We Answer Wednesday - Mixing Metallics without going over board

"I love the sparkle and shine of metallics but I'm worried about going over board with the look.  Any tips?"

The sparkle, shine and texture of metallics gives any room an instant boost of luxury and glamour but you are correct, you need to find the right balance.

1.  Softness.  So metallics have a distinct shiny quality and they have a hard and smooth texture, so balance that out with some softer textures.  Try adding some cashmere knits, velvet, and wool to counter balance the hard quality of metallics.

 

2. Neutral.  Metallics can really add a punch to a room and they are timeless so don't get too crazy with your palette.  a few pops of colour is a nice touch but we really love pairing metallics (one metallic or a mix) with a neutral back drop and don't forget those soft textures!

 

3. Classic.  Keep it classic when it comes to metallics - brass, silver and gold are totally chic and timeless.  Sure, copper is cool right now but it tends to float in and out of fashion.

4. Mix.  Keep it modern by mixing your metallics.  Like wood, metallics go with metallics.  So play around with  the finishes. But we really recommend sticking with the same colour metal but we like to see chrome mixed with brushed nickle and satin nickle same goes for the golden tones.

5. Small. New to metallics? Start with small steps - some smaller decor pieces on a tray or bookcase and build it from there.

 

Metallics are a great addition to add some sophistication to a space and they can also make a room look and feel larger and brighter.  That reflective surface allows the light to bounce around the whole room plus it adds sophistication and glamour to a room.

We Answer Wednesday - Mixing Metallics

“I love the look of mixing metallic accents together such as gold and silver. What are some suggestions to add metals into my home without overhauling my décor?”

Mixing metallics is bound to be a huge trend in 2015. We saw Copper emerge in a big way in the past year in many different areas of the home. Gold and silver have always been classic design choices, but the trend of mixing metals has become more prominent in the past few years.

 

Adding metallic accents is a fantastic way to freshen up your space for 2015 without breaking the bank. There are many ways to do so, in various spaces in your home.

 

In the dining room, try adding both gold and silver dinnerware. Maybe a gold charger with a silver rimmed plate and a silver napkin mixed in with an accent colour? Adding gold and silver candles or centerpieces is a fabulous way to add these colours as well. The addition of the decorative accents such as placemats, napkins, table runners, centerpieces, napkin rings etc. are typically inexpensive and versatile pieces to have on hand.

In your living room, try adding some accent pillows with gold and silver. Throw pillows and blankets are an excellent way to freshen décor without changing out large furniture pieces. Gold and silver accessories such as decorative pieces, book ends, candles, vases, picture frames and more are easy personal touches that will add a new dimension to your space, not to mention even the newest additions often make a big difference!  The same suggestions apply in your bedrooms. Adding gold or silver table lamps are another fantastic option for a quickie update.

 

In your kitchen and bathrooms, try changing your faucets or hardware. As previously mentioned copper was a huge trend in 2014 and remains a trend. Check out our blog on how to use copper in your home for more great tips!