Metal can add a touch of sophistication and luxury to any space. There are many different ways to use metal in your home, including in functional fixtures like sink faucets or copper hoods. One of the main benefits of using metal in your home décor is that it creates a unique look. It is also easy to clean and maintain. Depending on the type of metal you use, you can create looks that range from sleek and modern to rustic and shabby chic. Here are some creative ways to incorporate metal into your home.
Ways to Add Metal to Your Home
Add Accent to Furniture
Using metals such as stainless steel, copper, or brass is a great way to add interest to your pieces of furniture. For instance, full-metal reading floor lamps can add a shine to the room without overwhelming its design. You can also use metal for the legs of your tables and chairs. Elevate your ornamental items by adding a gold frame to an old mirror or applying gold leaf to ceramic pots.
Statement Pieces
Introducing a metal feature piece to your home can have a huge impact on the overall feel of the space. Large metal statement pieces that combine form and function include copper range hoods, stainless steel coffee bars, and brass sinks. Metal sculptures are another great way to add interest to a room. A statement piece creates a focal point that delights and intrigues your visitors. Complement your statement piece with smaller matching metal accessories such as picture frames or napkin rings.
Metal On the Outside
Metal can also be used to decorate your home exterior. Adding an exterior awning made of steel can add color and interest to the front of a house. You can install metal lamps on your porch or in your front yard as well. For a more rustic feel, paint wood railings using metallic paints to create a wrought iron effect. You can even purchase steel raised planting beds to add an industrial element to your yard.
Things to Consider When Using Metal
Metals offer exceptional durability while enhancing your design aesthetics. That said, you need to consider several factors to select the right type of metal for your needs.
Warm or Cool
When designing with metal, you can use warmer tones like copper and brass to create a welcoming atmosphere for your guests. Alternatively, you can incorporate blues and silvers such as stainless steel to give the room a cooler feel. If you’re going for a sleek, modern space, choose bright, polished metals. Metals can complement other natural elements as well. For instance, copper matches well with hardwood floors and natural stone countertops.
Trendy or Timeless
Other materials, such as marble and wood, can feel very traditional and old-fashioned. Metal can make your design feel modern and current and give your design an instant update. If you prefer to be timeless instead of trendy, metal can do that too. As copper ages over the years, it develops a unique patina that gives it a different look and feel than when it was first installed. Similarly, aged brass can create a rich classical atmosphere. Depending on how you use metal, your décor can be now, or forever.
The Finish
There are several finishes such as brushed, textured, and antiqued that can add unique character to your metal piece. Some metals can also be painted to suit your color scheme. If you are hoping to create a contemporary urban look, consider matte metallic fixtures like burnished brass or bronze. If you’re looking for something with a more industrial look, look for a raw metal surface that can be left unfinished or sealed with a clear coat to add durability and corrosion resistance.
Durability
Durability is an important factor too, especially if the fixture will be used outside. Most homeowners prefer low-maintenance fixtures that can resist corrosion, heat, and stains. Some types of metals are inherently resistant to wear and tear while others require additional protection. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust than other types of metals but can still be damaged if not properly cared for. Bronze and copper are other popular choices for outdoor applications due to their natural corrosion resistance.
Sustainability
One of the most important things to consider when selecting a metal is its environmental impact. Metals such as aluminum and copper are 100% recyclable and can be melted down and reused as raw material. However, it is important to note that if you purchase items made from recycled copper, you must ensure that it was not mixed with other metals as this can affect its quality and durability. Some inferior copper pieces may even contain harmful heavy metals such as lead.
Metals can be used to create a wide variety of pieces for your home. Choosing the appropriate metal for your interior décor depends on the style you are trying to achieve as well as the intended function of the piece. From functional kitchen features to decorative sculpture, the right metal element can elevate your home design and create a picture-perfect living space.
