The urban living style is bold, industrial and yet warm. It’s a style you recognise by raw materials, dark colours and a mix of old and new elements. Think of a loft in New York, a former warehouse in Amsterdam or a sleekly furnished apartment with vintage influences. Urban living is popular among people who love character, functionality and atmosphere – preferably with a rough edge.
In this blog, we share practical tips and inspiration to help you style your home in an urban way. You’ll discover which colours and materials suit this living style, which furniture and accessories are essential, and how to find the right balance between bold and cosy.
What is the urban living style?
The term “urban” literally means “city-based”. An urban interior reflects the atmosphere of city life: robust, lively and a little nonchalant. Large cities inspire with their mix of architecture, culture and history – and you can see that reflected in this living style.
The urban style combines elements of industrial living (such as steel, concrete and brick) with modern designer furniture, vintage finds and natural materials such as wood and wool. This combination creates an interior that feels like a loft or creative studio: quirky, full of character and cosy.
Who is the urban style suitable for?
Urban living is popular with young adults, city families and interior fans who love a functional yet atmospheric space. In particular, thirty-somethings in the city choose this style because it fits their lifestyle perfectly: dynamic, creative and style-conscious.
This style is also ideal for smaller homes and apartments. By making smart use of furniture, colour and light, you can create an urban atmosphere in any room – from the living room to the home office or bedroom.
The building blocks of an urban interior
1. Materials: robust, raw and natural
- Concrete and cement: perfect for floors, worktops or walls.
- Metal and steel: visible in racks, table legs and lamps.
- Brick or rough walls: no real brick? Use wallpaper or wall panels with texture.
- Reclaimed wood: for shelves, tables or accessories with character.
- Leather and canvas: for sofas, armchairs or poufs.
A good example is the Gany black shelf by House Doctor. This steel wall shelf has a sleek design and is ideal for books, plants, or accessories. It instantly brings urban flair into your home.
2. Color use: dark with accents
Urban interiors are often built around a calm, dark color palette. Think of shades of gray, black, taupe, and deep blue. These colors create a chic and peaceful foundation.
Examples of paint colors in RAL:
- Light gray – RAL 7035
- Dark gray – RAL 7011
- Anthracite – RAL 7016
- Black – RAL 9005
- Taupe – RAL 7006
- Mustard yellow – RAL 1005
- Moss green – RAL 6005
- Burgundy red – RAL 3005
- Rust brown – RAL 8004
Use one or two accent colors in combination with the base tones. An accent wall in RAL 3005 (burgundy red) or a mustard-yellow armchair (RAL 1005) makes the interior lively without being too loud.
3. Furniture: minimalistic and tough
Choose furniture with a rugged look. No frills, just clean shapes and sturdy materials. Think of:
- Wooden dining tables with a black steel base
- Leather sofas with a low back and wide seat
- Industrial shelving units or wall shelves
- Round coffee tables made of concrete or reclaimed wood
At Het Adres, you'll find, among other things, the House Doctor collection – minimalistic, functional, and still atmospheric.
4. Lighting: functional and atmospheric
Good lighting completes your urban interior. Combine rugged metal lamps with warm light. Think of:
- Black steel pendant lamps
- Floor lamps with a retro bulb
- Industrial wall lamps next to the sofa or bed
Choose warm white light (2700K) so the whole space does not feel too cold.
5. Accessories: mix old and new
Accessories are indispensable in an urban interior. They create atmosphere and personality:
- Vintage accessories: suitcases, radios, clocks
- Metal baskets and racks
- Rugged art on the wall (abstract or photography)
- Soft textile items such as cushions and throws
Be sure to check out the Haans Pebble cushions. The rich texture and deep colors fit perfectly in an urban setting.
6. Plants: urban jungle vibes
Plants bring life and contrast. Choose rugged varieties such as:
- Monstera
- Sansevieria
- Strelitzia
- Banana plant
- Cactus or succulent in a concrete pot
Place them on wall shelves or in racks, such as the House Doctor wall shelves, for a stylish green touch.
Practical tips for an urban makeover
- Paint your walls in RAL 7035 or RAL 7016 as a base, and choose an accent wall in RAL 3005 or RAL 1005.
- Use steel wall racks such as the Gany rack as a real eye-catcher.
- Replace your lighting with black steel fixtures with warm light.
- Add texture with throws, rugs, and cushions (wool, corduroy, velvet).
- Use wall décor with personal items such as posters, black-and-white photos, or vintage advertising signs.
Urban living with Het Adres
Looking for products that help you complete your urban interior? At Het Adres, you’ll find everything for your urban home style. From industrial racks and rugged furniture to soft cushions and stylish accessories. Take a look at, among others:
- House Doctor collection
- Rack Gany black
- Wall shelves from House Doctor
- Haans Pebble cushions
- Home accessories collection
Urban living is raw and stylish, but above all personal too. Mix old and new, work with contrasts, and create an interior that tells your story.
Also read: Want to read more about this topic? Then also take a look at our article about Scandinavian home accessories under €50.