Marvelous magical metallics

From accessories to fabrics, gold, silver, bronze and other metals were front and center when manufacturers from across the globe gathered recently to showcase their new wares for the industry at the World Market Center Las Vegas. Home decorators should expect to see metallic finishes everywhere this fall.

“Metallics convey luxury,” said Julie M. Smith of Nine Muses Media and a home furnishings trend and new products expert.

She said the economy is sending home decorators in search of touches of luxury — no matter how small — and adding a metallic accent is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this. “It’s across all price points.”

Additionally, they are versatile and can be used in any type of décor, said Tina Dyba of DIVA Concepts Inc. in Las Vegas.

“Metallics can be used in any type of styling, whether transitional, traditional, contemporary or modern. Because of the variety of products available, they can be used anywhere.”

A prime example is Lexington Home Brands’ new St. Tropez furniture collection, which is bathed in metallics for the bedroom, dining room and living room.

“St. Tropez is an elegant interpretation of transitional design. The polished lines are emboldened with accents of gold-burnished silver leaf, exquisite decorative veneering and champagne-colored hardware,” said Phil Haney, president and chief executive officer of Lexington. “While the collection has a couture appeal, the designs reflect an unpretentious feeling of luxury and comfort.”

The collection’s Corsica finish is a sienna-burnished gold that is used on hand-crafted metal pieces such as the Cabris accent table.

Metallic accents also are incorporated in the various velvet and silk fabrics used on the upholstery. The velvet has a gold thread running through it that provides a slight, subtle shimmer.

“It’s a nice luxurious fabric. It’s livable and comfortable, but chic and trendy,” said Shannon Baugh, manager of merchandising and advertising for the company.

The golden color plays a prominent part in the upholstered quatrefoil design found on the Alhambra chair.

Smith said metallic finishes add visual interest to products and interiors in a way that flat color can’t match. Also, metallic touches, like gold or silver leaf, bring in a feeling of warmth, she said.

“Metallics offer texture and dimension to home décor,” said Amelia Field of Saddleman’s of Santa Fe, which offers metallic-accented cowhides for rugs and upholstery. “The beauty of metallics is that they have matte, shimmer or shiny qualities. I think the addition of reflection is inspiring to many people.”

Another reason metallics are so popular is because they blend well with neutrals shades, regardless of whether the piece’s finish is polished, brushed or low luster.

“It’s a fresh look,” Smith said, especially when paired with basic linen, distressed finishes and reclaimed wood.

“Metals remind us of nature and the green movement has influenced home décor in ways we never imagined,” Field said.

“It was a natural progression to use metallic accent with cowhides to continue to inspire buyers,” Field added. “There is a strong demand for something unique in home design and we offer a very unique product that stands out in the market.

“If a person is not ready for a cowhide splashed with silver, then perhaps they can try some silver candle holders or add metallic tiles for a backsplash on a kitchen renovation. Metallic options for home décor are all around us,” she said.

Despite the fact that metallic colors and accents are everywhere, Dyba believes they should be used sparingly when decorating.

“Less is more when it comes to metallics. The overall bling and shininess can be very overwhelming.”

She said one of her favorite ways to use metallics is in tiles or wall coverings. “When incorporated into wall coverings and tile, they have a tendency to last longer. They won’t be hot for five years or so and then go out of style.”

Additionally, these types of treatments blend well with building materials such as plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware.

“Think of chrome sink faucets and brass lighting fixtures. When you put gold and silver together you’ve got a finish that goes with about anything. Just like jewelry, it mixes with modern trends.”

Dyba said this is especially helpful for those who live in older homes and are struggling to figure out ways to keep their décor looking fresh.

“Metallic objects are used every day from silverware to door pulls. People are not as traditional as in years past. Current trends show silver being mixed with gold and coppers being accented with bronze,” Field said.