INTERIOR DESIGN MENTOR

COPPER: Always in fashion

BY NEHA SAWHNEY

Metals have been an integral part of homes and domestic lives since ancient times, first used for tools and then gradually for utilitarian and decorative purposes. Copper gained popularity instantly amongst designers because it offers endless possibilities - it is malleable, ductile and has a very appealing chromatic look. Above all, it has a wide palette ranging from red to brown to green – so it is a unique coloured metal. The best part about copper is that it looks beautiful even after oxidization with its bright green/blue patina layer, giving you the ability to change décor with changed colour.

Here are some tips on using this beautiful and versatile metal in your homes

LIGHTING

Lighting is both functional and aesthetic, it illuminates the space and also adds the design element almost instantly. Copper looks best when used as pendants or contemporary chandeliers in the finish ranging from shiny and raw, to a natural or heavy patina. Whether you have a light colour palette or one that is dark and moody, copper lighting can add a soft touch of colour and glamour (if used as shiny) and rustic (if used as matte and patina). Mixing metals is a big trend and one example is this powder room design with brass pendants (which is made with copper and zinc), nickel frame mirror and chrome faucet. Keep the colour palette neutral and earthy when following this trend so that different colour metals can act as accent.

HOME DÉCOR

This is the easiest when it comes to switching up the look of a space. Whether you are a DIY’er or prefer to shop for premade, with the seasons, you can blend in the home accessories by switching up pillows, coffee table & mantle décor, throws, dining table centerpieces, console décor etc. The possibilities are endless. Copper planters beautifully accentuate greens, copper accent pillows look beautiful paired with a deep gray sofa as well as a white or light coloured sofa, copper utensils look elegant and timeless whether kept on a dark countertop or white. You basically just can’t go wrong when playing with copper home accents. This metal makes everything look good.

ACCENT WALLS & WALL TREATMENTS

Whether using a patinated copper or original, green becomes an obvious colour choice to pair. Think of creating an indoor garden with copper cladded wall, big beautiful green plants in the front, water cascading from the copper wall making the soft metal sound, white pebble rocks on the floor- it’s glamorous and serene the same time!

Did you know that copper is considered a sterile and hygenic material? Harmful microbes die after just a few hours of habituating on copper, coming in contact with its surface! And that makes it ideal for using as a backsplash and countertop in your kitchens.

Connecting times and tying the spaces, copper has been going strong and has never gone ‘out of style’. Consider giving it a shot as a subtle backdrop, an accent or a bold artefact or a combo thereof in your upcoming space planning project.