If you’re looking to add a bit more style into your space, mix up those metals. I know what you’re thinking – mixing metals is taboo. However, quite the opposite is true. Mixing metals adds depth to a room and creates an elegant, stylish vibe. There is an art to the way you mix, as you don’t want the technique to become overbearing. Here are six tips on how to properly mix metals in home decor.
Choose a dominant metal.
First, choose your favorite metal finish. The one that you want to be the most prominent in your home. Then, pick one or two other types of metals to supplement the dominant choice. Making this difference will keep your space balanced. Not only that, but a primary metal allows you to base the complementing metal and other decor elements around it. Helpful tip! Whether you choose a warm (brass, copper, gold) or cool (aluminum, silver, stainless steel) colored metal as the dominant, you should use the opposite type as its complement.
When in doubt, choose black.
Black metals, like iron and gunmetal, go with everything. This is a foolproof and easy way to ease into mixing metals throughout your home. It works as both a dominant or an accent metal, and it complements warm and cool metals, respectively. If you’re hesitant about testing out this trend, start here.
Don’t stray from the color palette.
One way to avoid mistakes while mixing metals is to stick to a color palette. If you’re already starting with a neutral color palette, then you have less chance of mishaps. A general rule of thumb is that warm metals work best with warm hues and vice versa for cool. For example, if you have a kitchen with stainless steel appliances, consider adding iron or gunmetal hardware and painting your walls a light blue or blue-gray color.
Keep it subtle.
Mixing metals is not a competition. When you are choosing different metal types, keep in mind that subtlety is welcome. You can have warm and cool metals in the room, as long as they’re not competing with each other. To guarantee this, make sure your eye effortlessly floats around the room and doesn’t go back and forth between objects. You can also add additional elements and accessories that complement the pieces without also fighting for attention, like wood.
Don’t go overboard.
In keeping with the subtlety tip, we recommend mixing two to three metals, at max. Putting a limit on the number of metals you have in one room helps keep everything cohesive and balanced. You can also mix metals by finish instead of by type so that everything remains in the same color family but offers different texture and depth.
Give the metals space.
Don’t place all of the metals in one spot. Spread them throughout the room at various heights. For example, you can create a gallery wall with gold frames above your couch, while having brass or iron drawer pulls on an end table. As long as there is space in between metals, it won’t feel like a design project gone wrong.
The Deziner Tonie Team knows how to incorporate the latest design trends into your home tastefully and thoughtfully. Contact Deziner Tonie for help mixing metals or designing your home today!
