Zoom Hotel, Brussels

Industrial chic décor is all about stripping a space down to its bones. Zoom Hotel in Brussels, designed by architect Olivier Hannaert and interior designer Michel Penneman, brings this theme alive. The duo have softened the look with vintage elements and the end result is a stylish urban retreat with a raw, edgy vibe.

Black, white, warm grey and brown run throughout the 37 rooms of this boutique hotel with vibrant splashes of yellow, orange and brilliant blues. Exposed pipes painted matte black are used extensively in the bedrooms – from forming the structure of wall shelves to the framework and columns of the four poster beds which are fitted with natural-wood finish headboards. Black ceilings are coupled with crisp white walls and sunny yellow drapes frame large windows that let in abundant natural light.

In the café, basic metal chairs and bar stools complement the vintage inspired tufted leather banquets in warm brown. Patterned cushions pair well with the cheerful yellow lounge chairs while pendant lights brighten up the space. Adding another layer is the central theme of photography. Residents were asked to contribute their photographs of the city, over 400 of which were selected to adorn the walls of the hotel. A white sketch of a camera dominates one black wall in the café while 36 framed prints of vintage cameras illuminated by ‘kodak’ pendant lights line another.

To recreate this look for your home, whether you are starting from scratch or just adding a few elements from this style; remember to keep the furnishings minimal and use repurposed pieces creatively. This look relies heavily on using a neutral colour palette, clean lines and baring the beautiful architectural elements of the room. An open floor plan with furniture used to break up sections works best while polished concrete floors, brick walls and metal touches are main staples. Scissor lights and pulley lighting fixtures work beautifully with this almost utilitarian style.