Industrial-style shelves combine a rugged, simple look with practical functionality, drawing stylish inspiration from old factories and warehouses. Using materials like wood and metal, this style adds character to any space with subtlety.
Here’s how to create a shelf that effortlessly embodies the industrial style…
1. Pick the Right Materials
Image by fionaesposito
The key to achieving an industrial look is to stick with natural, strong materials. Choosing wood such as oak and pine can bring out the best in this style. Oak, in particular, enhances the shelf’s character by highlighting natural knots, grain, and even nature’s authentic imperfections that add charm.
For the metal brackets, choose rustic shades like matte black or gunmetal grey, which create a clean contrast with wood. These colours add a sleek, industrial vibe. Go for metal with a matte finish to avoid any glare or shine that might take away from the look’s natural, raw appeal. Shelves made from chunky wood paired with bold metal brackets have a solid, grounded appearance that works in both modern and traditional spaces, giving them a timeless quality.
2. Keep the Design Simple
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Industrial design is loved for its clean, straightforward lines and functional approach. To stay true to this style, choose shelves with simple, rectangular shapes and pair with accessories that represent the industrial aesthetic to perfection. A solid wood shelf with metal brackets can create a stylish statement with minimal accessories!
Bracketed shelves are ideal for showcasing everything from ceramic bowls to decorative items while keeping the look uncluttered and organised. With their straightforward design, they focus on practicality, allowing your items to stand out against the clean lines of the wood and metal. Choose these shelves for a versatile, adaptable storage solution that effortlessly complements any space.
3. Go for a Natural, Unpolished Look
Image by makenzie.bloor
A big part of industrial style is embracing the natural look of wood and metal. Wooden accents, like solid wood bracketed shelves, bring out the rugged beauty of this style. Each piece will feel one-of-a-kind and give an extra unique feel to your space.
For the metal brackets, visible screws or bolts are a great touch, enhancing the industrial feel. Add a few natural accessories to your shelf, like iron accents or decor made from raw materials. These elements pair beautifully with the wood’s natural texture, enhancing the industrial feel with simple charm. Instead of aiming for a flawless look, let the natural textures of the wood and metal shine. These raw details are what make industrial style shelves full of character.
4. Style with Less, But With Purpose
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With industrial shelves, less is more. A simple shelf can make a big, effortless statement on its own, so you can stick to a few favourite items. Choose neutral tones like grey, white, or black for any decorative items to keep the look consistent. Adding a touch of greenery is a great hack for additional contrast. Small plants in simple pots or a bit of trailing greenery can soften the look while keeping it fresh and inviting!
When choosing items for your shelf, consider what you’ll actually use or appreciate seeing every day. Ceramic pots, a metal lantern, or even a small clock can look fantastic without overpowering the shelf. Plus, they add a bit of functionality that is natural to industrial style.
Your shelves can work well in any room, from living rooms to kitchens and hallways. In the kitchen, you could use them to display spices or cookbooks; in the hallway, add handy baskets to store keys or dog leads. This way, the shelf stays practical while adding style.
5. Think About Placement and Mounting
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Placement is everything. When adding shelves to your home, consider where they will work best. For instance, in a kitchen, placing them near the stove or fridge can keep essential items close at hand. In a living room, place them above a console table or sofa to create a sense of balance. Floating shelves can be arranged in rows or staggered for a modern feel.
When mounting shelves, ensure the brackets are firmly attached to the wall and can hold the weight of your items. Properly mounted shelves will not only look better but also ensure durability and safety. If you’re not confident in mounting them yourself, it’s worth hiring a professional for the job.
Ready to start your industrial style journey? Browse our range of industrial shelves and brackets for all the inspiration you need!
