Guest Picks: Modern Copper, Patina Need Not Apply
If brass was the new chrome, then copper is the new brass. Yes, trends move quickly. Catch the copper while you can. And keep it polished. This is not your grandmother’s patina. — Marni from StyleCarrot
Photos & Products
Cappellini Accessory, Copper - $1,364
This is one pricey fruit bowl, but if you live minimal, think of it as a beacon in your expanse of white. I also love the idea of it in an industrial-style loft, amid gray concrete and raw wood.
Mepra Cutlery, Copper - $605
I always thought brass flatware too gold and shiny. If you want to stray from silver, try copper. The profile of this set is thoroughly modern. I love the long, skinny handles and uber-round spoons.
Moustache Cyclope Mirror - $589
The utterly adorable French designer Ionna Vautrin, whom I had the pleasure of hanging out with in Venice a few years ago, designs products that reflect her nature. This mirror is convex (funhouse time!) and mounted on a copper-colored porcelain stand. It would certainly up the elegance of a bathroom.
Progetto Oggetto Candelabrum, Copper - $1,107
This copper candelabra reminds me of a vintage brass one I found on eBay, but sturdier. Mine articulates, so lit candles aren’t so stable. This one is gorgeous and seems safer; perhaps I should upgrade.
Metallic/Linen Cushion Cover, Copper - $12.95
Faux metallic leather on the front and woven leather on the flip side, this copper-colored pillow is an inexpensive upgrade for sofa. I'd mix it with bright florals to keep things unfussy, or with kilims to add a spark.
Storage Basket, Bronze - $17.95
Plated in copper, the mundane industrial gym basket is suddenly chic. These could easily be left out in the open in an entryway. Or imagine how they’d look lining a shelf in your closet. Instant upgrade!
Champagne Pop Candle - $42
I’m not a huge fan of the gift candle, but this one holds a lot of appeal. I mean, it’s called “Champagne Pop.” I wonder if it smells like bubbly? I do adore the rose gold/copper holder.
Cylinder Shakers, Copper - $70
I love everything that comes out of the Seattle-based studio of Ladies & Gentlemen. The design duo has a way of elevating the simplest of forms, like these cylindrical salt and pepper shakers, which I actually featured in The Boston Globe last weekend.
Plumen Copper Drop Cap and Pendant Set - GBP 40
The shiny copper finish is a gorgeous contrast to this light’s ultra industrial silhouette. I imagine five hanging in a high-ceilinged loft kitchen over a stainless steel counter. Or one on each side of the bed, hung ultra low, as is the current fashion.
Blu Dot Scamp Large Table, Copper Base - Marble Top - $629
This table adds a hint of color and texture without taking up too much visual space. The grid-like base is a design that’s not often used. I imagine it atop a richly colored flat-weave kilim, as I think it would sink too deep in a pile rug.
4 ft. Gardenfall in Dark Copper - $400
For a more traditional take on copper, this mirrored waterfall would be pretty amazing in a modern outdoor patio space. I’d tuck it in the corner atop slabs of bluestone, slightly hidden behind oversize greenery. Or I might set it in front of a wall of bamboo.
x3 Watering Can, Solid Copper - $119
A watering can may be one of the most overlooked and undervalued home accessories. I have one that I adore in my house out on Cape Cod, and it makes adding water to flower vases a lot easier. This copper version is just what I need in the city.
Algedi Table, Copper and Marble - $1,750
Top any table with Carrara marble and I’m sold. My Saarinen tulip side tables are my prize possessions, but a geo copper base is just as appealing, especially if you’re trying to layer textures in a neutral space.
Mirror with Chains, Copper - $38
This copper-framed mirror with an iron chain is pure antique industrial. I love the idea of one on a white wall, or a cluster of many on brick wall. It’s the right-now equivalent of those little gilt-framed mirrors everyone was crazy about in the ‘90s.
Hay Hangers, Copper, Set of 5 - EUR 9.95
I favor flocked hangers, but these would be sublime in an upscale boutique, where sales ladies in pencil skirts are in charge of keeping each article of clothing hung straight and set a precise 2 inches apart.
Vogeli Bird Feeder - $78
I love this modern take on the traditional brass bird feeder. Its corkscrew design provides Jetsons-like shelter for the little guys helping themselves to seeds. But hopefully it’s not large enough for a squirrel to hang onto.
Copper and Marble Lamp - GBP 165
This copper desk lamp set in a simple marble base would be perfect on an uncluttered desk in a workspace, or as a nightstand in a modern, all-white guest room by the beach.
Copper Basket
I love the spindly nature of these baskets; they remind me of wicker (but way more elegant). I'd love to use the large one as a laundry hamper in my bedroom.
Terrarium, Teardrop - GBP 95
A terrarium looks great no matter what, but this faceted version edged in copper has a rustic feel that works especially well with cacti. And the little hook up top means you can hang it.
Hay Candelabrum - $44
I’ve been a fan of Danish design house Hay since visiting Copenhagen a couple of years ago. I’ve seen this candlestick holder in a number of finishes, but my favorite is the copper. It reminds me of a highly designed paper clip.
Next: Bask in the Glow of a Copper Fireplace
Next: Bask in the Glow of a Copper Fireplace