Metalhead: The Ultimate Guide to Using and Mixing Metals in Interior Design

By Brittany McNab

Metals are essentially the jewelry of interior design– and just like the baubles we adorn our ears, necks, wrists and with– it can be an opportunity for self expression. We might ask ourselves, is this space begging for minimal and understated– or is time to have some fun? 

There are so many metals though, that the task can feel… daunting. That’s why I made this guide to identify the types of metals you have available  to use in accents, hardware, lighting and how to maybe even mix them for a dynamic and interesting look. 

The Types of Metals: 

Warm-Toned Metals

• Brass – Timeless, adds warmth, works well in vintage and modern settings. Brass can be found in polished brass, or satin brass. Watch out for unlacquered brass which develops a patina over time. For some, this patina is desired and gives the space a worn in, lived-in collected feel to a space. 

• Gold – Luxurious, statement-making, it is often used in glam and traditional spaces. Careful that you don’t end up with a gold that is too yellow, or even one with a green undertone. You might find gold in white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. There are a few different types of gold hardware, but my favorite is a soft champagne gold. 

• Copper – Rich and earthy, develops a patina over time for added character.

• Bronze – Deep and warm, bronze makes it a great choice for adding warmth to a space.

Cool-Toned Metals

• Chrome – Sleek and modern, often found in contemporary or minimalist interiors. Chrome is gaining popularity again as items like mid-century chrome base chairs and coffee tables surge in popularity again. 

• Nickel – Softer than chrome with a slightly warm undertone , versatile for both classic and modern styles. You can find nickel in polished, brushed, or satin finishes that each have a distinct feel that lend themselves well to different styles and spaces. This finish is also making a bit of a comeback as well in more modern applications and profiles.  

• Stainless Steel – Industrial, durable, and often seen in kitchens for appliances and work tops. Stainless steel is most often found in a brushed finish, but is occasionally also found in a polished finish. It boasts tones that range anywhere from a warm almost gold undertone, to classic “silver” to a darker charcoal finish. 

Dark & Aged Metals

• Blackened Steel/ Powder Coated Black – Matte, moody, perfect for industrial, farmhouse, and modern designs.

• Oil-Rubbed Bronze – A deep, aged look that pairs well with warm palettes.

• Pewter – Soft, muted, and great for an understated vintage or European-inspired feel.

Finish is Important 

The finish you choose– whether it’s polished, satin, brushed, aged, hammered, or matte – can change the look of your space dramatically. A polished finish creates a sleek and modern refined finish perfect for adding lightness to a space. In contrast, a finish that is aged or hammered metal can help a space take on a more lived, warm and casual feel. 

The Art of Mixing Metals: Getting it Just Right 

Gone are the days when we would adhere to a strict one metal rule– in fact, sticking to only one metal tends to result in either a ultra-modern or a very traditional feel,  mixing metals adds interest, and depth to the space– and is a great way to keep the space dynamic. The key is to be as intentional as possible when mixing metals together. 

1. Choose a Dominant Metal go for an 80/20 rule. 

2. Limit Your Palette to 2-3 metal finishes. Generally, I tend to stick to just 2. 

3. Consider temperature with your metals, pairing a warm and cool metal works really well when done thoughtfully, as does mixing two cool metals or two warm ones. 

4. Be mindful not to put too many of one metal and not enough of another– break the metals up a bit. 

• Example: a kitchen with brass hardware, black faucets, and brass lighting. Your eye moves from the cabinets, to the sink, to the lighting and will seamlessly take in in the different finishes making the space flow. 

My Favorite Pairings 

1. Satin Brass + Matte Black (modern, yet warm)

2. Polished Brass + Oil Rubbed Bronze (a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new)

3. Polished Nickel + Antique Bronze (elegant with a vintage touch)

Conclusion 

Metals are a key way to add a finishing touch to your spaces. Whether you go for a sleek single metal look or a layered mixed-metal aesthetic the key is to thoughtfully consider how a metal, its finish, and its application will affect the overall look and feel of the space and if that’s your intention. Carefully chosen metals can bring warmth, dimension and a sense of “je ne sais quoi” to the space that brings your builder grade space to the next level. 

So, are you team one metal, or mixing metals– there really is no wrong answer here– just the best combination for your space. Happy designing!

*All photographs credit: Brittany McNab

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