One of the hottest home trends today is pairing wood and metal. And while most of us think of it as rustic meeting industrial, wood and metal can be partnered in almost any home style – from traditional to eclectic to contemporary. Here are some of our suggestions to beautifully blend wood and metal, whatever your décor aesthetic:

Lean either way. You don’t have to commit to wood and metal in equal measure. If you lean toward modern, opt for more metal and minimal wood. Choose cool-toned metals especially nickel, steel and iron; the look is very urban. If, on the other hand, you prefer casual and cozy, choose lots of wood with metal touches. Consider integrating warm metals like bronze and dull gold as accents.

Go with furnishings that combine wood and metal. One of the best ways to explore the wood and metal trend is furnishings that blend the two elements. From bedroom to living room to dining room to office, every conceivable piece, wood tone, metal finish and style is available. Don’t forget, you can always choose smaller pieces in this trend – coffee and end tables, accent tables or a hall table, for example.

Blend separate pieces. Looking to create a one-of-a-kind look? Mix and match separate furnishings to achieve spectacular results. How about a traditional wood dining table with metal chairs? Or a wrought iron headboard with dark wood dressers? Or ultra chic metal end tables with an elegant wood-trimmed sofa? The possibilities are endless!

Look up! An all-wood ceiling is a gorgeous indulgence. Distressed wood is especially trendy and you can make it even more stunning by adding steel beams. The look is very urban loft, but can be achieved in many homes. Keep the furnishings and walls neutral to let the ceiling take centre stage!

How about accessories? Want to sample the wood/metal trend rather than leaping in? No problem! Look for beautiful wood signs (often with inspirational sayings), partnered with metal wall hangings like letters, geometric patterns and much more. Or go a step further with a distressed wood table in your hallway partnered with galvanized metal boxes for gloves, umbrellas, etc. How about a wrought iron gate repurposed as a unique wall hanging, positioned with a rustic wood bench?

Try antiques with metal. The ultimate juxtaposition is vintage wood with industrial metal. Rich oak, walnut and mahogany antique pieces get a new life next to fun and fresh metal benches, chairs and tables. Use your creativity!

Stick with durable, solid pieces. Whatever your décor style, metal and wood pairings have an air of solidity. Clean lines define the look; it’s never dainty or fussy. Be sure to choose pieces that reflect that – simple, strong and uncomplicated – yet definitely stylish!

Whatever your style sensibilities, pairing wood and metal is a trend that you can easily achieve – as a major statement or a striking accent.