6/9/08
As more and more people have converted commercial spaces into residential lofts over the years, it’s been tradition to incorporate industrial roots into the interior design. After all, heavy-duty steel racks, floor-to-ceiling wire shelves, metal storage lockers, and industrial carts of any kind, are appropriate in large, open spaces with high ceilings.

But where does one find such warehouse gear? That was our question. So, we did some research, read some reviews, called some folks, and got some answers.
Here is our round-up of online industrial outfitters:
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1. McMaster-Carr Supply Company carries over 456,000 products, all of which are listed by category on their homepage. With unbeatable prices and detailed product specifications, buying furniture has never been so simple. A particularly versatile purchase is the steel stand-up desk, which could function nicely as a workspace for your laptop. We also like the idea of using it as a nightstand to break up the softness of a bedroom.

2. As the self-proclaimed “Storage and Material Handling Leader,” C&H sells anything and everything storage-related. Stand-outs include their colorful, enamel desks and trolleys, which could easily function as bar-carts or kitchen storage.
3. Global Industrial is a massive, international outlet for industrial supplies. Offering both raw materials and commercial furnishings, this site is perfect for the DIY-obsessed. Their stainless steel storage series is inspiration enough to redo your kitchen.

4. There are plenty of retail stores attempting to recreate industrial light fixtures with obscenely high prices attached to them. Why not buy the lights that are actually meant for a warehouse at half the cost? The industrial line from Ark Lighting is intended for commercial spaces and warehouses, carrying reasonably priced light fixtures outfitted with steel wire guards and whimsical, enamel pendents that are available in every color of the rainbow. An added bonus is the bulk-rate option. We loved the enamel “gooseneck” urns.