How to Incorporate Metal Into Your Bathroom

Metal can be an attractive addition to bathrooms if used carefully. There are many places where metal can be used, both in traditional ways, such as faucets, and in more unconventional applications, like metal ceiling tiles. 

When using metals in a room, it’s easy to assume that all the metal must be of the same kind and finish. However, if you do it carefully and follow some basic design rules, you can mix metals in your bathroom for interest and variety. 

When you use metal in a wet area such as the bathroom or kitchen, you should make sure you know how to care for it correctly. Most metals that you will be using in your bathroom are easy to care for and won’t be damaged by normal use, water, or soap. Some metals can be corroded by using strong cleaners, so do your research. Shiny surfaces can be marred by fingerprints and water spots, requiring frequent polishing to continue looking good.

Faucets and Hardware

Most bathrooms have metal faucets and hardware. These elements are easy to change out, so if you want to get creative with a unique feature in your bathroom, this is one of the easier options. If you stay away from the big box stores you can find plenty of unique options in a variety of metals and finishes. Consider using freestanding faucets for your bathtub or waterfall faucets in your sink. 

Bathtub

A metal bathtub is a statement piece that will be the focal point of your bathroom. Large copper bathtubs can set the scene for the whole room, and may be the only dramatic feature you need. The wall behind a freestanding tub should be protected with a waterproof surface such as metal or tile. A freestanding faucet is the perfect accompaniment for a metal tub.

Accent Wall

An accent wall can be a great way to include metal elements in your bathroom. You can build accent walls from a variety of different metal materials, including ceiling tiles, metal wall tiles, and sheet metal. Accent walls can be used behind freestanding tubs for a high-impact area, or designed on an unused wall to create a focal point.

Mirror

Your mirror can be a great place to add a little metal to your room. Consider mirrors with metal frames or wooden frames with metal accents. You could even try using a very reflective and shiny piece of metal in place of a mirror. 

Backsplash

The backsplash behind your counter is a great palace for metal accents. The whole area can be covered with shiny sheet metal, hammered copper, or even corrugated tin. Other options for a metal backsplash include tiles and stamped ceiling tiles. If a complete metal backsplash is too overwhelming, use metal accents in the backsplash instead.

Ceiling Tiles

If you are going for an elegant or old fashioned look, consider stamped ceiling tiles. These are squares of copper, tin, or other metal that have been stamped with elegant designs. They can be used on ceilings, as the name implies, or to create interesting backsplashes, accent walls, or even shower walls. A ceiling of metal tiles is certainly a unique and special look that will create a one-of-a-kind bathroom. When used in wet areas metal should be installed and cared for correctly.

Accent Pieces

The easiest way to add metal to your bathroom is through accent pieces. Towel rods, window treatments, toilet paper holders, and decorative accents are easy to find and replace. If you want a way to quickly add unique or custom touches to your room, consider hiring a metalworker to make matching accent pieces and drawer pulls. Another option is to look online and in specialty shops for unique pieces that show your personality. 

Storage

Storage areas like shelves and baskets can be attractive metal accents and are practical at the same time. Baskets made of wire or metal can store attractive towels or extra toilet paper. Shelves can be made with metal brackets, whether they are elegant and ornate or assembled from brass pipes for an industrial look. 

Exposed Plumbing

Exposed plumbing can be a feature in a bathroom as long as it is done carefully. Brass or hammered pipes add eyecatching lines to an industrial bathroom, while gleaming copper can look modern and elegant. If you don’t want to destroy your bathroom to expose the pipes, you can get the same look from unique purchased fixtures for your sink and tub.

Tiles

Metal tiles, as opposed to ceiling tiles, are shaped and sized like ceramic tiles. They can be incorporated with ceramic tiles for a bright accent, or a whole backsplash or wall can be assembled from metal tiles. You can also use metal tiles in the shower or behind a stand-alone tub to protect the wall and provide a bright focal point.