So, you’re redecorating your dining room and want to try something new? But your definition of “new” isn’t something sleek and contemporary, but rather something raw, edgy and with a vintage touch. Then, you’re probably thinking industrial style!
And the fact that industrial style lacks the cleanliness, perfection and pretentiousness of other styles, makes it all the more warm and personal – perfect for intimate rooms such as the dining room. Plus, as it appreciates exposed walls and floors, unfinished elements, reused objects and humble materials, this style can be done on a budget.
So, are you curious about all the ways you can bring this unique style to your dining room? I’ve written about the general characteristics of industrial style here before, but when it comes to the specifics involved in creating an attractive industrial style dining room, here’s what you need to know.
Focus on Functional Furnishings
Industrial is a no-nonsense style that puts functionality first, With that being said, the furniture you choose should be practical, durable and without any hint of excess. So, look for industrial dining chairs and tables made of a blend of strong, durable materials such as wrought iron and hardwoods. They should be neutral in colour and simple in design, without any embellishments.
Although homey, cushy armchairs have no place in an industrial dining room, this doesn’t mean getting cold, metal stools either. Opt for something in the middle. Like for instance simple industrial dining chairs made of raw materials such as solid cracked drift oak. Any unique marks and blemishes on the chairs will only be considered as beautiful features. The cushioning should be minimal – padded industrial dining chairs should be simple and upholstered in a monochromatic fabric (preferably black). You can also go for chair designs that have in fact originated in the industrial era, like for instance the bentwood chair or the cross-back chair.
In addition, your furniture doesn’t have to be “out of the store” new. If you come across any salvaged industrial dining chairs at a flea market, antique shop or your grandparents’ basement – you’ve hit jackpot. No matter how old they are, if these pieces are functional, they’ll be perfect in your industrial style dining room. To go with the industrial dining chairs, also pick a matching dining table that has a raw, worn-out look but is made of durable, hardwood materials such as oak or walnut.
Don’t Feel Restricted by the Neutral Palette
The typical industrial colour scheme mainly consists of grey, black, brown, beige and a little white thrown in there. As such, the range of colours in this style can feel limiting. But there can be some wiggle room to add some other colours besides neutrals. As long as they aren’t on the bright and pastel side, and as long as you don’t overdo it. The best way to diversify the colour palette is to go dark and moody with hues such as navy, plum, burgundy, moss green, dark teal and similar. You can even add some bold pops of red as long as its use as an accent and not as one of the main colours.
Light It Right
High ceilings with over-head lighting fixtures that look like they belong in an old factory are the look to aim for. Consider pendant fixtures made of aged metals such as brass, copper and similar antique finishes. When outfitted with Edison style bulbs, these types of fixtures will look even more industrial-like.
Leave It Unfinished
In industrial style spaces, the infrastructure is often put on display. Unfinished walls, exposed beams and bare windows give you a glimpse of the skeleton that holds the place together. With that being said, embrace the unfinished character of the space and don’t feel obligated to cover up the floor with rugs, the brick walls with plaster, or hide pipes and ducts behind furniture. The less perfect – the better.
Open It Up
Industrial style has its origins in vast, open spaces such as factories, warehouses and garages. As such, it makes sense that this look works best in restaurants https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2016/06/29/483306505/why-does-every-new-restaurant-look-like-a-factory and homes with open floor plans. In the home, industrial style works best in expansive rooms that serve multiple functions such as a kitchen and dining room blended into one. If this is your case, then you have the perfect setting for the features of industrial style to really shine. If not, try to leave the space as open as possible by avoiding to bring in furniture and other bulky elements that can disrupt it. In other words, stick to the simple industrial dining chairs + dining table combo.
Use Edgy Decor
Although it focuses on functionality, industrial style does benefit from décor that has a raw and edgy character. When looking for décor, ask yourself, will it fill out of place in a traditional home or a clean, Scandinavian place? If yes, it’s probably perfect for an industrial style dining room. This can be anything – from abstract black and white posters, mixed-media sculptures found objects like typewriters, old road signs and similar items that can make a powerful statement.
