Mixing metals is one of my favourite ways to add depth to the vision of my designs. This sets basic design apart from a well executed, skillful and supremely beautiful space.
There are rules to follow (well at least that I follow) in order to achieve a layered effect. Let me break it down for you with some Do's and Don'ts when mixing Metals in Interior Design.
Some Do's
Stick with a total number of 3 metals and finishes. Choose the most dominant one 1st , then add 1 or 2 metal accents to complete the look. For instance a kitchen light fixture is dominant, so make sure you love it. Then the other 2 metals support that look.
The more contrast the better.
Repeat the accent finish more than once. Don't put 2 together that aren't the same balance in tone.
Metals of the same functions should be the same finish. For instance, kitchen cabinet door hardware, such as handles and pulls are a good example of this rule.
Texture tells your story. Whether polished, brushed, matte or hammered, light reflects and the change in surface gives you a vibe. Its dynamic, fresh and unique!
If one finish dominates, step things back. Then, add more of the other finishes to balance, thereby reducing the dominate finish.
Pair warm with cool. Warm metals like brass and gold feel balanced and become more rich when accented with a cool tone such as nickel or chrome.
Some Don'ts
Too many finishes look haphazard and busy.
In smaller spaces limit yourself to 2-3 finishes. In larger spaces move it up to 3-4 max.
Cheap finishes peel and age. How to tell? Read the label. Plated finishes wear off and tarnish quickly. This is particularly important for pieces used in the kitchen and bathroom, where heat and humidity can speed up the process. Always, buy well and cry once!
Not enough contrast between the finishes is bad.
Design with intent. Simply because you like it, doesn't mean it works. It must be both liked and refer back to the intent of the design.
When is it a good idea to mix metals in Interior Design? When you have a lot of silver tones. Brass or gold tones helps to warm up the area, to make it feel more luxurious. A lot of Black iron? Add some chrome to jazz it up, to make it more modern and contemporary. Have a rich copper patina finish in your kitchen? Try polished nickel to balance the area.
By mixing metals you create contrast and depth to your design. It adds interest, moves away from a "cookie cutter" look to a more luxe, high-end, Avant-guard customized look. Mixed metals enhances a home's appearance. Having all the same metal finishes is very dated, one that has now become very monotonous.
Mixed metals makes a home look more dynamic and not just one note. It can complement an artistic design impression. It allows your personality to shine. Its a modern approach to classical traditional finishing in Interior Design and Decorating.
Remember, do not source a finish simply because you found it in a catalogue, or saw it on Pinterest. It needs to speak to the aesthetic and style of an area. It must have clear design intent.
As an experienced Interior Designer, mixing metals is second nature to me. A space looks stale without a contrast of different finishes. Its a part of my art and has definitely become my signature trademark look for all of my designs.
Until Next time - A.M.A. - We are here to help save you time, to make your life easier!
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