Creating Atmospheres with Metal Furnishings

Metal furniture and decorative pieces for your home and garden can create unique and useful spaces. Made primarily from aluminum, iron and steel the pieces span the stylistic spectrum from simple to ornate. Custom pieces, artisan crafted pieces or production pieces all have special characteristics that can serve to enhance any interior or exterior space.

Aluminum is lightweight and requires little maintenance. Hollow tubing is well suited for poolside chairs and lounges with durable finishes resistant to sunlight and chemicals. Cast aluminum is a popular choice for production items. They can be decorative, portable and come in a variety of finishes. Aluminum never rusts and for that reason is a great choice for rough climates. Of course, it is also very light and might not be the best choice for windy areas.

Iron is a natural element that rusts easily and is generally easy to form. Normally coated with a finish that will prevent corrosion, it is sometimes is encouraged to rust for the colorful aesthetic. Iron can also be galvanized (plated with zinc), painted or powder coated to produce a variety of beautiful finishes. Iron furniture is heavier and well suited for windy outdoor locations though not as easy to move. Although it requires more care, iron furniture can last for over a century.

Steel is a very strong metal alloy comprised primarily of iron mixed with other materials that harden the compound and make it rust resistant. Because the iron in steel is prone to corrosion, it can also be galvanized, chromed or combined with chromium to make it “stainless steel.” Metal furnishings were made primarily of steel for over half of the 20th century, having lost popularity in favor of aluminum and lighter materials. The durability of steel has allowed a renewed interest to flourish with restored and refinished pieces becoming widely available.

Color, proportion, balance and ergonomics are essential functions of design. Different styles treat each aspect differently but use these same foundations. Metal furniture spans the very diverse spectrum of styles from super modern to traditional. Consistent treatments can tie a room together or define an outdoor arrangement. Use of larger pieces such as metal bed frames with smaller accent pieces such as candle holders can create a comfortable, stylized and complete appearance.

Outdoor areas are enhanced by a wide variety of patio tables in all shapes and sizes. Quaint bistro sets with their small round tables, two to four small chairs and ornate French inspired designs are great for limited spaces or balconies. Larger patio sets that seat any number of guests are best suited with matching umbrella canopies. From cast aluminum to wrought iron or steel, table tops of glass, stone or tiled, with removable seat cushions or weather resistant fabric sling surfaces, metal furniture is the best option in most outdoor spaces.

Adding a bit of motion to your patio or interior space can create a soothing or fanciful experience. Fountains are great for center pieces in an outdoor seating area or as an accent or focal point of a garden arrangement. Of course, you would want these items to be made from aluminum or stainless steel to keep from rusting. Smaller indoor fountains can be coupled with lighting to create a dual effect. Wind driven kinetic sculptures are pleasant additions that come as windmills or other creative works. Chimes can add a peaceful tone to a backyard experience.

One needs to consider the environment where these furnishings will be placed. Outdoor climates will determine material construction by the severity of the seasons. Windy areas may need heavier iron or steel construction to keep everything in place. Whereas aluminum with its ease of maintenance is great for stormy areas or harsher climates given that it will never rust.

Finishes can be painted, sealed, stainless, or powder-coated which involves polyester pigments baked onto the metal. They should coordinate well with your other furnishings and follow essential design principles. Especially for indoor applications, make sure that natural corroded or rusted effects are sealed. That will prevent further decay and keep the by-products off your other surfaces.

Nature is an excellent color reference from the subdued hues of winter to the explosion of color that comes with spring. Autumn inspired orange based hues go well with a range from yellows to reds, earth tones and browns, as well as complimentary blues. Greens work well with yellows, other shades of green, and are accented by reds. When you consider the colors of nature and the hues of the seasons when selecting color palettes it is hard to go wrong.

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About the Author

Archway Press has been selling affordable home plans; garage, cottage, vacation, cabin and more, working with customers, builders and architects to help make dream homes a reality since 1946.