Using Faux Metal Beams To Achieve An Industrial Look

So you have decided to update your space to a modern, industrial look, and you have run into a small problem — your space wasn't built using steel beams or girders! Not to worry, you don't have to start with a metal structure to achieve an industrial feel. Fake metal beams can take the place of structural supports to achieve the same effect.

Materials Used for Faux Metal Beams

First, just because the word "metal" is in there doesn't mean that the faux metal beams are actually made out of metal. Fake metal beams can be made out of wood, plastic, foam board, or other lightweight materials. This is done because the beam is supposed to provide a design element, but isn't actually intended to hold or support anything. Also, not every placement can support the weight of a heavier material such as wood — if you have to adhere something to a surface for a certain look, you can much more easily glue a piece of foam board than a piece of wood.

Metal Beams as Part of Your Industrial Look

Metal beams are meant to be part of the overall design for an industrial look. If you already have some metal elements exposed, such as pipes, brackets, or air ducts, then use the metal beams to add to that look.

For example, fake metal beams can be placed in numerous places:

• Ceiling beams — place the beams across the ceiling, attaching them according to the manufacturer's specification, to provide the appearance that the beams are load-bearing for the ceiling
• Structural beams — for higher or vaulted ceilings, connect two faux beams perpendicular to each other below the raised ceiling. You can also add one sloping up the ceiling to form a triangle, giving the appearance of strong, rigid support.
• Window outlines and insets — you can use smaller, faux beams to frame out around windows to look like metal frames, even adding design elements inside a single pane window to subdivide it into "smaller windows."

Combining Design Elements

Metal beams are meant to be combined with other elements, as well. To achieve a successful industrial decoration, make sure to have wall colors that allow the metal elements to stand out, such as neutral grays or browns, or even whites.  Connecting cables between metal beams can also add to the industrial look. Finally, changing your fixtures, such as ceiling lights, door knobs, sink or bathroom fixtures, and hinges can enhance the industrial effect. Once you have the room the way you want it, adding in furniture and accessories that also utilize exposed metal elements can complete the look.

For more information, contact a company like FEATHERBEAMS And Trusses.