Conflicting Styles? How to combine styles for a harmonious home.
The combination of hard and soft, rough and polished, masculine and feminine - these opposing elements make up the seductive design trend known as Industrial Romantic Decor. It combines the functional edge of industrial design with the delicate, ethereal elements of romantic design to produce spaces that are visually striking yet cozy and welcoming. (Think Bridgerton. Ornate, elegant, more is more, etc.) But how can you make your industrial design to work with your sudden and passionate love of the romantic? Let's discover how to sprinkle this flair into your living space, kind of like the marriage of Anthony and Kate, amIright?
The Foundations of Industrial + Romantic Design
Industrial design draws inspiration from factories and warehouses, featuring exposed brick, concrete, metal pipes, and weathered wood. Romantic design, and specifically the lush design from the Regency era, embraces soft colors, ornate details, and a sense of nostalgia. When combined, these styles create a unique aesthetic that balances ruggedness with elegance.
Key elements of Industrial Romantic design include:
- Raw materials like concrete, metal, and reclaimed wood
- Soft textiles and plush furnishings
- A mix of vintage and modern pieces
- Dramatic lighting fixtures
- Warm metallic accents
Color Palette
The color scheme of Industrial Romantic design typically combines cool grays and warm neutrals with pops of muted pastels or strong jewel tones. Think concrete gray walls accented with blush pink curtains or a deep purple velvet sofa.
Furniture That Marries Both Worlds
Do you ever watch those house hunting shows? The couple typically has conflicting design tastes. She wants romantic, he wants practical and minimal. He likes house 1, she pushes for house 3. Something that tends to get lost in the house hunting is the fact that they’re moving to a blank canvas they can decorate to suit both tastes. Here are some ideas for furniture that marries styles.
When selecting furniture and decor, look for pieces that blend industrial materials with romantic shapes or textures:
- A tufted leather Chesterfield sofa with metal legs
- An ornate wooden dresser with iron hardware
- A desk made of reclaimed wood with metal details paired with a velvet upholstered office chair
- Metal bed frames adorned with soft, billowy bedding
DIY Tip: Transform your floating industrial shelving by adding wallpaper in a romantic floral print to the back.
Mirrors Reflect the Perfect Balance
Mirrors play a crucial role in Industrial Romantic design, adding light and the illusion of space while incorporating the style's essence. Consider these mirror ideas:
- Oversized factory windows: Large, in-laid mirrors reminiscent of factory windows make a dramatic statement. Soften the look with natural elements on either side.
- Ornate frames: Taking the Frameless Arched Mirror, you can add trim and embellishments for a completely custom look that suits your taste perfectly. Premade frames limit choices, whereas selecting trim and embellishments allow more freedom. For custom mirror shapes and sizes, please contact us.
- Backlit beauty: Install LED strips behind a mirror to create a soft, romantic glow against an industrial backdrop.
- Mixed materials: Incorporate mirrors that combine wood and metal elements, like a reclaimed wood frame with metal corner accents.
- Asymmetrical clusters: Group together mirrors of various shapes and sizes, mixing industrial and romantic styles for an eclectic gallery wall. Using trim or premade frames, mix in empty frames to the gallery wall, adding the Bent Metal Wall Shelf inside the frame accented with a beautiful plant or vase/sculpture. (Come back for a future post on creating 3D wall galleries.)
Accessorizing Your Industrial Romantic Space
To complete the look, incorporate accessories that speak to both styles:
- Edison bulb light fixtures or chandeliers with crystal accents
- Vintage industrial signage alongside soft watercolor prints
- Concrete or metal planters filled with lush, romantic flowers
- Cozy throw blankets and pillows in rich textures on leather furniture
Creating Contrast
The key to successful Industrial Romantic design is contrast. Pair rough textures with smooth, hard surfaces with soft fabrics, and streamlined shapes with ornate details. This balance keeps the space from feeling too cold or too frilly.
Bring it Together
Industrial Romantic design offers a fresh take on home decor by combining seemingly opposite styles. By thoughtfully mixing industrial elements with romantic touches, you can create a space that's both edgy and inviting. Whether through statement furniture pieces, cleverly chosen mirrors, or carefully curated accessories, this style allows you to express both the pragmatic and dreamy sides of your personality in your home's design.
Remember, the goal is to create a harmonious blend rather than a stark divide between styles. With some creativity and an eye for balance, you can transform your space into an Industrial Romantic haven that's uniquely yours.