Industrial Interior – Choosing a Mirror
Industrial style is an increasingly popular trend in contemporary interior design. It is characterized by raw materials such as concrete, metal, and glass, as well as minimalist forms and functionality. Choosing the right industrial mirror is a key element in creating a cohesive space in this style. Often referred to as loft style, industrial design originates from the adaptation of old factories and warehouses into living spaces. It features raw finishes, open spaces, and exposed structural elements of buildings. A loft mirror or industrial mirror is an essential component of this style, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes by adding an extra dimension and depth to the interior.
In this article, you will learn what industrial and loft styles are, the differences between them, which mirrors best suit these interiors, and what types of frames work perfectly in this context.
Table of Contents:
- What is industrial style?
- Industrial style vs. loft style – similarities and differences
- Industrial style mirror – how to choose?
- Loft style mirror – how to choose?
- Types of frames for industrial mirrors – aluminum vs. MDF
- Loft mirrors for the living room, bedroom, hallway, and bathroom
- Freestanding mirrors – functionality and style
What is industrial style?
Industrial style emerged in the 1950s in New York as a response to the growing demand for living spaces. Artistic communities began to adapt abandoned factories and warehouses into studios and apartments, giving rise to a new interior design style. Industrial style is characterized by the use of raw materials such as concrete, steel, glass, and brick, along with spacious, open interiors featuring high ceilings and large windows. Visible installations, pipes, concrete walls, and metal structural elements are key features of this style, blending rawness with modern elegance. Industrial interiors are typically minimalist, with the harshness softened by accents of natural materials like wood, which add warmth and coziness. Over time, industrial style has gained popularity and become synonymous with modernity and originality in interior design. Today, it is favored by those who appreciate unique solutions and a raw aesthetic.
Industrial Style vs. Loft Style: Similarities and Differences
Although loft style and industrial style are often used interchangeably, they actually have unique characteristics that distinguish them from one another.
Loft style is a more domestic version of industrial style, born out of the need to transform old factories and warehouses into living spaces. Loft interiors, while drawing from the raw aesthetics of industrial style, aim to soften its cold atmosphere by adding warm, cozy accents. Soft textiles, such as rugs, curtains, and cushions, along with comfortable furniture featuring gentle shapes, introduce elements of coziness to a space that can seem too stark in an industrial style.
A loft-style mirror often reflects this philosophy, showcasing warmer shades in its frames, such as brass, bronze, or wood, as well as more ornate shapes that add elegance to the interior. These can include round or oval mirrors with delicately adorned frames, creating a contrast with the rawness of the rest of the space.
On the other hand, an industrial mirror typically emphasizes rawness and simplicity. It often features metal, black frames with simple, geometric shapes that perfectly fit the minimalist character of this style. These mirrors are designed to highlight structural elements of the interior, such as exposed pipes, brick walls, or steel beams. With their raw finish, industrial mirrors become a natural extension of the surrounding space, adding clarity and authenticity.
How to choose an industrial-style mirror?
When selecting an industrial mirror, it’s important to pay attention to several key elements that highlight the character of this style. First and foremost, the frames are crucial—ideally made of metal, particularly in black or steel colors. Metal frames perfectly convey the rawness and authenticity of the industrial style, which is inspired by factory spaces and industrial architectural elements. These frames often showcase visible welds, rivets, or other details that further enhance their industrial character.
An industrial mirror should be large, which is characteristic of this style. Such mirrors visually expand the space and add depth to the interior, which is especially desirable in areas dominated by raw materials like concrete, brick, or steel. A large mirror not only emphasizes the spaciousness of the interior but also brings in more light by reflecting it and dispersing it throughout the room.
Another important element is the appearance of the mirror’s surface. In industrial style, mirrors with an aged effect are often chosen, giving the impression that they have endured years of heavy use. This treatment introduces a sense of authenticity and history to the interior. These mirrors can also be framed in a raw, simple shape that emphasizes their functionality and lack of unnecessary embellishments, which is the essence of industrial style.
In which rooms can this addition work well? An industrial mirror is suitable for an entryway, bedroom, bathroom, or dressing room—there are many possibilities. Due to its versatility, such a mirror can become a focal point in various spaces, imparting a unique character to the interior and highlighting its industrial style.
How to choose a loft-style mirror?
A loft mirror should be a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics, perfectly fitting the distinctive character of loft interiors. These spaces, inspired by former industrial environments, combine rawness with coziness, and loft mirrors perfectly complement this aesthetic, adding depth and light to the rooms.
The frames of loft mirrors can be made from various materials, such as metal or wood, giving them a unique look. Metal frames, often in black or copper, emphasize the rawness of the style while also adding elegance to the space due to their subtlety. On the other hand, wooden frames can bring warmth and a natural touch to the environment, which is especially desirable in more homely loft arrangements.
A loft mirror in the living room often serves as the main decorative element, drawing attention and giving the space a distinctive atmosphere. It makes the room feel more spacious, and the reflected light adds brightness to the interior. In addition to the living room, a loft mirror is also perfect for the hallway, where it can be useful both functionally and aesthetically.
Mirror LED Simple Nasu Ambiente
Loft-style mirrors are characterized by simple, geometric shapes that fit perfectly with minimalist interior decor. Their design is typically straightforward yet refined, making them both practical and stylish. A loft mirror can also come in the form of large panes, which further enhance the spaciousness typical of lofts.
When choosing a mirror for a loft interior, it’s important to consider its size—larger mirrors work well with high ceilings and expansive open spaces characteristic of the loft style. They can be hung on the wall or leaned against it, a common approach in loft arrangements that gives the space a casual, artistic character.
Types of Industrial Mirror Frames – Aluminum vs. MDF
The choice of frame material is crucial for the final look of the mirror, especially in industrial style, where aesthetics and functionality go hand in hand. Aluminum frames are a popular choice in loft design due to their lightness, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Aluminum gives the mirror a modern, industrial appearance, making it an ideal option for spaces with a raw, minimalist character. Such frames perform particularly well in humid areas, like bathrooms, where high moisture levels can affect the durability of other materials.
MDF frames offer greater flexibility in terms of customization. MDF is a heavier material than aluminum, but it can be painted in various colors, allowing you to tailor the mirror to the individual style of the interior. MDF frames can also be finished in a variety of ways, such as matte, glossy, or with a distressed effect, which adds warmth and coziness to the space. Mirrors with MDF frames are an excellent choice for areas where style and color are key, such as in the living room or bedroom, where they can become a decorative focal point.
Loft Mirrors for Living Rooms, Bedrooms, Hallways, and Bathrooms
Loft mirrors are incredibly versatile decorative elements that work well in various rooms, adding a distinctive style and functionality.
In the living room, a loft mirror can become the focal point of the arrangement, especially when placed above a dresser or sofa. With their simplicity and rawness, loft-style mirrors complement concrete walls, metal accents, and industrial furniture beautifully, adding a modern and elegant touch to the space. The reflective surface of the mirror visually expands the area, which is particularly advantageous in larger, open interiors.
In the bedroom, a loft-style mirror serves both a practical and aesthetic function. It can be placed above a vanity to assist with daily grooming or as a decorative element above the bed, adding depth and style to the interior. A loft-style mirror can also bring a raw yet warm atmosphere to the bedroom, especially if we choose frames in warm wood tones or matte black.
In the hallway, a loft mirror is not only a decoration but also a practical addition that helps to visually enlarge often narrow and dark spaces. A mirror placed on the wall opposite the entrance door or above a console can reflect light, making the hallway appear larger and brighter. Additionally, it serves a functional purpose, allowing for a quick glance at oneself before leaving the house.
The bathroom is a place where an industrial mirror should be not only stylish but also resistant to moisture and temperature fluctuations. A mirror with a sturdy aluminum frame is ideal here, providing durability and aesthetics for many years. It’s worth choosing a model with additional LED lighting, which will not only highlight the loft character of the interior but also provide the right conditions for daily grooming.
Mirror LED Framed Scandinavia Ambiente
Loft mirrors, regardless of the room they are in, bring a unique industrial atmosphere to interiors, combining functionality with modern design.
Freestanding Mirror – Functionality and Style
A freestanding mirror is a solution that combines both functionality and style. Its mobility and flexibility make it an ideal choice for spaces where layout freedom is needed. Thanks to its design, a freestanding mirror can be easily moved, allowing for changes in location based on needs. This is particularly useful in larger areas, such as a living room or dressing room, where it can serve both a practical and decorative role.
In the bedroom, a freestanding mirror becomes not only a practical element that allows for full reflection but also a stylish accent that adds elegance and modernity to the space. These mirrors often feature sleek, minimalist frames that fit seamlessly into various interior styles, from classic to contemporary.
Additionally, a standing mirror is an excellent solution for those who value flexibility in interior design. Unlike wall-mounted mirrors, which require a fixed location, a standing mirror can be easily moved, adapting to current needs or changes in furniture layout. This makes it extremely practical, especially in rooms where the arrangement is frequently changed.
In terms of aesthetics, a floor mirror often stands out with its unique design, attracting attention and adding character to the entire room. Choosing the right floor mirror can introduce an element of luxury and modernity to the interior while also serving a functional purpose. It is an ideal solution for those who want to combine ease of use with an elegant look.
Summary
In summary, selecting the right loft or industrial mirror is a key element in creating a cohesive interior in a loft or industrial style. These mirrors beautifully highlight the raw character of the spaces, adding distinctiveness and a modern touch. It’s important to pay attention to the type of frame and the materials used to best match the mirror to the room’s aesthetics. For industrial interiors, metal frames, especially in black, blend perfectly with concrete, brick, and raw wood, creating a cohesive and stylish whole.
Loft mirrors are versatile and suit various rooms. In the living room, they add a modern touch; in the bedroom, they serve both decorative and functional purposes; in the hallway, they visually expand the space; and in the bathroom, it’s advisable to choose mirrors that are moisture-resistant to ensure they last for years. A floor mirror is a practical solution for those who value mobility and flexibility in interior design.
A well-chosen mirror not only serves practical functions but also highlights the unique style of the interior, adding character. Explore our range and find a mirror that perfectly fits your space, regardless of its purpose.