Mixing metal finishes in your home, especially in spaces like the kitchen and bathroom, has become an increasingly popular design choice. However, many homeowners feel intimidated by the idea, worried the result might look haphazard rather than harmonious. In this post, we share some expert guidelines for combining metals so you can confidently curate a space that feels both cohesive and stylish.
Choose a Dominant Metal
The key to a well-balanced, mixed-metal decor is selecting one dominant metal to lead your design. This doesn’t mean that all the fixtures and hardware need to be in this finish, but it should be the most prominent metal in the room.
Choosing a metal that complements the overall style of your home is crucial. For example, brushed nickel or chrome offers a clean, modern look suitable for contemporary homes, while brass or oil-rubbed bronze might better suit homes with a rustic or vintage aesthetic.
Create Contrast With Accent Metals
Once you’ve chosen your dominant metal, it’s time to select one or two accent metals to introduce contrast and visual interest. For example, if the primary metal in your kitchen is stainless steel, consider adding brass light fixtures and cabinet hardware to warm up the space. The trick is ensuring these accent metals are distributed thoughtfully throughout the room to maintain balance.
Consider the Location
The physical space where different metals are placed can greatly affect how they coexist. For example, in a small bathroom, having your faucet in one metal and light fixtures in another can work well because they’re not side by side. A qualified bathroom contractor will ensure spatial separation to prevent any clash between different finishes.
Pay Attention to Undertones
Looking closely at the undertones of your metal finishes can make mixing metals much more harmonious. For instance, some gold or brass finishes can have a cooler, more muted undertone, making them more compatible with traditional cool metals. Be mindful of this subtle but critical detail when selecting finishes for your home.
Practical Application
When it comes to specific applications, the kitchen and bathroom are prime candidates for mixed metals. For the kitchen, incorporating a stainless steel sink with a brass faucet and matte black cabinet hardware can create a dynamic yet cohesive look. For the bathroom, you can ask your bathroom remodeler to install chrome fixtures for the sink and bathtub, accented with brass lighting and cabinet hardware.
Mix Warm and Cool Tones Carefully
Metals with warm undertones (like brass, gold and copper) add warmth to a space, while metals with cool undertones (such as chrome and silver) offer a sleek, modern feel. Black, a neutral finish, pairs well with almost any metal. When mixing metals in your home, consider how warm and cool tones will interact. A safe bet is mixing a warm tone with a neutral or choosing finishes that have the same temperature undertone for a room that feels intentionally designed.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
Looking for a bathroom contractor near me who has experience in mixing metal finishes? DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Reno is your best choice. Let us help you create a space that feels cohesive, stylish and uniquely yours. Call us today at (775) 522-7888 or visit our contact page to schedule an appointment! We serve homeowners in Lake Tahoe, Sparks, Spanish Springs, Verdi, Truckee and the surrounding areas.
