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A modern update on a classic interior style.

When you think of industrial interiors, dark black and grey colour schemes, leather bar stools, heavy metal lampshades, and a whole lot of dark wood might initially come to mind. However, industrial-inspired interiors are having a shake-up, which is especially the case when it comes to kitchen design.

Modern industrial kitchens have all the key ingredients of a classic industrial kitchen – highly-functional design, durable materials, and reclaimed furniture and upcycled accessories. The crucial difference, however, is the use of neutral and light hues to break up the space, the addition of lighter wood, plus, less bulky silhouettes. The result is an airy and bright space which is ideal for both entertaining and daily life.

Keep reading to see how you can give your kitchen a modern industrial update...

Although leather, dark metals, and exposed brick are what spring to mind when it comes to industrial design, adding lighter tones is what will give your kitchen a contemporary look.

Dark units and accent pieces (such as light fittings) can be juxtaposed with white or neutral wall colours to keep the space feeling airy without losing any of the industrial edginess.

'Natural yet sophisticated, lighter colours such as beiges, greys and whites promise to bring a serene and calm feel to a kitchen,' says Mor Krisher, head of design at Caesarstone. 'Utterly timeless, these hues pair beautifully with other colours and can make a quiet statement on their own through subtle detailing.'

Image: SS23 Industrial Kitchen, Dunelm

The formulation of our multi-purpose matt paint has stain-repellent technology, meaning most stains can be wiped away – just what you need in a busy kitchen. It's suitable for walls, ceilings, and wood, as well as suitably primed metal.

As much as possible, opt for wood in light, warm tones. Not only does this soften the feel of the space, but it'll also add a Scandinavian-inspired twist to your kitchen.

A light wooden floor will open up the space, whilst wooden dining tables will help to break up the look of the room (especially if you have dark kitchen units and countertops).

However, take a less is more approach to avoid a look that is more rustic than industrial.

Image: Winchester Wood Kitchen Stool, Cult Furniture

Inspired by the clean lines of Nordic interiors, this solid oak dining table is sturdy and simple – ideal for adding natural tones and textures to any interior. It seats four people comfortably.

Drawing the eye upwards is a crucial way of creating the loft-like feel that is synonymous with industrial-style warehouse spaces. Pendant lights are one way to achieve this, as is extending tiling above your kitchen units.

Image: Industrial Chic Kitchen, L'Ottocento

An eye-catching mix of classic and industrial styles, this striking pendant light features ribbed glass and brass hardware. Hang a pair above your kitchen island to draw a crowd.

If you're looking to give an industrial kitchen an on-trend update, don't overlook concrete as a material.

'As the trends for industrial designs and authentic, raw materials show no signs of slowing down, concrete-inspired designs continue to be some of the most innovative and daring of all worktops,' says Mor.

Image: Industrial metal ceiling light, see similar at Cuckooland

This durable concrete bowl is a minimalist but stylish addition to any kitchen. Use it as a fruit bowl, table centrepiece, or as a handy place to drop keys and other knick knacks.

Pendant lights are a failsafe way to highlight the areas of the kitchen you naturally gravitate towards, such as a dining table or kitchen island.

You can either up the industrial feel by opting for metal designs or soften the look by choosing pared-back light fittings with large bulbs.

Image: Azure G200 LED Pendant Bulb, Lime Lace

With its classic industrial silhouette, this dome pendant light is guaranteed to draw the eye by dispersing soft yet concentrated light. We love the iron dome, which has been finished with a protective lacquer.

To avoid your kitchen looking too stark, make sure to add plenty of mementoes, ornaments, and greenery. This is the best way to not only create visual focal points but to add texture and colour to what might otherwise be a stripped-back space.

Photography: SS23 Smart Industrial Kitchen, shop the look at Dunelm

This chunky planter is handmade, meaning each one is entirely unique. The ridged surface gives it a tactile finish, whilst the concrete from which it's made keeps it in line with the industrial trend. Pop it on a kitchen shelf and use it to grow herbs.

In the past, industrial interiors have shied away from bold colour schemes, instead working with dark hues found in leather, wood, and metal.

However, this is changing fast. Whilst the clean lines, functional design and stripped-back nature of industrial kitchens remain, vivid shades such as blue and yellow are giving spaces a modern update, perfect for entertaining.

Image: Bulawayo Kitchen, Wood Works Brighton

The sunny shade of this metal bar stool is perfect for giving your kitchen a colour boost. It's just what you need for relaxed meals on your kitchen island.

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