Metal interior design has become a defining element of modern architecture, bringing together luxury, durability, and versatility. From hotels and office towers to retail and transportation hubs, designers are turning to interior metal design to create bold, refined environments that communicate sophistication and strength.
For decades, Polished Metals has partnered with architects, designers, and builders to provide finished metals that transform ordinary interiors into extraordinary spaces. Whether brushed, mirrored, or custom-finished, our metals lend visual impact and long-term performance to every project.
Why Metals Are Used in Interior Design
Metal is one of the most adaptable and expressive materials in the design world. It’s sleek yet strong, classic yet contemporary, making it a perfect fit for commercial interiors where both aesthetics and performance matter.
Durability and Performance
Metals offer excellent longevity and structural integrity, standing up to high-traffic environments such as lobbies, corridors, and elevator banks. Their resistance to corrosion and wear ensures that commercial spaces maintain their appearance over time.
Aesthetic Versatility
Polished or brushed metal finishes bring light, reflection, and contrast to interior spaces. Designers often use them to add dimension and sophistication—balancing warmth and texture with materials like wood, stone, or glass. From warm brass tones to cool stainless steel, metals can complement any design vision.
Common Metals Used in Interior Design
Polished Metals works with a variety of high-quality materials that serve both decorative and functional purposes in metal interior design.
Brass
Known for its warm golden hue, brass is often used for trim, fixtures, railings, and accent details. Its distinctive look enhances luxury environments such as hotels, theaters, and upscale retail interiors.
Bronze
Bronze brings a rich, timeless feel to interior metal design. It’s often selected for architectural details, panels, and doors due to its understated, elegant finish with superior durability.
Stainless Steel 
For sleek, modern commercial interiors, stainless steel is a go-to material. Its reflective surface enhances lighting, and it’s ideal for elevators, escalators, and other high-use installations. Learn more on our Elevator and Escalator Metal Finishes page.
Aluminum
Lightweight yet strong, aluminum provides design flexibility for large-scale wall systems, ceiling panels, and decorative trim. It’s also highly customizable in finish and color.
Applications of Polished Metals in Commercial Interiors
Metals are used throughout commercial interiors to create high-end, durable design features that stand out visually and perform functionally.
Elevators and Escalators
Polished and brushed metals are essential to elevator and escalator interiors, providing both aesthetics and protection. From mirror-polished stainless steel to brushed bronze panels, Polished Metals helps designers achieve the perfect blend of form and function for vertical transportation systems.
Lobby and Reception Areas
Brass, bronze, and stainless steel are frequently used for wall cladding, columns, and trim in lobbies and reception areas. These finishes project a professional, luxurious atmosphere that makes a strong first impression.
Fixtures, Furniture, and Decorative Elements
From lighting fixtures and signage to trim accents and furniture inlays, interior metal design provides countless ways to integrate metal’s reflective beauty into everyday spaces.
Mixing Metals in Commercial Interior Design
One of the most effective trends in interior metal design is the art of mixing metals. By combining warm and cool tones, designers can create balance and visual intrigue within commercial environments.
Techniques for Mixing Metals
- Contrast Warm and Cool Finishes: Pairing brass or bronze with stainless steel or aluminum creates dynamic contrast without overwhelming a space.
- Maintain Finish Consistency: Choose complementary sheens, such as all brushed finishes, to keep the look cohesive.
- Use Metal as an Accent: In large-scale commercial settings, use one metal as the primary finish (such as stainless steel for structure) and another as an accent (like polished brass for highlights).
Mixing metals adds character and depth to commercial interiors while emphasizing craftsmanship and design intent.
Polished Metals: Your Partner in Metal Interior Design
At Polished Metals, we specialize in producing finished metals that meet the highest standards of quality and beauty. Our 50,000-square-foot facility and expert finishing processes allow us to deliver consistent results on even the most complex commercial projects from elevators and escalators to architectural interiors and custom fabrication.
Whether you’re designing a hotel, corporate office, or public space, our team can help you find the perfect combination of materials and finishes to bring your design vision to life.
Reach out today for a quote or to discuss your upcoming project.