Mixing Metals – Balance, Contrast, Intentionality

From interiors to jewelry, mixing metals is a lustrous accomplishment when done well and a faux pas when blundered. This interior trend is being talked about more and more, yet done well has been a timeless design choice. While we consider the appropriate uses of metal finishes, the classic Cartier Trinity ring comes to mind. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the design. The mixed metal ring was and is a standout that changed the jewelry industry and has since had reverberating impacts throughout all design.

Many rumors state that Louis Cartier designed the ring for the rebellious artist and writer Jean Cocteau. Original theories circulate the rings represented the rings of Saturn – an immense element symbolized in a delicate detail. Whether this is true or not, Cocteau wore two of the trinity rings on his pinky finger and helped make a name for the design. Since 1924, it has been worn by countless icons in every industry including many royal figures. The ring features three interlocking circles of mixed metals – yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. The simple design was a departure from the more extravagant, gem encrusted pieces of the day. It became an important symbol of universal beauty as it made high design accessible to a wider audience.

As we reminisce on the seminal Cartier design we cannot help but consider why mixing metals is so important. Just like the three rings of the Trinity design, at Jean-Marc Fray Antiques we believe Intentionality, Balance, and Contrast are the three aspects of successfully mixing metals.

Intentionality

While having a mixture of finishes is easy to accomplish, we believe it is intentionality that gives the look power. Without intention, mixing metals ends up looking like a mistake not a choice. While there are many ways to purposefully alternate finishes, one of our favorite options at the gallery is using pieces that combine metals. By specifically choosing furniture that showcases multiple metals, the mix becomes clearly a conscious selection. Especially seen in the mid-century furniture, we have many pieces that use mixed metals to showcase design, lines, and craftsmanship. One of our favorite Italian designers, Romeo Rega, mixes polished chrome and brass in almost all of his tables for a sophisticated look. Seen in lighting, mirrors, tables, and more, we love the look and splendor of these pieces. Mixing metals gives these pieces a timelessness while also keeping the overall aesthetic contemporary.

Balance

One of the most important aspects to consider when mixing metals is finding a perfect balance. This can mean the balance between finishes in an entire room or in a single piece of furniture. For us it also refers to the overall balance on a larger scale – color and tone. Mixing metals is an excellent way to bring both warm and cool tones into a space. We love pairing a cool chrome with a warm wood. Similarly, it brings out the best of both to pair warm antique brass with an icy Murano glass accessory. Balance in design is especially important as it keeps one facet from overwhelming the rest. The characteristics of each type of metal and metal finish bring their own positive qualities. Using multiple metals in a room allows them all to shine!

Contrast

Though it may seem obvious to suggest the importance of contrast when mixing metals, we believe upping the contrast makes the most interesting impact. Mixing finishes in a contemporary space is great, yet mixing styles and metals really catches the eye! It is no secret we love an eclectic room. Layering different eras, materials, and aesthetics brings character and life to a home. Many time periods lean heavily towards a specific finish. Almost all of our Louis XVI pieces are adorned with brass, while the mid-century pieces include chrome. Many of our Murano glass fixtures pair both gold and silver leaf. By using contrasting styles as well as metals, each is showcased and given more prominence.

We always find inspiration in the Trinity ring’s clean design and thoughtful use of mixed metals. In the gallery and in our aesthetic we strive for a similar effect. Metals bring a sturdy, solid appeal to a space while also adding luxury and expense. Like the Trinity ring, mixed metal draws the eye and attention, yet continues to be clean and understated. Though it is trending at the moment, we know that timeless designs incorporate mixed metals and metal finishes. Will you give mixing metals a try in your home? Visit Jean-Marc Fray Antiques at our gallery in Austin to explore our extensive selection of items or visit our website to see what we have currently available!