When we think of metal in exterior design, we may think of grand structures like Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles and such national monuments as the Statue of Liberty. And beyond the common use of weather-resistant aluminum siding, there are also some well-known residential homes interior spaces with metal: from the modernist steel-and-glass Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois to the Caterpillar House in Carmel Valley, California, sustainably constructed from repurposed shipping containers and corrugated metal.
Inside most homes, however, metal rarely dominates a space. It’s a complementary material that creates luster and elegance. Whether as a subtle accent or a bold statement, metal can be seamlessly integrated into nearly any design style, from modern sleek to vintage charm.
Commonly Used Metals in Interior Design
Each metal has its own functional advantage – and a specific aesthetic you can easily glimpse from a stroll around any home store. Some of the most popular metals in interior design are:
Nickel: Frequently seen in brushed or polished finishes, nickel offers a subdued, elegant shine. Brushed nickel, in particular, is a favorite for fixtures such as faucets and cabinet handles given its soft luster and fingerprint-resistance.
Brass: This warm-toned metal adds a touch of vintage glamour. Whether polished for a high-shine effect or aged for an antique look, brass is an excellent choice for decorative accents.
Stainless Steel: Known for its durability and sleek, modern appeal, stainless steel is commonly used in kitchen appliances, fixtures and industrial-style furnishings.
Copper: With its rich, reddish-orange hue, copper can bring warmth to a space. It develops a natural patina over time, adding character to any interior.
Iron: For rustic or industrial designs, iron is used in heavy-duty items like tubs and furniture legs, while its more grainy cousin, wrought iron, is more commonly seen in everything from railings and light fixtures to headboards and furniture frames.
From Appliances to Hardware
Walk into many modern kitchens and there they are: stainless steel ranges/ovens, refrigerators, microwaves and dishwashers. Showcased in what is often the most social room of the house, this style of appliance is popular because its sleek, modern look complements any number of kitchen designs, it’s easy to clean, resistant to rust and corrosion, and relatively durable. Many stainless steel appliances are now also fingerprint-resistant, a great asset in high-touch areas. Beyond the kitchen, stainless steel appliances bring shine and durability to washers and dryers in laundry rooms and to outdoor kitchens, grills and heaters on patios.
Like large appliances, the strategic use of metal in fixtures, handles and pulls can redefine the aesthetic of cabinetry, dressers and doors. Stainless steel sinks are increasingly popular in the kitchen, along with brushed nickel fixtures like faucets. Aged brass knobs add warmth and a sense of history to vintage-inspired furniture. Steel or nickel cabinet handles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, while matte black metal pulls lend a contemporary and, for some, even “Goth” edge, to minimalist cabinetry.
From Furniture to Frames
Metal furniture for the home doesn’t need to be restricted to patio chairs. Incorporating metal into furniture design can take a complementary approach inside the house. Brass and iron bed frames are striking focal points in the bedroom, from ornate antique designs to industrial chic. In the kitchen, dining room and elsewhere, chair and barstool legs may be a small element, but they can add stylish contrast to upholstered seating, whether chrome for a sleek modern look or wrought iron for a rustic touch.
Other metal accents can make a surprisingly big impact on a space’s overall feel. Consider…
- Metal-framed coffee tables with glass or marble tops
- Chandeliers with metal arms or decorative elements like metal leaves
- Metal floor lamps and wall sconces delivering two types of glow
- Steel-rimmed mirrors making spaces appear larger and brighter
- Wrought iron or brass fireplace screens for practical elegance
- Coat racks that deliver a stylish use of metal into entryways
- Metallic planters offering a sleek counterpoint to natural greenery
- All sizes of picture frames in silver, gold or blackened steel
- Candle holders in brass or iron dotting a table, shelf or piano
- Wall art and standing sculptures crafted from metals like bronze, iron or steel, lending a contemporary vibe or offering contrast in a rustic space
Very few of us live in a castle dominated by standing suits of armor or wall-hung shields of yore. Yet with its versatility and beauty, metal can be a hero element in any interior.
