If aluminum furniture pieces have been catching your eye lately, you’re certainly not alone. According to a recent Pinterest trend report, this material (and other metallics) is making major waves in the design world, particularly among millennials and Gen-Zers. And interior designers agree that aluminum is most definitely having a moment this year.
“The aluminum furniture trend is starting to trickle in as an exciting new thing for design,” says Linda Hayslett, the founder of LH.Designs. However, she explains that this material could easily be seen as “too trendy” and “could date a place if you’re not cautious about it.” As a result, Hayslett advises those who are curious about embracing aluminum to be mindful about their purchases. “Make sure to get something that’s interesting that almost acts like a work of art instead of just getting something just for the sake of getting something,” the designer adds. “If you treat this trend like a showpiece, then it won’t feel out of place and insignificant later.”
Many designers appreciate that aluminum pieces can function both indoors and out. “If your home is designed for indoor-outdoor living especially, it can be nice to have some material overlap between them for continuity,” says Adnan Anwar, the founder of Adnan Anwar Design. He adds that furnishings made from this material are lightweight and therefore easy to move around the house as desired, which is particularly ideal for those who like to redecorate their spaces often.
Raili Clasen, the founder of Raili CA Design, enjoys when aluminum pieces are powder-coated in colorful hues — by no means does one have to stick with a traditional silver shade. Unable to source brightly colored aluminum furniture that you love? Rosanna Bassford offers another suggestion. “Pair it with wood tones for warmth and color for a playful touch,” offers the founder of Memmo Interiors, who notes that aluminum can have the tendency to appear cold if not styled thoughtfully. You can certainly play with textiles, too. “Adding upholstered cushions, using one of the many outdoor fabrics now available, gives you all the comfort of indoor furnishings and seamlessly extends your design style outdoors,” says designer Pamela Nast.
Nast also appreciates aluminum due to its versatility (she notes that it’ll shine in modern and traditional spaces alike) and adds that it’s built to last, too, given that it’s weather-resistant and won’t fade or rust.
Be mindful that aluminum can corrode, though, so it’s worth investing in higher quality, more durable pieces.
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
