1. Find inspiration in something that already exists
Maybe you have a polished nickel faucet you love, or you’re tired of seeing brass all over the house. Maybe there’s a statement piece in your décor that needs a complementary finish. Find or imagine one metal finish in your home which you absolutely can or cannot live without. Whatever it is, consider either replacing or accentuating it.
Sometimes this means shifting your style around appliances you cannot replace. Even if that is the case and you don’t love what you’re starting with, it helps to have a guide when choosing new hardware to transform your space.
2. Mix and match finishes
The most important thing to remember when mixing finishes is not to go overboard. Avoid creating more chaos than style and keep your designs between two to four finishes, starting with a matching element.
3. Choose a complementing contrast
Once you have a foundation like a colour palette or theme to work with, choose a contrasting finish that complements the others. The best rule of thumb is to consider an opposite finish—for matt or brass tones, look to chrome or other bright metals.
4. Pull it together
Once you've created just the right amount of balance and visual interest, it's time to put the finishing touch on the room. If you're trying to add a little glitz and glam to a traditional space, Lucite accessories and sparkling chandeliers are the perfect way to tie it all together. If your room already sparkles enough, consider a linen shade or softer accessories to tone it down.
An antique brass chandelier and mirror provide just the right amount of warmth to the cold bathroom below while polished nickel plumbing gives it just the right amount of modern flair. And don’t forget that some metallics aren’t metal at all. Fabrics with a metallic sheen can combine balance and contrast in an unexpected way. The silver of the pillows contrast beautifully with the gold light fixture and other sheen in the wall décor.
