Going Heavy Metal: Mixed-Metal Bathrooms

What was once considered to be a decorating faux pas is now right on point. Gone are the days when the homeowner had to limit their choice to only one metal for everything. Using only polished nickel or chrome is not the only game in town. Mixing metals in the bathroom creates depth, interest and personality. While creativity should never be stifled, there are some rules to follow to make the room appear balanced and stylish.

Choose a dominant metal — You may want to start with polished chrome for its consistency in finish. While warmer metals such as brass may have many variations in finishes, classic chrome will be the same no matter where you shop.

Add in other metals — Generally speaking, you will want to include no more than three different metals in the bathroom. Adding more than that will make the room appear confused and disorganized. The right balance will be to mix a cool metal like chrome, nickel or black with warmer metals like brass, bronze, gold and/or copper.

Mix but don't match — If your showerhead is chrome, you may want to choose this as your dominant metal. If that is the case, you will want to add several other elements with one or two other metals. Some ideas are the sink/tub faucets, towel bars, toilet paper holder, hand towel hooks and shower curtain hooks. The mirror frame is another place to use a different metal.

Accent metals — Now it's time to find places to energize the room with an accent metal. For example, you may want to add brass. When doing so, consider the finish on the brass. Is it polished, unlacquered or antique? You will probably want to be consistent and stay with the same finish throughout.

Change out the knobs or pulls on your vanity or medicine cabinet to a third metal. Adding brass wall sconces to either side of the mirror will add an unexpected and pleasing visual.  

Tiles — Another location to add a dash of metallic luxury is the bathroom tiles. Incorporate mixed-metal accent tiles into the existing design to carry the theme throughout the room.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize — Introduce mixed metals to the bathroom accessories. Soap dispensers, tumblers, toothbrush holders, vanity trays and cotton swab holders are prime contenders for the metal treatment.

To successfully mix metals in your bathroom, follow the adage that less is more. Keep in mind that the goal is to design a cohesive, pleasing room with an unexpected flair. Remember, all that glitters is not always gold. Chrome, nickel and brass will also add sparkle to your powder room or bathroom spa. Contact us for more suggestions on how to mix metals to make your bathroom shine.