In recent times, dark, brass, and matte finishes have been the go-to choices for interior design, but chrome is poised for a dazzling comeback in 2025. Its adaptability, affordability, and inherent luster are rejuvenating its allure for home decoration, adding a glossy touch to everyday items and fixtures.
Sarah Tract, the founder of Sarah Tract Interiors, observes, “I believe chrome is experiencing another golden era, as it ticks so many boxes.” It embodies a contemporary feel while also invoking the nostalgic charm of Bauhaus and mid-century design, which resonates with today’s tastes.
As homeowners refresh their spaces and experiment with new aesthetics, chrome is proving to be a harmonious finish. “Chrome offers a clean look and can be an excellent secondary finish when paired with others,” Steph Schlegelmilch, the founder and creative director of Studio Seva, explains. Schlegelmilch also credits chrome’s affordability for its resurgence, allowing for budget-friendly upgrades like new faucets, hardware, or decor.
The flexibility and accessibility of chrome are central to its burgeoning popularity. “In terms of style, chrome is like a chameleon,” Tract notes, “It effortlessly blends with other finishes and materials, never looking out of place. It adds a touch of sophistication without overshadowing the rest of the design.”
Moreover, chrome finishes come in a vast array of styles, from ultra-modern edges to soft, traditional curves, making it simple to find complementary options.
Schlegelmilch points out that polished chrome is becoming increasingly common in accessories, from lighting to tableware, offering an edgy yet refined look. She emphasizes the charm of incorporating subtle chrome accents, like candlesticks, throughout the home.
Tract suggests using chrome for sculptural tables and slim chairs to add a polished depth to living and dining areas. “It’s a bit of sparkle that enhances light and texture without clashing with warmer elements,” she says, noting its particularly striking effect on light fixtures. “Chrome sconces or chandeliers are particularly refreshing, as their reflective surfaces amplify the glow and add depth to the room.”
Bathrooms and kitchens continue to be the classic realms for chrome finishes. “We’ve employed chrome in numerous homes, but we’re particularly fond of its effect in bathrooms,” Schlegelmilch remarks. “Chrome has a knack for brightening up spaces and reflecting light, which I appreciate for faucets and hardware, as it imparts a pristine, thoughtful appeal,” Tract adds.
Schlegelmilch and Tract agree that chrome should be used thoughtfully to maintain its fresh appeal. “Chrome is invigorating when used correctly,” Schlegelmilch says, noting that it has been overshadowed by other finishes in recent years. “Intelligent application will ensure it feels current rather than outdated.”
Schlegelmilch advises against using chrome as the sole finish in a space but recommends incorporating it as a secondary finish with materials like bronze or blackened steel for a balanced look. “Chrome should be sparingly used, but always present in multiple areas to create a cohesive feel,” she adds.
Tract recommends using chrome as an accent to add brilliance and contrast, akin to styling jewelry with an outfit. She suggests using it on trays, vases, lamp bases, mirrors, and side tables. “Its reflective nature adds light and dimension, making small accents stand out,” she notes. “Even in small amounts, it can dramatically change the ambiance of a room.”
While chrome’s cool, modern characteristics can sometimes make it seem stark, Schlegelmilch cautions against using it excessively in hardware, as it can come off as cold. “Chrome is at its best when it complements a design that can temper its sharpness,” Tract advises. “It truly shines with clean lines, modern forms, and as a sleek accent against softer materials.” However, there are occasions where chrome may not be the most suitable, such as in an overly organic, natural style, as it can appear too polished or sharp.
