Mixing Metals: A Stylish Bathroom Transformation
I’m so excited to share my tips for mixing metals in the bathroom – it’s one of my absolute favorite design trends right now! If you had asked me a few years ago about the idea of combining different metal finishes, I probably would have cringed. But boy, have times changed.
These days, the “matchy-matchy” look is out, and layered, collected spaces are in. And let me tell you, mixing metals in the bathroom is the perfect way to achieve that perfectly curated, high-end vibe.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – “Isn’t that a big no-no? Mixing metals?” Well, my friends, the rules have changed. Gone are the days where you had to stick to one single metal finish throughout an entire room. In fact, I’m here to tell you that embracing a little bit of metal mixing can take your bathroom from builder-grade to magazine-worthy.
The Beauty of Blending Finishes
I’ll never forget the first time I really noticed the beauty of blended metal finishes in a bathroom. I was scrolling through Pinterest, as one does, when I stumbled upon this absolutely stunning space from the brilliant minds at Amber Interiors. The mix of polished chrome, brushed brass, and matte black was utterly captivating.
From that moment on, I was hooked. I started paying closer attention to beautifully designed bathrooms, and I noticed the same trend popping up everywhere. Sleek polished nickel paired with warm antique brass. Shiny chrome accented by matte black fixtures. The possibilities were endless, and the results were always stunning.
As I began planning the design for our master bathroom renovation, I knew I wanted to incorporate this layered, collected look. I didn’t want everything to match perfectly – that would be, quite frankly, a bit boring. Instead, I wanted to create a space that felt elevated, sophisticated, and just a touch eclectic.
Establishing a Dominant Metal
When it comes to mixing metals in the bathroom, the key is to establish a dominant metal finish and then thoughtfully incorporate accent metals around it. For our space, I decided to go with polished chrome as the star of the show.
Now, I know what you might be thinking – “Chrome? Isn’t that a bit, I don’t know, basic?” And to that I say, absolutely not! Chrome is a classic, timeless metal that provides the perfect foundation for layering in warmer accent tones. Plus, it’s super easy to work with since the finish is consistent no matter where you source it from.
I knew I wanted chrome for the main fixtures – the shower head, tub filler, and sink faucets. This would ensure a cohesive, streamlined look throughout the space. But then, I started to have some fun with the accent pieces.
Brass: The Warm Metallic Accent
For me, the obvious choice for an accent metal was brass. I mean, have you seen how gorgeous brass looks in a bathroom? The warmth and richness it adds is simply unparalleled. Plus, brass has been making a major comeback in the design world, so I knew it would give my space that high-end, on-trend vibe I was going for.
Now, I will note that not all brass is created equal. There are different finishes – polished brass, unlacquered brass, and aged brass, to name a few. To keep things cohesive, I made sure to stick with the same brass finish for all of my accent pieces. For our bathroom, that meant a shiny, polished brass for the wall sconces and the antique dresser hardware.
Balancing the Metals
While mixing metals can create such a stunning, layered look, there is an art to getting the balance just right. The key is to not go overboard. As a general rule of thumb, I recommend sticking to no more than three different metal finishes in a single space.
In our bathroom, the dominant metal is polished chrome, which is repeated three times – in the shower head, tub filler, and sink faucet. Then, I have my accent metal of polished brass, which shows up in the wall sconces and the antique dresser hardware.
By keeping the metal mix to those two finishes, the space feels cohesive and intentional, rather than chaotic or disjointed. And let me tell you, the end result is absolute perfection. The polished chrome provides a sleek, modern foundation, while the warm brass adds just the right touch of organic elegance.
Embracing the Unexpected
One of the things I love most about mixing metals in the bathroom is how it allows you to play with the unexpected. Take, for example, the gorgeous bathroom from Chris Loves Julia that features a stunning mix of polished chrome, brass, and matte black.
The black mirror frame is such a bold, unexpected choice, but it works beautifully with the warm brass accents and the cool chrome fixtures. It’s a perfect example of how blending different metallic tones can create a space that feels truly one-of-a-kind.
And let’s not forget about the New Darlings’ bathroom, which seamlessly combines matte black and shiny brass. The contrast between those two finishes is simply electric, and it gives the space such a cool, modern edge.
Putting It All Together
As I put the finishing touches on our master bathroom renovation, I can’t help but feel so proud of the way the mixed metals have come together. The polished chrome provides a sleek, timeless foundation, while the warm brass accents add depth, character, and that all-important touch of glamour.
I know that the idea of combining different metal finishes can be a bit daunting at first. But I promise you, it’s so worth it. By embracing a little bit of metal mixing, you can take your bathroom from basic to beautiful, from builder-grade to magazine-worthy.
So, what are you waiting for? Go forth and mix those metals, my friends! Your dream bathroom awaits.
[1] Making Joy and Pretty Things, “Mixing Metals in the Bathroom: The Dos and Don’ts”: https://www.makingjoyandprettythings.com/mixing-metals-in-the-bathroom/
[2] Maria Killam, “Is Brass Out? How to Mix Metals Like a Pro”: https://mariakillam.com/is-brass-out-how-to-mix-metals-like-a-pro/
[3] Reddit, “It seems like half of the bathroom/kitchen reno’s I see these days are mixing metals.”: https://www.reddit.com/r/Plumbing/comments/wajc48/it_seems_like_half_of_the_bathroomkitchen/
[4] New Dimensions Inc., “Trending: How to Mix Metals”: https://www.newdimensionsinc.com/trending-how-to-mix-metals/
[5] Good Housekeeping, “The Biggest Bathroom Trends of 2023”: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/g41959146/bathroom-trends-2023/
[6] Apartment Therapy, “Matte Black Fixtures: Where to Find Them for Less”: https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/matte-black-fixtures-where-to-find-them-for-less-251679
[7] NC Home Remodeling, “On-Trend Tile & Custom Finishes for Your Bathroom Remodel”: https://www.nchomeremodeling.com/on-trend-tile-custom-finishes-for-your-bathroom-remodel/
[8] Grace in My Space, “How to Mix Metals in Bathroom Finishes”: https://graceinmyspace.com/how-to-mix-metals-in-bathroom-finishes/