Ask stylebook: mixing metals?
Ellie: I love the polish and shine that metallic accents bring to a room, but how do I choose which metal to use? Isn’t mixing a design don’t?
Courtney: At Ivy Lane, we believe a room should feel layered and balanced. The right accents play no small role in achieving that goal, so whether it is gold, silver, copper, chrome, nickel, or brass (the list goes on), a metallic touch can transform a space. The versatility of metals makes them particularly valuable when decorating. We love using a metallic finish to add warmth, contrast, or texture to a room.
Certain metals can also be useful in setting a tone or mood. Silver or chrome, for example, can instantly add a layer of sophistication and elegance.
Whereas a few punches of a gold can dramatically warm up a room and grab light in way that makes a big impact.
Finally, metals like brass and copper develop patina over time and add character to a space, making it feel collected.
So, to your question: To mix or not to mix? When it comes to mixing metals, we at Ivy Lane think it can be done well. Really well. For example, take a look at this room designed by our studio. The silver leaf coffee table plays perfectly into the brass and gold tones that are the major players in the room.
Variation can keep things interesting, but pay close attention when comingling metals. It is important to maintain balance. Generally, choosing a primary metal, then accenting with a contrasting metal is a great way to add dimension without creating chaos. And, if you’re not sold on a combination, incorporating different finishes of a single metal can help avoid monotony.
Are you convinced that you need more metal into your life? I hope so. And, Ivy Lane is here to help! Here are some current metallic store favorites.
1) Gold and Silver Foliage Dishes These lovely accessories have endless possibilities! They make a perfect ring dish or accent anywhere that needs a touch of gold or silver.
2) Copper Serving Pieces and Magnolia Dishes We absolutely love these handmade creations by Nashville-based southern artisan, Ben Caldwell. Copper is incredibly popular in kitchens right now and it’s not hard to see why. These look just as beautiful on a table as they do hanging in a group display. Truly, the type of functional art that will be passed down for generations.
3) Brass and Silver Boxes A stylish box is a great way to accessorize, while also creating a place to stash all those items that make a space feel cluttered (think remote, mail, keys). These would be a fabulous addition to any console, nightstand, or coffee table.
4) Gold and Silver Edge Marble Cheese Plate A fabulous way to serve up your favorite hors d’oeuvres. The metallic edge adds the perfect amount of glam to these beauties!
- About the studio
Alex Deringer and Courtney Cox combine their formal training in design and fashion with their renowned sense of style in Ivy Lane, a full-service interior design firm that curates casually elegant family dwellings that are elevated by a unique spark. Whether an entire house renovation or a one-room makeover, Alex and Courtney’s extensive experience and collaborative dynamic inform a successful design philosophy: thoroughly understand the client’s lifestyle, bring a thoughtful spatial perspective, and enliven the space with the freshest aesthetic interest.
309C Cameron Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
studio@ivylaneliving.com
703.566.6582
