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Shopping for the home is exciting. There's so much to see, and so many places to get ideas from! To help narrow down your options, we suggest looking out for these materials during your hunt for displays and statement pieces. Remember, objects are much more than just their designs - their appeal and beauty are influenced by what they are made of too!
METAL
Metal, and a laminate that looks like concrete gives the kitchen a cooler feel. Slim metal legs on one side of the kitchen island makes it seem less bulky.
(design: Space Sense)
Evocative of the industrial age, metal communicates toughness and durability. And have you noticed? When polished, the material is instantly elevated to the higher end of the social status ladder!
CORK
Torno Cork Tray Stand from Lemongrass & Aubergine
(Torno Cork Tray Stand by Lemongrass & Aubergine)
Cork carries a humility that speaks to everyone, and is a texture that just begs to be touched.
PORCELAIN
A mismatched collection of hand-painted porcelain in a rustic cupboard adds to the old-world charm.
(image: Design Intervention)
Porcelain can be whimsical and delicate - both when left bare and without intricate carvings, as well as painted on.
WOOD
[Renovation Costs: Over $1.6 million] The couple had a pair of mangrove roots, which were purchased from Zia Concept, made into door handles for the main entrance.
(Design: Substance Living)
Bare woodgrain has a familiar honesty about it. Designers exploit wood's organic texture by carving, chopping, and shaping the material to form natural patterns. You can never go wrong with wood.
GLASS
Instead of a typical bedside table lamp, a glass bubble pendant light hangs above the bed.
(design: Habit LLP)
Glass is versatile. It can take on as many looks as there are ways to mould it - from glossy, luxe appeal to chunky, down-to-earth forms.