7 edgy industrial-style kitchen ideas

If there’s one room in the house where industrial decor style shines, it’s in the kitchen. The combination of form and function, practicality and aesthetic design is a perfect marriage. Unlike with other decor styles, you don’t have to worry about unsightly utilities—with industrial decor, you can incorporate them into your design. A celebration of reclaimed and repurposed materials, it’s a great choice if you want to nail a kitchen makeover on a budget. To create your own, take a look at these 8 edgy industrial-style kitchen ideas.

Industrial style kitchen idea: opt for a high contrast colour palette

Industrial decor is all about creating a moody, edgy feel without it feeling too austere. It’s grown-up and sexy. Rich taupes and earthy beiges prevent this decor from being too bland.

One of the defining features of this decor style is its architectural elements. If your room is lacking in these, create them by using paint colours that resemble industrial elements, like metal, steel, concrete or wood. That said, you don’t have to stick to neutral colour palettes. Darker blues or teals work too, and when paired with a stainless steel kitchen island and pendant lighting, create a contemporary industrial look.

Industrial style kitchen idea: expose your brick

One of the most instantly recognisable characteristics of the industrial decor style is exposed brick walls. This might sound a little unhomely in some rooms of the house, but in the kitchen, it works perfectly. If you’re doing a full kitchen renovation, speak to your builder about exposing your masonry by removing the top layer of plaster from your walls. Unfortunately, this is only an option if you’ve got good quality brick behind, so as much as we love a DIY project, we’d recommend getting a professional in to do this.

Industrial style kitchen idea: stainless steel kitchen counters

Next on the list for iconic industrial kitchen design ideas are stainless steel kitchen counters. Whether you go for a kitchen island or all your countertops, not only are these practical but they look very cool too. They give it that Hell’s Kitchen vibe, so you can feel like Gordon Ramsey when you’re rustling up your evening meal.

Industrial style kitchen idea: make use of pendant lighting

Can we just talk about @strikeme_pink’s use of dramatic pendant lighting in their kitchen? It’s a crucial part of the industrial decor look and they’ve absolutely nailed it. Using double pendants to highlight an architectural alcove, this room has excellent balance and symmetry.

Be it the matching pendant lights, mirrored copper pots, or the gorgeous contrast created between its Beige 03 walls and Black 02 ceiling. A vintage, industrial-style chandelier, hung from that gorgeous cornicing proves that you don’t have to be completely utilitarian to get the industrial look.

If you want to recreate this style, take a look at these 5 pendant lighting styles that will enhance your decor for some more inspiration.

Industrial style kitchen idea: choose open shelving

One of industrial decor style’s most popular exports is rustic open shelving. It can be in the form of reclaimed scaffolding boards with steel brackets or open factory-style metal shelving repurposed for a domestic setting. Open shelving is a popular choice throughout the house, but it’s a particularly practical option in an industrial kitchen as all your pots and pans are to hand.

Think about what you’re going to keep on those open shelves. Colourful cereal boxes and condiments can stay out of sight, whilst vintage style tea caddies or matching cookware can go on display. Take a look at our guide on how to style open shelving in your kitchen for the full lowdown.

Industrial style kitchen idea: make a feature of your appliances

With a modern farmhouse kitchen or cottagecore home, you’d want to hide your kitchen tech. Whereas, with an industrial style kitchen you can make a feature of your appliances. The key to this is picking appliances that are in keeping with your decor scheme. A commercial-style stainless steel fridge is a great place to start or retro remake utilities in muted colours. We can’t get enough of industrial style gas hobs on (stainless steel, naturally) kitchen islands. Likewise, if you have any piping or air vents in your kitchen: keep them visible. Industrial decor is all about celebrating those rougher edges.

Industrial style kitchen idea: keep things open plan

Due to the origins of the industrial decor style, open plan living is a key component. That’s why a strategically placed kitchen island is so handy, as it breaks up cooking, dining, and living areas. Take a look at our guide to broken plan living or find out how to decorate an open-plan kitchen and living room.

For more kitchen decor inspiration, get inspired by these 7 kitchen decor styles or if reading this blog has given you the urge to give the entire house an industrial-style makeover, take a look at these edgy industrial bedroom and industrial living room ideas.