One of the hallmarks of modern interior design is the increasing popularity of the use of metals. Today, metals are used to enhance color, texture, and form. They add a unique, striking, and functional element to a room. First, let’s get to know some of the favorite metals used in interior design.
For starters, there are two significant classifications of metals: ferrous and non-ferrous.
Ferrous Metals
Ferrous metals mainly contain iron. That’s why ferrous metals are prone to rust. For instance, wrought iron is the type of metal made by using pig iron and melting it with iron oxide. This type of iron has a higher rust resistance than mild steel. The most famous construction made of wrought iron is none other than the Eiffel Tower.
Steel is also made of iron. However, its impurities have already been removed. In addition, some additives have been mixed with it. It’s a very durable material that can last for a very long time and under various conditions. The most basic forms of steel that are often used in interior design are mild steel and stainless steel.
Stainless steel is easily one of the top choices for interior designers. This type of steel is strong, clean, and aesthetically pleasing to the eye because it can be polished to perfection. The best part about it is that it is resistant to corrosion and is very durable.
Stainless steel is often used in hand and guard rails, elevator interior rails, and interior glass partition framing. One of the trends that transform any place into a modern work of art is stainless steel floating stairs. It’s also a popular material for furniture pieces because they are durable, light, and malleable.
People don’t just twist, bend, and create with stainless steel. Many businesses of various industries, designers, artists, and even homeowners print on them, too. Using an effective metal marking fluid, high-definition designs, such as logos and letterings, can be printed or engraved on stainless steel.
Non-ferrous Metals
Non-ferrous metals refer to those that don’t have significant amounts of iron. They do contain iron, but at most, there would be 1% in their composition. Nickel, copper, and aluminum are some examples.
These metals are all very popular with interior designers. For starters, aluminum is light, rust-resistant, and has a beautiful silver finish. It can easily be used as cool-toned accents, finishes, and even furniture.
When clients want a warmer take on metals, they will likely appreciate copper. Its red-brown color is the perfect way to add a chromatic effect to any space. The trend is to use copper for furniture, lighting, and polished surfaces. It adds a stunning and striking warmth to any design.
Modern and Rustic
There is a challenging trend going on in interior design: putting the outside in. We use metal to add grunge, utility, and style to our homes. They add texture, dimension, and character to any space.
For example, metal furniture is popular because it can be polished, is very light, and is highly durable. In addition, maintaining and cleaning them is easy. Most importantly, they add a flare of modernness and practicality to any place.
Metal decorations also look dainty and sophisticated. Today, the most popular ones are metallic wall art. They can be purely decorative, while some of them are both aesthetic and functional. For example, handmade metallic letterings add personality to any wall. They are perfect for the kitchen, bedroom, and living room. Geometric metal wall art is also taking the world by storm. They are great focal points for any interior design.
Some have even made wall mirrors out of stainless steel, and the effect is otherwordly. It looks like a mirror from the future. Some artists have even challenged their inner gardeners by making wall planters that are reminiscent of farm life.
You’ll also find metallic bookshelves and floating cabinets that add a futuristic feel to the design in many modern homes. You can also easily adore dainty and minimalist metal shelving. These all create a rustic interior design that fits well with those of modern taste.
To be clear, metal is not perfect. One of the disadvantages of incorporating metal into your interior design is the high initial cost and low availability. Moreover, it is susceptible to rust and quickly gets hot during the summer.
Nevertheless, adding metal to your interiors is worth it. It complements various themes no matter how simple metal is. It can also be an excellent DIY material to work with. After all of this, it’s no wonder that metal is becoming more and more popular.
