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Modern Mixed Metal Interiors

Friday, March 16th, 2018

Silver is beauty: Featured here is the Benhardt Interiors Bedroom Metal Wrapped Bed (in silver).

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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Super Lustrous, Super Festive: Using Metal as Christmas Decorative Element

Wednesday, November 30th, 2016

The Wesley Allen Bedroom Iron Bed 7162

The Wesley Allen Bedroom Iron Bed 7162

Metal is a tricky element to use in designing homes. This isn’t always the case, though, especially during the holiday season. Metal looks good during this season to be jolly since it offers a beautiful gleam that is difficult to match.

Using metal for Christmas décor means you have to get to know which types will be available and would look good in interiors. You have to comprehend the application and the uses of the metal so that you won’t be mixing it with elements that it’s not supposed to be with.

Metal is totally hot in the world of interior design these days. Tout metals and lustrous metallic accessories are the most sought-after decorative items nowadays but are you ready to infuse them to your current home theme?

Metal is a dense element that light easily passes through it. It is also a great conductor of electricity (especially copper wiring) and heat. Metals are often hard but they can be melted to form usable alloys.

Metals that are used in most buildings today conduct both electricity and heat. They are ductile, meaning, they can be hammered to thin sheets. They are also malleable so they can also be rolled or bent even when they are dense and durable.

Some Warnings

Stainless steel benches are also metal so don’t put them too close to sources of electricity. If they have to be near a socket, then be sure that they are properly earthed.

Bring luster and illuminate your home at the same time with this Uttermost Accessories Iron Branches, Wall Sconce 19736.

Bring luster and illuminate your home at the same time with this Uttermost Accessories Iron Branches, Wall Sconce 19736.

Bring on the Metals

How comfy you will feel about metallic elements depends hugely on the current style of your home. Modern design enthusiasts will feel at home straightaway in a metallic interior design. Those who love rustic and country styles will also be able to find good use for metals when they want to add drama or intrigue as well as texture to their homes.

Here are the sleek elements that you can use for different themes –

  • Contemporary is sleek, minimalist, and it is always stark. Metallics will be right at home with the contemporary design. The best metal finishes for this design are stainless steel, nickel and chrome.

Contemporary metallic touches should be seen on some of your fixtures, accessories, mirrors, furniture and room dividers. Great conversation pieces are mirrored and metallic furniture pieces. An example is a chrome table that will add a little excitement in a somber room.

  • Country style is timeless, homey and eclectic. You would want to choose the warmer metallic pieces for this theme since they can contribute to the warmth of the country interiors. Apt metallic finishes include copper, gold and chrome. Chrome adds the fanciest and most glamorous touch.

Country style has an Old World element so make sure that you don’t overuse metallics. Too many metals would make the place look unnatural or too bold. Instead of bold metallic items, use those that are barely noticeable but, nonetheless, create a classic impact such as small fixtures, pots and pans.

  • Eclectic style is quirky yet fun. This design can translate any unique personality to a cohesive style. Do not hesitate to experiment when you embrace this style. Just make all the items congruent with your taste and they will look at home with your current theme.

The best metallic finishes for eclectic style is – everything. This is such as a wacky design that you can use any metallic finish that you set your heart on. Metallics can give you the opportunity to make a statement so, don’t be shy, and include metals on whole pieces of furniture, large mirrors and even on an entire wall.

  • Traditional style is elegant and refined so you may wonder how you can use metals in it. The wealthy and posh thrive in this kind of environment so bring in the gold, chrome and silver. Put metallic touches on vases, chandeliers and mirrors and you would never go wrong.

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Wrought-Iron Furniture: A Splendid Option for Indoor and Outdoor Living

Tuesday, October 25th, 2016

Hooker Furniture Dining Room Treviso Round Dining Table with One 18in Leaf

Hooker Furniture Dining Room Treviso Round Dining Table with One 18in Leaf

Iron making is a basic blacksmith trade. More than steel, this metal is worked on more often by blacksmiths. Its creation begins with the prepping of metallic ore starting from the mine itself. There, metallic ores and non-metallic stones are separated. The former is then taken from the mine then crushed to smaller pieces. Crushing is followed by passing through fire (approximately two to three times).

There are two purposes for roasting ore. Primarily, it softens the harder ones so that they can be broken down or crushed more easily. Next, the sulfur content in ores is significantly reduced by the heating process. There are many other processes that follow before craftsmen can begin working on a piece of wrought iron.

Typical decorative uses for this material include balconies, fences, railings, gates, canopies, verandas, porches, lamps, roof cresting, grilles and hardware.

Wrought iron furniture for home’s interiors, patios and other outdoor spaces has a reputation for being the more expensive choice. Compared to its cheaper alternatives – plastic, wicker or aluminum; wrought iron has these advantages –

Wrought Iron Means Durability

If you want to depend on a material that is extremely durable, then you should rely on wrought iron. Wrought iron furniture is difficult to break. Its only enemy is rust so make sure that you check the painting job on your wrought iron furniture. If the paint is applied correctly, then you hardly have to worry about weather resistance and maintenance.

With minor care, your wrought iron pieces can last a lifetime.

Wrought Iron Means Sturdiness

Wrought iron is a very heavy material which means it won’t easily blow over where there are strong gusts of wind. This is, therefore, suitable in areas where storms and twisters hit.

You also won’t have to worry about bumping onto this furniture and toppling it over. This is a sturdy material that furniture designers can still style without worrying over weight-holding properties. Be extra wary when wrought iron is exposed to sun, wind and the rains more often. Make sure that its paint hasn’t chipped or you could end up being plagued with rust problem.

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Scrolled Wrought Iron Torchiere 1851-514

Maitland-Smith Lamps and Lighting Scrolled Wrought Iron Torchiere 1851-514

Wrought Iron Means Comfy

Wrought iron doesn’t have to mean a difficult reclining or sitting experience. With just the right accessory, this solid material can still become a comfortable piece of furniture. Add plush cushions to your wrought iron patio furniture to make it a comfortable outdoor seating unit.

As for wrought iron tables, you can just add a tablecloth and you’ve just softened the sturdy feature of this material.

Wrought Iron Means Malleable

Wrought iron is also a malleable material which is why it can be made into any basic or intricate shape. Compared to other metals, furniture craftsmen would do well to work with this material because it can be shaped into a variety of styles.

Choose a stylish finish so that you personalize your wrought iron furniture’s style. There are many appealing designs for headboards and footboards. These hold a special charm that is difficult to equal. And since the bed designs are often made with smaller iron rods, the frameworks are lighter and airier compared to bulkier beds.

When compared to beds with box springs, wrought iron beds offer greater height since they have platforms for mattresses. This also means that you won’t have to worry about lifting the bed just so you can clean underneath it.

Wrought Iron Spells Savings

You might disagree with this as first since it is not the cheapest material that you could find out there but consider this as a sound investment. It may be expensive at first but rather than buying new furniture now and then, you could have your piece with you for the rest of your life. This means minimal to zero replacement or repairs.

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Metallic Interiors: Shiny Not Shocking

Friday, October 14th, 2016

Accessories Uttermost Rajata Silver Vases S3 19826

Accessories Uttermost Rajata Silver Vases S3 19826 make metallic look cool.

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.

Soften the metallic theme by adding this Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture Twiggy Mirror in your home.

Soften the metallic theme by adding this Cynthia Rowley for Hooker Furniture Twiggy Mirror in your home.

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.

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Metallics: Creating the High Voltage Look

Tuesday, September 13th, 2016

1586-50010-GLD2 Gold Bois Round Accent Table

1586-50010-GLD2 Gold Bois Round Accent Table

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.

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Retropolitan Metal Mirror

Hooker Furniture Bedroom Retropolitan Metal Mirror is great in any contemporary setting.

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.

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You Glow, Girl! (How to Use Metal in Interior Design)

Wednesday, September 7th, 2016

The Wesley Allen Bedroom Medina Iron Bed 1092 is the perfect anchor to this Scandinavian-themed bedroom.

The Wesley Allen Bedroom Medina Iron Bed 1092 is the perfect anchor to this Scandinavian-themed bedroom.

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.

This Lexington Living Room Rangoon Chair 4011-1092-956771 offers the charming beauty of both gold and bronze.

This Lexington Living Room Rangoon Chair 4011-1092-956771 offers the charming beauty of both gold and bronze.

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.

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Summer to Fall Shift: Getting Ready for the Autumnal Look

Monday, August 29th, 2016

Winners Only Dining Room Dining Table DSB14296C offers the warm brown colors of fall.

Winners Only Dining Room Dining Table DSB14296C offers the warm brown colors of fall.

People use art to express themselves. These can be framed paintings or photos, it could be a bust, but all are aimed at making your home look more interesting. The art that you display tells a lot about your personality. Don’t be afraid, though, to add large pieces on those big, blank walls. If you are feeling more creative, then make your own art. There are many ways that you can hang some stylish art especially this fall.

Display Gorgeous Harvests

Now that summer is saying farewell, it’s time to embrace the gorgeous style that the fall season has to offer. There are many fall elements that you can use in designing your home. Think of pumpkins, falling leaves, spices and earthy hues. You can bring in these elements to the porch, right into the living room and all the way to the bedroom.

Impress with Metals

Metallics are quite in during fall. These are great accent pieces since they shimmer – they are practically begging for attention. Use anything from silver, bronze to gold on table lamps, candlesticks, or side tables. A great thing about metallics is that they can stylize without even trying.

It’s All About Geometry and Texture

Fall is also rich on geometric patterns. Beautiful shapes can amp the look in your home. Use diamond shapes, stripes, even chevrons. Your favorite shape should be the star of the design.

This season is also the perfect time to add a little texture to your design. Use rich velvet, chunky knits, rustic woods, etc.

Canadel Dining Room Side Chair CHA1261 has both green and brown; both colors of Mother Nature.

Canadel Dining Room Side Chair CHA1261 has both green and brown; both colors of Mother Nature.

Seasonal Colors

You can never go wrong with the autumn palette during fall. Check the colors that are trending such as jewel tones, spicy hues, classic neutrals, white, black and certain shades of blue.

Look all around you and see where you can add fall décor. Add a table to the foyer, put a tall vase of colorful flowers in the living room, hang a wreath right on the front door, and welcome all your guests with the orange pumpkins in your front yard.

Make the Fireplace Useful

With the weather turning cooler each month, you can now look at decorating your fireplace and mantel. Right before lighting up the fireplace, though, make sure that it has been inspected and properly cleaned. Once it’s okay to use, have it decorated with garlands made from fall leaves, pumpkin and other hearth décor.

That Room with the View

This is also the season to refresh the windows with some new window covering. This should complement the current season, palette-wise and pattern-wise. Keep the sheers but you may trade out the curtain panels with something that is more appropriate for fall. Look outside of your home for inspiration. Mother Nature has a lot to offer.

Change up the florals from the sunny summer look to the autumn flowers with richer colors. Redecorate with red, orange or brown area rugs in the living room, bedroom, or the kitchen. Bird feathers and leaves are huge design inspirations.

Garden Wagon Decorating

Your garden will serve more purpose this upcoming season so go ahead and lay down the straw at the bottom of a garden wagon. Place a few pumpkins in the wagon but make sure they show through the sides. Put two huge pumpkins in the middle then stack the little ones all around.

Have a pot of mums in the hay that are all around the pumpkins. Use LED lights to add sparkle during dark nights.

You can also add a fall table display for your upcoming dinner parties. An orange, yellow or red table runner should complete the autumn look.

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Mixed Metal Theme: This Is The New You

Friday, July 22nd, 2016

1586-75200B-BRN Long Board Rectangle Dining Table with 2-20in leaves

1586-75200B-BRN Long Board Rectangle Dining Table with 2-20in leaves

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.

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Gold Accents: Tough Yet Rewarding Choice

Saturday, January 30th, 2016

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Maitland-Smith Living Room Bench 4230-377 has touches of gold on its wooden frame. The animal print on the fabric makes this piece leap to life

Maitland-Smith Living Room Bench 4230-377 has gold accents on its wooden frame. The animal print on the fabric makes this piece leap to life.

The use of gold accents in interior design is not an easy decision to make. It can be a tough style to work with. You are required to understand the fundamentals of this bright and interesting hue. The good thing is, today, you’ll get that much-needed help.

First of all, you have to be confident with the idea that gold can be used sparingly. Some touches of gold on your furniture can offer great wonders.

Golden Ideas

Have you ever thought of pairing gold with black? This may not be your instinctive choice but many have found that the union of these two interesting hues can bring elegance in any room. Black and gold borders on tables can definitely spell a huge difference in a dining room.

Wallpapers with a dash of gold can also elevate the room’s sophistication. This should warm up the room and give it a cozy feeling in no time.

Gold accents can also be the glue that fuses masculine and feminine room features. Furniture frames also look classy with a hint of gold on the exposed frame or on the fabric.

Femininity is best embodied with the use of gold and white. This is a union of hues that can look great on different wallpaper designs. The bedroom can make use of this superb color application.

When it comes to coloring, blue and neutral colors will also be great bases for gold accents. Every color will surely stand out as gold frames and highlights it.

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Jenelle, Buffet Lamp 29091. This is an awesome iron lamp with distressed antiqued gold leaf. See the beauty of the equally antiqued black crackle legs and the bronze colored round bell shade.

Uttermost Lamps and Lighting Jenelle, Buffet Lamp 29091. This is an awesome iron lamp with distressed antiqued gold leaf. See the beauty of the equally antiqued black crackle legs and the bronze colored round bell shade.

Go Bold

If you are not contented with mere gold accents, then you can go ahead and use gold in interior design. This is a much bolder move that you might want to think and plan about first. The first rule here is to use varying shades of gold so that you won’t be bored with the monotonous feel in the end.

Gold is also a lovely color to use during the winter months. So when the winter season comes, make sure that you go bold and give your home a touch of luxury.

Gold can be your best decor during the coldest months because it automatically brings warmth and luxury in a room.  Gold accents work best in neutral colored rooms. Yellow or ochre can be combined with gold to create a glow that works well with earthy colors.

More than wallpapers or mirrors in gold, the golden fireplace can add a shimmer that will cast a warm glow throughout your home’s interiors. This can add a dramatic effect without the hassle.

Gold is a versatile hue so go ahead and use it on your feature wall. Use it sporadically inside the bedroom since this is where you rest but, in the lounge area, it’s alright to go all out.

Gold fabric is also a great way to add opulence in your home.  Use it on your cushions, curtains, blinds or throws (but not all at the same time). Gold curtains can come with gold fitting and accessories. Trim and fringes for window treatments are also perfect in gold. And what of golden tassel tie backs? They are nothing but amazing.

‘Love tellin’ the time? You will with this Accessories Uttermost Torriana Wall Clock 06091.

‘Love tellin’ the time? You will with this Accessories Uttermost Torriana Wall Clock 06091.

Gold printed fabrics are also available to mix and match. These fabrics pair well with earthy colors like brown, beige, taupe or green. Plain and gold fabrics can ideally help in setting up the winter interior design.

Adding gold to animal prints is an effective way of telling the world that you are unique.

Lamps and light fitting are yet another basic way of adding glow to your home. Choose from the gold-colored lamps or the ones in brass. Ceiling light fitting is both modern and simple. It can also be traditionally ornate like chandeliers.

Focal features in gold are truly what they are – a focal piece.  After all, gold is an eye catching color so what better way is there than to use gold ornamental pieces. Gold accents can be wall art, gold clocks, or golden ornaments – take your pick!

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Copper Is Always In

Tuesday, January 26th, 2016

 

Artistica Dining Room Quadrille Arm Chair 481-010. Imagine this awesome piece brightening up your dining area.

Artistica Dining Room Quadrille Arm Chair 481-010. Imagine this awesome piece brightening up your dining area.

When trying to achieve industrial chic, there is nothing more harmonizing than the beauty of an open-space home and metal – especially copper. Iron girders and exposed beams, chrome bathroom taps, even stainless steel appliances all add to the exquisiteness of an industrial setting. If these are the only things that you think can be great for an industrial themed home, then think again.

These days, metal is everywhere – from the wallpaper to the flooring, even in furniture pieces.

The Evolution of Metal in Interior Design

Chrome initially said farewell to the bathroom then was seen in modernist furniture and lamps. The year 2014 was all about copper and the paint color of the year 2015 was also this same metallic hue.

The use of metal inside homes is far from new. Nobles during the Medieval Period had wrought-iron homes. Fast forward to the 20th century and metals were still very much in use. Chrome was then the star of the show and was accentuated by various polished mirrors.

During the Flower Power Revolution, metalwork became very popular among designers. It was used in wall sconces, chandeliers, sculpture and lamps. The ‘80s showed the emergence of brass and gold inside smart interiors.

Now, gold taps are common inside bathrooms especially among the most luxurious homes. You do not want to go all out when it comes to the use of copper or any kind of metal, though. Of course, you would not want to come across as loud.

The Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Harcourt Round Side Table 552-952 is made of hammered copper complete with nailhead trim. Concealed in this beautiful piece is a storage unit that serves multiple practical functions.

The Tommy Bahama Home Living Room Harcourt Round Side Table 552-952 is made of hammered copper complete with nailhead trim. Concealed in this beautiful piece is a storage unit that serves multiple practical functions.

Copper, Copper, Copper Everywhere

Burnished and subtlety are needful in order to create warmth while adding a bit of sheen. Wallpapers, carpets and tiles also add a richness of copper and other metallic hues. Look at some bookshelves and sculptural forms and you’d be amazed at how copper can become the dominant hue yet restrained nevertheless.

Stuff in your home can be covered or painted with copper shades. Metals are not just there for cladding buildings anymore. It can also compete with wood and other furniture raw materials. Don’t get the idea that copper and other metals are cheap to work with. If you want to embrace quality then be prepared to invest. Your investment, after all, is sure to be enjoyed by your posterity.

Copper has long been used in interior design because it is a venerable metal. Its texture is cool but it can bring warmth in so many fashionable ways.

Bathrooms and kitchens are classic rooms where this gorgeous metal is used. It is both a functional and a design element. Copper is also wonderfully microbe-free which is why it is used in abundance inside these two rooms. What’s wonderful is that you won’t even need to use harsh cleansers in order to remove bacteria from the sink surface. A few hours of staying on copper and the bacteria are bust.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron Copper Table Lamp 27697-1 is made with handforged metal complete with a washed copper finish. ‘Notice the dark bronze foot? It is sturdy and decorative at the same time.

Lamps and Lighting Uttermost Akron Copper Table Lamp 27697-1 is made with handforged metal complete with a washed copper finish. ‘Notice the dark bronze foot? It is sturdy and decorative at the same time.

Copper pots and pans are also priceless decorative pieces in any kitchen. They spell luxury and wealth.  Do you have copper cooking utensils to boost? Then bring them out and have them serve as decorative pieces, too.

Hammered copper used in many furnishings have transformed what could have been a so-so piece into a stunning work of art.

Copper lighting fixtures also have a huge impact in illuminating spaces. These are design pieces by themselves – just think of chandeliers, pendants, and table lamps. These are stylish additions in any room. They can add dimension and boldness; they can also effectively define space.

Copper lighting may be used in a rustic, cozy, contemporary or Western setting. Choose from raw to shiny finish, brushed or oil rubbed. Would you want the natural look or do you prefer pieces with heavy patina?  The choices are limitless when it comes to exquisite copper.

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