Gold who? Cool metals are a trend for 2024 – this is how designers are using them

The article explores the resurgence of cool-toned metallics in interior design, such as stainless steel, silver, and polished chrome, marking a shift from the prevalent use of warm metals like gold and brass in recent years. While gold and brass have been widely adopted for their warmth and glamour, designers Lina Galvão and Erin Coren of Curated Nest highlight the timeless appeal and sophisticated, sleek ambiance that cool metallics bring to a space, especially when used thoughtfully as accents. The inherent cooler tones of these finishes can pose a challenge, particularly for those accustomed to warmer palettes and textures. To address this, the article consults various designers for their insights and practical tips on integrating cool metallics effectively into modern interiors. Bethany Adams, an interior designer from Louisville, Kentucky, emphasizes that cool metallics instantly convey a sense of modernism, offering a distinct advantage over more traditional warm metallics. She suggests leveraging them to update and brighten a space with subtle accents. Lauren Sullivan of Well x Design recommends using finishes like chrome, pewter, and polished nickel in combination with warmer metallic counterparts to achieve balance and contrast. She advises layering materials and textures through accessories and decor to introduce warmth, preventing these cooler tones from appearing stark or uninviting. Sullivan points out that lighting, plumbing, hardware, and sculptural objects are ideal avenues for incorporating cool metallics. The article outlines ten contemporary methods for using cool-toned metallics. Firstly, building in layers is crucial to avoid a flat finish. Chinotto House's Chelsey Cox suggests identifying at least two metal finishes per project, using chrome to honor mid-century modern aesthetics while modernizing the space. Secondly, looking to the ceiling offers an unexpected opportunity, as demonstrated by Akurat & PB Studio's use of polished steel tiles with a 3D water ripple effect in a sauna, reflecting light to create a warmer tone. Thirdly, playing with mirror finishes, like those seen in Studio Doherty's design, where mirrored panels and side tables create a light-reflecting focal point and conceal storage. Fourthly, incorporating cool metallics in the dining room, such as a polished metal base dining table, can create a glamorous and sophisticated statement, as shown in Float Studio's office design. Fifthly, integrating cool tones into lighting, exemplified by the Flos Chiara floor lamp in a Zanotta scheme, provides a striking contrast against warm backgrounds and adds a mid-century aesthetic. Sixthly, mixing metals is encouraged, with Michael Chen of MKCA advocating for the combination of warm and cool materials to create a lively and welcoming atmosphere, especially with metals that patina or have a handmade quality. Seventhly, experimenting with accessories allows for a low-commitment entry into the trend, using statement pieces like blackened metal vases and sculptural floor lamps against textured walls, as seen in NAINOA's design. Eighthly, investing in an accent furniture piece with a metal frame, such as a Hans Wegner Flag Halyard chair in a Shapeside design, introduces a contemporary or industrial edge. Ninthly, trialing different textures, beyond solid metal pieces, through metallic wallpapers, fabrics, or leather chairs, offers a softer approach to the trend, as demonstrated in a Workshop/APD design. Finally, saving cool metallics for a special, showstopper piece allows them to accentuate beautiful details, like carved wood or cabinet embellishments, balancing their sophistication with warmer elements like drapery and art, as advised by Sarah Storms of Styled by Storms. The article concludes by discussing the best cool-toned metallics to decorate with and how to prevent a scheme from feeling cold. Malka Helft of Think Chic Interiors recommends chrome for its ease of maintenance and versatility in mixing with other metals and warm wall colors. Laura Chappetto Flynn of Element Design Network highlights silver tones for their contemporary impact and suggests mixing and matching finishes to avoid an outdated look. Lina and Erin of Curated Nest emphasize balancing cool metallics with warmer elements and maintaining a unifying finish (polished, brushed, or matte) across diverse metallic colors for a harmonious result. Bethany Adams adds that cool metallics are neutrals and can work with any color scheme, but advises against pairing them with gray if a cold feel is a concern, instead opting for warm whites and beiges. Ultimately, all designers advocate for restraint and balance in using metallic elements to ensure harmony in interior spaces. #InteriorDesign #CoolMetallics #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2024 #ModernInteriors #MetallicAccents #InteriorStyling #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #CoolMetallics #HomeDecor #DesignTrends2024 #ModernInteriors #MetallicAccents #InteriorStyling #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign