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Using gold in interior design has a long history dating back to Ancient Egypt. Over the centuries, it has helped royals and celebrities showcase their wealth—whether it was Louis XIV building his image as the Sun King through the majestic Palace of Versailles or modern-day celebrities decorating their mansions.
Gold might not be to everyone’s taste, and it can certainly appear tacky when overused or poorly applied. However, when used correctly, gold accents such as gold frames not only look elegant but also add a touch of luxury and opulence to any space. This finish can warm up neutral interiors, lift a moody colour palette, and inject a sense of refinement.
If you’re thinking, “A little bit of bling has never hurt anyone!”, here’s how you can use gold frames to elevate your space with sophistication.
Which Styles Work Best with Gold?
When thoughtfully incorporated, gold elements can help you achieve a glamorous home aesthetic without going over the top. There are no rigid rules, gold frames can adorn your walls regardless of your chosen interior style. However, certain styles, such as traditional, contemporary glamour, Art Deco, and Hollywood Regency, are perfect for showcasing gold’s ability to create a sense of wonder and sophistication.
Minimalistic and Scandi-inspired spaces, however, benefit from gold only if used sparingly and in a complementary way. Bright, shiny gold pieces may not be the best fit for these simple and neutral aesthetics, but more muted gold tones can be highly effective.
How to Choose Frames in Gold?
Gold has been used in framing for years because of its shiny, inviting nature and ability to pair well with many colours and styles. Consider the undertone, frame style and mounting type when choosing luxurious frames in gold so you can style your artwork and pictures in the right way throughout your home.
Pick the Correct Undertone
Sometimes, a frame and artwork combo just “feels right,” and this is often because the tones of the frame and artwork are in harmony. For a cohesive look, consider whether your artwork has warm or cool tones and match the frame accordingly. Warm frames and artworks have red or orange undertones, while cool ones lean toward blue or green. It’s also important to consider the tone of your walls, as they’ll form part of the overall colour palette.
Select a Frame Style
Once you’ve determined the right hue of gold, the next step is to choose a style that suits both your artwork and your home’s aesthetic. Slim metal and wood frames in gold are great options for those seeking a modern look. These come in simple styles that pair beautifully with abstract art and treasured photographs. For a more classic feel, ornate golden wood frames look stunning when mounted above couches or in corridors.
Choose the Correct Size
Whether opting for standard or custom-made ones, it’s important to choose the right size for your artwork or photos. Decide whether you want the picture to fit perfectly within the frame or if you’d prefer a larger one with some space around the image. Shopping from a specialised store can help, as knowledgeable staff can offer advice on the best size for your gold accents.
Think About Mounting
A mount not only keeps your photo off the glass but also helps integrate the artwork into your space. Mounts come in various colours, such as green, blue, black, and white, allowing you to find the perfect match. Metallic mounts in shades like old gold pair especially well with gold-trimmed frames, enhancing the luxurious feel.
Styling Tips
Consider Your Current Style
What works well in a gold frame? While some designers claim that gold doesn’t suit monochrome interiors, yellow-toned gold accents can actually brighten a black-and-white scheme. Try hanging a retro black-and-white poster in a gold frame, paired with a gold overhead light or desk lamp for a harmonious look.
Gold frames can also add a touch of sunshine to bohemian interiors or help create an old Hollywood vibe when paired with vintage photographs. With so many possibilities, it’s wise to consider your existing decor before introducing gold frames to the mix.
To Match It or Not to Match?
Think about how gold will complement the individual elements of your space. Knowing the colour scheme you want can help guide your choices in furniture, lighting, and other decor. Gold looks especially striking against dark tones, though pulling off this dramatic style requires confidence. For those who love bolder looks, these frames can create stunning contrasts in spaces with dark walls or furnishings. If you prefer lighter, airier tones, gold can still work beautifully, adding a subtle touch of elegance.
Show Off Your Personality!
Your interior design should reflect your personality, so don’t be afraid to take risks. It’s your space, and it should make you feel good. Consider pairing bold, vibrant artwork with gold frames for a striking effect. And if you want to mix metals, go for it! Combining gold frames with copper or silver ones can create an eclectic, personalised look that’s all your own. Ultimately, interior design is about creating a space that resonates with you and not about not following trends or rules.
