One of the most common trends we’re seeing these days in interior decorating is the industrial look. It’s popping up all over the place, and people are putting their own spin on it. This super cool factory-inspired trend is popular for a reason. Casual, worn, but still glamorous, this look can easily make your space feel like it’s straight out of American history with a captivating story of its own.
Maybe your decorating style tends to lean towards farmhouse? Mid-century modern? City chic? While it’s an incredibly powerful look on its own, industrial pieces can easily be incorporated into many different design styles, instantly adding a little eclectic personalization.
Industrial furniture can eat big holes in your wallet, though, and it’s not always easy to justify the cost of a new coffee table when your old one is working just fine. So how do you keep that conscience free of guilt and still get the industrial look you’re craving? You DIY, of course. Need ideas? Glad to help! Here are four ways to “industrialize” your furniture and make it more modern.
#1 Add metal legs
Two of the key elements of the industrial style are the use of raw materials, and the blending of old and new. Trading out wood legs for black metal ones is a really easy, simple way to accomplish this aesthetic, giving your piece an iconic “reclaimed” look. There are many options that would work for this.
These trapezoid metal table legs are reminiscent of the big steel beams found in old warehouses and factories, and would instantly industrialize your current table top. These pipe legs bring to mind the antique piping common to old buildings, which was frequently left exposed. Reusing old metal, or looking like you reused old metal, is the easiest way to bring that touch of industrial design into your home.
#2 Refinish wood furniture with a patina
This one probably requires a lot more work. But with a bit of elbow grease, even the most boring dresser can become an industrial-inspired statement piece. Not only did she completely refinish this dresser, but the hardware she used really gave it an industrialized look. And we love the extra touch of adding those metal hairpin legs.
Who doesn’t have horrible old furniture in storage somewhere? That dresser your aunt gave you that you really hate but you had to accept. Or the nightstands you picked up a long time ago, but now you can’t figure out what in the world you were thinking. Before selling them off for next to nothing or hauling them to the dump, take another look. They might be the perfect blank slate for your next industrial DIY project.
#3 Paint
Did you know that there are cast iron spray paints available at most hardware stores? Sneaky. Like we said, adding “reclaimed” metal is an easy way to accomplish the industrial style in your space. But who said it has to be real metal? Spray paint would be an incredibly easy and budget-friendly way to upgrade your lamp or other light fixture. It could also be a great way to fake the metal look when you only have wood to work with. Inexpensive wooden coffee table legs could easily look like pricey cast iron legs with the help of a little spray paint.
#4 Swap hardware
And finally, the simplest upgrade to industrialize your furniture: swap the hardware. A simple set of tired, wooden nightstands could easily look fresh and unique with the addition of some cool metal handles. Even if there’s no drawer, there’s nothing wrong with keeping that a secret. Anything that gives your furniture that worn out old building kind of feel will help you get the industrial look you want. And because exposed gears and wheels are a classic part of this design aesthetic, you could also consider adding castors to the bottom of table legs, and other furniture.
Let your DIY projects keep your home looking original
The industrial design aesthetic began as a way to creatively use what was available after city populations outgrew the residential areas. Its very origins are based on originality and frugality. So what better way to bring that back than through some DIY projects? Working with your hands to put your own inventive spin on the industrial look is a great way to carry on the heart of the industrial design movement.
Looking for more ways to bring a little originality to your mobile home? Take a look at these great ideas for adding antiques to your interior design. We hope you find the inspiration you need to continue your home personalization journey.
About EZ Homes Design Team
