Interior decorating advice: How do I “soften up” an industrial apartment?

Hi, I just moved into an industrial loft apartment with lots of light and I LOVE it. However, I am kind of a girly-girl and the place currently feels a bit cold, sterile, and warehousey for my taste.

The floors and ceilings are brushed concrete, the walls are either exposed concrete or painted white or gray-blue. The apartment comes furnished with modern items with a lot of straight lines, stainless steel, granite & upholstery in gray or dull blue hues.

I would like to make it more warm, feminine, colorful, soft, and homey. What are some accents and touches I can use to create this effect? I like simple floral patterns, the occasional ruffle, pastel colors, etc. I want to find a nice balance between the industrial feel and a cozy, feminine home. Any ideas?
I’m looking for links to specific rugs, lamps, throw pillows, wall art, curtains, dishes, bedding and the like please!

Thanks so much! I can send you photos of the place if it would help.

PS I cannot paint the walls or change major furniture items like table, couch etc.
Thanks Kosher, I love the idea of bringing nature in. Thank you sunshine, those photo links are a great inspiration. I love the first one especially.
Here are some photos of my place: http://www.flickr.com/photos/52380480@N06/

{ 2 comments }

KosherThis August 22, 2010 at 9:28 pm

You definitely need to show us a photo.

But my suggest would be the following:

Showing different types of texture in this type of environment can mean a lot in your case.

Also, your lighting has tremendous weight in softening an area.

Also, do not forget to bring inside some of the outdoors; like trees and some type of greenery.

Good Luck

SuNSHiNe August 22, 2010 at 9:47 pm

If you upload some pictures of your place then I’ll be able to suggest exact accessories. But for now look at the below links for inspiration. Adding flowers, pictures on the walls, chandelier, lamps, throws, cushions and rugs will instantly transform the place.

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-xDzagpyK_8/SgBw9vpBq-I/AAAAAAAAAk8/sMXaq1l9Mj4/s400/blue+and+gray+room.jpg

http://www.decorpad.com/photos/2008/10/05/ddc1fcbe4b46.jpg

http://blog.hgtv.com/design/files/2009/01/dh09-living-room-wide_s4×3_lg.jpg

http://www.decorpad.com/photos/2009/08/23/57118eb38844.jpg

Good Luck :)

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