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7 elements of an industrial kitchen

The stripped-down industrial kitchen style features exposed brick, wood and plenty of metalwork to give your space a contemporary feel.


Originating in the United States during the 1950s, the urban industrial style came to life when abandoned factories became multi-use spaces that accommodated both the work and personal lives of creative individuals. Raw materials, large windows and high ceilings are the hallmarks of the industrial kitchen. No need to worry if your home doesn’t feature these elements, this style can be easily achieved with the right layout and material choices.

1. Concrete

Image: Reid Rolls via People

The texture and finish of concrete means that it can be used for nearly endless applications in the industrial-style kitchen. An extremely hard-wearing, utilitarian material, concrete can be used for flooring, wall coating and countertops.

2. Exposed brick

Image: Amy Herr via The Kitchn

Exposed brickwork is a relatively easy way to achieve the industrial kitchen look. Peel back plaster to expose red brick, clean the wall and seal it with a specialist brick treatment. If your home is built with cinderblocks, you can install brick cladding or vinyl to achieve the look.

3. Metal work

Image: APC/Trunk Archive via MyDomaine

Whether you’re looking for appliances, furniture or hardware, metals the way to go in an industrial-style kitchen. Iron is key and can be used for kitchen stools, shelves, light fittings and décor items. Stainless steel is great for countertops and cupboard doors, while copper can bring warmth to your industrial space – so leave those copper pipes exposed.

4. Wood

Image: Craig Greenhill-via Contemporist

When it comes to wood in an industrial kitchen, the more worn-in, the better. Darker stains with rough, unpolished edges and plenty of scratches and tarnishes lend authenticity to the hard-working look of these kitchens. Shelving, countertops, door fronts and kitchen tables all look great in wood.

5. Open shelving

Image: andChristina

As much of the industrial colour palette is dark and moody, open shelving is a great way to create lightness in your space. Whether concrete, wood or metal – or a combination of these materials – use shelves to display anything from vintage objects to everyday kitchen items.

6. Freestanding units

Image: Contemporist

Freestanding units are often used in industrial and commercial kitchens because of their versatility. Moveable islands and shelving units are practical, and can be moved around to change the look of your space.

7. Statement lighting

Image: Qualitas Construction via House Beautiful

Practicality rules in the industrial kitchen. Choose pendants and other fittings that not only make a statement, but also provide plenty of light. Iron-look metal units fitted with vintage-style lightbulbs make a splash in any space.


Looking to create an industrial kitchen in Cape Town? Contact us today to set up an obligation-free quotation and find out how we can help you create the space of your dreams. You can also take a look at our kitchen gallery for more kitchen inspiration.

 

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