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The days of matching metals used for lighting, cabinet hardware, and plumbing are over. Mixing metals has been a prominent design trend in recent years and experts say there's no indication this will change. Mixing metals can help homeowners make statements in rooms, add visual interest, and create depth. The Rome News-Tribune outlines several of the more common ways this is achieved in homes.

Pick a dominant metal finish for the room and coordinate it with accent metals. Try for a 70/30 ratio. To easily nail the look, consider starting with a significant fixture that’s already finished in a mixed metal combination.

When selecting finishes, use contrasting tones. Warm metals such as brushed brass, antique bronze, and gold give a vibrant pop of color when mixed with cool metals like chrome, nickel and silver. And don’t forget black—it is one of the trendiest finishes on the market today, and mixes beautifully with most metal colors.

Take the room’s color palette into consideration. Combine warm metal finishes (like brass, bronze, and copper) with warm hues (like beiges and browns). Use cool metal finishes (such as chrome, nickel and silver) with cool tones (such as blues, greens and grays). For a neutral color palette, add metallic accents to achieve warmth, texture and color. With a white or gray color scheme, for example, add a stunning gold chandelier to make your room come to life.

Larger spaces, like living and family rooms, are ideal for mixing metal accents. As one of the most significant accessories in the room, start with your lighting fixture. Then add decorative elements—mirrors, wall art, tables—in contrasting metallic tones to make a dramatic statement.

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