Shiny metals aren’t the only option
Not every space is ideally suited to shiny metallics—whether in furniture or home accents. Even warmer metals, like rose gold, so popular this year, can be a touch too shiny for those who prefer more demure decor choices.
This is because shiny metals are reflective, catching and bouncing light, as well as creating an appearance of brilliance and cool. There is an airiness that comes with shiny metallics that speaks to a clean, modern look. It can be beautiful, but, overdo the shiny metals and it can look too spare, like an office, rather than a home, and nobody wants their space to feel clinical.
Instead, incorporating other types of metals into your décor will help you get away from that overly crisp and modern look, and provide an almost historical feel to a design; a chic and timeless look. When used correctly, metals can add warmth to a room, while providing interest. We’ve listed four ideas that will help you acheive this balance…
Metals That Don’t Shine
One of the first metals that comes to mind when looking for something solid but not shiny is cast iron, or wrought iron.
These aren’t technically the same thing, but for the purposes of appearances, look very similar.
These matte metallics are a base metal that provide a foundation for furniture and accents that have gravitas. Consider family heirloom pieces that stand the test of time – this Zahir accent table by !nspire is a prime example:
Leaf Finishes
Another way to incorporate metallics with a bit of shine but nothing too obvious is to use a leaf finish.
This can be used on a variety of bases, typically in gold or silver, and allows for a textured, almost distressed, appearance that gives off some shine and warmth but not so much as to stray into the modern. Worldwide Homefurnishings have incorporated leaf accents in our !nspire line for years. These accents are perennially popular…
Marrakesh Accent Table in Gold
Brushed Finishes
Otherwise known as a satin finish’, brushed metals show the richness of the metal without the shimmer.
These are ideal for accents like frames, vases (as shown here) or even accessories like drawer pulls or handles.
They are attractive without standing out so much that they interfere with the pieces that they are accessorizing.
Antique Finishes
Antique metals, such as an antique brass, have a unique look that gives off a gorgeous and warm patina; it’s a rich and classic look that will enhance most any space.
Basically, an antique metal is one that has oxidized over time, a process which can be added to relatively new pieces in order to give that vintage appearance the way we’ve done with this Esquire accent side table from !nspire.
!nspire Tip: Don’t mix your metals too much, in terms of color. If you are going with brass, you can go with different textures of it—polished, brushed, antique—but stay with brass. Different colors of metal in one space can be a little overwhelming.
Do you prefer shiny or more muted metals in your home decor? What’s your favorite piece of furniture or accent in your home that incorporates metal?