Why industrial style will always have a place in interior design

From exposed brick, concrete to steel, industrial style is all about raw elements, inspired by industrial commercial buildings. This trend became popular in the 60s and 70s alongside loft-style living, when it became more difficult to find ‘traditional’ spaces. One of the reasons this trend is here to stay is that it offers a function-over-form approach.

We have some really special industrial spaces here at 1st Option available for your next photoshoot or filming project, here are just a few to feast your eyes on…

First up let’s look at Metallica, a penthouse apartment in South West London, Built in 1935, this art deco building includes original features such as the vaulted roof, with dual skylight, large crittall windows and concrete flooring. A unique industrial feature is the metal wall partition, an original feature that serves as a divider between the dining space and lounge area. The industrial kitchen is quite a spectacle with stainless steel cabinetry, a sculptural kitchen island, painted white brick and concrete flooring. 

Next we’re heading over to East London, to take a look at Steel, located in an old grain warehouse. This mostly open-plan space includes exposed brick interior walls, complimentary wood and concrete textures and original crittall windows that flood the space with natural light. A wooden mid-century style kitchen space compliments the industrial textures, with a large island and granite surfaces.

Whilst on this side of the pond, we have to mention Spratts Factory, another East London delight located in an old dog biscuit factory warehouse. With large crittall arched windows, reclaimed wooden flooring, double height ceilings and a mezzanine space, this location has some similarities to Steel, but has more of a mid-century, rustic feel. We love the wooden beams and reclaimed wood.

A unique example of industrial design comes in the form of this converted Gin Distillery in Whitechapel. This space was transformed by the architect design duo Leo Wood and Rupert Scott, Open Practice Architecture. They used materials such as concrete, exposed steel framework, crittall doors and stainless steel. The aim was to create something minimalistic to their taste, whilst also creating a warm and inviting family home, they balanced this with wooden beamed ceilings, mid-century furniture and greenery. A particularly special part of the space is the double height lounge space, with a concrete paneled wall, statement wood burner, crittall windows and the wood paneled ceiling. 

Aside from residential conversions, we also look after some commercial warehouse spaces that are exclusively used as shoot spaces, one of the most popular being Concrete Studio. This industrial space includes polished concrete flooring, double height ceilings, and sections of concrete walls, complemented by the surrounding white walls. The mezzanine level is designed with concrete ceilings and floors, and strip lighting, adding to the aesthetic.

So there we have it! Industrial style, spaces that are both aesthetically striking and practical. Raw materials such as concrete and steel, coupled with minimalistic elements, offer a timeless appeal. By embracing the beauty of simplicity and utility, industrial design continues to inspire and shape modern interiors.