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Lately, we find ourselves drawn to a decorative scheme at odds with our usual. In lieu of the neutrally-charged or vibrantly saturated interiors, we typically side with, we’ve noticed a sudden shift in interest towards the darker end of the color spectrum.
Blame it on the impending gloom of winter or think of it as a form of retaliation to the whitewashed minimalism movement—in short, the moody palette promises a departure from the ordinary.
We’re calling it modern farmhouse meets Art Deco: Think Gatsby walks into Restoration Hardware. The aesthetic marries a dark palette with warm lustrous accents, often manifested by way of brass fixtures set against an all-black backdrop.
We saw hints of it within the collections of designers such as Lara Bohinc—the creative behind the sculpturally defined Celeste Chair—and Apparatus’s coveted ACT III lighting series, each one demonstrating the seamless union of the two hues. With time, the tonal trend evolved, merging with the modern farmhouse movement, which has, as of late, taken the design world by storm.
Whether you choose to embrace the combo in its entirety or sneak it in by way of subtle accessories, here are a few inspired ways to bring the power pairing home.
Utilize accent pieces—such as the lighting, side tables, or rugs—as an opportunity to embrace the tonal pairing in an understated manner. Here, a defined brass light fixture is strategically placed above the low-standing side table, with its steel black base, alluding to the color combination with a less-than-obvious approach.
Matte black cabinetry calls for a high-contrast addition, best achieved with sleek brass pulls. Take a visual cue from this country-chic kitchen, where hints of the metal lend a dynamic layer atop the all-black cabinets. Bonus points for extending the finish to the hardware and fixtures as well.
Here, an otherwise basic monochrome shelf is instantly uplifted courtesy of a sleek brass bowl.
Ready to replicate the combo in your space? Ahead are the essentials you’ll want to grab.
Blackline Small Board, Blackcreek Mercantile & Trading Co., $175 and Bone Handcrafted Knife, Poglia, $285
A knife that warrants a waitlist is definitely a winner in our books—one that boasts a composition as sleek and intricate as this, even more so. Pair with a handcrafted matte black cutting board and you’ll have yourself a duo as dynamic as the color combination itself.
Pepe Wall Marble Mirror, Menu, $650
The addition of marble takes this black and brass pairing to new heights. What was once a functional vanity staple is transformed into an elevated accent piece that will make a statement regardless of where it sits.
1940s Vintage Toledo Barstool, Restoration Hardware, $297
If this isn’t the perfect barstool, we don’t know what is. With its bent steel base, sleek brass finish, and stained black seat, this is a statement accent piece if we’ve ever seen one.
Medium Hook, Carl Aubock, $290
With its brass patina detailing and handmade composition, this versatile hanger is what that sad entry of yours was missing.
Tavolo Basso 059, Dimore Studio, price upon request
Consider this proof that a functional piece of furniture can act as a decorative focal point. Designed with contrast in mind, this side table is elevated by its marble brass top and oxidized brass detailing.
Norden Brass Incense Burner, Anthropologie, $45
There is something to be said of an incense burner that boasts a lustrous quality. This solid brass burner, with its sleek black incense stick, feels luxe yet contemporary at the same time.
Darbuka Brass Coffee Table, CB2, $749
Every living room deserves a spotlight-stealing moment and what better way to achieve said goal than with a coffee table as bold as this? Set on a brass base, this cement table embodies the trend we’re coveting to the T.
Brass Pendant, Tala, $70
The streamlined base of this delicate pendant instills are refined quality to any room.