All That Glimmers: Metal Accents

All rooms need a little shimmer, which is why I love integrating silver and other metals into my design work. Metal accents bring depth and drama to a room, especially in low candlelight, when they really have a wonderful glow. I’ve always been attracted to silver jewelry, and I’m particularly fond of American estate silver right now—especially those with monograms. I like the visible history and lineage behind these pieces.

When using metals in an interior, my aesthetic veers toward a minimal approach. I think it’s just my modern traditional sensibility. I like interspersing small accents of silver throughout a room—a set of distinctive lamps, for example, or a nickel-encased mirror.

My love of metals, however, isn’t limited to silver. Right now I’m particularly fond of bronze and antique brass, especially after integrating this combination throughout a client’s home in Rye, New York. I like mixing the metals, too, of late. Rooms feel very eclectic and grounded that way.

Below, variations on this theme from my past projects:

For continuity, I’ll often add several silver details to a room, such as this set of lamps, silver-trimmed mirror, and console table with a polished nickel base. All add a lovely illumination to this New Canaan, CT entryway.

The bright, graphic palette of this room needed a grounding element, so I added a modern chrome side table. I like how the table draws the eye, almost as a sculpture would.

I chose wall sconces and fixtures for this Washington, CT home that picked up the muted bronze of the mid-century inspired sculpture and wall hanging.

For this Olympic Tower pied-à-terre, in New York City, I wanted the space to have as much glimmer as possible at night to compliment the twinkle of the 5th Avenue skyline. To that end, I added reflective surfaces and silver accessories as accents, including silver-backed grass cloth wallpaper and metallic silver ceiling paint.

Metal accents can add a particular glamour to compact spaces, too, such as this writing nook. The silver lamp, picture frames, and flower vase bring continuity to the desk, while the silver-framed mirror helps define the corner from the rest of the room.

I hope these images and ideas bring a little sparkle into your day!