How to Decorate With Brick and Steel

Using a color wheel, choose a color palette. The shade of brick sets the tone. Select simple artwork, accessories and furniture in the same color family. For example, if you are using traditional red brick, look for accessories in shades of brown, black, red, and steel.

Choose one main focal point for the room. This can be a brick fireplace, a piece of furniture, steel beams or a work of art. Choose accessories that complement and draw your eye toward the focal point. Remember that with an industrial room the pieces should also fit into the minimalist category, and be careful not to choose too many items that will clutter the room.

Use simple pieces of furniture that coordinate with your color palette. Consider using furniture with steel frames to tie your room's design together. Use simple, plain-colored cushions and pillows and avoid fabrics with distracting patterns. Consider using simple steel-and-glass-top tables instead of wood.

Draw the eye up with art. Instead of cluttering the room with chunky pieces of furniture along the walls, hang simple art at eye level. Place one or two pieces on each wall. Black-and-white photos are ideal for this project.

Toss the clutter. Knickknacks, items that don't fit with the theme and large plush furniture won't pair well in a room decorated with brick and steel. Not only are these items distracting, but they can change the ambiance of the room from an industrial theme to a flat-out mess.

Clean and dust every surface. With a minimalist and industrial theme, dirt and dust shows up easily on the simple single-colored surfaces. There are no patterns to hide dirt.