ACCENTS

Take a shine to it

Metallic colors and objects can bring a new dimension of style to a home — as long as there is good lighting to accompany it.

Naturally, metallics can be found mostly in the kitchen, bathroom and anywhere with running water. Kitchens have pots and pans that can be aligned neatly on a counter to make it part of a design. Sinks have metallic sheens in their basins and faucets. Metallics can also be found in metal rails and gutters outside.

The shiny metal look is often associated with utility and building, but it can also be used as accents throughout the home.

“Metallics look great just about anywhere,” said Alan Torrado, event and design coordinator. “The right amount of metallic can give any space some instant glamour. When used together, metallics are neutral and can be worked into any color scheme.”

Common metallic colors are gold, bronze, silver and copper. The shine on these elements can bring warmth and classiness into a room that matte finishes cannot, Torrado said. Metallic accents can come in the form of ornate objects, too, such as a golden leaf mirror, or a catch-all bowl in the center of a table. It is also common to see that eye-catching metallic shine on picture frames.

A metallic gloss can be put onto a wall or part of a wall so that when the light hits, it produces a shimmery effect that will brighten the room. This is ideal for spaces with a lot of natural lighting. According to the Home Depot Pro Desk, the most efficient way to use metallic paint is to first put one coat of a matte paint, and then layer the metallic paint of similar color over it. That way, the wall will have a solid back color. Metallic spray paint works well if you only want to make a particular segment shine, like on banisters or corner pieces.

It is important to keep in mind that the brighter the color, the brighter the shine. Sometimes, a metallic finish can make a bright color like yellow or red look too overpowering. Or a dark metallic can look muted when not in a bright setting. This is where light balance comes in. Find a way to arrange metallic pieces in a room in a way where lighting improves their look, not exaggerates them. p

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Metallic elements are commonly found in sinks, handles, door knobs, pots and pans. But with an eye for design, a nice sheen can work well as an accent in any part of a home.

A focal metal staircase can also help to incorporate the warmth of metallics into a home.