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How to Design an Industrial Style Basement – 16 Key Elements

How to Design an Industrial Style Basement

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Industrial Style Interior Design – Introduction Video

What is Industrial Style Basement Design?

Characterized by its use of neutral tones, industrial-style basements give even the most carefully crafted dwellings a rough appearance. 

This style is perfect for those who want their living spaces to have a warehouse aesthetic. This ever-growing trend has been making its way into loft apartments, contemporary residences, and modern businesses worldwide. 

This look incorporates both rustic and modern design elements, making use of wood and metal surfaces. One key element to creating this look is lighting. Exposed light bulbs are often seen in industrial spaces, adding to the rough feel of the room. 

16 Industrial Style Basement Ideas 

When most people think of industrial look, they might imagine a stark, sterile space with hard, cold lines and little in the way of comfort or warmth. However, this design style can actually be quite inviting – it just takes a bit of know-how to get it right. Here are 16 key characteristics that will help you create a stylish and comfortable room.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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1.- Exposed Pipes and Ducts

Exposed pipes and ducts are a defining aspect of industrial-style basement design. When the idea of warehouse flats caught on, you could image what a breath of fresh air this was. Although it was difficult to convert previous industrial areas (such as factories) into residential living, keeping certain raw features exposed served to both remind occupants of the building’s original use and prevent the need for any further development.

Today, this style is all about celebrating the imperfections of a space. Rather than trying to cover up or hide exposed pipes and ducts, it embraces them as part of the overall aesthetic. These features are intentional and considered part of the overall lighting and decor in a well-designed living space.

Whether you’re looking to add some character to your home office or want to create an industrial style basement, exposing your pipes and ducts is a great way to start.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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2.- Exposed Brick Walls

Brick walls are one of the most popular choices for industrial-style homes. They provide an authentic manufacturing atmosphere that can make any room feel more spacious. Exposed brick walls are also a great way to add texture and interest to a living room or to any room.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, exposed brick walls can also help to reflect light and make a room feel larger and brighter. When choosing exposed brick walls for your home, it’s important to consider the space’s overall design.

You’ll want to make sure that the wall compliments the rest of the room and doesn’t overwhelm it. With a little planning, you can create a stunning space that is both stylish and functional.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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3.- Wood & Metal

This design aesthetic can be achieved by combining different elements, such as unfinished wood and metal furnishings. You may be surprised to discover almost any kind of industrial style furnishings.

For example, you can recreate this style by incorporating exposed brick walls, vintage light fixtures, and vintage-style furniture. Or, if you’re looking to add a touch of chic to your space, consider using metal shelving or lighting.

Wooden floors are also a popular choice for this style. They provide a warm and natural vibe to the hard lines of exposed brick and metal.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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4.- Antique and Vintage Accents

Many industrial-style interiors are created by using antique and vintage accents. These pieces can add character and depth to any room. The best way to find authentic antiques is to go to flea markets, garage sales, or estate sales.

You can also check out local antique stores. You might find some great pieces that fit your theme if you’re lucky. Lighting is another essential aspect to create this aesthetic. So look for vintage industrial-style light fixtures to add an edgy touch to your space.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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5.- Metallic Silver Color Scheme

This amazing style is unique and trendy, and it’s perfect if you want to add a bit of edge to your home. This style is all about raw materials, exposed wires, and unfinished surfaces.

One of the most important things to consider when you’re doing an industrial-style basement design is your color scheme. Metallic colors like silver, gray, and gold predominate, with some browns and dark navy blues sprinkled throughout. This color palette is perfect for creating the perfect atmosphere in your home. 

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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6.- Distressed Leather

And one of the best ways to create an industrial-style basement design is with distressed leather furniture. Sofas, chairs, and ottomans upholstered in worn brown leather are the perfect way to achieve the look you are aiming for. 

And when paired with the right lighting and industrial-inspired decor, you can create a truly unique and inviting living space. So if you’re looking for a way to add some flair to your home, consider incorporating distressed leather into your design; it also happens to be a great pet-friendly material

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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7.- Ceiling Lights for Industrial Style Basements

The ceiling lights for an industrial-style basement are essential. One of the most popular options for this style is the exposed Edison bulbs. These bulbs remain the standard for factory illumination and are well-suited to be incorporated into your design.

While many designers have gained notoriety for their innovative uses of naked bulbs, they are also becoming a popular choice for basement lighting. Exposed bulbs can add a touch of an industrial look to any living space and can be a great way to add personality to your home.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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8.- Cage Lighting

Cage lamps are also ceiling lights for industrial-style basements to consider. These fixtures are called such because the lightbulb is “caged” by a metal framework. 

When shopping for cage lighting, keep in mind that there are many different styles to choose from. Some cages are very simple, while others are more ornate. You’ll also want to consider the size of the fixture and the type of bulb you want to use.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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9.- Pendant Lights and Large Metal Dome Lamps

Pendant lights and large metal dome lamps are a great way to add ceiling lights to an industrial-style basement while also giving it a bold feel. I often see them used in this type of design. They can really help to brighten up a space and make it feel more inviting.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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10.- Open Floor Plan

An open floor plan is a type of layout where living spaces flow into each other with a minimal division between them. Open floor plans are inspired by the expansive common areas of warehouses and factories.

To get the best results when designing an open floor plan, you should start with a large room that has plenty of floor space. Then, use lighting to create different zones within the area. Finally, add some metal furniture and décor to complete the look. 

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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11.- The Use of Copper in the Kitchen

This style takes its cues from old factories and industrial styles and often features exposed brick, metal, concrete, and copper.

Copper cookware is not only stylish, but it’s also very functional. Additionally, it is an excellent conductor of heat, so it heats up evenly and quickly. It’s also very easy to clean, which is important in any kitchen. Copper cookware is a great place to start if you’re looking for a way to add some industrial flair to your home.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room - 16 Elements

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12.- Concrete

Concrete is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of interior design styles. In industrial-style homes, concrete is often used for flooring, worktops, and other design elements.

The standard gray hue of concrete complements a wide variety of finishes, including those made from metal and natural materials like wood and stone. In contemporary homes, concrete floors can be used to create dramatic living spaces.

Concrete floors can be painted or stained to create unique patterns and designs. Lighting can also be used to highlight the unique textures and patterns of concrete surfaces. 

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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13.- Draftsman Task Chairs

Standard fare for metal office chairs and experts in the field of art or engineering will often make use of them. As of right now, these seats are the preferred choice for architects and artists alike. 

One reason for this is that these chairs often incorporate natural materials and finishes, which can add a warm and inviting feel to a room. Another reason is that they are very versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

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14.- Coffee Table on Wheels

Industrial-style coffee tables with wheels are a staple for this style. These characteristically rough chunks of metal and wood bring an industrial look to any basement design.

When paired with the right furniture, a coffee table can add a touch of whimsy or sophistication to your living room

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

Courtesy of Houzz – Shop this style at Havenly

15.- Black Grid Frame Windows

Black grid frame windows are a great way to add an industrial look to your home. They remind me of the windows you would see in a warehouse or factory and let in a lot of natural light

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

Courtesy of Houzz – Shop this style at Havenly

16.- Use of Plants

One of the hallmarks of industrial style basement design style is the use of plants. Not only do plants and nature adds a touch of color and Life to any area, but they also help to purify the air and improve indoor air quality. If you’re looking to incorporate plants into your own home, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, choose plants that are low-maintenance and require minimal care. Second, consider your plant’s overall size and scale. You don’t want your plants to overpower your space; instead, look for plants that will complement your existing furnishings. 

Additionally, consider that some houseplants might be toxic to pets, so if you have furry friends at home, be sure to choose plants that are pet-friendly.

How to Design an Industrial Style Room

Courtesy of Houzz – Shop this style at Havenly

Design an Industrial Style Basement Design Ideas – FAQ

What type of industrial buildings are typical of this design aesthetic?

Warehouses, factories, and even some office buildings. If you’re looking to create a themed space in your home, consider using some of these buildings as inspiration.

What type of industrial decor is typically used in this design style?

It often incorporates natural materials and finishes, which can add a warm and inviting feel to a room. 

What type of architectural elements are typically used in this design style?

Exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and black grid frame windows. If you’re looking to add some industrial flair to your home, consider incorporating some of these elements into your space.

Is metal furniture typical of industrial interior design?

Yes, however, it’s not necessarily a requirement. Instead, focus on choosing furniture that is versatile and can be used in a variety of different ways. 

How to Design a Scandinavian Style Room

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How to Design an Industrial Style Room - 16 Elements

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M.Arch. Julio Arco
M.Arch. Julio Arco

Bachelor of Architecture - ITESM University
Master of Architecture - McGill University
Architecture in Urban Context Certificate - LDM University
Interior Designer - Havenly
Architecture Professor - ITESM University

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