Mixing Metals: Gold & Silver CAN Be Friends!

..Is it ok to mix bronze and brushed nickel throughout my home?

Mixing metals adds intrigue and dimension. In the world of interior design, there used to be the idea (you know, back in the 1980s) that it was practically a decor sin to “mix your metals.” Well, I’m excited to say, it’s time to erase that outdated advice! Mixing metals is the perfect strategy for adding visual interest and depth to any room, and it’s an easy way to make pieces in your home look like they’ve been collected over the years and are placed there not only for style but also for personality and comfort. The trick is to make sure you’re mixing your metals so that they complement each other in a way that emphasizes their individuality but doesn’t cross the line into the land of the “too mismatched” or distracting. Here are a few tips when using mixed metals: 

Choose a Dominant Metal 

All metals are NOT to be used equally... instead of going for a balance of two metals, think of one as a base metal and one as an accent metal. The base metal will help ensure a sense of harmony throughout your home, while the accent metal will act as the perfect jewelry with a classy outfit... pleasing to the eye without “trying too hard.”

Blend Warm and Cool Tones 

Stainless and brushed nickel are both considered cool metals so by adding deep hammered gold, copper, black iron or bronze to the mix, you can bring warmth and interest into any space. A beautiful look in central family rooms (i.e. kitchens, living area, etc.) is the combining of warm and cool metals of the same “family,” such as deep bronzes and brushed golds – even bright coppers – for a more cohesive, but still exquisite look.

Take into Consideration the Palettes You are Using 

Make sure your color palette complements the metals in your space... particularly to when selecting the dominant metal. More traditional metals like bronze, brass, iron black and gold work well with warmer palettes (like reds and browns), while more contemporary metals like satin nickel and chrome work well with cooler color palettes (like blues and greens). Truly neutral palettes, though... well, they’re so popular in new homes for a reason! Warm it up, cool it down... create a fascinating, relaxing space filled with your own personal flair.

Use Lots of Texture 

Metals and materials all have texture! Don’t just think about matching the colors, mix up the feel of your finishes. Polished copper pendant lights, a hammered copper or bronze apron front kitchen sink, antique copper cabinet hardware... all of these bring texture into the kitchen. The question is: which kind of texture fits you best?! These pieces will bring your custom home style to life!

Keep it Understated 

Follow the golden rule: less is more! One metal finish is cohesive. Two is complimentary. Three... do it well and it can be stunning. Four? That's just going a little overboard. Don’t bring in too many metal finishes into one space and be sure the ones you bring together complement each other!

Finally, the more important thing to remember is that your home should reflect you and the things you love. Have fun when decorating and designing your spaces! Make it personal and a place that you love coming home to!    

-Written by our Design Coordinator, Lisa Keeter