Knobs, pulls, accents, oh my! When I used to walk into my local hardware store into the aisle for hardware for pulls, knobs, and handles, I would automatically be overwhelmed. There were so many options and so many different types of finishes. How does one even get started in mixing metals, right? Well, you’re in luck! I’ve learned a thing or two, and I love to share! It’s a design given that if all of your hardware is the same color and finish that it will be tre magnifique so long as the paint colors also match. You may prefer a bit more of a mix-and-match look and want to blend a few of your favorite finishes in your design. I’m for it! Typically, I like to blend 2 but no more than 3 metals in my designs to create some contrast and variety.

How To Begin To Mix Metals

When mixing metals, the point is to avoid the space looking random and out of place. This can be confusing when you’re trying to pair products with different finishes. I’ve outlined three VERY basic guidelines that will help you mix metals in a way that works! However, this is my personal strategy for mixing metals in a simplified way, but there really is no right or wrong way to do it so long as you like it! Remember, your home is to be a reflection of you and your style. The metals in your home should be a reflection of you too so have fun with them!

Tips for Mixing Metals:

1. Choose Two Main Finishes

Choose two finishes to use as the main metals in your space. There are 3 main finishes and then two lesser-known finishes and these vary by manufacturer. The 3 main finishes are polished, brushed, and satin. The lesser-known two finishes are living and PVD or lifetime finishes.

2. Formula for Mixing Metals:

Metal 1: Plumbing + Metal 2: Hardware & Accents

There you have it! You can stop reading right here. Just kidding! But seriously, a very simple way to mixing metals is to follow this formula. When you order plumbing fixtures in a kitchen or bathroom, make sure to order all plumbing fixtures in the first metal finish. Then, order the rest of the products like your cabinets, drawers, etc. in the second finish.

3. ‘Two Spot’ Rule For Mixing Metals

Try to incorporate each metal at least two times in the design. Whether it’s included as the main element or decorative accent, showcasing the same metal and finish twice helps you create a cohesive look and tie the space together. This could be as simple as styling a decorative object or a picture frame in the coordinating metal and finish.

4. Add Accents

Now for the fun part! It’s time to add greenery, towels, rugs, accent furniture, artwork, and other decorative accents. These are the keys that tie a design together. They fill in the gaps and soften the look of the design, drawing the eye in and giving it a cohesive look. I know that I harp on this but please remember to be intentional about selecting pieces in your home that will serve you and your family for years to come in your preferred style!

Hardware is like the final touch on a space along with decor pieces, of course. But as soon as you learn how the puzzle fits together, it all falls into place and is absolutely beautiful! If you want to learn more, I’d love to help you put together your own color palette and metal palette inside of “Designing With A Neutral Color Palette“, a mini-course to help you start putting the puzzle pieces together so your space comes together flawlessly! I’ll see you inside!

Love,