Are you looking to making your interior design shine? The wonderful thing with metallics is that they are in demand these days. Brass and gold accents have taken the spotlight yet again. The fusion of gold and silver, plus a dash of copper can be the foundation for a whole, new, exciting design.
You might love Art Deco or the glamour of contemporary lighting fixtures, whatever your reasons are for choosing gold and other metallic pieces for your home, you’re always on the right track.
Pick a Favorite
As you mix metals, with some exciting colors on a palette, it pays to assign a dominant color as well as a secondary tone. Doing this will give your room a visual structure. Different items, for instance, can have metallic tones such as curtain rods, the chair legs, or the lamp. While this is so, only a few pieces should be gold.
There isn’t a single formula to use when it comes to the use of metals. If you want to play safe then you can always go with 30% metallic and 70% of another color.
If you intend to use a lot of gold tones on your accessories and curtains, then just have a few pieces in silver. This can be those mantel vases.
Each metallic tone should be carefully spread out in a room rather than concentrated in just a small section. Accessories should be able to carry the finishes to different points so that every design element becomes a real part of the entire ensemble.
Metallics and Fabrics
When you are working the metal tones, never forget that fabrics can help you add variety. For example, golden yellow can be used on your accent pillows. These can easily bring warmth to a seating unit. You won’t be overwhelmed with just a touch of golden color so you can relax.
The use of one large object like a coffee table can anchor the dominant tone. Smaller accents can then be used. The pillow cases can have different colors as the seasons progress.
More Gold, Less Silver
While any metallic color can be your dominant tone, it is better to go with the tested solution. Use more gold than silver. The silver tones are brighter and more sparkly compared to gold tones so just use a few hints of silver here and there.
An example of more gold and less silver application is when the chair legs made with aluminum are paired with a silver-framed mirror. The golden sunbursts of a decorative piece should complete the look.
Choose then Mix
It is also possible to fuse more than two metallic hues inside one room. Consider the size of the room – always. When you have a large, open space, use only small dashes of gold, silver and copper. These will just add life and personality but none of them should flood the room.
All three tones can be used in moderation and equally in a room, though. You can blend them with natural and eclectic finishes.
A room that is no more than 500 square feet should have a maximum of two metallic tones, nothing more. Do otherwise and your home would look like an antique shop.
Mismatched Tones
At times, the best way to create finishes that mingle well is to match. In the bedroom, for instance, you can have a nightstand, stool, and accessories come in different finishes. The coolness of silver or pewter can be the perfect contrast to the warmer gold.
Apart from being mismatched, the objects come in different finishes (e.g. Aged, brushed, or polished). To cap the look, have the room painted in neutrals or soft gray.
Useful Reference Links
5 Tips for Mixing Metals
20 Mixed Metal Designs That Shine
Hardware Trends: Mixing Metals
The Ultimate DIY Guide to Mixed Metals in Home Decor
Using Metals In Interior Design
7 Ways to Make Your Home Shine With Metallic Decor
