Real industrial interior design: raw materials, texture and wall art that elevates the whole
Industrial decor has matured far beyond loft clichés. It’s less about overloading with steel and more about balancing raw materials, tactile texture and thoughtful wall art. When we at Artiley help clients achieve the style in everything from newly built apartments to renovated turn-of-the-century homes, three building blocks determine the outcome: material mix, lighting and art choice. Here, we share our most tried-and-true tips – including how an abstract canvas can give a room depth and direction without dominating.
Raw materials as a base
Concrete, steel, brick and raw wood create the language of industry. The key is proportion. A simple rule of thumb we often use is 60–30–10: let a base material (e.g. concrete or microcement) carry 60%, a secondary (black metal, raw steel) 30% and a warmer, softer material (wood, leather) 10%. This gives weight, but also the necessary balance so that the room feels alive instead of hard.
Choose fewer, more distinct materials than many competitors. Do you already have exposed concrete surfaces or brick walls? Let them be the stars – complement them with matte textile surfaces and focused wall art that plays with metallic tones.
Texture makes the difference
In industrial design, texture does two things: it deepens and softens. Rough linen, brushed cotton, jute and nubuck provide visual friction against smooth metal surfaces. In wall art, texture can be expressed visually through clear brushstrokes, layering and contrasts between matte and shimmery areas – even on a smooth canvas, the eye experiences it as tactile.
We often see clients surprised by how much a painting with subtle metallic hues can "unite" a room. When concrete and black steel risk becoming monotonous, a splash of gold or silver adds just the right amount of depth.
Art that anchors the style
In an industrial space, abstract wall art works especially well: it adds energy and texture without competing with the architecture. One piece of art we often recommend for this style is Echoes of Silver . Its gray and gold tones meet the coolness of the concrete and pick up the reflections of the metal, while the gold brings warmth and sophistication.
Here's how we put it into practice:
- Scale: Choose a large painting (preferably over 100 cm on the longest side) above the sofa or sideboard to give the room direction. In a narrow hallway: opt for a vertical version.
- Hanging: Center the midpoint approximately 145 cm from the floor. It looks most harmonious in living rooms and offices.
- Framing: Black metal frame enhances the industrial feel. If you want to soften it up – choose a thin oak frame that still stays tight.
Light, reflection and metal
Industrial style thrives on the contrast between dark and light. Directional wall spotlights (CRI 90+, 2700–3000K) give the art depth and allow metallic details to shine without glare. We usually angle the spotlight obliquely from the side to avoid reflections – especially important if you have glazed frames or high-gloss surfaces in the room. Complete with a warm, low-placed table lamp in raw brass for a soft glow that picks up the gold in the painting.
A color palette that lasts – without becoming predictable
Start with a neutral base: warm greys, blacks, charcoal tones. Add rust, cognac leather or dark green to add life. A painting like Echoes of Silver acts as a bridge between cold (concrete, steel) and warm elements (wood, leather). This is often where the whole falls into place – not through strong contrasts, but through subtle color transfer.
Practical pro tips from our stylists
- Mounting on brick/concrete: Use the correct plug and spacer so that the board has air behind it – this also gives a slight shadow edge that looks professional.
- Sound and comfort: Large paintings and textiles improve the acoustics in open-plan spaces, something we notice immediately in echoing lofts.
- Zones: Use the wall as a zone marker. A large canvas by the dining area creates a clear frame without stealing volume.
- Maintenance: Dust the frame with a microfiber cloth; avoid harsh cleaners on canvas.
Think long-term – both style and sustainability
Industrial interior design is timeless when you build with quality materials and art that lasts over time. Please read our in-depth article Sustainability in Scandinavian interior design: choose art that lasts over time for more insights on how to make sustainable choices without sacrificing expression.
In summary: let rawness meet fine-tuned details. Work in layers – materials, texture, light – and finish with wall art that ties the whole together. Then industrial interior design doesn’t feel cold, but characterful, functional and inviting.