If you want a kitchen that looks like it means business, industrial design is hard to beat. Borrowing its DNA from commercial spaces — restaurants, warehouses, and workshops — this style thrives where form follows function. Every element has a purpose, yet the overall effect is effortlessly stylish.
What defines an industrial kitchen?
At its core, the look is unapologetic. Materials are left in their natural state, celebrating their raw character. Exposed brick walls are a hallmark feature, offering both warmth and texture while retaining an unfinished edge. Concrete floors, practical and hard-wearing, handle heavy use while reinforcing the utilitarian vibe. Metal is everywhere—stainless steel appliances, iron fixtures, and mixed metal finishes bring both durability and visual punch.
Space and layout matter
Industrial kitchens work best in open floor plans with high ceilings, allowing the exposed elements to shine. This sense of space isn’t just for aesthetics—it mirrors the functionality of professional kitchens, giving you room to move and work efficiently.
The colour palette
Cool greys, deep blacks, and warm browns dominate, often complemented by the gleam of brushed steel or the patina of aged copper. The palette stays restrained so the materials themselves—weathered brick, polished concrete, and raw metal—can take centre stage.
Function as decoration
Instead of ornate flourishes, practical features provide the visual interest. Open shelving keeps essentials within arm’s reach, and commercial-grade appliances double as statement pieces. In an industrial kitchen, the tools of the trade are as much a part of the look as the walls and floors.
With its blend of rugged charm and professional-grade practicality, the industrial kitchen is perfect for homeowners who want style without sacrificing substance.
Double Islands.
Picture: ELLE DECOR
Open shelving. Picture: ELLE DECOR