Metal finishes can transform any interior, pushing a visually “flat” space into a dynamic world of texture and contrast. Earlier this summer we showed you how to pair kitchen and dining lights, and today we’re tackling another interior design challenge: when, where and how to mix metal finishes.

Right: Frederick Counter Stool | Middle: Jane Chest & Megan Table Lamp | Left: Johnson Bar Stool & Lewis Chandelier

Design Rulebook: 5 Tips for Mixing Metal Finishes

Follow these five design rules when mixing metal finishes.

1. Embrace Contrast. As you select metal finishes, be sure to distinguish one dominant finish and 1-2 accent finishes. Many designers use the dominant finish for statement lighting, hardware (knobs, pulls) and mirrors. Accent finishes are commonly featured on accent lighting (sconces, table lamps) and small accessories.
2. Choose Carefully. No matter how many different finishes you love, only 2-3 metals should be mixed in each space––more than three will look disjointed. Select two metal finishes for smaller spaces, like a powder room or home office. For a larger space, like an open-concept kitchen or spacious living room, 2-3 metal finishes will do.
3. Aim for Balance. Use your space wisely, spreading the dominant finish throughout the interior with lamps, mirrors, accent decor and occasional furniture. Choose items of different shapes and sizes, like a large brass chandelier with small brass boxes. Be sure the accent finish is also balanced and well integrated.
4. Monitor the Temperature. Don’t touch the thermostat; this design tip addresses the tone of your metal finishes. To create visual harmony, designers use both cool tones (silver, chrome) and warm tones (brass, copper). They don’t need to be perfectly balanced––don’t forget about the dominant vs. accent finish––but a contrasting tone can go a long way.
5. Organize by Height. This design tip comes straight from Studio McGee, the prolific design firm behind your favorite insta-famous interiors. The McGees advise organizing metal finishes by height, making sure that “all items on a similar plane” have the same finish. For example, don’t mix brass hardware with silver accessories on the bathroom finish. For example, don’t mix brass hardware with silver accessories on the bathroom countertop. As the eye sweeps across one surface, the metals should be cohesive.

{Looking for more mixed metal inspiration? You might want to read the do’s and don’ts of mixing metals , according to Kathy Kuo Home’s design team.}

Six Ways to Design with Metal Finishes

These designers have mastered the mix when it comes to combining metal finishes. From soft and subtle to beautifully bold, these metal pairings are all expertly arranged. Take a look! 

1. Classically Cool

Grounded by black accents, this airy dining space is the work of ​Tracy Morris Design​. (In fact, it’s the principal designer’s home!) We adore the oh-so-subtle juxtaposition of brass and lucite lighting with the polished nickel hardware of Gabby’s ​Marilyn Chest​. This space is tied together with traditional styling and a repeating diamond motif.

2. Simply Silver

Paige Rumore Photography

Covered in crisp white cabinetry, tile and marble, this modern farmhouse kitchen features a subtle mix of silver finishes. ​LC Interiors​ selected Gabby’s ​Amelia Chandeliers in antique silver leaf, pairing them with rustic seating to add vintage charm. The space also features pewter and brushed silver fixtures.

3. Fab French Farmhouse

Kerry Kirk Photography

French farmhouse meets modern Hollywood glamour in this stunning chef’s kitchen created by Riverwood Building Company​. Brass hardware brightens the room, and feels perfectly paired with stainless steel and matte black appliances thanks to the black-and-brass chandeliers hanging above the kitchen island. Rustic design elements, like reclaimed wood beams and Vivian Counter Stools​, tie this Euro-chic space together.

4. ​Shape Shifter

Kerry Kirk Photography

Playing with geometric forms, ​Talbot Cooley Interiors​ used gold finishes to warm up a cool-toned powder bathroom with a marble countertop and graphic grey wallpaper. To combat these icy undertones, the design team selected a shiny gold faucet with brushed antique gold sconces and the ​Lovell Mirror​ from Gabby. The variety in finishes is subtle yet striking.

5. Golden Glam

Photo by Brian Wetzel Photography

Keeping contrast to a minimum, Widell and Boschetti selected just one metal finish for this luxurious living space. Golden accents “pop” throughout the room, highlighting the curvaceous forms and luxe fabrics that elevate this historic home. In this case, one metal finish works wonders! Gabby’s gilded gold ​Callisto Mirror​ can be seen above the fireplace.

6. Suite & Serene

Showcasing subtlety and restraint, two metal finishes unite this bedroom suite designed by Brianna Michelle Design​. The room’s centerpiece is a four-poster iron bed, a timeless piece made modern with a warm nickel nightstand, chandelier and table lamp. A velvet ​Sophia Bench from Gabby’s custom tailored collection adds additional softness.

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