Get the look - Industrial Chic
GET THE LOOK....INDUSTRIAL CHIC
As the obsession with vintage continues, the more masculine Industrial look has taken hold. This look often incorporating metal, wood and stone, looks great in both a traditional or more contemporary setting.
FURNITURE: A large trestle table made from wooden planks or stainless steel immediately gives you a central focus. If you then put this together with metal chairs in either galvanised steel or a bright primary colour you have created a look which is not only stylish and timeless, but also practical and hardwearing. The Tolix chair originally designed in the 1920’s can be purchased for about £200. To get the look at a more affordable price, check out the Tolix inspired chairs available now at Wells Reclamation for only £75 each. Other furniture such as 1950’s wooden desks or metal lockers, give you ample storage whilst maintaining your industrial theme.
LIGHTING: Ships lanterns or 1930’s factory lighting are perfect for this look. Often in polished steel, painted enamel, glass or copper, you can easily find something to fit your space both in proportion or age. Genuine vintage lighting will often be a one-off giving your look its’ own individuality. Wells Reclamation always has a collection of vintage light fittings to suit any budget.
DECORATION: Leave the stone or brick work exposed, or paint with muted colours such as putty, stone or off white. Use an eggshell finish on wood work. Bright accessories or a 1950’s style Smeg Fridge in pale -blue, will liven up an industrial inspired kitchen. Do not be afraid to add brighter fabric in retro or even more traditional designs such as toile to keep your look current. There is now a trend for animal and bird fabric designs which work fantastically well with this look. Lewis & Wood have a wonderful collection incorporating, birds, fish and horses. These designs are influenced by traditional paintings and books but also work perfectly in a modern environment. The contrast between industry and nature softens industrial chic to make it work in any age of property from a Georgian farmhouse to a city loft apartment.
ACCESSORIES: This is where your imagination and creativity can be let loose. Using items not for their original purpose is the key to the industrial look. A US Mail Box as a bread bin, used tin cans for herbs pots, old army ammunition boxes for coffee tables and storage, municipal trolleys for storing your vegetables or as book cases; the choices are endless.
Getting this look right is easy and fun. All you need is some time to salvage and a little imagination to ‘up-cycle’ your finds.
All the items photographed in this article can be found at Wells Reclamation. Stock changes on a daily basis so keep in touch through the website or pop in for a browse, and make sure you come with an open mind! Emma Smith is an Interior Designer – contact her on 01749 675644
- 23rd June 2011
