How to Mix Wood and Metal Elements for a Modern Industrial Look

There’s something timeless about the contrast between raw metal and natural wood. Together, they strike the perfect balance between rugged strength and organic warmth — the essence of modern industrial design. For restaurants, this combination creates a space that feels both contemporary and inviting, effortlessly blending urban edge with natural charm.

At TableCo., we specialize in handcrafted wood tabletops and custom bases that make it easy to achieve this elevated industrial aesthetic without sacrificing comfort or durability.

Why the Wood-Metal Combination Works

The beauty of pairing wood with metal lies in their complementary qualities. Metal offers structure, stability, and a sleek, modern appeal, while wood introduces texture, warmth, and natural variation. When combined, they create an environment that feels grounded yet refined — ideal for restaurants aiming to project creativity, confidence, and authenticity.

Whether your space features exposed brick, concrete floors, or minimalist walls, the addition of wood and metal tables helps soften the look and anchor your design.

Choosing the Right Wood for Industrial Design

Not all woods create the same effect. In industrial spaces, the goal is to balance visual weight and tone. Black walnut brings deep, luxurious warmth that contrasts beautifully with dark steel or matte black bases. White oak adds brightness and sophistication, perfect for light-filled interiors. Reclaimed elm contributes rustic character with visible grain and history, aligning with the “aged yet enduring” aesthetic that industrial design is known for.

For a sleeker approach, TableCo’s high-quality veneer tops offer a durable and cost-effective way to achieve the same natural beauty while maintaining consistent tone and texture across large restaurant spaces.

Selecting the Perfect Metal Base

A tabletop is only as striking as the base that supports it. Industrial design thrives on simplicity — exposed structures, clean geometry, and purposeful details. Steel bases in black, charcoal, or brushed silver pair well with most hardwoods. Hairpin legs add mid-century appeal, while angular or trestle-style frames bring an architectural presence that draws the eye without overpowering the wood above.

At TableCo, we offer a variety of base styles to match any restaurant’s concept, ensuring that every table blends beauty with functionality.

Balancing Texture and Finish

An authentic industrial look comes from contrast, but that doesn’t mean your space has to feel cold. The key is in the finish. Smooth coatings on walnut or oak tables highlight the wood grain while preventing glare, while lightly brushed or matte metal finishes create a subtle industrial patina.

You can even mix textures across the space — pairing live-edge communal tables with clean-edged two-seaters, or alternating warm wood tones with cooler metals for visual depth.

Creating a Cohesive Design

The best industrial interiors balance raw materials with thoughtful design. Wooden tables with metal bases can unify a space that mixes other materials like brick, glass, or concrete. Keep the colour palette grounded in neutrals — think natural wood, black metal, and muted grays — to maintain cohesion and allow your décor and lighting to take center stage.

For larger restaurants, alternating between wood-heavy and metal-accented tables adds subtle rhythm and prevents the design from feeling repetitive.

Final Thoughts

Mixing wood and metal in your restaurant design isn’t just a trend — it’s a timeless expression of balance, durability, and style. Whether you prefer live edge walnut, smooth oak, reclaimed elm, or premium veneer tops, TableCo. offers handcrafted tabletops and custom metal bases that help you achieve the perfect modern industrial look.

Because when craftsmanship meets contrast, your tables don’t just furnish your restaurant — they define it.