Decorating with metals can give your home a magical transformation! We all know the power of a killer piece of jewelry, right? That perfect necklace that elevates a simple dress, or a stack of bracelets that adds just the right amount of sparkle to every day. You can get this same lift for your living space with metal decor!
In this blog post, we’re unlocking the secret to elevating your interiors: decorating with metals! Just like accessorizing an outfit, incorporating metal elements can add depth, light, shine and a touch of undeniable style to any room.
Decorating with Metals Made Easy
Think beyond function and let decorating with metals bring a whole new layer of fabulous to your space.
- Instant Glam: A well-placed metallic piece, whether it’s a gleaming brass lamp, a hammered copper vase, or a sleek silver-framed mirror, immediately catches the eye and adds a luxurious sheen. These pieces reflect light, making rooms feel brighter and more expansive.
- Layering: One of the best aspects of decorating with metals is the ability to mix and match. Break the rules that say you can’t mix metals and embrace the eclectic! A blend of warm metals like brass and copper with cooler tones like chrome or black iron creates rich visual interest, much like layering different bracelets on your wrist.
- Texture & Dimension: Beyond just shine, metals offer an incredible variety of textures. Consider the difference between smooth, polished chrome and rustic bronze with a great patina, or the intricate detail of hammered gold versus brushed nickel. These textures add depth and character, inviting the eye to linger.
- Versatility is Key: No matter your personal style, there’s a metal that will work for you. Industrial chic loves black iron and distressed steel. Bohemian spaces often embrace aged brass and copper. Modern minimalist designs thrive with sleek chrome and polished nickel. And classic traditional homes sparkle with ornate gold and silver.
Ideas to Accessorize Your Home
Think of your home as your favorite outfit, and these metallic touches as the perfect accessories:
- The “Statement Necklace” Chandelier: A stunning metallic light fixture can be the absolute showstopper of a room. Whether it’s a grand chandelier in the dining room or a chic pendant over an island, it draws the eye upward and defines the space.
- The “Bracelet Stack” as Side Tables: Instead of one large side table, consider a cluster of smaller metallic accent tables in varying heights and finishes. This creates a layered look that’s both functional and visually appealing.
- “Earring” Hardware Upgrades: This is one of the easiest and most impactful changes you can make! Swap out basic drawer pulls, cabinet knobs, and even door handles for unique metallic options. From modern brass to antique bronze, new hardware instantly elevates your furniture and cabinetry.
- “Ring” Sculptures & Decor: Metallic sculptures, decorative bowls, unique vases, or even intricate bookends can act as stunning focal points on shelves, mantels, or coffee tables. They add an artistic touch and a gleaming highlight.
- “Cuff” Trays: A stylish metallic tray on a coffee table, dresser, or entry console is perfect for corralling small items (remotes, keys, candles) while adding a sophisticated layer of shine.
DIY Metal Projects
Using Chalk Couture for projects either on metal surfaces or incorporating metal is a fun and easy way to add unique dimension to your walls, shelves or tables!
You can find a Galvanized Metal Sign that is so versatile and fun to use or you can make projects like the two examples below using stencil patterns as a background for thrifted metal objects.
Project Supplies
Dog Hook Sign
- Wood surface
- Paint in your choice of color
- Pattern stencil of your choice
- Chalk paste in your choice of color
- Squeegee
- Paint brush
- Screws and a screwdriver to attach the hook to the surface
- Sealer (optional)
Sea Horse Hook
- Scrap wood
- Stain in your choice of color
- Pattern stencil of your choice
- Chalk paste in your choice of color
- Squeegee
- Rag to apply stain
- Screws and a screwdriver to attach the hook to the surface
- Sealer (optional)
Step by Step Instructions
Both projects are created using the same steps outlined below:
- Prep your surface by painting or staining
- Apply your stencil to your surface
- Apply the chalk paste over the stencil using the squeegee
- Peel the stencil to reveal your design
- Seal your design using a sealant of your choice (optional)
- Attach the hook to the surface using screws
See these steps in action on the YouTube video for the Thrifted Seahorse Project.
Here’s another fun DIY project recycling and upcycling simple cans into fun decor before throwing them in the recycling bin. Check out Crafting Beyond the Bin: DIY Faux Rusted Tin Cans to see how these tin cans were transformed into functional decor pieces.
Your home deserves to sparkle! So, go ahead and treat your home like your favorite outfit. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different metals, mix finishes, and add those sparkling accents. You’ll be amazed at how these metallic touches can transform your living spaces, making them feel more luxurious, intentional, and uniquely you.
Your turn! We want to see how you’re decorating with metals to add sparkle to your home! What’s your favorite metallic accent piece? Are you crushing on a specific finish right now? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below – let’s inspire each other!
Sustainably yours,
Luana