Mixing Metals

Gone are the days of having to choose one metal finish for your entire space. Whether you’re going for a bohemian, modern, or classic look, mixing metals adds visual interest and is a look that will last far beyond 2022. We want to share some of the tips we use in deciding the finishes for our projects!

1. So, no matter how many different finishes you love, we recommend selecting only 2-3 metal finishes for one room. We like to use the primary metal finish for permanent fixtures like faucets and lighting. Then, use the secondary finishes on the cabinet pulls and accessories. If your taste ever changes, it’s much easier to change cabinet hardware that it is to change faucets.

2. Always pay close attention to the undertones to help determine which tones work together. Generally, brass, gold, copper, and nickel have warmer undertones than chrome, stainless steel, and other silver metals. Black finishes are pretty neutral. You do mix warm with cool tones, but we are always careful to avoid clashing.

3. We like to vary the finish and the metal type. Metals can be matte, satin, polished, or antiqued, so using a variety of sheens make mixing metals that more interesting.

4. To mix metals in a space and have it look cohesive, we think about the height and balancing them visually. Meaning we distribute the finish from the ceiling to the floor by using light fixtures, mirrors/frames, pulls, faucets, and even low-eyed furniture like drink tables and furniture legs.

5. Incorporate one element that combines the two finishes in one piece. Finding a light or a faucet that has both finishes really helps to unify the finishes within the space.