Decorating

Mixing metals: yay or nay?

January 8, 2013

We were out and about last week looking for pieces for a client’s master bedroom that we’re working on and we came across this lovely lamp and bedside table at Bungalow 5. Suzanne was sold almost immediately on the combo, but I had to voice just one nagging concern: “Are you okay with the gold base and the silver pull?” I said under my breath. Suzanne didn’t think twice about it and looked at me like I was crazy, but I’m wondering how you all approach metal mixing. Sitting on the table above are a few of the fabrics we’re using in this bedroom–it’s going to be so dreamy! Will share some better pictures of the fabrics and some of the other pieces in the room later this week. But for now, please do tell us what you think about this lamp/bedside table combination. How do you (if you do) mix silver and gold?

 

  • Monica

    In case it still bothers you – Bungalow 5 will send you a replacement knob/pull in a different finish. I have mismatches side tables on either side of the bed, but the same pull.

  • kathy

    Mixing metals doesn’t bother me. I love that lamp and table!

  • Holli Schiavelli

    I have no problem mixing the two if done correctly. Seems to me like it’s a detail that exemplifies eclectic design. Particularly with that gorgeous silver and gold (ikat?) fabric on the left. You ladies do very nice work!

  • Jula Cordeira Interiors

    I think its all about balance…you want to repeat both metals in other places so it appears intentional.

  • Stacey

    I think mixing metals works as long as the finish is the same. That is, a super shiny silver finish will work with a shiny gold but not as well with a brushed or distressed gold finish. Would love to know what everyone else thinks!

  • Cottage Katie

    This is a tricky question, and I guess I always tackle on a project basis. Sometimes it’s a little mixing, like in your instance with the base of the lamp and the drawer pull, and that’s OK. But when it comes to major components in different metals, I tend to sway away. A lot of times I choose one metal and then mix in other textures to keep it interesting, and avoid any “clashing” of metals.

  • Tara

    I don’t care for it. Perhaps when the pieces are not so close together say like a curtain rod and a nightstand pull- it might work. The picture above would bother me though. The gold has a traditional brushed look and the silver has a shiny, modern appeal. The way I usually settle these issues is oil rubbed bronze. Something about it is so grounding that it seems to be able to handle being mixed with other metals.

  • Ada-Marie

    It doesn’t bother me in the least. I think it shows a relaxed, organic design, instead of a matchy-overthought {uptight!} aesthetic. I love the the lamp and table together. Good work!