In a world where speed and convenience have been the siren song to consumers, there’s a movement toward buying more mindfully, sustainably, “slowly.”
You’ve heard of slow fashion. Slow food. Slow travel. And when it comes to the home, “slow decorating.”
A reaction against rooms filled with mass-produced “fast furniture,” slow decorating embraces a more deliberate approach that prioritizes a personal connection to the stuff we live with. It might mean giving new life to heirloom or found pieces. Or buying new things that have the quality to last.
The journey of creating a space is as important as the destination.
New York City designer Gideon Mendelson thinks the movement echoes the Japanese philosophy of “ikigai,” which centers around finding meaning and purpose. Applied to interiors, it’s about creating spaces that promote all-around well-being.
“To me, good design makes room for living and doing. Decorating with meaningful pieces isn’t about chasing an aesthetic, but curating spaces that resonate with authenticity and personal stories,” he says.
“It’s not just about how it looks; it’s about how you want to live.”
And you don’t have to spend a lot, he says. He framed some inexpensive yet eye-catching vintage deli signs, adding a playful element to the Hamptons dining room of a family of five.
The trend toward “slower,” more thoughtful interior design, Mendelson thinks, lies in subtleties: “The cherished heirlooms, and the intimate connection between a space and its inhabitants.”
TOSSING HAS BECOME TURNING
Fast furniture’s association with cheaper materials, excessive packaging and frequent replacement clashes with consumers’ growing interest in minimizing our lasting impact on the planet.
Now, we’re buying more mindfully, but we’re also having a lot of fun DIYing.
During the pandemic, slow assembly lines and stalled container ships meant a lot of brand-new homewares weren’t getting made or sent to market, so upcycling stuff we had or found became hobby, and often necessity.
If you could find a great credenza at a flea market or online reseller that just needed a little TLC, why not?
Not too long ago, decor trade shows would include a handful of studio labs offering reclaimed wood items and organic textiles. Today, at global fairs like Ambiente in Frankfurt, Salone in Milan and Paris’ Maison et Objet, hundreds of companies show new design made with environmental and social impact in mind. Fair trade manufacturing. Fast-growing renewables like hemp, bamboo and cork. Cushions made of soy-based foam instead of petroleum-based foam. Recycled glass and metal accessories.
Mid 20- and 30-somethings are seen as drivers of the slow design trend. TikTok and Instagram feeds are full of refinish-and-reveal videos, and modest abodes full of found treasures.
Stephen Orr, editor in chief of Better Homes & Gardens, says he’s spent the past couple of years renovating a 1760s house on Cape Cod.
“The first year was during the pandemic, so antiques and flea markets were a godsend considering all the supply chain disruptions,” he says.
“But during that process, we came to the realization that pieces with a patina of age better celebrate the house’s long history anyway.”
He also added some new, modern pieces “so it doesn’t look like we should be dressed in period Colonial Williamsburg costumes.”
SHOPPING TIPS
Furniture for sitting, sleeping and eating is where you should spend more money on quality, says Jillian Hayward Schaible of Susan Hayward Interiors.
“We encourage clients to invest in pieces like sofas/sectionals, beds, dining tables and upholstered items, because you can really feel the difference when these items are well-made,” she says.
Peter Spalding of the designer furniture sourcing platform Daniel House Club notes that imitations of Chippendale and other legacy-style pieces — think cabinets and wingback chairs, for example — were common in the ‘80s and early ’90s.
“Now, the imitations aren’t very valuable, but the originals remain highly sought after,” he says. “As you collect ‘slow furniture,’ buy the most authentic versions you can afford.”
Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE echoes the advice.
“If you’re looking for a good investment, go straight to vintage. Things that have already stood the test of time often have another 50 years left in them! Side tables, desks, even cabinets are great pieces to look for,” he says.
Mendelson mentions a pair of vintage French plaster shell sconces in his Sagaponack, New York, home. He bought them 15 years ago “and they still feel fresh and relevant today.”
“I think a desire for one-of-a-kind and bespoke is at least starting a conversation about handmade,” he says. “Quality vs quantity. Living with intention.”
STORES ON BOARD
Many retailers are getting seats on the slow train. West Elm, for instance, was early among home retailers in joining Fair Trade USA, which ensures that suppliers maintain good workplaces and wages, and support their communities.
The global reforestation project One Tree Planted gets part of every purchase from furniture brand Joybird. Herman Miller’s rePurpose program gets used furniture to nonprofit organizations. And Ikea has initiatives like moving to bio-based glue, and instituting a buy-back/re-sell program that saw 230,000 items given a new life in 2022.
For the past five years, the United Nations Refugee Agency’s MADE51 initiative has helped artisans partner with fashion and home accessories businesses worldwide to create sustainable, fairly traded goods.
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New York-based writer Kim Cook covers design and decor topics regularly for The AP. Follow her on Instagram at @kimcookhome.
For more AP Lifestyles stories, go to https://apnews.com/hub/lifestyle.
by: Sponsored Content by Universal Hotel Liquidators
Posted: Feb 29, 2024 / 04:48 PM EST
Updated: Feb 29, 2024 / 04:48 PM EST
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Looking for the best business ideas for kids? Finding business ideas for kids is a great way for them to learn about starting their own business, being responsible, and understanding money from a young age. They get to understand how to set goals, handle money, and feel the joy of earning their own extra income….
Looking for the best business ideas for kids?
Finding business ideas for kids is a great way for them to learn about starting their own business, being responsible, and understanding money from a young age. They get to understand how to set goals, handle money, and feel the joy of earning their own extra income.
Whether it’s in the summer, after school, or on weekends, having a small business can be a fun and educational thing to start.
I did many different things as a kid to make extra money, and they all taught me so much. There are many different ways for kids to make money, as you will learn below.
Best Small Business Ideas for Kids
Here are the best business ideas for kids to start.
1. Sell arts and crafts
If your kid enjoys being creative and making things with their hands, selling arts and crafts can be a great business idea for them. It’s not only fun but can also help them earn some money.
Here are some crafts kids can make and sell:
Bead jewelry – They can make necklaces and bracelets with colorful beads.
Homemade candles – Candles are simple to make and can be sold to people who like to add a cozy feel to their homes.
Paintings – If they like to paint or draw, they can create artwork to sell.
Slime – Slime is really popular and fun to play with. Kids can make and sell their own slime in different colors and maybe even add things like glitter to make it unique.
Pet toys – If they love animals, they could make toys for pets. Choose materials that are safe for animals and design toys that pets would enjoy.
Soap – Homemade soap is always nice to have, and people love to buy it. This can be a fun item to make on their own.
Stickers – Everyone loves stickers and this can be a fun way to make extra money on Etsy or in person.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Things To Sell On Etsy To Make Money
2. Tutoring
If your child is really good at a subject like math or science, they can start a tutoring business. They can help other kids who might find those subjects tough.
Tutoring is something they can do after school when they’re finished with their own homework. It’s a great way to use what they know to help others and even make some money.
Learn more at The Best Online Tutoring Jobs.
3. Babysitter
If your child loves being around kids, babysitting can be a great way to start their journey into the world of small businesses for kids. It’s not just about watching kids; it’s about creating a fun and safe environment while parents are away.
Your child’s reputation is important, and they can start with their neighbors or family friends who already know and trust them.
To decide what they should charge, you can look at what other babysitters charge in your area, but consider how much experience your kid has.
I recommend having your child learn about basic first aid and child care, and you can find classes through community centers or the Red Cross.
Babysitting is what I did the most of as a kid. It was my first full-time job, actually. Starting at the age of 14, I was working around 40 hours per week in the summer taking care of a baby in my neighborhood (I found the babysitting ad on a local bulletin board!). I earned $10 per hour. The mother was a nurse, so I was working about 13 hours per day for a few days each week.
4. Pet sitting and dog walking
If your kid loves animals, starting a pet care service or dog walking business could be perfect for them. It’s more than just a job; it’s a way to care for pets when their owners can’t.
In this job, you might look after pets either at your own home (called pet boarding) or take care of them at their home.
Depending on their age, your child may walk the dog for 15 to 30 minutes a day, or more.
I was recently looking at a local bulletin board, and a parent put up an ad for their 10-year-old to walk dogs. The parent would be there as well (to ensure the safety of both the child and pet, of course), but it was a small business idea that the kid wanted to start. If your child is a little older, they may be able to do this on their own as well.
5. Lemonade stand
Starting a lemonade stand is more than just a fun activity; it can be their first step for starting a business as a kid!
Your child will probably want to start with a simple recipe, as lemonade does not have to be hard. They can try different flavors, like strawberry, to make your stand unique.
They will need pitchers, cups, ice, and a table.
Work out how much each glass of lemonade costs to make, and then decide on a price that makes a little profit but is still affordable for customers.
6. Mow lawns
Mowing lawns is a great way to start a small business as a kid. It’s simple to get going, and kids can make money during spring and summer.
They’ll need a lawn mower, fuel, and basic gardening tools.
Next, it’s time to set rates. Figure out how much to charge for each yard. A good plan is to look at what others charge and then set a competitive price.
Your kid can talk to neighbors, family, and friends to find new lawn mowing jobs.
I know many, many families who have kids who mow lawns to make money. I also know several people who have older kids who have turned this into a full-time business that has grown with them as an adult.
7. Rake leaves
Raking leaves is a great business idea, especially during the fall. Trees drop their leaves and many homeowners need help gathering and disposing of them.
To get started, your kid will need to have a sturdy rake, bags for leaf collection, and a pair of gloves to keep their hands clean and protect them from blisters.
8. Shovel snow
If you live in a place where snow falls, a kid can make money by shoveling snow. This job is great if they enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind the cold. Start by asking family and neighbors if they need help clearing their driveways and walkways.
They will need a few things to start:
A shovel: This is the main tool, of course!
Warm clothes and gloves: Stay warm while they work.
Your kid can hand out flyers or tell friends to spread the word. Social media can be a big help too. A simple post can let everyone in your neighborhood know that your kid is ready to help clear the snow.
9. Birthday party assistant
If your kid likes being around kids and celebrations, becoming a birthday party assistant could be a fun way for them to earn money.
They will help set up decorations (balloons, banners, and table settings), organize games (such as being ready to lead a game of musical chairs or a treasure hunt), and make sure the party runs smoothly (they might help serve cake and snacks to the little guests.).
10. Start a YouTube channel
Starting a YouTube channel can be exciting. If your child is under 13, remember, they can’t have their own account. But with a parent’s help, they can still share videos.
Your child can pick something they love, whether it’s science experiments, video game walkthroughs, or crafting tutorials.
They will want to post videos regularly – maybe post once a week to start.
Remember, it’s all about doing something fun and sharing what they love. Starting a YouTube channel takes work, but if they stick with it, they could make something really cool.
11. Lifeguard
If your child is looking for a responsible way to earn some extra cash, becoming a lifeguard could be a way to make money.
Not only does this gig teach important life-saving skills but it also teaches them responsibility and discipline. Many local pools or community centers offer lifeguard certification courses, giving them an excellent opportunity for young entrepreneurs to get valuable training.
Running a small lifeguard business can be a win-win situation for kids and the community. They can sell their services to local events, pool parties, or even provide private swimming lessons.
Note: In most states, you need to be at least 15-years-old to become a lifeguard.
12. Start a greeting cards business
Starting a greeting card business is something your kid can have fun with and get their creative juices flowing! They can make cards for birthdays, holidays, thank you, congratulations, or just to say hello.
They will need:
Art supplies, like colored pencils and markers
Cardstock or heavy paper
A printer (if they’re printing designs)
Digital design software like Canva (this is optional)
They could start by selling to family and friends or at school events. As they grow, they could try selling them at local markets or even online.
13. Neighborhood helper
As a neighborhood helper, they can sell their services to people around your community. This is a great way to help others and earn some money.
Your child can sell services such as:
Car washing: Wash cars for people in the neighborhood for a shiny finish.
Grocery running: Offer to pick up groceries for those who can’t go themselves.
Gardening: Help maintain gardens by planting flowers or weeding.
Lawn care: Keep neighbors’ lawns neat by mowing them regularly.
Pet walking: Walk neighbors’ dogs when they’re busy or away.
To get started, your kid should make a list of what they’re good at and what they might enjoy doing. Then, let neighbors know about their services with flyers or tell them directly.
If you have many kids, they could even involve multiple family members so that each kid has their own specialty or niche as a neighborhood helper.
14. Reseller
Starting a small business as a reseller means buying products at a lower price and selling them for a profit. They don’t need to make their own things; instead, they can find good deals on items, then sell them to others for more than they paid.
They can get items from yard sales, thrift stores, or their own home.
They can sell online on places like Etsy or eBay, or at school events and local fairs.
Recommended reading: 16 Best Selling Apps For Selling Stuff Online And Locally
15. Voice artist
Becoming a voice artist can be an exciting way for kids to explore and share their talent. If they enjoy speaking and have a unique voice, this could be a fun business idea for them.
They can sell services for character voices for cartoons and animations, narration for audiobooks or educational videos, commercial voice-overs for ads and marketing materials, and more.
They will need to start with a good microphone and recording software on a computer. They can practice by reading out loud and recording their voice.
To find work, they can join online platforms like Fiverr, where people look for young voice talent.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor
16. Actor
If your child is interested in acting, the first step is to take acting classes, which can help them learn the skills they need to act in plays, movies, or TV. These can be found online or at a business near you.
Once they have some skills, they can try out for local theater productions and school plays, and join their school’s drama club. Being part of a production gives them practical experience and shows them what it’s like to work with a director and other actors.
17. Sell candy
Starting a candy business can be both fun and rewarding. With a love for sweets and a little creativity, your child can turn their passion into profit.
Candy is something that I see children selling all the time, and it completely makes sense – everyone loves candy! So, it is an easy item to sell.
They can sell homemade treats like chocolate-covered pretzels or gummy bears. Or, if you prefer, you can buy popular brands in bulk and sell them individually.
Next, consider where they will sell the candy. They may be able to sell at school, neighborhood, or local community events, and you should always ask for permission when selling in public areas or on someone else’s property.
Pricing the candy is important. You’ll want to make sure your kid covers the cost of what was spent and adds a little extra for their profit. Selling candy for $2 or $3 can make it easy for customers to buy without thinking twice.
18. Start a blog
If your kid is interested in working online, then they may want to try starting a blog. It doesn’t take a lot of money to get started, and it can teach a kid a lot about how to run a website.
I have met many teens over the years who have started a blog, and I think it’s a great small business idea!
Whether they want to share their hobbies, interests, or personal experiences, a blog gives them a platform to be creative and communicate.
Other business ideas for kids related to this include starting accounts on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, and starting a podcast.
Recommended reading: How To Start A Blog Free Course
19. Deliver newspapers
Newspaper delivery is a classic way for children to earn some money. It’s a job that can fit well into their schedule before or after school. Plus, they can get good exercise at the same time!
It’s usually pretty simple: they take newspapers and deliver them to people’s homes.
When I was younger, I had a friend who had a delivery route. Once, I went along with her and helped her deliver some newspapers. It was hard work but she ran it smoothly!
If your kid is interested in this job, start by checking with local newspapers. Call them and ask if they’re looking for delivery helpers. Some things they might need:
A bicycle or a reliable way to get around the delivery area quickly
A bag or basket to hold the newspapers as they deliver them
An early morning start if the paper is a morning edition
To dress for the weather, since they will be outside
They will learn responsibility by making sure the newspapers are delivered on time.
Sometimes there may be age limits, so if your child is younger, they might need to get a work permit. But often, kids as young as 11 or 12 can start with a bit of paperwork.
20. Sell used toys
Recently, I was on Facebook, and a parent was helping their child host a garage sale. They were letting their child take control of most of the sale, but the parent was posting about it in the group to get more traffic to their yard sale.
They were selling the kid’s used toys to help them declutter and make some extra money. I thought this was a great idea!
Kids can learn the basics of entrepreneurship by organizing and pricing their toys for sale. This activity not only teaches them about value assessment but also introduces the concept of supply and demand as they observe which toys are more popular among buyers.
People pay good money for used toys all the time, so this can be a great side hustle to get into.
21. Face painting
Face painting can be a fun and profitable small business venture for kids who love art and painting. They can start by setting up a face painting booth at local events or birthday parties.
Running a face painting business encourages kids to develop their entrepreneurial skills, from marketing their services to managing customer interactions.
22. Recycling collector
Kids who care about the environment can turn it into a business by collecting recyclables. With a passion for keeping things green, they can offer to gather recyclables from neighbors, schools, or local businesses.
This not only helps the environment but also teaches kids about reducing waste and recycling.
23. Vending machines
I have been seeing more and more parents starting vending machine businesses for their children.
Getting kids into the entrepreneurial world by running vending machines can be an interesting and educational small business idea. Whether they decide to place machines in school common areas or local community spaces, managing a vending business can help teach children valuable lessons in supply and demand, handling inventory, and understanding customer preferences.
Running vending machines also gives kids a chance to learn about financial responsibility as they handle income, expenses, and profit calculations.
Recommended reading: How To Start A Vending Machine Business
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find answers to common questions about starting a business as a kid.
What is a good business to start as a kid?
Starting a business that fits into their hobbies and interests makes a good choice. For instance, if they like technology, they might try starting a blog or YouTube channel. If they love the outdoors, then a lawn mowing or gardening business might be a better fit.
How can a kid make $100 dollars fast?
A kid can make $100 fast by selling their old toys or clothing items that they already have. You, the parent, can help them organize a yard sale or gather their items to sell in a Facebook buy/sell group.
What can kids sell to make money?
Kids can sell a lot of different things to make money, such as jewelry, paintings, greeting cards, homemade cookies, lemonade, used toys, and more.
What kind of businesses can young students start at school?
They can start businesses at school like a pencil and eraser store, a book swap service, or a snack bar (if the school allows it). Just remember to check in with the school’s rules to make sure their business idea is allowed on the school campus.
What steps can a child take to start their own business?
Here are steps a child can take to start their own small business:
Identify interests and skills – This will help them find a business idea that they actually like.
Research business ideas – Research different small business ideas suitable for kids and think about factors like their age, skills, and the resources available.
Create a business plan – Develop a simple business plan outlining the business idea, target audience, products or services offered, and basic strategies for marketing and sales.
Learn basic business – Introduce the child to basic business concepts such as budgeting, pricing, and customer service, and this can be done through discussions, educational resources, and more.
Decide on pricing – Teach your child about pricing by thinking about the cost of materials, time, and possibly profit. This helps them understand the value of their products or services.
Market the business – Your child could create posters, use social media with parental supervision, or spread the word within the local community such as by placing an ad on a local bulletin board.
Provide good customer service – I highly recommend making sure that you teach your child the importance of treating customers with respect and giving great service as this can lead to repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.
Track finances – Teach the child basic financial management, including tracking income and expenses.
Celebrate achievements – Celebrate small victories and milestones to keep the child motivated and proud of their entrepreneurial journey.
Throughout this process, parental involvement is so important. Parents can guide, supervise, and provide a supportive environment for the child’s business, making sure it is a positive and educational experience (and safe!).
Can a 9 year old make a small business?
At around 9 years old, they can start businesses that use creativity and simple skills. For example, making greeting cards or friendship bracelets.
What business can a 10 year old make?
There are many things that a 10-year-old can do to make extra money. A 10-year-old can start a lemonade stand, sell crafts, do yard work, and more.
How can an 11 year old make cash?
There are many things that an 11-year-old can do to make extra money. An 11-year-old can rake leaves, walk dogs, sell baked goods like cupcakes, and more.
What are some simple business ideas for children under 12?
Younger kids can think about businesses like lemonade stands, which are simple to set up and manage. They also might create and sell craft items or start a pet sitting service for neighbors if they enjoy spending time with animals.
How can a teenager make money online?
A teen can make money online by blogging, offering online tutoring services, selling printables on Etsy, reselling items online, and more. I recommend reading 17 Online Jobs For Teens To Make Money to learn more.
How can children stay safe when starting a business?
When starting a small business as a kid, it’s important to think about safety and the rules they need to follow. For safety, always make sure they have an adult they trust to help watch over their business. If they’re selling something like food or crafts, make sure everything they use is safe and won’t hurt anyone.
For legal aspects, different places have different rules for businesses. They might need to ask for permission from someone (like you, the parent) or maybe need a permit.
They also need to make sure they have supervision, which means having an adult around to help them out and make sure everything’s going right. Monitoring what they are doing online, if they are dealing with customers, can be very smart because you never know who they are selling to or talking with.
Small Business Ideas for Kids – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this blog post about small business ideas for kids.
From traditional ways to make extra money like running a lemonade stand or mowing lawns to more modern business ideas like making and selling crafts or starting a YouTube channel, the possibilities for kid-run businesses are plentiful.
Starting a business as a kid can teach children valuable problem-solving and life skills. With the proper guidance and help, there are many different good business ideas that a kid can start.
I have been earning my own money from a young age, and it has taught me so much. I highly recommend helping your kids do the same!
New York and the surrounding metropolitan area are big enough to accommodate three nearby airports, namely New York-John F. Kennedy, New York-LaGuardia and Newark Liberty International Airport.
The latter airport, Newark, is actually located in neighboring New Jersey, but it’s still relatively convenient for those who are looking to fly from New York City to elsewhere. And nothing makes travel better than a premium airport experience — especially when it comes to lounges.
Let’s take a look at Newark’s airport lounges, where they’re located and the hours that they keep.
About EWR lounges
Newark airport (EWR) is a major international airport with a variety of lounges. This includes lounges from domestic airlines such as United Airlines and American Airlines as well as options from international carriers like British Airways and SAS.
The Newark airport lounges are spread across all three of its terminals, which means you should have access to a lounge no matter where you’re flying.
Terminal A: United Club, Delta SkyClub and Admirals Club
Newark is a hub for United Airlines, which is while you’ll spot multiple versions of its Club lounges throughout the terminals.
United Club
Across from gate A27 on the upper level.
Open daily 5 a.m. to 9:15 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
Along with complimentary food and beverages, guests of the United Club in Newark can enjoy a relaxing place to rest before their flight.
American Airlines Admirals Club
Across from Gate A8 on the mezzanine level.
Open 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday and Saturday, and 4 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. all other days.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin, those with a day pass ($79 or 7,900 AAdvantage miles), active duty military, those with American or Oneworld elite status on an eligible international flight and qualifying AAdvantage credit card holders.
The American Admirals Club in Newark features all your standard amenities such as snacks, a full-service bar, TVs, Wi-Fi and conference rooms.
Delta SkyClub
Near gate A8.
Open daily 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on Delta or SkyTeam flights, those who hold eligible credit cards and those with Delta or SkyTeam elite status on an eligible international flight.
The Delta SkyClub in Terminal A opened in 2023 and offers passengers access to a buffet, premium bar, semi-private workstations and ample seating options.
Terminal B: British Airways Lounge, SAS Lounge and USO Center
Newark’s Terminal B is where most international flights will depart, so it makes sense that you’ll find lounges from overseas airlines here.
British Airways Lounge
Near gates B50 to B58.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass to enter.
Open to those flying in an international premium cabin and those with Executive Club or Oneworld elite status on an eligible flight.
The British Airways Lounge in Newark provides a pre-flight dining area for those on evening flights, along with an all-day self-serve buffet, a staffed bar, separate workstations and showers.
SAS Lounge
Near gate B60.
Opens one hour before the first SAS flight and closes 30 minutes after the last SAS flight departs.
Must present boarding pass.
Open to those flying in an international premium cabin on an SAS flight and those with EuroBonus or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible flight.
The SAS lounge offers a self-serve buffet, bar, free Wi-Fi, a phone room and a guest office.
USO Center
Level 2 Door 9, outside security.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hours may be extended from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. when volunteers are available.
Open to active duty, guard and reserve members of the military as well as their dependents.
USOs provide a nice place for service members to relax before or after their flights. You’ll typically find snacks, comfy chairs and even video games in a USO center.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Military members can get the annual fee waived on The Platinum Card® from American Express. This gets active duty members access to even more luxe travel benefits and lounges. Terms apply.
Terminal C: United Club and United Polaris
Terminal C only operates United flights and therefore only offers United lounges. That said, the lounge you’ll be able to visit will depend on what kind of United ticket you have.
United Club
Near Gate C74.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
United Club
Mezzanine level, near Gate C123.
Open daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Access is available to those with lounge memberships, those flying in an international premium cabin on a United or Star Alliance flight, those with a day pass, active duty military and those with United or Star Alliance elite status on an eligible international flight.
In addition to food and drinks, guests can take advantage of showers and semi-private workstations at this lounge location.
United Polaris
Between gates C102 and C120.
Open daily from 5 a.m.to 10 p.m.
Must present a boarding pass.
Open to those flying United Polaris or Star Alliance international first or business class flights.
The United Polaris lounge in Newark is available exclusively to those flying international premium cabins — and it shows. You’ll find high-end food, nap pods, showers, private dining and more at these lounges.
Lounge access for United cardholders
Travelers who hold certain United co-branded credit cards can benefit from the airline’s strong lounge presence at Newark. The following cards can get you into any of the airport’s United Club lounges:
United℠ Explorer Card
on Chase’s website
United Club℠ Infinite Card
on Chase’s website
United℠ Business Card
on Chase’s website
United Club℠ Business Card
Details
Annual fee:$0 intro for the first year, then $95):
Lounge access: Two one-time United Club passes after account opening and each year for your cardmember anniversary.
Annual fee:$525.
Lounge access: Primary cardholders get a United Club membership.
Annual fee:$99:
Lounge access: Two one-time United Club passes after account opening and each year for your cardmember anniversary.
Annual fee:$450.
Lounge access: Primary cardholders get a United Club membership.
Still not sure?
Final thoughts on the lounges in the Newark airport
Newark airport has its fair share of lounges, especially if you’re flying on United Airlines. All three of Newark’s terminals feature airport lounges, which improves your odds of boarding your next flight out of EWR feeling full and fresh.
Day passes are available in Terminal A and Terminal C for eligible flyers, and certain co-branded airline credit cards can get you access, too.
The information related to the United Club℠ Business Card credit card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.
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Ahem, Presidents’ Day is amongst us, and so are your favorite clothing, beauty, and lifestyle brands’ major sales. But perhaps the most popular category would be the Presidents’ Day furniture and decor sales—and I’ve gathered up all the best deals worth shopping for this year. I’m talking up to 75% off (!!) mattresses, couches, bed frames, chairs, rugs, wall decor, throw pillows, and more.
Because I love you (and I love shopping, because, ya know, it’s what I do for a living), I’ve put together a handy list of all the best Presidents’ Day furniture and decor sales worthy of your hard-earned coin. IDK about you, but this would be the perfect time to do that home revamp you’ve been planning for 2024!
The Best Presidents’ Day Furniture and Decor Sales 2024
Take up to 40% off all rugs and carpets from February 15 to February 25.
Save on hundreds of furniture, home decor, appliances, and more for a limited time.
Arhaus Aimee Dining Arm Chair
Now 33% Off
Credit: Arhaus
Arhaus Merritt Cabinet
Now 39% Off
Credit: Arhaus
Arhaus Malone Round Plinth End Table
Now 31% Off
Credit: Arhaus
Arhaus Astin Arc Lamp
Credit: Arhaus
Enjoy discounts on select items, including Arhaus favorites across several categories from now to February 19.
Take up to 30% off select items from now to February 19.
Take 20% off sitewide from now to February 19.
Brooklinen Down Comforter
Credit: Brooklinen
Brooklinen Luxe Hardcore Sheet Bundle
Credit: Brooklinen
Marlow Marlow Pillow
Credit: Brooklinen
Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe
Credit: Brooklinen
Take 20% off sitewide from February 13 to February 20.
Burrow Arch Nomad Sofa Sectional
Now 20% Off
Credit: Burrow
Burrow Pica Chair
Now 20% Off
Credit: Burrow
Burrow Carta Credenza
Now 22% Off
Credit: Burrow
Burrow Chorus Bed with Wood Headboard
Now 17% Off
Credit: Burrow
Take up to 75% off sitewide as well as 25% off seating from now to February 25.
Take $100 off orders of $1,500, $200 off $2,500, and $450 off $4,500 from now to February 25.
Take up to 70% off bedding, sheets, rugs, and home décor from February 15 to February 20.
Take 20% sitewide from now to February 19.
Take up to 20% Off Sactionals and StealthTech, 20% off Sacs, and 30% Off Sac Bundles from February 21 to February 25.
Take 20% off sitewide from February 16 to February 20.
Take up to 25% off sitewide from February 13 to February 19.
Rugs USA Stone Keyara Spill Proof Washable Area Rug
Credit: Rugs USA
Rugs USA Beige Native Collage Area Rug
Credit: Rugs USA
Beige Bettie Retro Checkered Shag Area Rug
Credit: Rugs USA
Rugs USA Light Pink Ava Vintage Persian Washable Area Rug
Credit: Rugs USA
Take an extra 20% off everything (excludes custom rugs, custom rug pads, and samples) with code USA for a limited time only.
Take 10% off sitewide and up to 60% off final sale from February 18 to February 22.
Take up to 40% off select items for a limited time only.
Take up to 30% off sitewide and free ground shipping on orders over $50 from February 16 to February 19.
Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
A soft opening Feb. 3 brought customers into the RD International Market who shopped the food, décor and houseware aisles, the fresh produce, refrigerated foods, frozen and fresh meats and fish – and the 70 live seafood tanks.
Crab, eel, geoduck (a large clam), shrimp and other live seafood were available along with other fresh options.
Owner Steven Yuan said business was good. “There are a lot of people,” he said, surveying the renovated Winn-Dixie at 7534 Beach Blvd.
The Asian and international supermarket is in the Beach Boulevard Shopping Center along Beach Boulevard at Hogan and Parental Home roads near the eastern access to the Hart Expressway.
Winn-Dixie closed in 2017. Yuan has leased it as his second RD International Market, with the first in Lake Worth.
The city issued a permit June 2, 2023, for Master Contractors Inc. of Lake Worth to renovate the 52,600-square-foot store at a construction cost of $980,000. The architect is Sandra Puerta of Lake Worth.
Yuan equipped the store with new flooring, shelving, freezers, refrigerators, checkout stations and carts with swivel casters that allow for easy guidance.
Some shelves and cold cases were not full yet Feb. 3; the hot food area in the back was not set up; and the 13 food court tenants were not operating. The sign was up for one of the tenants, Teppanyaki House. Tables and chairs are being prepared for setup.
Yuan said the store should be fully open in 20 or 30 days with the food court open within a month. He is considering a grand opening event.
From housewares to meats
In addition to food, the store carries housewares, toys, décor, tea sets and tea tables and chairs.
Meats include traditional cuts as well as frog legs; duck feet; pork belly, intestines and snouts; and other specialty varieties.
Produce includes mushroom varieties, bok choy tips and a large selection of vegetables and fruit.
The live seafood is sourced from its native areas, such as cold water from the north and warm water from Florida.
RD International intends to carry Florida-sourced fish and produce to the extent available.
Staff can clean and cut the seafood for customers and in the future will be able to cook it for eating in the food court or to take home.
The store is open in time for the Feb. 10 Lunar New Year for the Year of the Dragon. The celebration concludes with the Feb. 24 Lantern Festival.
The Chinese New Year also is known as the Spring Festival.
RD International Market is stocking seasonal items for the celebration.
Hours are posted as 10 a.m to 9 p.m. daily but those may change. Yuan said the Jacksonville store has been opening earlier than that.
The state’s second RD International
Last June, when starting work on the store, Yuan said the market would include fresh produce, a bakery, 13 to 14 food-court operators, a hot food bar, groceries and – its specialty – 60 fish tanks for live seafood, including lobster, shrimp and crab.
The first market opened five years ago in Lake Worth. It has 30 live seafood tanks. At 11,000 square feet, the Lake Worth store is about a fifth of the size of the Jacksonville location.
Yuan and Irene Zhang, his sister and a company representative, expect the center to create 80 jobs.
The website says the market will host community events throughout the year.
“A lot of grandparents take the kids as a field trip to our store,” Zhang said previously.
While the store has a strong inventory of Asian food, the goal is to serve an international market.
“There is a large Asian population in Jacksonville,” Zhang said, in sharing how they chose the location.
While there are smaller Asian and international groceries, there is no large one with a wide selection of live seafood, she said.
“Jacksonville is a big city,” she said, and the Beach Boulevard address is conveniently located.
The U.S. Census reports that as of 2022, the Asian population in Jacksonville is estimated at more than 47,500, or 4.9% of the city’s population. That is up 35% from 35,200 in 2010.
The ZIP codes with the highest Asian population include 32256, 32246, 32207, 32258 and 32216, where the store opened, which is central to the others.
With Jacksonville’s waterfront and fishing, “it is a very good place to have a seafood market,” Zhang said.
The property owner is 1980 Union Port Associates LLC of New York City. Goldstein Commercial Properties Inc. is the landlord representative.
The Plumeria Lounge is one of two Hawaiian Airlines lounges at Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. It’s available to Priority Pass members, as well as to select Hawaiian Airlines business and first class travelers, plus frequent fliers with Hawaiian Airlines’ Pualani Platinum elite status.
Unlike the tropical paradise you’ll find elsewhere on Oahu, this lounge is more like an oasis of beige. It has some snacks, but don’t arrive seeking a feast. If all you need is a comfy chair, a place to charge your devices and a brief escape from the pre-flight pandemonium, the Plumeria Lounge is just fine.
Here’s what it’s like inside:
Spaces to relax and work
The design of the Plumeria Lounge is bland, though not bad. Prepare your eyes for a steady color palette of beige on beige.
There are a few types of seating options, including counter seating, table seating, booths and armchairs. Most have access to power outlets. The Plumeria Lounge also has a strong, lounge-exclusive Wi-Fi network, so it should be easy to get connected before your flight.
Food and drink at the Plumeria Lounge
Some people judge lounges based on the food offerings. At Honolulu’s Plumeria Lounge, the food is solidly mediocre and spare. There is a self-service buffet with complimentary light snacks.
Expect some apples, cheese, small sandwiches and soup.
There are also a few types of prepackaged snacks such as pretzels and gummies. Delightfully, though, there are cookie jars with Hawaiian desserts including Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread and Mele Macs macadamia nuts.
There’s a coffee maker for lattes and espresso, as well as a standard drip coffee dispenser. A soda fountain nearby offers standard soft drinks.
The alcoholic beverages are also self-serve. There are wine bottles on the counter, so you can pour yourself a glass. Or you can grab a beer from the fridge.
Bathrooms
The bathrooms were quite clean. However, during our visit in December 2023, one of the three women’s bathroom stalls was out of service.
There are some nice touches, including colorful flowers and complimentary feminine care products.
How to get into the Plumeria Lounge at HNL
Plumeria Lounge access is offered to:
Business class guests departing Honolulu to Japan, South Korea, Australia or New Zealand.
First class guests departing Honolulu to New York or Boston.
Pualani Platinum elite status holders departing Honolulu to Japan, South Korea, Australia or New Zealand. These travelers may bring one guest.
All other Hawaiian Airlines passengers who purchase a day pass.
Priority Pass members.
Cards with Priority Pass access
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
U.S. Bank Altitude™ Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
Annual fee
Priority Pass benefits
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required. Terms apply.
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Includes two guests per visit. No restaurants.
Full Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment required. Terms apply.
10 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year. Enrollment required. Existing cardholders who enrolled in Priority Pass on or before Jan. 31, 2023 will no longer have a membership as of Feb. 1, 2024. Cardholders who enroll between Feb. 1, 2023 and Jan. 31, 2024, will continue to have membership through Oct. 31, 2024. Terms apply.
Eight free Priority Pass lounge visits per year.
Learn more
As a Priority Pass member, you don’t need to fly on Hawaiian Airlines to access the lounge, but you will have to show a same-day boarding pass with an outbound departure from the HNL airport.
🤓Nerdy Tip
The Plumeria Lounge uses a waiting list for Priority Pass members, so access isn’t guaranteed if the lounge is busy.
Purchasing a Plumeria Lounge day pass
You can purchase a day pass either as a walk-in directly upon arrival at the lounge or beforehand during check-in.
The general admission price is $40, though there are discounts for passengers with Pualani elite status. Day passes for Pualani Gold cost $30 and Pualani Platinum can purchase day passes for $25.
Though, don’t try buying a day pass if you’re flying out of Honolulu on any other airline. You must present a same-day Hawaiian Airlines boarding pass to be able to purchase a day pass.
Getting to the Plumeria Lounge inside HNL
The Plumeria Lounge is located in Terminal 1 on the third level.
Honolulu Airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Both are connected post-security, which makes it possible to access the Plumeria Lounge even if you’re flying out of Terminal 2, but it could be a long walk. You also could take the Wiki Wiki Shuttle between the terminals.
Other HNL lounges to consider
Honolulu’s other Priority Pass Lounge is the I.A.S.S. Hawaii Lounge. It’s adorned with colorful walls, plumeria print chairs and a view of lush plants outside. It might be more aesthetically appealing, but the snacks at the I.A.S.S. lounge are almost nonexistent, so if you prioritize complimentary food, the Plumeria lounge is the better choice.
Is the Plumeria Lounge Honolulu worth it?
The Plumeria Lounge is hardly making any lists of best airport lounges. But if you received complimentary access anyway (by purchasing a premium airfare or having a Priority Pass membership), then it’s tough to complain about this lounge.
The food isn’t fancy, but few airport meals are. You’ll have a place to set down your bag. And don’t overlook the unlimited supply of coffee, soda and other drinks. The Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread treats are tasty, too.
As far as whether it’s worth purchasing a day pass, that’s a tougher decision. If you’ll otherwise purchase multiple adult beverages elsewhere in the terminal, then that might end up justifying a good chunk of the $40 day pass fee right there. If you’ve got a long layover, a delayed flight or just got to the airport way too early, then it might be easier to justify the day pass simply given how many more hours you’ll get out of your stay.
Sure, you’d much rather be lying on the beach in Waikiki. But, if you’re stranded in the Honolulu Airport, then the Plumeria Lounge has some complimentary food and drinks to help pass the time, but not much else.
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In AD PRO’s monthly Having a Moment column, AD senior design editor Hannah Martin reports as a weathervane for fads big and small, documenting the patterns and home decor trends she’s clocked in the pages of AD and beyond. Here, enjoy a look back at 2023’s most defining moments.
From nostalgic styles making a comeback to innovative responses to how we live today, there were many stand-out moments in the world of interior design this year. Reviewing them retrospectively, the selections sum up the past year’s tentpole memories—from the design fair debuts we’re still thinking about to the interiors that will inspire well into the new year. Before diving into the design forecasts and color predictions for 2024, take a minute to reflect on the home decor trends that ruled interiors this year.
Forget the subtlety of travertine (last year’s surface du jour) or the always-in elegance of snow-white Carrara. This year was all about an eye-popping specimen—strong veining, unusual colors, and (for the ultra-daring) perhaps a graphic mix of both. Surfaces need not blend into the background; they can say something too. Let’s call it personality marble—that essential dose of pattern that can make any interior pop. Take, for instance, the freestanding onyx bar Roman and Williams turned into a showstopping moment in Gwyneth Paltrow’s Montecito living room, or the all-over marble bathroom of Tinder founder Sean Rad and his wife, Lizzie Grover Rad, conjured by designer Jane Hallworth. Consider it a new kind of conversation piece for the home.
Jaxx Red Marble Side Table
“With a rise in midcentury-modern home remodels and an increased nostalgia for retro furnishings, we’re seeing more customers favoring color,” says Alyssa Wilterdink, senior marketing manager at Kohler, which relaunched a duo of vintage hues for its plumbing fixtures in honor of the American manufacturer’s 150th anniversary this year. Designers are indeed leaning in: Virginia Tupker recently ordered custom colored Water Monopoly sinks in pale pink and blue for a family home in Connecticut; color fiend Frances Merrill installed a cobalt blue sink in the powder room of a Cape Ann, Massachusetts, home; and designer Oliver M. Furth opted for a vintage pink toilet from Kohler for artist Mary Wetherford’s midcentury-modern abode in LA.
Lookin’ Good Shower Set
This year, we witnessed a surge in designers adding color, pattern, and artistic flair to their projects with hand-painted tile. “I’ll tile just about anything,” says interior designer Jessica Jubelirer, who applied the treatment to the hearth, the bathrooms, the baseboards, and, most memorably, inset in the closet doors in a lakeside Wisconsin family home. Meanwhile, in a historic Connecticut family home designed by Virginia Tupker, Delft and Portuguese tiles create a sort of wainscoting in the entryway and bathrooms, as well as fireplace surrounds. In the kitchen of that project, hand-painted tile adds a splash of pattern (drawn from a William Morris motif) as a backsplash. Practical and durable with an artisan flair, hand-painted tile adds visual interest wherever needed. Adds Jubilerer: “Kitchens, bathrooms, and fireplaces can all benefit from its practicality and beauty.”
São Dinis 88 Portuguese Tile
This spring’s design fair circuit hinted at a return to the industrial minimalism, high-tech style of the ’70s and ’80s—an industrial revolution of the interior, if you will. In April we returned from Milan with notes about a minimalism resurgence, with a particular emphasis on industrial materials. Knoll had reissued some of high-tech star Joe D’Urso’s super-adaptable and sleek low tables from the ’80s. Ledongil Workshop’s experimental lighting and furnishings, on display at Ordet gallery, felt like an elevated take on track lighting. And at Drop City, designer Daisuke Yamamoto showcased a collection of clean-lined chairs made of the most frequently trashed construction material: lightweight gauge steel. Indeed, industrial materials and minimalist silhouettes were the protagonists of this year’s debuts.
Hector Small Dome Clip Light
“We’re blowing the dust off moire,” says Raffaele Fabrizio, creative director of Dedar, while showing off the Italian fabric house’s newly expanded Amoir Libre textile. Cue the ripple effect. As of late, a handful of brands and interior designers have redirected their gaze to the historic textile that oozes opulence, repackaging it for today’s quiet luxury. Interior designer Sophie Ashby, who recently wrapped a dressing room in a pale pink Dedar moire, praises the home decor trend for its ability to expand space: “When used in the right way it can really enhance a space, enveloping the interior with tactility whilst also subtly playing with light to make smaller spaces—such as dressing rooms or hidden nooks—appear larger.”
Quadratic Rug in Burgundy by Objects of Common Interest for CC-Tapis
Before there was photography, botanists—or anyone wishing to document flora—created detailed illustrations, known as botanical studies, intended to convey the plant’s physical appearance and other qualities. Unsurprisingly, such botanical studies have long been used to decorate. Lately, the botanical studies trend—a longtime hallmark of traditional, even preppy interiors—is blooming anew. In Lauren Dupont’s Connecticut home, designed by Stephen Sills, a pair of antique botanical prints purchased at auction hang in her dressing room, and in her Palm Beach kitchen, Aerin Lauder mounted a grid of floral prints in the service pantry. Sure, there’s nothing innately groundbreaking about florals when it comes to home decor trends, but perhaps that’s just what gives them eternal life.
Nasturtium Wall Tray
In the bedroom, gone are the piles of decorative pillows and fussy, overstuffed duvets. Back is a simple coverlet that is perfectly happy not to take center stage. You know this super-simple look: a flat coverlet is laid across the bed, folded down a little at the top, and then back over a pair of standard pillows. “It always felt a bit traditional and almost religious,” says Colin King, the stylist and longtime AD contributor, who favors the minimalist bed. “It’s clean and tidy, simple but elegant. It gives the room the feeling you want your bedroom to have—serenity.” The back-to-basics look has been spotted in a restored Brooklyn Heights apartment by Augusta Hoffman, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen’s California bedroom designed by Jake Arnold, and Andre Mellone’s Manhattan sleeping quarters too.
Repose Heavyweight Bedcover
In Germany and Austria between 1815 and 1850, when the Napoleonic wars had ended and a burgeoning middle class emerged, a new style of furniture was created to suit their needs: streamlined versions of more opulent Empire furniture, characterized by strong lines, warm local woods, and simplified shapes—though, notably, not totally stripped of ornament. Biedermeier furniture, as it would later be named, has regained appeal in contemporary interiors for its chameleon qualities. It brings a calculated hit of classicism to a cool, minimalist interior, but it can deliver streamlined modernity to one that is layered and super decorated. These days, says Campbell-Rey’s Charlotte Rey, it’s all about the mix: “It is important to not be afraid to mix them with color and other periods. Perhaps you place a Memphis Milano lamp on top of a Biedermeier sideboard? Being too respectful can make it feel overly polite.”
Leveraging natural materials, raw detailing and a laid-back vibe, industrial design can work for everyone.
Industrial interior design has emerged as a popular trend in recent years, and with good reason. This unique style combines elements of modern design with raw materials, resulting in an effortlessly cool and stoic look when executed correctly, regardless of if you rent or buy.
Drawing inspiration from the blank canvases of rundown or even abandoned factories, warehouses and manufacturing plants, industrial interior design is a reaction to the mass exodus of large-scale American manufacturing operations and the massive properties they constructed and then ultimately left behind.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about industrial interior design, provide you with the best ideas to incorporate this style into your home or apartment and, above all, finally answer the question, what is industrial interior design?
What is industrial interior design?
Industrial interior design takes inspiration from industrial buildings and elements like exposed pipes, metal, brick and unfinished concrete. This design style embraces the rawness and imperfections of these materials, creating a unique and authentic home atmosphere.
Spaces with industrial interior design typically feature open floor plans with abundant windows, allowing for ample natural light. The color palette used in industrial design is usually darker, with shades of white, black and gray prevailing.
By using materials in their rawest and roughest forms, industrial interior design captures a minimalist aesthetic that celebrates the movement of natural materials, often incorporating dark metals to tie the look together.
The characteristics of industrial interior design
To better understand industrial interior design, let’s explore some of its defining characteristics.
Visible structural elements
One of the key features of the industrial design style is the celebration of visible structural elements. Exposed brick walls, beams and open ductwork are common in industrial-style homes. These elements add a sense of authenticity and industrial charm to the space.
Rough wood or concrete floors
Industrial interiors often feature rough wood or raw concrete floors. These materials not only add to the industrial aesthetic but also provide durability and a sense of realness. Concrete floors can also be polished to achieve a more refined look, while rough wood floors contribute to the rustic appeal of industrial design.
Neutral color palette
Industrial interiors typically employ a neutral color palette, with an emphasis on darker tones like blacks, grays and off-whites. These colors create a sense of depth and contrast, allowing other design elements to stand out.
Raw and reclaimed materials
Industrial design embraces the use of raw and reclaimed materials. Leather and wood are frequently used in furniture and decor, showcasing the natural beauty and texture of these materials. Reclaimed wood, in particular, is a quick way to add a touch of history, character and warmth to industrial spaces.
Emphasis on steel and dark metal
Steel and dark metals play a significant role in industrial interior design. These materials are used structurally in beams and columns, as well as in decorative elements, furniture, fixtures and artwork. The use of dark metals adds sophistication to any room and complements the overall industrial aesthetic.
High ceilings and large windows
Industrial spaces often feature high ceilings and massive windows. This architectural design allows for ample natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere in open spaces. The combination of high ceilings and sizable windows also contributes to the sense of openness and spaciousness in industrial interiors.
Minimalist spirit
Industrial design embraces a minimalist spirit, with a focus on simplicity and functionality. Excessive ornamentation and detailing are not commonly found in industrial spaces. Instead, the emphasis is on clean lines and the beauty of raw materials.
Origins and history of industrial interior design
The origins of industrial interior design can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution in the 19th and 20th centuries. The rise of mass production led to the construction of factories and warehouses built with harsh materials like steel and concrete. These industrial buildings featured large windows, open floor plans, high ceilings and exposed architectural elements like brick walls and metal pipes.
In the 1960s and 70s, the industrial interior design style gained popularity alongside the rise of loft-style living in large cities. Old warehouses and factories were repurposed into residential spaces, offering unique and spacious living environments.
This trend continues to evolve, and today industrial design is not only limited to loft apartments but has become a sought-after style for a spectrum of residential and commercial projects.
The differences between industrial style interior design and modern industrial interior design
Industrial interior design and modern industrial interior design are both popular styles, but they have distinct characteristics and elements that set them apart.
Industrial style interior design
Origins: This style originated from the industrial era where old factories, warehouses and industrial spaces were converted into living spaces. It often incorporates elements from these original industrial settings.
Materials: Common materials include exposed brick, metal, concrete and reclaimed wood. The use of raw, unfinished materials is a hallmark of this style.
Color palette: The color scheme tends to be neutral and earthy, with a focus on gray, black and white tones, often complemented by the natural colors of the materials used.
Decorative elements: Decor is minimal in traditional industrial design. It may include vintage or antique items, industrial lighting fixtures like pendant lights and functional furniture pieces.
Space: Open floor plans are common, with high ceilings and large windows. The layout often emphasizes spaciousness and a sense of openness, as you’ll see in the photo of the coffee/wine bar below.
Modern industrial interior design
Evolution: This style is a contemporary adaptation of the traditional industrial style interiors. It blends elements of modern design with industrial features.
Materials: While it also uses materials like metal, concrete and wood, modern industrial design often incorporates more refined finishes and may include modern materials like glass and stainless steel.
Color palette: The modern industrial palette may be broader, including the neutral tones of traditional industrial design but also allowing for more pops of color and contrast.
Decorative elements: There is often a mix of old and new decor. Modern industrial design style might include things like contemporary art, modern furniture designs and sleek lighting fixtures alongside more traditional industrial decor.
Space: Like traditional industrial design, modern industrial spaces often have open layouts, but they might be more structured with defined areas for different purposes and a balance between open space and coziness.
While both styles share a love for raw, unfinished materials and an open concept, traditional industrial design stays true to its roots with a focus on vintage and rugged elements. In contrast, modern industrial design mixes these elements with more contemporary, refined and colorful finishes.
How to incorporate industrial interior design in your place
Now that we have explored the fundamentals of industrial interior design, let’s delve into some of the best ideas to incorporate this style into your own space. With ideas for renters and buyers, there’s no excuse to miss out on this aesthetic.
1. Put your place in neutral
Embrace a soft color palette of neutral shades and tints to create an industrial ambiance. Blacks, grays and browns form the foundation of industrial design, providing an earthy and grounded feel. Use brown and tan for a soothing touch or black for a more suave look.
2. Mix modern and rustic
One of the advantages of industrial design is the freedom to mix modern and rustic elements. Blend contemporary pieces with rustic settings to achieve a balanced and visually appealing aesthetic. This combination creates a dynamic and eclectic atmosphere.
3. Open your mind and your floorplan
Open floorplans are a hallmark of modern industrial design. Embrace the spaciousness and flexibility of an open-plan layout, connecting the kitchen, dining area and living room seamlessly. This design choice allows for easy movement and promotes a sense of togetherness.
4. Light it up
Lighting plays a crucial role in industrial design. Embrace statement lighting pieces like Edison bulbs to add warmth and character to your space. Exposed wiring and industrial-style fixtures contribute to the overall industrial aesthetic.
5. Throw caution out the window
Crittall windows, with their metal grids, are synonymous with industrial interior design. These large windows not only let in abundant natural light but also create a connection between the interior and the outdoors. Their sleek and minimalist design adds a touch of elegance to industrial spaces.
6. Embrace au naturel
Bring the outdoors inside by incorporating plants and greenery into your industrial space. Indoor plants add life, color and a sense of freshness to the raw and industrial atmosphere. The combination of natural greenery and ample natural light creates a harmonious and inviting environment.
7. Go heavy metal
Metal is a key element in industrial design. From brass and copper to chrome and iron, metal accents add visual interest and texture to the space. Polished metal creates a sleek and modern look, while brushed or beaten metal adds a vintage charm. Experiment with different metal finishes to find the perfect balance for your industrial interior.
8. Expose the bones
Embrace exposed architectural elements, like concrete and brick, to showcase the raw beauty of the building’s structure. Exposed concrete walls, poured concrete floors and exposed brick walls add character and authenticity to industrial spaces. The imperfections and weathering of these materials contribute to the overall charm of industrial design.
9. Fake it to make it
If you’re not working with a historical building, you can still create a sense of industrial authenticity by incorporating faux architectural elements. Faux beams, columns and mock lofts can be used to mimic the look of an industrial space. These elements add visual interest and contribute to the overall industrial character of the design.
10. Showcase the vents and ducts
Make a design statement out of typically overlooked industrial elements like vents and ducts. These functional industrial elements can be painted in bold colors to create a striking contrast or left in their natural metal finish. Matte black or steel vents are popular choices that add a touch of industrial elegance.
11. Personalize your space
Complete your industrial interior with carefully chosen accessories and decor items. Artworks, lamps, decorative pieces and cushions can enhance the industrial vibe and add a personal touch to the space. Look for distressed leather cushions, natural linen textiles and steampunk-inspired accessories to complement the industrial style.
12. Focus on the floors
Give special attention to the flooring in your industrial space. Poured concrete floors with their raw and textured finish are a classic choice that perfectly captures the industrial look. If you prefer a different material, consider using raw-looking stone or reclaimed wood flooring. The key is to select a flooring material that is naturally robust and resilient, adding to the overall industrial vibe.
13. Woo with wood
Reclaimed wood is an excellent choice for achieving an industrial look. Its raw texture, knots and rings add character and warmth to the space. Repurposed wood furniture and accent pieces create a sense of history and sustainability. Consider using reclaimed wood for tables, shelves or even wall paneling to add a rustic touch to your industrial interior.
14. Store more
Make your interior designer happy and keep your industrial interior organized and clutter-free by incorporating efficient storage solutions. Industrial style interior design staples like floating shelves, metal cabinets and exposed storage systems (think repurposed lockers or vintage postal sorting cabinets) are not only functional but also add to the overall industrial aesthetic. Find unique storage ideas that combine recycled materials and good lighting to create a visually appealing and practical space.
Industrial style interior design basics by room
In a kitchen, bedroom and living room designed in pure industrial interior style, you can expect certain key features and elements that are characteristic of this design theme. Here’s a breakdown of the most common tricks industrial interior designers use and what you might typically find in each of the following rooms.
In all these rooms, the industrial interior design emphasizes utility, simplicity and raw, unfinished materials, creating a unique blend of ruggedness, coziness and hominess.
Industrial kitchen
Materials: Exposed brick walls, concrete or stainless steel countertops, rustic materials and open metal shelving. Pipes and ductwork are often left exposed for an added industrial feel.
Appliances and fixtures: Commercial-grade appliances, often stainless steel and large, simple sinks with industrial-style faucets.
Lighting: Pendant lights with metal finishes or Edison bulbs. Track lighting might also be used.
Furniture: A large, sturdy wooden table with metal legs, paired with metal or industrial-style chairs. Bar stools made of metal or with a metal base and leather seats are common near the kitchen island.
Decorative elements: Minimal decorations, with a focus on functionality. You might find vintage industrial items or tools repurposed as decorative elements.
Industrial bedroom
Materials: Exposed brick or concrete walls. The flooring might be concrete, distressed wood or have a raw metal finish.
Bed: A simple, robust bed frame, often made of metal or reclaimed wood. The bedding is typically neutral in color, focusing on texture rather than patterns.
Lighting: Simple, functional lighting like metal pendant lights or floor lamps with an industrial design.
Furniture: Minimalist furniture with a focus on utility and a raw, unfinished look. A metal or wooden wardrobe and a simple, sturdy dresser are common.
Decorative elements: Decorations are sparse, with possible additions of vintage industrial or rustic pieces, like old signs, black and white photos or reclaimed industrial gear.
Industrial living room
Materials: Exposed beams, brick walls and concrete or wooden floors. In an ideal situation, the room will feature large, factory-style windows.
Seating: Comfortable, spacious sofas, often in neutral colors or leather and paired with metal or wooden coffee tables with a raw, unfinished look.
Lighting: Industrial-style floor lamps, track lighting or sizable, metal pendant lights.
Furniture: A mix of old and new, with pieces that have clean lines but a rugged, utilitarian feel. A statement piece like a vintage industrial cart or metal shelving is common.
Decorative elements: Again, decorations are minimal but might include vintage industrial objects, metal artworks or simple, abstract pieces.
Is industrial interior design right for you?
Industrial interior design offers a unique and captivating aesthetic that celebrates the rawness and authenticity of the industrial interior design style. By embracing visible structural elements, rugged materials and a minimalist spirit, you can create a stylish and inviting industrial interior.
Incorporate these industrial interior design ideas into your own space to achieve the perfect blend of modern and rustic in the industrial interior design in your own place, whether you’re renting a home or looking to buy a house.
The weather is nippy, the sun is low in the winter sky, and all thoughts are turning to comfort food. In other words, it’s officially the season to hunker down and gleefully embrace your homebody instincts to stay in.
If your household is anything like ours, these next few months will also be when the dining room becomes a place for more than just meals. Indeed, winter hibernation includes slow mornings over a book and long evenings with your latest craft in hand.
But your dining room might need some extra love these days, especially if your home feels a bit bare sans all the holiday decor. To help, we’ve gathered up some timeless dining room looks from Instagram that will make your space feel just as cozy as it did around the holidays.
Here are five decor ideas to keep the warm vibes going in your space well into the new year.
1. Dining room library
One of our favorite chic and snug looks for the season? This dining room/dream reading space by @kateabtdesign. The best part of this look is that it doesn’t take a lot of construction chops to achieve, just a few well-placed bookshelves.
“The concept of integrating a library into a dining room has grown more popular because it adds a layer of intellectual charm and character to the space,” says designer Guillaume Drew, of Or & Zon. “Bookshelves adds a warm, lived-in feel and a unique ambiance that’s both cultured and comfortable.”
Get the look: Get your dining room library off to an exciting start with this etagere bookshelf.
2. Warm wood side table
When creating a cozy space that you genuinely want to spend time in this winter, nothing achieves that feeling quite as well as vibrant wood tones. This is especially true when the wood vibes come in the form of a spotlight piece of furniture, like this side table from @oezlem.oezsoy.
“Warm wood tones have this inherent quality of making any space feel grounded and cozy due to their connection with nature and the outdoors,” says Drew. “The rich hues and grains pair well with both traditional and modern decor and evoke a sense of durability and timelessness.”
Get the look: Give your space a homey hue with this midcentury buffet in Acorn.
3. Woven-backed chairs
Another variation on the theme of using natural materials to create a grounded, comfortable space is a woven-backed chair, such as the ones featured by @heidicaillierdesign.
“Current dining areas are overwhelmingly wood—with hardwood flooring and built-in wood storage,” says designer Courtney Wollersheim, of FLOOR360. “Choose a dining room chair that has a complementary wood tone and woven seat back to tie the space together.”
Get the look: Complement your naturally decorated space with a set of these Astrid upholstered rattan dining chairs.
4. Grand-scale chandelier
Is a high ceiling making your dining room feel more formal than comfy? Not to worry. A perfectly placed grand-scale chandelier like this one from @chairishbydesign might be the thing to change that.
“Including a grand-scale chandelier in a dining room is more than just a statement. It’s about creating intimacy and ambiance,” says Drew. “The sheer size draws the eye up, then down, illuminating the room in a soft glow and shrinking to a more comfortable scale.”
Get the look: Cast a welcoming glow over your space with this Cassi 6 chandelier.
5. Tabletop taper candles
Taper candles are having a serious moment this winter. And if you’ve been feeling like your dining space lacks a certain glowing ambiance, then a few styled candles like these from @barwny_domek will work wonders.
“Your dining room tablescape is a space to showcase things that demonstrate your heritage, thrifting talent, eco-consciousness, and seasonal flavor,” says Wollersheim. “Tapered candles complement any style while adding an elegant vintage feel with warming, cozy candlelight.”
Get the look: Shop this collection of tapered candles on Etsy, or skip the matches and opt for a few of these Wick rechargeable LED table lights.