Industrial

Industrial style is honest about what things are made of. Steel looks like steel, concrete keeps its pores and a light fitting shows its cord. Done well, it feels relaxed rather than raw, because nothing is pretending.

Our Industrial edit pulls together the pieces that fit that idea. Karlsson brings the Vintage, Little Big Time and Big Flip wall clocks plus LED alarm clocks. Zakkia makes the concrete trays, pots and cabinet knobs. There is a Leitmotiv milk jar glass pendant, a plug-in corded pendant, the Etta metal side table, the Lorenzo metal book shelf, the Arch side table from Made of Tomorrow and the Umbra HUB mirror with its black rubber frame.

Balance is the trick. For every hard, grey or black piece, add something with warmth: timber, linen or a plant. A single statement clock above a timber console does more than a room full of metal. For more statement faces, see our clocks collection.

What colours suit industrial style?
Start with black, charcoal and concrete grey, then warm it with timber, tan leather or aged brass. White walls keep the look light, which suits New Zealand homes with plenty of daylight. Too many bright colours can make it look busy.

Can I hang a plug-in pendant without an electrician?
A plug-in pendant runs off a standard wall socket, so it can hang from a ceiling hook over a table or reading chair with no hardwiring. Choose the 2m or 3m cord depending on how far the socket is from the spot you want lit.

Is concrete decor fragile?
Concrete is heavier and tougher than it looks, but edges can chip if dropped and raw concrete can absorb oil and water marks. Use a coaster under candles or wet vases, and wipe with a dry cloth rather than soaking.

Does industrial style work in a small space?
Yes, if you keep pieces slim. Thin metal frames like the Lorenzo shelf and Etta side table take up little visual space, and a faceless clock such as Karlsson's Little Big Time adds impact without a heavy frame.