How To Create An Urban Home Interior

With more and more people flocking to large cities and populated areas for work there has been a huge rise in popularity in urban interior design. Reflecting the hustle and bustle of city life as well as elements of social and cultural influence, urban interiors have become a diverse and versatile theme that work well in small city interiors.

Urban style can come in a broad spectrum of designs that each have a perfect balance of everyday practicality and artistic flair. A balance of rugged industrial style and chic city beauty go hand in hand in creating a space that is both simplistic and rich in visual features.

Colour Schemes

Urban interiors draw attention to the natural beauty of the building around them with many interiors using exposed brickwork, concrete and wooden beams as a basis for their interior colour palettes. Greys, whites and earthy tones work well in creating a naturalistic and minimal backdrop with a calming interior ambiance. Natural elements are often partnered with industrial metallic tones such as chrome, bronze and silver whilst the addition of bold contemporary colours such as red, lime and electric blue will create an eye-catching 'colour pop'.

Storage

With compact style studio apartments and city flats there is often a need to make the most of the limited space you may have. Storage is a must have in any urban interior as it allows for an uncluttered and organised living area. Urban style celebrates all things industrial with a twist of city charm and this is reflected in the choice of storage styles. Metal framed shelving, rustic oak chests and bookcases work extremely well in this style of interior as they provide an area that creates a visual focal point and a natural/man made partnership. Opt for quirky or bohemian style items like this fun fire escape style shelving unit (right) for a unique and personalised home addition.

Seating

After a long and stressful day there is nothing better than putting your feet up with a nice cup of tea. When choosing fabrics and looks for your seating arrangements opt for simple neutral upholstery such as corduroy, cotton and linen for a soft and sumptuous finish and partner these with exposed wood framework for a retro style design. Alternatively opt for metal framed styles such as the famous 'Tolix' chair that will look fantastic around a rustic dining table or breakfast bar area. Avoid a cold and stark feel by partnering any plain metal seats with a complimentary cushion or seat pad that will add a cosy contrast against the sleek finish of the frame.

Lighting

Less is more when it comes to lighting an urban style interior. Industrial designs and stylish vintage items will create a simple yet eye-catching design that works really well against the clean lines and rugged backdrop of urban interiors. Ceiling lights can be left with exposed bulbs for a minimal look and feel and can be arranged in a cluster design (right) to create a contemporary industrial chandelier. Table lamps should be designed in chrome, brass or rusted metal finishes for a illuminating factory style feel.

Furniture

Urban interiors strip furniture back to its simplest form and celebrates the sumptuous materials and craftsmanship of its design. Metal framed items such as bookcases and coffee tables work wonderfully in an urban setting whilst stainless steel and rustic metal cabinets will create a mix of city slicker style and industrial design. Wooden furniture should be distressed or reclaimed and a chunky and bold appearance will look perfect when partnered with man made materials and modern accessories. Choose statement furniture items for a focal point in your home and don't be afraid to mix and match your styles and materials for a varied interior finish.

For more Urban interior inspiration take a look at this weeks latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - Urban Interiors or for furniture designs and ideas for your finished room then check out our new and extensive Industrial Furniture collection.