Industrial isn't a new trend, it's been around for a while. Kinda takes me back to the 90s when everyone was looking for something different and expressionism was at a high point.
Maybe expressionism is swinging back around, where people are comfortable communicating their unique qualities rather than being boxed into a robot performance.
This chandelier is magical isn't it!? I want to see this closer to see if it is draped in quartz crystal beads or are those tiny shells strung on silk.... gorgeous!
So what are some elements to inject into an industrial space to give impact....
when dealing with huge spaces like this... high ceilings, massive square footage call for large case pieces and upholstery ... these have to take up space.... otherwise your furniture will be lost.
Also think LARGE pieces of ART and over-sized LIGHTING...
This is a perfect place for both abstract and classical art pieces; think old masterpieces, portraits, expressionism and impressionist pieces, abstract art, landscapes on gallery wrapped canvases or in massive gilt frames.
Although I am loving the effect of the small prints in vintage frames grouped as above.
Always think quality over quantity when buying furniture for your home... think longevity. Rather than spending 500 on a cheap sofa that will break down after a year of use spend the money to purchase a quality piece that will last decades and if the fabric wears out or gets stained have it reupholstered. The frame should be well constructed using quality supplies. For case goods it is getting harder to find dove-tailed drawers and sturdy construction, but it is out there. I would say if you find well-cared for authentic antiques, that is a much better investment.
I'd like to rant on an art point though and yes, I'm a bit of an art snob...I admit it proudly! Please, when your choosing art take the time to search out local artists or national artists and purchase authentic art {supporting entrepreneurs} rather than production line art {defined as art that is produced on a literal production line...the subject matter is usually printed on the canvas and then sent down a line where workers are smearing colors on as fast as possible in the designated areas} ... some tell tell signs of production line art that I've seen are, sorry to say, 'asian' signatures, large scale standard canvas sizes, and standard box store gold frames ... also if your in a furniture store or antique store/home decor store {I've seen these stacked down hallways in antique stores where vendors go to the huge furniture markets and purchase CHEAP production line art and put in there rented booth spaces leaving un-knowing customers to think they are buying real art} ... just beware and do a little research {aka tha google machine} on the artist signature to see if it is a VALID work of art before spending your money on it. The cheap stuff is usually priced between $200 up to $800 and that is markup for the vendor/store of generally four times their purchase price at market.
It would be great if you could trust your interior decorator to distinguish between production line art and use real local artists work but alas sometimes they are in it for the cash too and use the 'market' pieces marked up as well. The thing about that is... any value that the production line piece has created stops at the point of sale. Real, authentic art is, after all, an asset and can and should be valued as an asset in your financial records... it should be appraised and insured as an asset.
An authentic work of a local artist will vary in price range and that artists survival depends on patrons of the arts ... just saying support local artists instead please! my rant is over ...whew
I could sink into these fabulous velvet couches and stay forever, cozy with a book and hot tea...
On the topic of upholstered pieces... Over-sized sofas and chairs can range in price... I found quality pieces built with hard wood and screws with sturdy springs that are individually tied can be really pricey.... I say its worth the search. Find a local shop and watch for their sales. I found an awesome sofa that was originally priced $6k but got it half off and I've never regretted that purchase because it will be a quality piece in 10 years too... even if I have to spend 1000 to get re-upholstered...
Another note on re-upholstery... if you find an older piece that is well built but the cushions are worn/the fabric is torn or its stained... have it re-done ...you get to pick your fabrics!
**Design point here... have the cushions done with quality foam/stuffing ...there are various kinds and some is made to stand up to use over time and some is not...ask your upholstery person to show you the difference in foams, wrapping the foam seat cushions with stuffing and having cushions stuffed with a mix of standard stuffing in the center surrounded with down will make a huge difference in how your sofa holds up and the comfort level.
happy home designing ♥
xoxo, ande
