Finding the right style for your bathroom can be tough. But if you’re looking for something with a bit of edge and a lot of character, these industrial bathroom design ideas might be exactly what you need. This look is all about embracing raw materials, simple forms, and a sense of history. It’s not fussy or delicate; it’s strong, honest, and incredibly cool. Forget trying to hide every pipe and imperfection. The industrial style celebrates them. We’re talking about the kind of warehouse style bathroom you’d find in a city loft, but you can absolutely bring that vibe into your own home, no matter where you live.
In this list, we’ll dive into 26 specific ways you can get this look. We’ll cover everything from major elements like concrete walls and metal-framed showers to the smaller details of your industrial bathroom decor, like light fixtures and faucet choices. Let’s get into it.
Use Concrete for Your Countertops or Walls
Concrete in a bathroom gives you an immediate, no-nonsense industrial feel. It’s raw, textured, and makes a strong statement without being loud about it. This isn’t the sidewalk concrete you’re thinking of; it’s a polished, sealed version that looks very intentional.
This works so well because it’s a neutral base that pairs perfectly with wood and metal. You can go big with a full concrete vanity top or even a micro-cement finish on your shower walls. For a smaller step, try a concrete vessel sink. Brands like Native Trails have beautiful pre-cast options, though they can be pricey. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try a DIY concrete skim coat on an existing vanity for a weekend project. Just make sure it’s sealed properly to prevent staining!
Install Exposed Pipe Shelving for Storage
Exposed pipes are a cornerstone of the industrial look. Instead of hiding your plumbing, this style puts it on display. Pipe shelving does the same thing for your storage, turning a functional need into a major design feature.
It’s a perfect way to add that warehouse vibe. Plus, it’s incredibly practical for holding towels, baskets, and toiletries. You can buy ready-made pipe shelving units online from places like Wayfair or Etsy. Or, you can head to the hardware store yourself. Grab some black iron pipes and fittings, a few solid wood planks, and you can build custom shelves that fit your space perfectly. It’s a great DIY project that delivers a huge impact for a relatively low cost.
Choose a Trough or Vessel Sink
A standard undermount sink can feel a little too polished for this style. Instead, look for a trough or vessel sink. A long, narrow trough sink feels utilitarian and communal, like something you’d find in an old factory washroom. A vessel sink that sits on top of the counter makes a sculptural statement.
This choice instantly makes your vanity area the focal point. I’ve seen some great concrete vessel sinks that look amazing on a simple wood countertop. Look for materials like stone, concrete, or even metal. For a good trough sink, check out brands like Kohler or find a more rustic one on Etsy. Your next step is to pair it with a wall-mounted faucet to complete the look.
Go for Black Metal Framed Shower Doors
Ditch the frameless glass and go for something with more structure. A black metal framed shower door, often called a gridscape or Crittall-style door, screams industrial. It outlines the shower area and adds a strong graphic element to the room.
The dark grid lines create contrast and definition, which is a key part of this style. It feels both vintage and modern at the same time. These have become super popular, so you can find them at a range of price points. Companies like DreamLine have accessible options, while more custom shops can build one to your exact specs. Even if you have a shower curtain, you can get a similar effect with a black tension rod and a simple, dark-colored curtain.
Bring in Warmth with Reclaimed Wood Accents
Industrial design can sometimes feel a bit cold with all the metal and concrete. That’s where wood comes in. Using reclaimed wood for a vanity, a mirror frame, or even a feature wall adds necessary warmth and texture.
The history in reclaimed wood—the nail holes, the saw marks, the weathered patina—tells a story that fits perfectly with the industrial vibe. It keeps the space from feeling like a sterile laboratory. I once helped a friend source a thick piece of old bowling alley lane to use as a countertop, and it looked incredible. Look for an old beam to use as a floating shelf above the toilet or find a vanity made from salvaged barn wood.
Try Subway Tiles with Dark Gray Grout
Subway tile is a classic for a reason, but the way you use it can completely change the feel of a room. For an industrial bathroom, use classic white subway tiles but pair them with a dark gray or black grout.
That dark grout line makes every single tile pop. It creates a graphic, grid-like pattern that feels functional and clean, echoing the look of old subway stations or butcher shops. It’s a simple switch that has a huge impact. The best part? Dark grout is way more forgiving when it comes to cleaning and staining than white grout. You can get bags of charcoal-colored grout at any home improvement store like The Home Depot for under $20.
Hang Edison Bulb Vanity Lights
Lighting is one of the easiest ways to define your bathroom’s style. For an industrial look, you can’t go wrong with exposed Edison bulbs. Their visible, glowing filaments bring a vintage, mechanical feel that’s spot on.
These bulbs provide a warm, amber glow that helps soften the harder edges of metal and concrete. Look for fixtures that showcase the bulb itself—think simple sconces with a metal cage or a series of pendant lights hanging from cords. You can find fantastic industrial bathroom lighting options from places like Pottery Barn or more budget-friendly versions at stores like Lamps Plus.
Look for a Freestanding Tub with Simple Lines
If you have the space for a tub, a freestanding model can be a stunning centerpiece. For an industrial bathroom, avoid ornate clawfoot tubs. Instead, opt for one with simple, clean lines, maybe in a matte white or even a dark gray finish.
A simple, modern tub provides a nice contrast to the rawer, more textured elements in the room. It feels like a piece of sculpture. A tub with a slightly squared-off shape works especially well. Pair it with a floor-mounted black or brushed nickel tub filler to complete that minimalist, functional look.
Find a Mirror with a Metal or Raw Wood Frame
Your bathroom mirror is a functional piece, but it’s also a major decorative opportunity. Swap a frameless builder-grade mirror for one with a thick, substantial frame made of metal or raw, unfinished wood.
A simple, round mirror with a thin black metal frame is a classic choice for a minimalist industrial bathroom. For a more rugged feel, a large rectangular mirror with a frame made from a thick piece of reclaimed lumber adds texture and warmth. I’ve found some amazing options at places like Crate & Barrel and even Target’s Studio McGee collection has some great contenders.
Use Matte Black Faucets and Hardware
Your choice of metal finish makes a huge difference. Polished chrome can look a little too shiny and new for an industrial space. Matte black is the perfect alternative. It’s modern, understated, and has a slightly gritty, utilitarian feel.
Using matte black metal fixtures consistently throughout the space—for your faucet, showerhead, towel bars, and even your toilet lever—creates a strong, unified look. It’s a simple update that makes everything feel more intentional and designed. Brands like Delta and Moen have entire collections in matte black, making it easy to match all your pieces.
Incorporate an Exposed Brick Wall
Nothing says “urban loft” quite like an exposed brick wall. If you’re lucky enough to have real brick hiding behind your drywall, exposing it is a no-brainer. The texture, color variation, and history are impossible to fake.
Brick provides a warm, rustic counterpoint to sleek metal and smooth concrete. If you don’t have real brick, don’t worry. There are some incredibly realistic-looking brick veneer panels or even wallpapers available now. I was skeptical at first, but some of the new thin brick veneers from brands like Old Mill Brick are almost indistinguishable from the real thing once they’re installed and grouted. Just be sure to seal it properly in a bathroom environment to protect it from moisture.
Add a Sliding Barn Door
A sliding barn door is a fantastic space-saver and a powerful design statement. It replaces a traditional swinging door with one that slides along an exposed metal track, adding an instant rustic-industrial touch.
This is a great solution for a small industrial bathroom where a swinging door might eat up valuable floor space. The hardware itself—the track, the rollers, the handle—becomes a key decorative element. You can find kits at most hardware stores and pair them with a simple, raw wood door or even a metal one for a more factory-inspired look.
Opt for Open-Frame Vanities
Instead of a bulky, closed-off vanity cabinet, consider an open-frame version. These vanities typically have a metal frame with one or two open shelves below the sink, leaving the plumbing underneath exposed.
This choice enhances the room’s open, airy feeling and puts the functional parts on display, which is central to the industrial style. It forces you to be neat, so use stylish baskets or containers to hold your bathroom essentials. You can find great options from Restoration Hardware for a high-end look, or more affordable versions from online retailers. This is a key piece for any industrial bathroom vanity setup.
Use a Concrete Floor Finish
For the ultimate industrial foundation, consider a concrete floor. Whether it’s polished, stained, or left with a more natural matte finish, a concrete floor is durable, seamless, and undeniably cool.
It’s a bold move that creates a continuous, clean look throughout the space. Concrete floors are also great for radiant in-floor heating, which can combat the coldness of the material. If pouring a new concrete slab isn’t an option, you can achieve a similar look with large-format concrete-look porcelain tiles. They’re easier to install and maintain but give you that same minimalist, concrete bathroom ideas vibe.
Hang a Wire Laundry Basket
Even the smallest details contribute to the overall style. Swap out a plastic or wicker laundry hamper for a rolling wire basket. Think of the kind you might see in an old-school laundromat or factory.
It’s a small, functional touch that reinforces the utilitarian, warehouse feel of the space. It’s practical, durable, and adds a bit of vintage charm. You can find authentic vintage ones at flea markets or new versions from places like Rejuvenation or even The Container Store. It’s a simple swap that just feels right.
Choose Minimalist, Utilitarian Accessories
When it comes to accessories like soap dispensers, toothbrush holders, and trash cans, think simple and functional. Avoid anything overly decorative or ornate. Look for pieces made of metal, ceramic, or dark wood with clean lines.
This is about function over frills. A simple black metal trash can, a plain ceramic soap pump, and a straightforward metal toilet paper holder are all you need. The idea is that every object in the room should feel like it has a purpose. Muji is a great place to look for simple, well-designed accessories that fit this style perfectly.
Install a Wall-Mounted Toilet
A wall-mounted toilet, where the tank is hidden inside the wall, offers an incredibly clean and minimalist look. It frees up floor space and makes cleaning underneath a breeze.
The floating effect feels very modern and architectural, which complements the industrial style’s focus on form and structure. While it’s a more involved installation process, the payoff is a sleek, uncluttered look that you can’t get with a standard toilet. It’s especially effective in a small industrial bathroom where every inch counts.
Use Vintage-Style Gauges or Art
Instead of typical bathroom art (seashells, anyone?), think outside the box. A collection of old, non-functioning pressure gauges, a vintage factory sign, or an architectural blueprint can make for unique and fitting wall decor.
This kind of art adds a layer of authenticity and history to the room. It feels discovered rather than purchased from a big box store. Scour flea markets, antique shops, or eBay for interesting mechanical or technical objects. It’s a great way to inject personality into your industrial bathroom decor without it feeling forced.
Incorporate Metal Stools or Benches
A small metal stool or a simple wooden bench can be a surprisingly useful addition to a bathroom. It can serve as a spot to set a towel, a place to sit while dressing, or just a surface to hold a plant or a stack of books.
Look for a stool with a simple design, like the classic Tolix-style metal stool, or a rugged wooden bench. It adds another layer of texture and a touch of practical, no-fuss seating. IKEA’s BEKVÄM step stool, painted black or left as raw wood, is a perfect, affordable option.
Let Natural Light Pour In
Industrial spaces, like old factories and warehouses, are often known for their large windows. If you have a window in your bathroom, make the most of it. Keep window treatments minimal or skip them altogether if privacy allows.
Natural light makes the raw materials in the room come alive. It highlights the texture of brick, the sheen of metal, and the grain of wood. If you need privacy, opt for a simple roller shade in a neutral color or a frosted window film that lets in light without sacrificing coverage.
Add Greenery with Potted Plants
To prevent your industrial bathroom from feeling too sterile or cold, bring in some life with plants. The organic shapes and vibrant green of a few well-placed plants provide a beautiful contrast to the hard lines and neutral colors of the design.
A hardy snake plant in a simple concrete pot or a trailing pothos hanging from a pipe shelf can soften the space and improve air quality. Plants make any room feel more welcoming and lived-in. Just choose varieties that can handle the humidity and lower light conditions typical of a bathroom.
Use a Dark and Moody Color Palette
While not a strict rule, many industrial bathrooms lean into a darker, moodier color palette. Think charcoal gray, deep navy, or even black for an accent wall. These colors create a dramatic, cozy backdrop for your metallic and wood elements.
A dark paint color can make a space feel more intimate and sophisticated. It works especially well when balanced with the warmth of wood and bright white fixtures. If you’re nervous about going all-in, try painting just the wall behind your vanity. A color like Benjamin Moore’s “Wrought Iron” is a fantastic choice.
Install a Towel Warmer Ladder
A towel warmer is a little touch of luxury that also happens to fit perfectly with the industrial look, especially if you choose a ladder-style model in a black or brushed metal finish.
The simple, functional form of a ladder towel warmer echoes the look of pipe shelving and other utilitarian fixtures. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a warm towel? It’s a practical upgrade that feels both rugged and indulgent. You can find electric hardwired or plug-in models to suit your setup.
Mix Your Metals (Carefully)
While matte black is a go-to, don’t be afraid to mix in another metal. A touch of brass or brushed nickel can add warmth and prevent the space from feeling too one-note. The key is to be intentional.
A good rule of thumb is to stick to two, maybe three, metal finishes. For example, you could use matte black for all your main fixtures (faucet, showerhead) and then bring in brass for your vanity lights and mirror frame. This creates a layered, collected-over-time feel that’s central to a rustic industrial bathroom.
Don’t Forget the Details: Switch Plates
It’s a tiny detail, but swapping out standard plastic switch plates for metal ones can make a surprising difference. Look for simple, screw-on plates in a dark bronze, black, or raw steel finish.
This is a super easy and inexpensive update that takes about five minutes. It’s one of those little things that shows you’ve thought about every single element in the room. It just makes the whole design feel more complete and polished.
Embrace Imperfection
Finally, the most important idea for any industrial design is to embrace imperfection. This style isn’t about creating a flawless, pristine room. It’s about celebrating the beauty in raw, honest materials.
Don’t sweat a small scratch on a metal fixture or a variation in the concrete finish. These are the details that give the space its character and soul. An industrial bathroom should feel like it has a history and is meant to be used. It’s a hardworking space, and it’s okay if it looks the part.
Bringing Your Industrial Bathroom to Life
Whew, that’s a lot of ideas! The great thing about these industrial bathroom design ideas is that you can mix and match them to create a space that feels right for you. You don’t have to do everything on this list to get the look.
My advice? Start small. Maybe begin by swapping out your light fixture and faucet for matte black versions. Or find a cool, metal-framed mirror and some pipe shelves. See how those changes feel. A successful design is built one thoughtful piece at a time. The goal is to create a functional, interesting room that has a story to tell. Now go make it happen
