INDUSTRIAL HOUSE DESIGN: A MASCULINE STYLE FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO STAND OUT.
09 September 2025

What Is an Industrial House?
An industrial house is an architectural style inspired by old factories or warehouses. Its characteristic features are a raw, masculine, and open look, highlighting original materials such as exposed concrete, iron, wood, and brick.
This design was born from the creativity of using open spaces and raw materials to create an artistic and functional impression. Amidst a trend of smooth and neat designs, industrial houses stand out—they are anti-mainstream and full of character.
Key Characteristics of an Industrial House Design
To help you understand better, here are some key elements of the industrial house concept:
- Exposed Materials: Exposed red brick walls, rough concrete, and uncovered iron pipes become the main attraction. All these elements highlight the typical and aesthetic “unfinished” impression.
- Neutral and Dark Color Palette: The dominant colors in industrial houses are black, gray, dark brown, and earth tones. This combination reinforces a masculine and bold ambiance.
- Factory-Style Lighting: Hanging lamps made of metal or minimalist spotlights are commonly used. This type of lighting is not only functional but also emphasizes the industrial feel.
- Open and Minimalist Spaces: The open-space concept is very common in industrial houses. The living room merges with the kitchen, or the workspace with the lounge area, creating a spacious and unrestricted feel.
- Vintage or Rustic Furniture: Rough wooden tables, iron racks, old leather chairs, and metal cabinets are essential elements. These items might look worn, but they strengthen the authentic industrial concept.
Why Are Industrial Houses Popular?
The industrial house design is not just about a unique look. There are many reasons why this style is increasingly popular, especially among the younger generation and modern architecture enthusiasts.
- Anti-Mainstream: The industrial style looks different from most houses. It is perfect for those who want a unique look and a strong identity in their home design.
- Easy Maintenance: Raw materials like concrete and iron do not require special care. Scratches or stains often add to the aesthetic value.
- More Cost-Efficient: Without excessive finishing like smooth plaster or glossy paint, you can save more money when building or renovating a house.
- Timeless Aesthetics: Although it looks “old” and raw, the industrial style does not easily go out of fashion. This design is timeless and flexible to be combined with modern elements.
Tips for Applying the Industrial Style at Home
Want to try bringing an industrial vibe to your home? Here are some simple tips:
- Use exposed brick or plain concrete for the walls.
- Choose hanging lamps with a touch of metal or vintage industrial design.
- Use furniture made from recycled wood and iron.
- Let pipes or electrical cables be visible, but neatly arranged.
- Add green plants to create a balanced and less ‘cold’ impression.
Although it was initially popular in Western countries, the industrial house style is now widely applied in Indonesia, especially in big cities like Jakarta, Bandung, and Surabaya. Many cafes, co-working spaces, and homestays with an industrial style have become an inspiration for young homeowners. Besides being aesthetic, this design is very suitable for a tropical climate if combined with good ventilation and natural lighting.
An industrial house is not just about design, but also reflects a masculine, open, and character-filled lifestyle—showing the courage to be different. By combining raw materials and modern elements, you can create a comfortable home that also serves as a strong personal statement. So, if you want a house that is out of the box, full of artistic value, and durable, the industrial concept is the right choice to consider.