Friday, March 16th, 2018
Do you still define your metallic interiors as either gold or silver? Those days are long gone. Today, homes don’t have to resort to warm or cool metals anymore. You won’t have to worry about clashing any longer. Many interior design experts agree that mixed metallics is cool and not cold.
But, first, let’s just establish what the cool and warm metals are. The cool metallic ones are steel, silver, and nickel. These help bring a sleeker and more modern surrounding. The warmer tones, on the other hand, include gold, bronze, copper, rose gold, brass, and others. These are more inviting and they are even glamorous.
Mixing these two tones can help you define a more unique look. This is modern with a hint of glamour. This is also minimalism but with a homier appeal since the rawness of the warm metals help define the welcoming ambiance.
A smart fusion of metallics helps to draw attention to the charm of the materials that were used. Metals are also effortlessly daring so you will surely catch the attention of your visitors when you use these elements.
Here’s a tip, though, never let your metallics become mere neutrals in your home. These are natural attention getters so use them in the most stylish way that you can think of. In short, don’t be afraid to show your metals.
Almost every metallic tone can now be found in glass, artwork, curtains, upholstery, and wall coverings. Just take a look at the lovely silver gray fabric which is now a staple in many modern homes and you’d know the different kind of appeal that it brings to an ambiance.
You can also consider using accent metallics, for example, donning the living room with a silver upholstery if you have a tuxedo-hued sofa. This could be paired with a golden coffee table or a stylish console in the same gold tone.
Always remember that warm tones such as gold or brass offer a pop of color as well as texture. The cool metals, on the other hand, such as chrome and silver, are there to frame that palpable texture. Don’t get into the vibe of matching finishes. A lot of people have been fooled into thinking that coordinating the finishes in their home will render a coordinated look but, on the contrary, it creates a linear, monochromatic look.
Choose the Dominant Metal
Here’s a tip in fusing warm with cool metallics – always pick a dominant metal. If you fail to do this, then you would be left with a very confusing space. So for your own sanity, find a prominent metal then unify the rest of the design elements using this tone.
If the kitchen hardware is all copper, then you can accentuate with bronze to add some more to the warm glow which the copper already staged.
The more modern kitchens need a lot of stainless steel sinks, chandeliers, and such. Finding a vintage looking gold or silver piece as a charm can also add to the texture of the room.
Always Consider the Color Palette
While you are encouraged to mix and match, it is also crucial that you always have your color palette in mind. More often than not, people use warm metals also with warm hues such as yellows, reds, and browns. The cool metals they decide to pair with violet, green or blue. Go with these tested sets.
If you happen to have a neutral room to decorate, then add texture and warmth above all. If you are already using some gray tones then a gold mirror should be able to breathe life into the room.
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Posted in Color Schemes, Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Interior Design Themes | Comments Off on Modern Mixed Metal Interiors
Friday, October 14th, 2016
When it comes to designing your home, know that mixing metals or metallic elements means you have to pay close attention to layering as well as the overall vibe that you are about to create. Adding character and depth to a home is as easy as adding metallics. It is no surprise that this style is making a huge comeback at the moment. Silver, nickel and steel are now quite hot in modern aesthetics. Warmer tones, on the other hand, provide a more inviting and homey vibe such as what’s provided by copper. If you are craving to mix metals for your interior design, then here are a few tips –
Metal Is Everywhere
Before you begin designing with metal, know that this isn’t all about the use of actual metal. This can also be found in artwork, draperies, even upholstery. Consider all of your options if you want to create the most luxurious lustrous look. Always keep in mind that you don’t have to limit yourself to warm tones. Metals can also be cool, all you need to do is to add some glamorous effects of silver, some golden framed mirror and a cool coffee table.
Gold and bronze offer wonderful fusions that you should consider; you could use bronze cushions with touches of gold. Achieving a luxurious look is also easy when you look for any fabric that has metallic hues.
While it’s wonderful to just go with the flow when coming up with the design of your home, still, mixing metallic tones with accessories can become overwhelming. Sure, you should have the passion to design but remember also that you need to harmonize all the elements. What you have in your hands is a pretty strong design element – metals are lustrous that they could easily overcome other elements.
Add only a couple or two of decorative items especially when you want to have an open-space concept. Always plan if you are looking into having various shades and tones.
Relax and Design
As you complete your luxurious design, it is advisable that you relax. You might already have a few silver pieces on hand but you could go bold and add more metallic tones or you could tone down and just accessorize with the metallics.
Ornaments, candelabra and mirrors are all accessories that look great with a metallic concept. They are effective in countering the overly traditional palette. One other tasteful concept is to use a silver bowl right in the middle or beside two golden candleholders. ‘How about finding two-toned metallic pieces in the market?
Keep in mind that you don’t have to spend a fortune just to purchase your chosen metallic elements. Smaller elements provide a more delicate look and feel. Small doses of metal could still add the needed sparkle without actually creating glare.
Let Sophistication Reign
What you need to do with your current color scheme is to see if it can still be used as the base hue. Neutral interiors need texture and metals in order to make the place more inviting. Shades of gray, on the other hand, could use touches of gold or brass since these will keep the place from looking too cold. Think metallic frames and gilded mirrors. Another way to dramatize cream-colored walls is to add metal accents. Crisp, white space, on the other hand, should have a touch of silver or chrome.
Do you have chocolate brown walls? Then, by all means, use bronze shades. For blue-colored space, use silver. Energize any room with chrome, black iron or gold accents.
Luxurious Lighting
Metallic space should have these choices – gold chandelier, silver pendant lights, chrome wall sconces, etc. In essence, the sky’s the limit when it comes to your metallic lighting options.
Tags: designing luxury homes, elements of luxury homes, luxury homes, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal design, metal furniture, metal theme, metallic, metallic design, metallic interior design, metallic interiors, metallic theme, metallics, metals in interior design
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Tuesday, September 13th, 2016
Fall is the best season to bring out the beauty of metals in your home. All metallic inspirations are welcome not only because they are a hot trend but also because the rich colors of brass, gold, chrome, nickel and copper all offer the perfect hues for the season.
Metals are definitely here to stay so it would be a waste if you won’t join many others who have finally embraced the beauty and glimmer that these materials offer. If you’re convinced that you could give metallic interiors a shot, here are some ideas –
The Details Count – A Lot
Metallic interiors are equal to beautiful, livable and posh interiors. Prepare to get a lot of attention as your home would be oozing with style. As you use metals, though, make sure that you don’t forget to add comfort and a homely appeal, still.
Metals offer timeless beauty especially if you know how to use them. Sure, they often go with modern themes but don’t be imprisoned by this thought. Even traditional homes would look great with the right kind of metal furnishings or accessories.
Metal is also industrial although it may also not mean this motif all the time. It can also be used in the creation of glamorous yet soft areas in your home.
Metal does not automatically mean cold or uncomfortable. This can also offer warmth and an inviting interior so long as you use correct juxtapositions. An example is the plush white cotton paired with the sturdiness of a metal bed frame.
Metal at the End of 2016
It has been forecasted that metals will be big this year and those who predicted this were correct. Metal has the power to tie a room altogether, even with the tiniest details. Brass handrails, copper taps, even metal door handles may be small additions yet they could feature the architectural part of your home or could make furnishings appear special.
It is, indeed, the end of the year 2016 so you can exit this year with a huge bang. Metals can bring in new style to your home so there is no reason not to embrace it. Don’t think that it’s meant to overpower since it can be softened with the use of some accessories.
Metal wall finishes like textured panels provide the perfect industrial look. Metal flooring, on the other hand, can be the welcome respite in any monochromatic space.
The hottest metals in the market these days are these three – copper, rose gold and bronze. The first and last metals have always been on top of the list. Rose gold is young, warm and glamorous just like its classic counterparts. Copper and bronze are edgy and current, two characteristics that are rarely offered by other metal types.
And the Winner Is…Copper!
Rich copper is great during fall. This is that golden hue in your kitchen provided by the hammered countertops and backsplash tiles. Copper has always been a go-to metal in terms of warm aesthetics.
Copper is also perfect in the fireplace. Most fireplaces come with natural rocks, tiles or bricks but there is this growing trend where copper can also be used. Reclaimed copper sheets can be used as trimming for the interiors. Ask an artisan to assist you with the installation to ensure utmost safety in your home.
Copper is hotter than hot. Brass and gold may be the biggies during 1980s but copper is a trend that keeps coming back. Adding glam to your bedroom is as easy as having metallic wallpaper installed. Just have one wall with this color as it can overcome the senses if you use more than a statement wall.
Tags: copper, copper accent, copper decor, designing for fall, fall design, fall style, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal design, metal furniture, metallic decor, metallic design, metallic interior design, metallic interiors, metallic theme, metallics
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Wednesday, September 7th, 2016
Metal is undeniably hot these days but are you ready to incorporate it in your home? How you feel towards this design depends a lot on your preferred and current home design. Those who love modern design often feel at home with steel and other metals. Yet even those who have rustic or country homes can also make good use of this trend if they want to add a little intrigue or texture into their homes.
Using metal is often a tricky thing among female interior designers and decorators. This is because metal is something perceived to be mainly masculine. First, boys are often the ones who learn about metal when in school. Girls don’t get exposed to it or they have to work extra hard to get more knowledge about metals.
Metallic Choices
You won’t be reading about every possible metal that you can find on the planet but what you’ll know is a range of metals that is often used in interiors and buildings. You need to begin by understanding the application as well as the use for the metal.
A metal can be defined as an element that can form positive irons. It is characterized by its electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as its opacity. Metals are dense that light cannot easily pass through. They are also often hard. Metals can be mixed by melting eventually forming into alloys.
All metals that are being used in building structures today are able to conduct electricity and heat. They are also malleable which means you can bend and roll them according to the thickness or shape that you require.
Here’s a word of caution, though. Stainless steel bench tops are made with metal and they sit close to electricity. Make sure that it is earthed so that no one will be electrocuted.
Metal and Contemporary
If you want a look that is sleek, stark and minimalist, then metals are at your disposal. The best metallic finishes for contemporary design are stainless steel, nickel and chrome. As for metallic touches, you can have them on accessories, furniture, fixtures, mirrors and room dividers.
An example of a great contemporary piece is any mirrored or metallic furniture. A set of chrome tables is a great addition to what could be a more mature room. Embracing contemporary design does not have to mean bleak or cold, though. Brass and gold metals can offer warmth while still maintaining a contemporary look.
You would need to conform to the traditional design rules, though, if you want to bring the contemporary look into the bathroom. You can have a woven wire shower curtain so that you will add texture and glimmer to an often dull bathroom.
Metallic Country
Using the country design together with metals means you will have an eclectic, classic and a cozy home. Country interiors should have copper, gold or chrome. Pots, fixtures and pans would also look great as they look like vintage metals.
An example of country and metal used in perfect harmony is having gold trim with a royal blue appliance. This is the epitome of a French kitchen.
Eclectic Metal
Eclectic is always perceived to be fun yet quirky. Metal is at home in this kind of design so go ahead and experiment. Just as long as the choices you make coincide with your personal choices, then they will surely look right inside your home.
The best metallic touches for this style are large mirrors, walls and large pieces of furniture.
Have a chrome lamp brought inside the bedroom or a mesh chair become the focal point inside the living room. Your goal is to make funky look like art.
Tags: eclectic, eclecticism, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal design, metal furniture, metal theme, metallic, metallic decor, metallic interior design, metallic interiors, metallic theme, metallics, metals in interior design
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Friday, July 22nd, 2016
The growing demand for brass, gold and other metallic accents has thrust the mixed-metal schemes to the public’s attention. The classic combination of gold and silver, the rustic charm of copper, and other metallic fusions form the foundations of a design or are just pieces of a much larger puzzle. So, whether you lovev Art Deco or the contemporary look, there is much, much more to the mixed metal theme that you can enjoy –
Pick Your Favorite
When you are out to mix metals, remember that you are still basically mixing colors. So the same rules apply – the dominant tone must have a secondary tone that would give the room a visual structure that works. Different items can have steely tones like the chair legs, the base of a lamp, or the curtain rods.
There isn’t a single, concrete formula that works for every home. How much metal you use depends on your taste. If you have no idea on how to begin, then it’s safe to start with 70-percent and 30-percent. This is a good ratio for one tone that is dominant and the other being the secondary hue.
Gold Is the Star of the Show
What is a metallic theme without gold, right? A lot of common items have gold tones such as small accessories and curtains. Not a lot come in silver, though. The most common silver pieces are mantel vases.
For gold-inspired theme to work, you have to make sure that the tone is carefully spread throughout the entire room. This color should not be cramped in just one place.
A large room with more elements and accessories should have a single goal – to keep the eyes moving throughout the room, with each metallic element shown here and there.
Fabrics in Metallic Finishes
Don’t forget to use fabric with metallic finishes when working with metallic tones. Add variety then spread the palette everywhere in your home. For example, you can use a gold-yellow accent pillow to bring warmth on a seat. This is an effective way of using metallic tones without going overboard.
You can also use one large object such as a coffee table as an anchor. The gold color of this table will serve as the dominant color and then accents can be added everywhere else.
While gold and silver are a great combo, it wouldn’t be wise to use a lot of silver. Silver is brighter and it tends to sparkle more than gold. Don’t drown the beauty of gold by using more silver. Just have a few hints of silver against the more dominant gold tone.
Choose and Fuse
It is possible to use more than two metal tones inside a room. When you do this, though, be sure to consider the actual size of the room. A wide room should have dashes of silver, copper and gold. These will add personality to the space without making it look cluttered.
Every metal must be equally represented. Allow each to blend with the rest of the natural and eclectic finishes. Every metal is approximately 1/3 of the metal palette so use it sparingly but visibly.
A smaller space – the ones that are smaller than 500 square feet – should have no more than two metal tones. This is so the space won’t look like an antique shop in the process.
Mismatch Mishaps
At times, the best way to have finishes balance elegantly is to not match them at all. An example of a dreamy space made dreamy by metallic tones is having a stool, accessories, and nightstand in different metallic colors. When you do this, be sure to make the cooler tones more dominant. So use more pale gold than silver.
Objects must also come with varying finishes. Your options range from the aged, polished to brushed.
Tags: McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal design, metal theme, metallic, metallic decor, metallic design, metallic interior design, metallic interiors, metallics, tips
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Thursday, June 9th, 2016
For thousands of years now, copper has been used in designing many homes. This beautiful metal is slowly becoming more and more popular as of late. Designers are now bringing its cool texture yet warm tones to homes’ interiors ranging from Mid-century to contemporary designs. Copper has the capacity to add a metallic yet stylish touch to a home.
Beauty, Balance and Function
Two of the classic rooms where copper is used are the bathroom and kitchen. Bacteria won’t thrive on copper which makes it the best choice for fixtures and sinks. Did you know that bacteria die in just a few hours after residing on copper? There isn’t even a need to use soap or chemical agents to clean the surface of this metal.
Hammered copper sink, pots and pans offer an Old World look. This is also true with showerheads and faucets.
Copper elements and copper piping are great for homeowners who embrace the contemporary look. To add to all these wonderful features, copper is also a recyclable, sustainable material.
Multi-faceted Lighting with Copper
There is no question with regard to the impact of proper lighting in homes. Lighting fixtures are design elements, not just functional pieces. Think of contemporary chandeliers and pendant lights. These are posh additions to any room. These can add a different level of dimension by helping define space. Depending on the copper’s finish, it can be raw, shiny or in heavy patina.
Copper lighting is great when used in rustic, cozy, contemporary or Western theme.
Not Your Ordinary Metal
There is no need to be bound to brushed nickel, stainless steel or shiny bronze. Apart from using copper in fixtures and sinks, you can add some flair to the bathroom or kitchen when you use copper hardware including hinges, cupboard door handles and other such touches.
Stovetop hoods and tile backsplashes can now be done away with. You can add substantial touches of copper in these areas. Mirrors with copper frames can provide a gilded elegance. It will be the anchor to the copper fixtures, showers and sink.
Copper spells elegance more so when you use pots, pans and cooking utensils as décor in the kitchen.
Dashes of Copper
Adding copper to your home’s décor would render it seemingly renovated. A major physical overhaul is what it would look like as copper is used in vases, plant pots, lamps, even wall art. Sculptures with copper elements are now a growing trend. The market is filled with abstract to modern sculptures that would match any home.
Copper patio furniture and fountains can also bring your desired look in your patio and porches. Foyers and entryways would also benefit with a hint or two of copper.
Fusing with Energetic Colors
Copper can also work with undertones of red, orange, rose or brass. Copper is a kind of metal that can effortlessly transition from the indoors to the outdoors. Siding, pipes and tiles all can have touches of copper. It also has a wonderful patina as it ages. This is a material that you can live with for a very, very, very long time.
Copper + Stainless Steel
And why not?
You can actually harmonize these seemingly warring metals by giving them the same finish. Exposed copper pipes against black tiles and wallpaper all harmonize to achieve a focal point for a powder room.
When you are considering the application for materials on your external walls, make sure to think of three things – how the material would react with the wall, where it will be attached, and how it will adhere to the wall surface.
A perforated copper sheeting is an awesome application that can add visual interest, dimension and texture. The perforations will allow evaporation, thus, you won’t have issues with mold and mildew.
Copper and stainless steel can both be hammered thin so they can be shaped into different patterns.
Tags: copper, copper accent, copper accents, copper in interior design, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metal, metal design, metal theme, metallic, metallic design, metallic interior design, metallic interiors, stainless steel
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Monday, January 11th, 2016
There is no denying that metal is really hot in the interior design industry these days. Trend setters know this and so they’ve come up with the best concoctions and pairings for metal furniture pieces and metallic accessories. But are you ready to infuse the metal theme into your own home?
How you eventually feel about this trend rests entirely on the current design of your home. Those who embrace modern or contemporary designs would instantly feel at home in the use of metal for interior design. Those who like rustic or country need not fret, though, as metal can still add the needed enigma to your interiors.
Here are some guidelines on how the most common interior designs could incorporate metal touches and finishes –
The Contemporary Style
Enthusiasts who like this style know that it is sleek and minimalist. Metal fits right in with this kind of style. Use nickel, chrome or stainless steel for metal finishes. Be sure to include metallic touches on your furniture, fixtures, accessories, mirrors and room dividers. An example is metallic furniture as a conversation piece. A set of chrome tables can be an interesting addition to what could have been a ho-hum room.
As for contemporary bathrooms, nothing is set in stone so you can go ahead and deviate from traditional design guidelines. A dark, contemporary bathroom would do well to have a gold mirror or any metallic piece.
The Classic Country
Country interior design boasts of a traditional and homey feel. You would want to find warmer metal pieces for your country interior. Look for copper, gold or chrome metal finishes. Chrome, most especially, adds a fancy touch to an otherwise simple country home.
Be careful in using too much metal, though, as you might break the old world charm that defines country style. Use metallic pieces that are not too bold or unnatural. Add vintage decor such as pans, pots and fixtures.
Country style is also about decadence. Polished faucets inside bathrooms and kitchens; crystal chandeliers in dining areas lend instant glamour. Copper is the greatest choice for rustic, laid back country abodes. If you are not ready to trade the current look of your kitchen for a French countertop, then displaying rows of copper pots would provide the same mesmerizing effect.
Vibrantly Eclectic
Eclectic design is fun, even bordering quirky. This can be defined as anyone’s interiors serving as canvas for their personality.
Eclectic means you are not afraid to go out there and experiment in terms of furniture selection, decor placement, and such. For as long as you feel that the items are congruent and that they reflect your individuality, then you’re on the right track.
The best metal finish for this type of style is just about anything as eclectic can also mean anything goes; wacky is also the new trend. Metals can give you the chance to declare your biggest statement.
Do not recoil!
Use large mirrors, walls and huge blocks of furniture for your metallic pieces. Display a chrome lamp right on the side of your chosen sofa to add excitement to the room.
Your goal in setting up an eclectic home is to be at peace with pieces of furniture that speak to you. Funky may not be the world’s taste but it is you. Find metal items that will complement your style. The more unexpected metals you use, the more eclectic yet glamorous your mental interior design would be.
Tags: chrome, contemporary, copper, country, eclectic, gold, guidelines, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, metallic decor, metallic design, metallic interiors, metallics, mirrors, nickel, Old World charm, stainless steel, tips
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