7 TIPS FOR MIXING METALS

1. PICK A PRIMARY FINISH You may be interested in mixing metals, but it is important to choose one dominant finish. For an existing space, the dominant finish may already be in the room. For new construction, choose your favorite finish for your primary finish. Some on-trend options are black appliances with a brass metal cabinet hardware or stainless steel appliances with rose gold metal cab2. inet hardware. CHOOSE ONLY ONE OR TWO ACCENT FINISHES More than three total metals can start looking too busy. The goal is for the eye to be able to rest and focus on certain objects. Mixing metal is about creating contrast (think opposites) not an overwhelming experience. Consider mixing warm and cool tones such as polished brass or gold along with silver or chrome. Polished copper really pops with brushed nickel or stainless steel. Use black or iron pieces with brushed nickel and brass. The use of the accent metals should pop against the dominant finish.

Choose your favorite finish as the primary finish.

Make sure the metal is used at least twice so it looks intentional.

3. CREATE BALANCE Use the same metal finish on all appliances, a different metal finish on all cabinet hardware, and a third metal finish for faucets and lighting. Don’t use multiple metals on the same piece. For example, do use multiple mixed metals on cabinets only. Make sure the metal is used at least twice so it looks intentional and not like you just settled for that piece in a random metal finish. The options are versatile, so you could have the same hardware finish as the faucets, a second lighting finish, and a third in your appliances. Figure out which combinations work best. In bathrooms, consider mirror 4. frame finishes as well. MIX YOUR METALS BASED ON HEIGHT Another way to make the mixed metals look intentional is to separate them by height. In a bathroom, the vanity hardware could be one finish, use a second finish for faucets, and a third for the mirrors and lighting.

5. CHOOSE METALS THAT MATCH THE STYLE OF THE ROOM Be deliberate in the metals you choose and stick with the vibe of the space. For example, polished brass is often used in fancier spaces or midcentury modern. If your vibe is rustic, polished brass might not fit your style and a darker, more an6. tiqued finish would work best. START SMALL If you are interested in mixing metals but unsure how to make it come together, start with easy to replace pieces such as picture frames, mirrors, wall art, and any décor that you can easily remove. Start with only two finishes to get a feel for how the space could look and once you are comfortable, consider adding a third. Once you get the hang of a mixed metal look, go for it and consider replacing your faucets, lighting, cabinet hardware, 7. and other pieces. HAVE FUN WITH IT! Mixing metals can be an inexpensive way to update the look of a space and create a new fresh appearance. Do your research, choose your two favorite finishes, and mix it up! L&H