25 Industrial-Style Kitchens That Will Inspire You To Renovate

There are numerous avenues of design to pursue in your home, but few are as striking as industrial design. As Vevano explains, factories constructed in response to a boom in production demands at the turn of the 20th century were built in what is now considered the industrial style; the aesthetic includes hallmarks such as open spaces and concepts, exposed brick, piping, and so on.

As factories closed down, they were often repurposed into homes, apartments, or lofts, and it is in these spaces that industrial as a design terminology was born. Materials are everything in this aesthetic, including metal in all its finishes — steel, copper, iron, copper, brass, etc. — and other somewhat utilitarian options, like glass, wood, brick, or stone. Industrial design is not limited to whole buildings, either; it can be achieved in any home — and any kitchen. In a room that's already so functional by design, this mode only enhances it. It can even mask appliances that often stick out in other styles.

Steel is another incredibly impactful material. Pair it with something lighter, like wood, to keep it from feeling like a restaurant kitchen. Then add subtle but effective pops of steel — your oven's backsplash, a hood range, or even the backing of your island. 

If you don't want to commit to a full-blown, loft-style industrial kitchen, start slowly with small but impactful additions. For example, introduce some exposed pipes. Make use of bigger ticket items in your kitchen, too, like your island. Add elements of steel and stone for a smooth transition into the aesthetic.

Industrial is great on its own, but as a design style, it also lends itself well to blending with other aesthetics. Add some black metal touches, exposed pipes, and unique industrial light fixtures to a Scandinavian style kitchen to give it a bit of an edge.

Raw stone is another great material to include in your industrial kitchen, but if you want to amp it up a bit and make it feel more sophisticated, switch it out for marble. If you want the same, moody, demure look, choose a darker brown option. Pair with touches of leather.

Industrialism isn't tied to a place anymore than it is any particular building. Blend it with coastal design elements — white shiplap flooring and cabinetry, warm wood accents, etc. The factory-inspired elements, including exposed beams or white brick, will fit right in.

Another way to add just a touch of industrial flare in your kitchen is with steel front cabinets. If you add other such elements, they'll fit right in, or stand out on their own.

Wood is another effective material in both industrial décor and your kitchen. A large, statement, eye-catching wood island in the center of the room paired with varying metallic touches is a great introduction to the aesthetic.

Don't feel afraid to throw some trendier elements into your industrial kitchen. Instead of harsher steel light fixtures or islands, opt instead for a warmer, more hip gold shade. Add some plants for a touch of greenery and liveliness. 

While industrial design tends to focus on more matte, understated finishes, feel free to break up that textural monotony. Add some accent cabinets in the same color palette, but with a glossy finish instead of matte.

Another way to incorporate marble in an industrial kitchen for a slight upgrade is via your backsplash, or an accent wall. If you want to keep it understated and more authentically stone-like, though, choose a matte finish without too much veining. 

Another simple, low-commitment way to add industrial flair in your kitchen is with cabinets — specifically, accent wall options. On a wall with either minimal or no cabinets, add bold, dark, wood or metal cabinets. Integrate it with some black steel light fixtures.

Add some unique industrial flair to your kitchen with hammered steel cabinets and appliance faces. Choose a darker, grainier metal with a slightly weathered and hammered effect.