Design Happens

Our color team’s goal each month is to introduce you to a hue that’s on the rise but may not be pinging your design radar — yet. For March, we selected a color to inspire both the traditionalists and modernists among you (and everyone in between!). This hip hue brightens indoor and outdoor spaces equally well while providing a dramatic counterpoint to spring’s traditional colors.   

This color is sexy, bold and, depending on what it’s paired with, can read either feminine or masculine.

Wanna know what it is? 

Copper!

1. kitchen with copper accents  2. oh joy! copper dots

“ This isn’t your grandma’s verdigris — this modern, super shiny copper glows. I love the impact copper makes when paired with crisp white, natural wood and pops of jewel tones or pastels. It’s an unexpected new neutral and blowing up as a trend, so you may not love it yet…but it will grow on you.” —Marianne Canada, HGTV Home Studio

  1. dreamy place setting  2. copper backsplash in kitchen designed by Joan Nemirow

“For years, I’d see a gorgeous copper sink or freestanding tub with a patina finish but it just never felt like a color to me –  just a metal. Now I’m seeing modern, metallic copper in a whole new light. It’s a step forward while offering a retro view of the past, and its characteristics are both warm and comforting with a sleek, cool finish. Copper is a little bit of everything and a whole lot of cool – which just makes you fall in love with it that much more.” —Kayla Kitts, Assistant Editor 

1. interior copper wall    2. exterior copper wall

“There’s an unassuming beauty to copper that’s endearing. This glowing color doesn’t boast, it doesn’t overwhelm. Instead, copper makes its presence known very subtly while stealing the show. From beautiful door and window overhangs on new construction to carefully crafted furniture pieces in designer showrooms, I’m seeing copper everywhere.” — Grant Dudley, Programming Manager
 1. ingenious penny-covered floor   2. Emily Henderson’s painted candles (learn how to make them!)

“As a devoted cook and food lover, I’ve long dreamed of having my very own set of copper pots. But move copper to more unexpected parts of the house – like a fireplace surround or accent wall – and it feels instantly modern. Or, ahem, change your bathroom or kitchen’s look by tiling a wall or floor with real pennies. It’s all about the Lincolns!” —Liz Gray, Senior Online Editor

1. Christopher Peacock copper drawer pulls   2. Tom Dixon copper pendant

 ”Warm, vibrant and lively are words that come to mind when I see copper used in interior design. The glamorous color brings an unexpected twist to decorating, whether used in large amounts or in small doses.” —Farima Alavi, Assistant Editor

So, what’s your take; are you ready to embrace this up-and-comer? Maybe this little project will change your mind.