If you're looking for unusual ideas that will surprise you and your guests, you'll find them at Eye on Design.
Another element is, of course, home accessories and decorations. In the case of industrial style, it's hard to talk about classic home decorations; instead of various knick-knacks, it's definitely better to focus on high-quality lighting. Various types of wall lamps, floor lamps, and desk lamps will best capture the essence of this style.
