Like glass, shiny metal surfaces can bring a sense of luxury and elegance to home interiors. Moreover, metallic elements reflect light, making a room appear brighter and more appealing. Stainless steel, brass, gold, silver, etc., are widely used in interior design. You can include these metals in the form of home accessories such as mirror frames, door or cabinet handles, lamps, etc. Metals in home décor are trending these days, and they help homeowners get the right balance between aesthetics and functionality by incorporating metals into everyday items. In this guide, we bring unique ways to mix metals in home décor.
Types of metallic elements for home décor
#1. Metal accessories
Metal accessories are the simplest way to add some charm to interior spaces. Small metallic elements can effectively reflect light and brighten up a room. Some popular metallic accessories for home interiors are:
Picture or mirror frames in gold, silver or brass.
Metal candle holders, lanterns or chandeliers
Wall art or figurines made of metal
Metal furniture pieces such as console tables, chairs, etc.
Metal vases, planters, bowls or dishes, shelving units, clocks, etc.
Source: Pinterest
#2. Items with metallic finishes
You can transform any space by going for items that have metallic finishes such as furniture. Here are some easy ways for metallic finishes:
Metallic cabinets are designed with brushed brass or golden finish.
Pendant lights with a metallic finish
Kitchen appliances and cabinets with metallic finishes
Bookshelves, furniture legs, lighting fixtures, etc., with metallic finishes like polished brass or chrome.
Matte bronze fittings for bathrooms and kitchen
Source: Pinterest
#3. Metals in architectural details
There is another interesting way to mix metals in the house interiors by blending them with the architectural details. For example:
Metal handles for room and entrance doors
Handrails for the staircase, balcony or other outdoor areas
Exposed metal beams for an industrial look
Decorative metal trusses like those in steel and metallic moulding
Aluminium cladding or siding for interiors and exteriors
Skylights designed with metallic frames
Metal panels like aluminium or stainless steel panels for interiors
Metallic room dividers or window grilles
Source: Pinterest
#4. Metallic paints and wallpapers
Metallic paints and wallpapers with metallic finishes are popular ways to blend the magic of metals in interior décor, giving a sophisticated look to your house. Here are some ideas you can consider:
Geometric wallpapers with metallic accents
Textured wallpaper like wallpaper embossed designs or raised patterns
Foil wallpaper for reflective bathroom spaces
Metallic wall murals for living spaces
Source: Pinterest
Metal tones and finishes
#1. Warm metals and cool metals
Warm metals and cool metals can be used strategically to evoke different moods and vibes in a room. Some examples of warm metals are brass, copper, gold and bronze. You can use them in a wide variety of ways, such as door or cabinet handles, mirror frames and light fixtures. On the other hand, cool metals such as silver, stainless steel and aluminium add a more calming vibe to a space. These materials can be used to give a sleek and modern appeal to interiors, such as stainless steel kitchen sink, aluminium appliances, brushed nickel faucets, towels racks and showerheads, etc.
#2. Mixed tones
You can blend warm and cool metallic tones for a more balanced look for the room, giving contrast and depth. One way is to go with a dominant warm metal tone like brass or chrome and add some elements for balance. Another tip to remember is that warm metals work well with warm colour palettes such as beige, rich jewel tones, etc.
#3. Finishes
Two types of metallic finishes – matte and polished look- help achieve a contrasting and unique décor appeal. While matte look is achieved by a non-reflective surface, polished look is brought about by using highly reflective elements. The matte finish can be used to add texture to the interiors or rustic vibes. On the other hand, go for a polished look with a more striking appeal and maximise light indoors.
Incorporate metals in different rooms
Living room
The living room is usually the largest space in the house and there are a number of ways you can mix metals. Some popular options are installing metal lighting fixtures like chandeliers, floor lamps or wall sconce. You can bring in the metallic elements in furniture accessories like cabinet handles or an accent metallic furniture piece. Go for large metal mirror frames for the living and dining space, which can bring an opulent look to the room.
Source: Pinterest
Bedroom
The bedroom is a space that requires a relaxing design theme. You need go overboard with metallic décor. There are subtle ways to bring the metallic charm to the bedroom interiors. For example, opt for a metal bed frame, chairs or tables. A metal nightstand is another classic option. You may include some small decorative items made of shiny metal to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the room.
Source: Pinterest
Kitchen
An excellent idea to include metals in kitchen décor is using metallic hardware, appliances and faucets. You can use a stainless-steel wall shelving unit to store kitchen essentials. Install metal light fixtures to illuminate the kitchen space, especially above the Kitchen island.
Source: Pinterest
Bathroom
You can make a bathroom space inviting by using metallic elements smartly. Some ideas include placing brass fixtures in the décor, metallic faucets or lighting fixtures. Even for modern bathrooms, you can choose metal mirror frames near the sink and brighten up the space by installing suitable lighting.
Source: Pinterest
Tips to combine metals with other materials for home décor
Wood and metal: This an excellent combination to work with as it can help add contrast and depth to a space. For example, a wooden cabinet with a metallic handle is a simple example of this décor idea.
Metal with glass: Both glass and metal work well for a minimalist design theme. A glass staircase with metallic railings, glass doors with metal frames and handles, etc. are some popular ideas for this design.
Textiles with metal: Metallic elements can also be used with fabrics such as velvet or linen, giving a sold contrast. Upholstery for chairs and metallic legs, curtains with metallic threads or holders, etc. are some interesting ideas.
Layering: Layering is a useful technique in interior design. You can experiment by layering metals of different shades, textures and finishes to enhance the overall vibes of a room.
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There are countless ways to mix metals in interior décor. However, one should have a clear idea of the effect they want to achieve. If you want a dramatic look for your interiors, go for warm metals and polished elements to create a bright and aesthetically pleasing interiors. However, ensure there is a balance and that you maintain consistency. Otherwise, the room may look cluttered and mismatched.
FAQs
Is it a good idea to mix metals in home decor?
Mixing metals in home décor is a popular way to achieve various design themes, such as industrial or minimalist looks.
Can you mix metals on cabinets?
Metals can be used in cabinets in the form of accessories.
Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

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