I love to mix metals when decorating a space! Some designers will probably tell you it’s a No-No, but I say GO-FOR-IT! Mixing metals adds a bit of sophistication to the space and as long as you do it intentionally and with balance you can really pull it off.
Brass or gold has been a recent hit and when you partner it with brushed nickel you add so much more depth and sophistication to your space! I prefer gold over any other metal and it started for me about 7 or 8 years ago when I just haaad to have a pair of gold bamboo earrings! I ended up not just buying one pair, but 3 and I wore them faithfully until I started losing them one by one. Anyway, I still love gold because it gives warmth to a space, a bit of edge, and adds a spin of sophistication! Aside from gold there are many other beautiful metals and they can be mixed together in interesting and unexpected ways.
How to mix metals like a pro: tip #1
If you’re hesitant to try it, start with a solid color or neutral as your base and use the metals as the pop or accent, then slowly add in color and/or texture. Add in a patterned rug, beautiful drapes and artwork to round out the look. If you're nervous add items one at a time and step back to see the entire look before adding more, this allows you to have better control over the design of your space.
How to mix metals like a pro: Tip #2
If you’re hesitant, chose just two of your favorites and pair those together. Check out this gorgeous room with pops of kelly green and royal blue velvet. Here is a perfect example of pairing two metals; from the brass hardware on the cabinets, to the gold vase and coffee table book mixed with the chrome arms and legs of the side chairs.
How to mix metals like a pro: Tip #3
No matter the color palette I always like to use the 60-30-10 rule, which helps to add balance and depth to a room. The main color is 60% of the decor; the secondary color is used in 30% of the decor or half as much as the main color; and the 10% left over is your accent color. The 60-30-10 rule can also be applied to mixing metals, which gives dimension to your space. Remember this as a great rule of thumb for how to mix metals like a pro. Select a main metal and use that 60% of the time, then a secondary metal and use that 30% of the time and finally a accent metal and use that 10% of the time. In this kitchen the stainless steel in the range hood, the brushed nickel in the faucet and cabinet hardware is used as the main or dominant metal (60%). The black metal in the pendant lights and the bar stools is used as the secondary metal (30%); and finally the brass accents near the top of the pendant lighting serves as the accent metal (10%).
Now it's your turn to give it a try. If you're feeling dangerous, try using three metals instead of two. You could have gold or nickel as your main, more prominent, metals and use black or copper as your secondary. Let your third metal come out in the smaller, less obvious pieces. Decorating with mixed metals can really jazz up your space, so go for it! You only live once!
Are you stumped as to where to start, or did your version of mixing metals turn out not quite right? Book an Interior Design Discovery Call today, and let's get started on mixing metals in your home!