Why It Works: Mixing Metals
Alison Giese Interiors
One of the first questions clients ask me when it's time to select finishes for a kitchen or bath is whether it's OK to mix metals. I say, not only is it OK, it's a MUST! Metal finishes in the form of appliances, cabinet hardware, lighting and tap fixtures are the jewelry of a space, and are a great opportunity to add character to a room that will often be filled with a lot of new elements. Matching all the metals can leave a space feeling one-dimensional and "showroom-y."
I always take into account the tone of the overall space, and try to balance the metals against it. For example, if a client is doing their kitchen in gray tones, I'll suggest brass hardware, a "warm" metal, to counter the "cool" tone that gray can convey. Likewise, if there are many stainless appliances being selected, I try to mix in other classic metals such as unlacquered brass or polished nickel that bring in balancing tones, and will stand up against the trend test. In general, I try to stay away from overly trendy finishes that might date a kitchen or bath. In general, classics I go to are: chrome, polished nickel, unlacquered brass, (a finish that will patina over time), copper, and bronze.
Below are a few of my favorite rooms that nail this timeless look!
Design: Meg Lonergan via Lonny
