Alright, let’s talk kitchens! I’ve always been drawn to spaces that feel grounded, authentic, and just a little bit edgy. And when it comes to kitchens, nothing quite captures that vibe like the industrial style. It’s not just about function; it’s about celebrating the bones of the room, the raw strength that makes it work. If you’re craving a kitchen that’s both hardworking and seriously cool, you’re in the right place. I’m going to share 15 industrial kitchen ideas I absolutely love, the ones that will give your space that modern edge you’re dreaming of.
Incorporate Raw Materials Industrial Kitchen Shelving Style
This is where the industrial look really starts to take shape. It’s about showing off the stuff things are made of, not hiding it away. Think about materials that aren’t overly polished or fussy. This is what gives your kitchen that hardworking, authentic feel.

Why This Works:
Using raw materials in your shelving adds instant character and a no-nonsense vibe. It grounds the space and provides a striking contrast to smoother surfaces.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Choose shelving made from reclaimed wood or unfinished lumber.
- Opt for metal brackets in black, galvanized steel, or even copper.
- Combine wood shelves with raw metal pipes for a pipe shelving system.
Design an Industrial Kitchen with Exposed Brick
Oh, brick! It’s like the soul of an industrial space. If you’re lucky enough to have brick behind your drywall, expose it! If not, there are some amazing options out there to get the look. It brings incredible texture and warmth.

Why This Works:
Exposed brick adds history, texture, and a touch of rugged authenticity. It creates a strong focal point and makes the kitchen feel instantly cooler.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Carefully expose existing brick walls if they are present.
- Install brick veneer or faux brick panels for the look without the structural work.
- Consider using brick on a single accent wall behind the stove or dining area.
Achieve the Industrial Kitchen Look with Metal Finishes
Metal is non-negotiable in an industrial kitchen. It brings that utilitarian feel and a touch of shine. Don’t be afraid to mix different types of metal – it adds depth and visual interest.

Why This Works:
Metal finishes provide durability and a crisp, clean line that complements raw materials. Mixing metals adds a layer of visual interest and prevents the space from feeling too sterile.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Choose stainless steel appliances and hardware.
- Install metal countertops or backsplashes (zinc, copper, or stainless steel).
- Incorporate metal seating like industrial stools.
Update Your Light Fixtures for an Industrial Feel
Lighting is huge in any space, and for industrial kitchens, it’s key to creating that specific mood. Think function first, but with a cool edge. Exposed bulbs, metal shades, and simple shapes are your friends.

Why This Works:
Industrial lighting adds a functional yet stylish element. It can highlight specific areas and enhance the overall atmosphere of the room.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Install pendant lights with metal shades or exposed bulbs over an island or table.
- Use track lighting with industrial-style fixtures.
- Mount simple wall sconces or gooseneck lamps.
How to Select the Perfect Industrial Kitchen Island
The island is often the heart of the kitchen, and in an industrial space, it can really make a statement. Think substantial and functional. Something that looks like it could have been in a workshop.

Why This Works:
An industrial island provides ample workspace and can serve as a visual anchor. It can also offer additional storage and seating.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Look for islands made from reclaimed wood or metal.
- Consider islands with open shelving or large drawers.
- Choose a countertop material like concrete, butcher block, or stainless steel.
Adding Concrete Elements to Your Industrial Kitchen
Concrete isn’t just for sidewalks! In a kitchen, it brings incredible durability and a cool, urban feel. It’s surprisingly versatile and pairs beautifully with other industrial materials.

Why This Works:
Concrete adds a solid, grounded feel and a unique texture. It’s incredibly durable and easy to maintain, perfect for a busy kitchen.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Install concrete countertops or a concrete backsplash.
- Consider a polished concrete floor.
- Use concrete for a range hood surround or a dining table top.
Utilize Open Shelving in Your Industrial Kitchen
Closed cabinets can feel a little traditional. Open shelving is a hallmark of industrial style. It keeps things accessible and lets you display some of your favorite kitchen items.

Why This Works:
Open shelving provides easy access to frequently used items and adds visual lightness. It allows you to showcase your dishes and decor, adding personality.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Replace some upper cabinets with open shelves made from wood or metal.
- Use pipe shelving for a strong industrial look.
- Keep items neatly organized and consider uniform dishware for a cohesive look.
Bring Character with Vintage Finds for Your Kitchen
This is where you add personality! Bringing in vintage pieces adds soul and a sense of history. Look for items with a bit of wear and tear; they tell a story.

Why This Works:
Vintage finds add warmth, character, and a unique touch. They break up the potentially starkness of the industrial elements and make the space feel lived-in.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Search for old metal signs, industrial clocks, or vintage scales.
- Repurpose old factory carts or workbenches as islands or serving carts.
- Look for vintage lighting fixtures or hardware.
Choose the Right Flooring for an Industrial Kitchen
The floor sets the stage. For an industrial kitchen, you want something that’s durable and ties into the overall aesthetic. Think practical and stylish.

Why This Works:
The right flooring choice provides a sturdy base and contributes significantly to the overall industrial aesthetic. Durability is key in a kitchen.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Consider polished concrete or stained concrete floors.
- Install wide-plank wood flooring with a matte finish.
- Look at large format tiles in a dark or neutral color.
Mixing Wood and Metal in Industrial Kitchens
This is a pairing I absolutely adore. The warmth of wood balances the coolness of metal perfectly. It’s essential for creating a space that feels both strong and inviting.

Why This Works:
The combination of wood and metal creates visual balance and adds depth. Wood brings warmth and natural texture, while metal adds an industrial edge and crispness.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Pair a metal dining table with wood chairs.
- Use wood countertops on metal cabinets.
- Combine wood shelving with metal brackets.
Create a Statement Wall in Your Kitchen
Even in a functional space like a kitchen, you can create a focal point. A statement wall can add drama, texture, and color. It’s a great way to introduce a bold element.

Why This Works:
A statement wall adds visual interest and can break up the monotony of cabinets. It provides an opportunity to introduce a strong texture or color.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Use exposed brick or brick veneer on one wall.
- Install a backsplash made from subway tile, metal, or concrete.
- Consider shiplap or reclaimed wood planks for a rustic industrial feel.
Selecting Appliances for Your Industrial Kitchen
Your appliances are major players in an industrial kitchen. They should look hardworking and professional. Edelstahl ist oft die erste Wahl, aber schwarze Geräte können auch funktionieren.

Why This Works:
Appliances contribute significantly to the functional aesthetic of an industrial kitchen. Professional-looking appliances enhance the hardworking vibe.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Opt for stainless steel appliances.
- Look for ranges with substantial knobs and a professional look.
- Consider a freestanding range hood as a focal point.
Use Dark Color Palettes for Your Kitchen Space
Industrial style often embraces darker, moodier colors. Think grays, blacks, and deep blues. These colors grounding the space and provide a strong backdrop for the raw materials.

Why This Works:
Dark colors create a sense of depth and sophistication. They allow the textures of the raw materials to stand out and contribute to a dramatic, industrial feel.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Paint walls or cabinets in charcoal gray, black, or a deep navy.
- Use dark countertops like black granite or soapstone.
- Consider using dark grout with lighter tiles for contrast.
Simple Décor Ideas for an Industrial Kitchen
You don’t need a lot of fuss in an industrial kitchen. The materials and structure are the main stars. Keep your decor simple and meaningful.

Why This Works:
Simple decor allows the core elements of the industrial design to shine. It prevents clutter and maintains the clean lines of the style.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Display simple kitchenware in crocks or on open shelves.
- Add a few architectural plants in simple pots.
- Hang functional items like pots and pans on a rack.
Accessorizing Your Industrial Kitchen Space
Accessories are the final layer. They should complement, not overpower, the industrial feel. Think practical items that also look good.

Why This Works:
Accessorizing adds personality and finishes the look. Thoughtful accessories enhance the function and style without adding unnecessary clutter.
How You Can Recreate It:
- Use metal canisters for storage.
- Drape simple linen dish towels over the oven handle.
- Add a rustic wood cutting board or a collection of vintage bottles.
Conclusion
Creating an industrial kitchen is all about embracing the raw and the real. It’s about appreciating the beauty in materials like metal, wood, and concrete, and letting them be the focal point. By incorporating these 15 industrial kitchen ideas, you can build a kitchen that feels authentic, functional, and uniquely yours – a space where you’ll love to cook, gather, and just be.