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Mixing metals?

8 years ago

We just bought a 1925 home with a very formal entry. There is a lot of wainscoting, carved wood and brass. While I love the home, we are trying to make it feel a bit less formal and more family friendly. Our style is a bit more transitional/eclectic. While the current chandelier is beautiful - it has got to go. I'm leaning towards a very modern light fixture - and I'd love it to be nickel rather than brass. However, the fireplace has brass sconces and a brass fireplace surround. I'm open to changing it all - but wondering if mixing metals would be acceptable? I'd like to keep the brass sconces I think... and of course, I could buy a modern chandelier in brass, though it wouldn't be my first choice. Any thoughts? (Please disregard rug in picture - it is being replaced with a Kilim.



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Comments (16)

  • 8 years ago

    If you like the fireplace fixtures but want to get rid of the brass, it would be very cheap and easy to change the look. Just use Rub N Buff.

  • 8 years ago

    Keep the fireplace area metal brass, those sconces are gorgeous. It isn't necessary to go with a brass chandelier imo.

  • 8 years ago
    Actually, I’d keep the chandelier as well. It fits the bones of the room, with that lovely staircase. I’d use art, and furniture to play down the formality. Something modern for contrast. Abstract art, a modern bench, or settee in a modern print.
  • 8 years ago
    last modified: 8 years ago

    From here, I see why you want to change it - the 'wonderful busyness' of glass, stairs... this is called transitional, and course there are variations.

    W 42.5" / D 42.5" / H 37"

    Gabby Clay 8-Light Gold and Ivory Chandelier · More Info
    https://www.houzz.com/products/gabby-clay-8-light-gold-and-ivory-chandelier-prvw-vr~54031486?lid=38958323

  • 8 years ago

    Called 'raw brass' W 30.75" / D 30.75" / H 25.25"

    Peyton Indoor 6-Light Chandelier With Crystal Bobeches Raw Brass · More Info
    https://www.houzz.com/products/peyton-indoor-6-light-chandelier-with-crystal-bobeches-raw-brass-prvw-vr~66603278

  • PRO
    8 years ago

    What's about bringing a bold color to your space through your chandelier?

  • 8 years ago

    I live in a 1910 craftsman and don't have a traditional bone in my body, but I wouldn't get rid of that chandelier. I don't even like chandeliers in general--way too fussy for me--but that one is perfect for the space. In fact, I'd replace the sconces before I replaced that. If you're eclectic, you should be able to work it in.

  • 8 years ago

    Mixing metals is more than okay, it's what should be done. I would not worry about different metals between the entry way chandelier and the living room fireplace sconces. I would be more worried about putting a modern light fixture in that very traditional entry way. You bought a house with a very particular style, so unless you have some decorating sense you can get yourself off track very quickly by trying to decorate it another way. If you don't know what you're doing, seek help before spending money.

  • 8 years ago

    Beautiful home, enjoy it with your family in good health!

    Please put up photos after you have decorated it.

  • 8 years ago

    Thanks for all the input... I am trying to change things up with a rug and art - and I get what you are saying about the chandelier fitting the space. It just isn't me - so I will ruminate on this and perhaps consider hiring someone to guide me.

  • 8 years ago

    Please do not remuddle the old girl and destroy her value. Stick to modern furnishings and maybe your preferred paint colors. Leave the bones alone.

  • 8 years ago
    I wouldn’t dare change anything structurally - we love the wainscoting and wood details and all the bones of the house. Really, it’s just the chandelier that is killing me!! The rest I can work with....
  • 8 years ago

    If you'll give us a photo that shows more of the foyer with the chandelier, perhaps we can find a way to make you love it, or find one that you do love that's appropriate to the space.

  • 8 years ago

    You have a stunning house. Just because it's beautiful and formal doesn't mean your family can't feel at home. Stick to nickel fixtures for kitchen and bath. If you plan on replacing any of the brass fixtures, which are gorgeous and expensive, please place in storage for next owners.

  • 8 years ago

    Mrykbee, great advice. I had a brass chandelier in the same style in my previous house, though it was not quite this large. I was bored with it and wanted a change, so I replaced it. There are many beautiful transitional styles that will go nicely with your lovely sconces. You might find some that are not all brass, but will still blend. I would still want something with mass for this size area.

    Gretchen thanked redoredone