Bring it in: why you should consider metals for your next interior design project

Once reserved for cladding and other exterior applications, metals are moving indoors. Whether it's the industrial appeal of aluminium, the rustic vibe of patinated brass, or the inherent warmth of copper, lustrous metals have the ability to imbue spaces with a unique energy. Not only a favourite for accoutrements such as pendant lamps, mirror frames, and hardware, metals are being used on a larger scale in residential and commercial projects alike.

That Metal Company’s extensive range of metal laminates adorns surfaces ranging from walls and columns to splashbacks, benchtops, and runways, imbuing spaces with warmth and elegance while being durable and easy to clean. Meanwhile, liquid metals provide a flexible and versatile solution for unexpected surfaces, with an innovative sprayable liquid metal system providing a more durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to metallic paint and chrome spray finishes.

Here’s how to make metallic finishes work for just about any interior aesthetic.

Combining metals with refined woods, marble, and natural materials works to create an upscale, refined aesthetic. Using both matte and glossy finishes in the same space creates textural interest, while rectilinear metallic pieces ensure the overall effect is distinctly modern and elevated. In Mosman Kitchen by Fe Design Interiors, real metal laminate with an aged brass finish by That Metal Company used as a splashback works cohesively with the grey veined marble and white cabinetry. With an aluminium base, the range is Class 1 Fire Rated, making them safe for use behind a cooktop.

Real metal laminates also lend themselves for use in luxury commercial applications. Installed in stores across London, Milan, and Paris, Michael Kors uses a combination of bespoke silver and gold metallic plates — both with an aluminium base — to create an eye-catching storefront.

Those with a penchant for pared-back style can benefit from using metal in small doses. Metal accessories pair well with contemporary materials such as concrete and terrazzo. Brass, gold, copper, and rose gold inject warmth and cosiness into minimalist interiors. Created with the help of That Metal Company’s range of liquid finishes, pieces such as the David Shaw Parsec Table create a statement by contrasting an iron, copper, or brass finish with burnished steel.

The antidote to stark minimalism, the maximalist design trend has come back into style in residential and commercial projects alike. Metallics lend themselves well to maximalist design, adding a sense of glamour and opulence to any space. Promoting flexibility and versatility, liquid metals can be used to make any surface look like solid metal, as seen in the bar of The Leicester Grand Hotel. Merging contemporary with traditional, brass liquid metal was applied to a polygonal bar front to create a luxurious entertaining space.

Raw and edgy, industrial interiors take on an almost factory-like appearance, leaning into utilitarian materials such as exposed brick, cement, and metal. Far from being cold or uninviting, well-thought-out industrial interiors can be warm and welcoming. Textured and patinated metals, in particular, work well in industrial interiors, contributing to a rich, tactile material palette. In Uptown Gastropub, newly aged aluminium columns combine with brick walls, exposed beams, and patinated leather seating to create a retro industrial look.

Learn more about That Metal Company and explore their extensive range of real metal laminates and liquid metal finishes by visiting their ArchiPro profile here.

Words by Tanisha Angel