Hello friends! Today we’re going to discuss more about farmhouse styles. Just about everyone is familiar with modern farmhouse style, and while on the trendy side of things, it remains wildly popular among farmhouse enthusiasts. A twist on this style that seems to be enduring, and even gaining popularity, is industrial farmhouse style.
How is Classic Farmhouse Different from Industrial Farmhouse?
As we discussed in previous posts, classic farmhouse differs from other farmhouse styles in that it is classic and enduring and has its roots in the simple, practical, and functional. Classic American Farmhouse incorporates lots of white or cream walls, shiplap, and beadboard, wood surfaces, and comfortable worn fabrics with pops of color. Colors tend to be muted and soft but may also lean a little brighter. Windows are traditionally white inside and out with the classic “two over two” grid pattern. While function is key and lines tend to be straight, this style is warmer than industrial farmhouse.
What is Industrial Farmhouse Style?
According to The Spruce, “Industrial style is based on the aesthetics of the Industrial Age and has become increasingly fashionable in recent decades as industry began to disappear from cities, and warehouse and factory conversions of homes and offices became synonymous with urban hip and chic.” In other words, modern farmhouse is infused with a look reminiscent of a warehouse. So what specifically makes a house industrial farmhouse?
What Elements Are Typically in Industrial Farmhouse Decor?
- Mix of woods
- Exposed brick
- Lots of metal accents in black and silver
- Concrete counters
- Polished concrete floors
- Black metal shower doors
- Black or dark bronze plumbing fixtures
- Metal pendant lighting
- Distressed wood finishes
- Exposed pipes and ductwork
- Focus on the masculine (chunky thick beams, squared-off lines, straight lines)
- Few feminine details (usually not many soft colors or florals, no ruffles)
- Stainless steel appliances
- Stainless or copper sink
- Simple streamlined cabinetry and pulls
- White (or sometimes black) shiplap incorporated throughout
- Vintage tools incorporated in decor
- Chippy signs
- Black window frames and grids
- Rustic wood floors
- Iron
- A more bare or sparse minimalistic look compared to other farmhouse styles
- Like any other farmhouse style, a mix of old and new
- Barn doors
What Are Some Industrial Farmhouse Colors?
Industrial farmhouse is typically neutral with a lot of gray, black, white, off-white and wood tones. Accent colors are usually darker colors like navy, cognac, mustard or muted dark yellows, deep reds and cream tones. Of course colors can be lighter or brighter, but the overall look tends to be darker than some of the other farmhouse styles.
What Do Industrial Farmhouse Finishes Look Like?
Industrial farmhouse finishes are usually darker and have a heavier look and feel. Deep steel gray, galvanized steel, iron finishes, black, copper, and deep browns are common finishes for plumbing fixtures, metal hinges, door knobs, etc.
Can I Incorporate Industrial Farmhouse Style Without Worrying About Longevity? “Industrial-Lite”
As we say in all of our style posts, trends come and go, but classic never goes out of style. If you are hesitant to commit to full-on industrial style complete with black metal window frames, heavy posts and beams, and permanent fixtures, try “industrial-lite” where you keep most of your hard surfaces classic and focus more on accessories, lighting, and furniture.
How to Achieve the “Industrial-Lite” Look
Choose a simple white quartz or charcoal gray quartz instead of concrete. You can always paint your cabinets a color or just go white in the future if you choose a natural wood, dark blue-gray, or even black now. Choose white oak flooring instead of concrete. You can go light or medium and still achieve an industrial look. Although many designers claim that Edison bulbs have worn out their welcome, they remain a staple in industrial lighting. Not a fan of white tile flooring in the bathroom? Consider black hex tile or white hex tile with black dots and black grout. These are still very classic tiles that are versatile enough to accommodate a variety of farmhouse styles. If you have an exposed brick wall in the future that grates on your nerves every time you enter a room, you can always paint it white for a completely timeless look.
What are Your Thoughts About the Industrial Look?
Do you think it’s cozy and chic or cold and trendy? We would love to hear your opinions. Until next time…