The interior design world has witnessed the evolution of industrial style into a more sophisticated and sumptuous aesthetic known as Industrial Luxe. This captivating approach marries the raw, utilitarian elements of traditional industrial design with luxurious materials and refined finishes, creating spaces that are both edgy and elegant.

Image left: Studio Author. Image right: DAB Studio

THE ORIGINS OF INDUSTRIAL LUXE

Industrial Luxe emerged as designers began to reimagine the potential of converted industrial spaces such as warehouses, factories, and lofts. While traditional industrial design embraced the bare-bones aesthetic of these spaces - exposed brick, visible ductwork, and unfinished surfaces - Industrial Luxe elevates these elements by pairing them with sumptuous materials and sophisticated details.

The style gained momentum in the early 2010s when urban regeneration projects transformed former industrial districts in cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow into desirable residential and commercial areas. As these spaces attracted a more affluent demographic, the desire to maintain the buildings' industrial heritage while incorporating luxury touches gave birth to Industrial Luxe.

Image: Home Adore

THE KEY CHARACTERISTICS OF INDUSTRIAL LUXE

Industrial Luxe isn't merely industrial design with a few expensive pieces; it's a thoughtful fusion that celebrates contrast and creates spaces with depth and character. Here are the defining elements of this sophisticated style:

Architectural Honesty: Industrial Luxe maintains the architectural integrity of industrial spaces by showcasing structural elements rather than concealing them. Exposed brick walls, visible pipes, steel beams, and concrete floors are celebrated rather than disguised.

Luxurious Materials: What sets Industrial Luxe apart is the integration of opulent materials like marble, brass, velvet, and leather alongside the raw industrial elements. Think marble worktops juxtaposed with exposed brick, or velvet sofas against concrete walls.

Sophisticated Colour Palette: While traditional industrial design often features a strictly monochromatic palette, Industrial Luxe introduces deep, rich tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and burgundy, while maintaining the foundational greys, blacks, and browns of industrial style.

Statement Lighting: Lighting plays a pivotal role in Industrial Luxe interiors. Oversized pendant lights, sculptural chandeliers, and artistic fixtures serve as focal points and add a layer of sophistication to the space.

Curated Vintage and Contemporary Mix: Industrial Luxe masterfully blends authentic vintage industrial pieces with contemporary designer furnishings. This calculated contrast creates visually compelling spaces with a sense of history and modernity.

Textural Contrast: The juxtaposition of rough and refined textures is a hallmark of Industrial Luxe. Smooth marble against rough concrete, or plush textiles against weathered wood, creates a sensory experience that adds depth to the space.

Artisanal Elements: Handcrafted items and bespoke pieces add character and uniqueness to Industrial Luxe interiors. Custom metalwork, hand-blown glass fixtures, and artisanal ceramics introduce an element of craftsmanship that elevates the overall design.

Thoughtful Space Planning: Despite the open nature of most industrial spaces, Industrial Luxe employs thoughtful space planning to create intimate zones within larger areas, using strategic furniture placement, area rugs, and lighting to define different functional spaces.

Image left: Apparatus. Image right: Mobilia 

CREATING AN INDUSTRIAL LUXE HAVEN IN YOUR HOME

Incorporating Industrial Luxe principles into your home doesn't require living in a converted warehouse. Here's how to bring this sophisticated style into any space:

Start with a Strong Foundation: If you're lucky enough to have original features like exposed brick, beams, or concrete, showcase them. If not, consider introducing industrial elements through materials like concrete effect wall finishes, metal-framed room dividers, or reclaimed timber flooring.

Introduce Luxurious Touches: Layer in luxury through carefully selected pieces—a velvet sofa, a marble coffee table, or brass light fixtures. These elements will create the signature contrast that defines Industrial Luxe.

Invest in Statement Lighting: Choose lighting that serves as a focal point and conversation starter. Consider oversized pendants over dining tables, dramatic floor lamps, or bespoke chandeliers in living spaces.

Embrace Rich Accents: Introduce deep, rich colours through textiles and accessories. Navy blue velvet cushions, emerald green glass vases, or burgundy leather chairs can add depth and sophistication to the industrial base palette.

Mix Materials Thoughtfully: Create interest through the juxtaposition of different materials. Pair a reclaimed wood dining table with velvet upholstered chairs, or place a silky rug on a concrete floor.

Curate Art and Accessories: Select art and accessories that complement the Industrial Luxe aesthetic. Large-scale abstract paintings, sculptural objects, or black and white photography can enhance the sophisticated ambiance.

Consider Bespoke Elements: Where budget allows, incorporate custom or bespoke pieces that add uniqueness to your space - a custom-made metal bookshelf, a handcrafted dining table, or a specially commissioned light fixture.

By thoughtfully incorporating these elements, you can create an Industrial Luxe space that balances raw industrial charm with sophisticated luxury - a home that feels both edgy and elegant, with a distinctly contemporary character that stands the test of time.

If this style resonates with you, let's explore how we could create something uniquely yours. Ready to reimagine your space? View our portfolio or email us to arrange a consultation.