Mix It Up: Why Blending Finishes Makes Better Design

Welcome to my first blog post! I thought I'd start things off easy - with the basics. This may be obvious to some of you - but let's face it, if you landed here or are contemplating hiring an Interior Designer, you might need to hear what I have to say in this post. Don't fret - I know some of the most stylish and intelligent people who still feel stumped when it comes to making design decisions for their home. So let's get started....

Remember the days of the catalogue furniture sets? Did you spend hours like I did picking out the perfect canopy bed complete with identical dresser, nightsand and desk? Matching wood tones, metals, tile with countertop and cabinet hardware—it’s a tale as old as Tuscan kitchens. But I’m here to challenge that. Mixing materials and finishes is where the magic happens.

Let’s break it down.

Matching = Safe.

Mixing = Stylish.

When everything in a room is perfectly matched, the result can feel... flat. Or worse, like a showroom. Mixing different finishes—think warm brass with matte black, or walnut wood against a creamy oak floor—adds visual interest, personality, and depth.

It tells a story. It looks collected and curated, not copy-pasted.

But Won’t It Look Chaotic?

Only if it’s done without intention. The key to successful mixing is balance and repetition. For example:

• Choose 2–3 metal finishes and repeat each one at least twice.

• If you mix wood tones, make sure they share a common undertone (warm, cool, or neutral).

• Pair contrasting textures, like sleek marble with raw linen, to keep the room dynamic.

When Matching Makes Sense

Now, I’m not saying matching is always a bad move. Sometimes, repeating a finish can bring cohesion to a space—like matching cabinet hardware with faucet finish in a smaller bathroom, or using the same wood on kitchen cabinetry and the island for a cleaner look.

The trick is to use matching as a tool, not a rule.

Your Space, Your Style

At the end of the day, your home should feel like you. Mixing finishes helps you layer in character, reflect your personality, and avoid that previously-mentioned "catalog look." And if you're still unsure? Start small. Swap out a few fixtures, mix metals in a bathroom, or blend different wood accents in your living room.

You might just find that the imperfect combinations are what make your space feel perfectly you.

As long as your mixed finishes ultimately complement each other, you should be all set. Admittedly, that's more of an art than a science. If you're still struggling, that's where a professional comes into play. So check out my services to see if "we're a match!" - Couldn't resist.