Traditionally, metal was used for its high strength and its
durability, and leading suppliers like cannonsteelsltd.co.uk are still
helping builders and home improvement enthusiasts with their building and DIY
needs with steel. However, different metals are being used more and more in
homes for their aesthetic properties, and as part of the overall look and
design of a home. How you incorporate metal into your home is a personal choice,
but here are a few ideas that may give you some inspiration for your design.
Picture above: Ruffoni copper canister set with brass acorn finial. Aren't they dreamy?
Copper
Copper isn’t only for your piping, it is one of the most
stunning metals you can use in your home. It has a beautiful rich colour that
can be applied anywhere, but it is certainly a perfect choice for the kitchen
or bathroom; and can be used in these rooms in abundance. Worktops, counters,
pots and pans, back splashes, and even basins and baths can add to the look of
any kitchen or bathroom, so let your imagination run wild and add this lovely
warm tone to your home. Though copper is often overlooked as it can discolour, cleaning
your copper need not be a troublesome task as long as you have not ignored
it for too long.
Steel
Whether stainless or not, steel is incredibly versatile in
the home. A traditional metal in the kitchen because of stainless steel’s
hygienic qualities, there is no reason not to utilize it around your home.
Using reflective steel in a lounge will increase the appearance of space and
light, while the choices of satin finishes can give you a great option for
cupboards, ceilings and even walls. Corrugated steel is now being utilized by
interior designers too, and is fantastic for an unusual rustic look.
Iron
For furniture, wrought iron has a style all of its own, but
iron is also a great statement when constructing stairways or balconies. For an
added touch of wrought iron appeal, that will allow light to flow around your
home, internal wrought iron gates can be used to replace interior doors, while
there is an incredible array of iron ornaments and shelving that will look
incredible in most rooms
Brass
“As bold as brass’. Need we say more? Another beautiful
colour, brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and is a metal we can use for its
incredible golden look. It may not be as popular as other metals, but there is
no reason it can’t be used in your home. Used as trimming for furniture it is a
delight and adds a look of real quality, while solid brass tables and chairs
are also available (at a price). Accessorizing your home with brass is
definitely worth investigating, especially as everything from vases to
chandeliers are available in this beautiful yellow metal. Brass may be less
expensive than copper, but that doesn’t stop it being any the less attractive.
Bronze
Last, but not least, is bronze. This is an incredibly
versatile metal in your home (look here
for some stunning examples), and one that you would ignore at your peril. From
spiral staircases to avant garde furniture, bronze adds a touch of class to
everything, and is rapidly growing as a choice for interior designers.
There is a wonderful choice of materials available for our
homes; from beautiful woods to practical plastic, but make sure you consider
one of these metals before making your final choice.
