Urban or Industrial Style – And How to Make It Become You

Monday, May 21st, 2018

If you fancy using materials such as rough wood, metals, and brick; and if you love the idea of exposed structural elements or even the use of ladders as a bookcase, then you would probably embrace the concept of urban interior design.

Also known as Industrial interior design, this is a style that does not require any cosmetic tricks. Today, we’re aiming the spotlight at this particular style.

Urban Style and Its Humble Beginning

There isn’t a lot of information about the origin of urban interior design. It is assumed that it was developed during the early part of the 20^th century. By the time that the second industrial revolution ended, this trend has already captured the world. Decades after, the style became even more globalized.

What spurred all these were the Western European factories which started to close down. They then moved their business to low-cost nations. This resulted in vacant buildings and neglected warehouses.

These plants were suitable for what are now known to be residential conversions. Through the years, cities became quite popular with such renovations. And with the lack of space that is often associated with urban living, it has become a fight-for-living-space of sorts out there. The transformation of the old industrial structures has become the most logical solution.

And with more and more people moving into such buildings, it soon became apparent that they did not even try to conceal the bare walls, large window panes, and the rough cement. As a result, urban interior design or what’s known more popularly as industrial interior design was born.

Urban Style Elements

Each interior design comes with specific characteristics. For instance, when you want to use the Nordic interior design, you should be prepared to use light colors and just natural materials. The urban interior design is just the opposite.

First, there are rough brick walls. No need to hide them or do cosmetic applications. In many cases, the focus is more on the bare structure even un-plastered walls. These elements create a cozier and warmer ambiance.

Other elements that you can use include wood and concrete floors. Homeowners often pick a concrete floor more than the wooden option, though.

A third option that you can take is to have an open ceiling. This element must also be left bare. Emphasize the concrete columns, beams, and steel girders. If the ventilation pipes are exposed then let them be. You can paint the ceiling black so you can add depth to your surroundings.

A fourth design element that you might want to include are huge steel windows. These can give your space a retro look because of the small panes. What’s great about these is that more natural light can stream in.

Urban interior design is all about having an open space layout. To have visual divisions, you can use wooden screens and cabinets.

Leather seats are also a wonderful addition to an industrial design home. Dark furniture is the best choice while bright-colored pieces are a no-no. Those that show a bit of wear and tear may also be added as are metal lockers and such.

When it comes to décor, be sure to pare down your options. You will not see a lot of plants, pots, and figurines. In this home, less is definitely more.

Steel stairs can also add to the openness of the area. The types that have a simple landing and railings are a wonderful option.

Lastly, you should consider adding industrial lighting since this is a must in any urban style dwelling. You can have the pulley-inspired types or even the scissor accordion lights that you can use on the walls. The beauty of this kind of lighting is that you can fuse contemporary styles with the older structural features.

Tags: industrial interior design, industrial interiors, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, urban interior design, urban style
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