Once upon a time it was a design faux pas to mix metals – if your kitchen cabinet knobs were nickel then you had better believe that everything from your kitchen faucet to every door knob in your home was nickel. In recent years mixing metals has become more and more popular, but many are hesitant when it comes to mixing metals in their own homes. It’s really no wonder after decades of hearing that it was a giant mistake but mixing and matching in the right doses brings a touch of sophistication and visual interest to every space! The good news is that incorporating various metal finishes can create a dynamic and balanced aesthetic. The even better news is that your designer BFF (that’s me!) is ready to walk you through exactly how to implement it in your own home! We’ll explore the best practices for mixing and matching metal materials in interior design to help you achieve a harmonious and stunning result.

Embrace the Concept of Dominance

Your first step in creating a look that blends cohesively is to start by selecting one dominant metal finish as the foundation for your overall aesthetic. This dominant metal will act as the anchor point, creating a sense of unity throughout the space. Don’t forget to factor in the overall style and color palette of the room to decide the best dominant metal. For example, if you lean towards a modern farmhouse style, brushed brass or warm copper can be excellent choices.

Introduce Secondary Metals

Once you have established your dominant metal, it’s time to introduce secondary metals to add depth and visual interest. Secondary metals should complement the dominant metal while offering contrast. For instance, if your dominant metal is brass, you might introduce matte black or polished chrome as secondary metals. Remember to consider the undertones and finishes of each metal to ensure they harmonize with one another. This is where it’s important to remind you that not every finish is the same across the board – for instance some polished brass leans more yellow than other brands and sometimes polished nickel and swing widely between warm and cool depending on the brand (don’t panic! Just double check your selections, it’s best to do this in person and in natural light)

Create Visual Balance

Achieving visual balance is key to successful metal mixing. Distribute the various metal finishes strategically throughout the space to avoid overwhelming any single area. For instance, if you have brass light fixtures, balance them out with brushed nickel cabinet hardware or stainless steel appliances (yes, those appliances count! Surprise! You’ve probably been mixing metals longer than you thought!) This distribution will create a sense of harmony and prevent any one metal from dominating the overall design.

Consider Texture and Finish

Incorporating different textures and finishes of metal can elevate the overall look and feel of your space. Mixing polished metals with matte or brushed finishes adds depth and dimension. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures like hammered or patinated metals to introduce a touch of uniqueness and character to your design.

Unify with Accessories

To tie everything together seamlessly, utilize accessories and accents that combine multiple metal finishes. Consider incorporating multi-metallic decor items like vases, picture frames, or sculptures. Right now, lighting fixtures that mix matte black and polished brass or copper are super popular so if you find yourself stuck you might start there! These statement pieces serve as visual connectors, bridging the different metal finishes and creating a cohesive design story.

Trust Your Intuition

While there are guidelines to follow, don’t forget to trust your intuition and personal style. Interior design is an art, and sometimes breaking the “rules” can lead to stunning results. Experiment with mixing unexpected metal combinations and trust your eye for balance and harmony. You want your home to tell your own story, not the story of the image you saw on Pinterest or Instagram or even on television. Even if an expert is telling you that it works but it doesn’t feel right to you then don’t feel like you need to add it in your home!

By understanding the principles of dominance, balance, and texture, you can confidently mix and match metal materials in your interior design projects. Embrace the opportunity to create visual interest, depth, and a touch of luxury by combining different metal finishes. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance and harmony between metals to achieve a truly captivating and personalized space that reflects your style and taste. Happy metal mixing!