No longer are luxury interiors defined by expensive furniture, marbles surfaces, or decorative traditional items. Designers are looking for innovative finishes and they can add an exquisite and artistic appearance to an ordinary surface. One material which designers have recently started to experiment is the liquid metal finish and here is why. The most compelling reasons are that this finish is modern, has an rich metallic appearance, offers a seamless finish and it can literally be used to create a premium, artful look on any furniture, walls, ceilings and other decor items.
A liquid metal finish could add character to a room by its shiny reflective surfaces in metallic hues and that it might add a layer of sophistication to luxurious homes, executive offices, 5 star hotels, high-end restaurants or retail showrooms.
What is liquid metal?
The liquid metal is essentially decorative material used as a metallic coating system to give the look and feel of authentic metal finish to the surfaces. This is an alternative method, for not using metal sheets or solid metallic panels for achieving a metal surface in its truest form, instead it is the coating that gives the desired metal effect over any suitable surface or material. The liquid metal finish can be custom made to look like bronze, copper, brass, aluminum, iron, steel, etc., all according to the desired color, texture, pattern and shine one needs.
One of the major reasons for the popularity of liquid metal finish in modern design is that it makes the whole metallic appearance look much easier to attain, when we compare it to fabricating everything using real metal material.
Why is liquid metal becoming so popular?
The modern interior designing world is all about individuality, and textures with a strong visual appeal. Even though paint can introduce colors and wallpaper can lend patterns to a space, the liquid metal finish adds completely different character. The metallic quality of the liquid metal coating system captures light.
Depending on the angle, the surface can subtly change its look with the movement of light source and naturally, of natural daylight.
This makes it ideally suited for any focal points, where you want to create an accent without overwhelming the look of the entire room.
Liquid metal on high end furniture:
One of the most fascinating applications of liquid metal would be on furniture. Tables, cabinets, consoles and other decorative pieces can all benefit from a metallic makeover. For example, a coffee table can be a centerpiece simply by virtue of having a liquid metal finish to it.
Similarly, adding a metallic touch with liquid metal in bronze, brass, or even iron can create a completely new contemporary living space.
Compared to other metal effects, liquid metal finishes often achieve the look of something more organic or handmade.
Feature walls with liquid metal finish
Adding a decorative liquid metal finish on a feature wall can transform any room. Imagine a metallic accent behind your bed, TV, reception desk, dining table, or art. Based on the color chosen, it can create an accent to minimalism, to a glam luxurious interior.
Dark hues can bring out the richness of a lavish room while lighter metallics add subtle glow to modern office spaces.
The possible textures and applications that can come with the liquid metal coating system can truly create art in your walls.
Creating different interior styles with Liquid Metal.
In a contemporary interior setting, a smooth surface can provide a subtle sophisticated feel, whereas in an industrial design a grittier feel can be achieved with dark metallic colors. To enhance a luxurious interior, shimmering hues of gold, bronze or copper can be applied to the walls or furniture. Cool metallic shades like chrome and silver or even aluminum, can give a chic modern feel and it is commonly used in offices, showrooms and retail establishments.
The finish can change in appearance depending on color, application technique, the smoothness of the surface prior to application, and what type of sealant is used.
Advantages of Liquid metal finishing:
There are a number of reasons as to why designers and homeowners opt for a liquid metal finish on high end projects:
- Premium look: A liquid metal finish can instantly instill a metallic look to any furniture item or structural surfacing.
2. Designer flexibility: This coating can be applied on a variety of substrates and can be customized as per color, texture, and overall appeal required.
3. Lighter than solid metal: A metallic look is achievable without having to incorporate heavy and solid metal components for furniture pieces and walls etc.
4. Unique finish: The application can give different texture or variations to individual pieces for a one off look.
5. Custom application: designers can use this finish to create anything from simple metallic looking coffee table to elaborate walls or decorative items.
Where can the Liquid Metal be used?
You are not restricted for residential interiors, rather Liquid metals can be applied on various luxury commercial interior spaces like hotels, restaurants, executive offices, retail outlets, showrooms and studios. Commonly, the following surfaces can be finished:
* Accent walls
* Furniture & cabinet surfaces
* Wardrobes
* Reception desks
* Doors & wardrobes
* Decorative panels
* Ceilings & columns
* Retail displays
* decorative elements
This coating is effective when it’s used selectively to add interest to architectural elements or furniture without overpowering the room.
Is liquid metal for you?
If you are aiming for a room or piece of furniture with a distinct and eye catching design feature , liquid metal finish could be the one for you. Ensure that the surface is properly prepared before application. The suitable substrate should be smooth, stable and free from any dust. Professional application is usually recommended for flawless results regarding texture, colour, adhesion, and protective coating.
Conclusion
Liquid metal finish is one of the modern alternatives you can resort to for any interior with premium aesthetics. It is an excellent alternative to solid metallic elements and for all the design lovers who wish to experiment with surfaces and textures. With custom colors, textures, lighting effects, and professional work, liquid metal can create the perfect sophisticated finishing touch for a modern or traditionally inspired interior.