Wrought iron has forged its way through home decor for millennia, being recreated by each generation to suit the look of the moment.
Gail Thomson, owner of Cricklewood Interiors, says wrought-iron beds will always be a popular, classic option for the bedroom, but in the rest of the house, we're using the old-fashioned material in newer ways.
"We've seen a move away from the large iron furniture pieces like dining room sets and coffee and end tables," she says. "Instead, now, iron is more a grounding accent."
Three- or four-foot candle sconces, filled not just with lights and candles, but with other decorative elements such as rocks, flowers or potpourri, can add a great deal to the overall feel of a home.
"Another thing most people are doing is changing the hardware on cabinets and furniture, creating an entirely new look with a minimal investment," Thomson says.
Wrought-iron wall art is a textural, attractive alternative to hanging pictures ad nauseam, she says. And a mirror with a wrought- iron frame that's big enough to lean against the wall would be very chic.
Thomson says fireplace screens are another favourite iron accent, some holding as many as 100 tealights to add ambience when you don't feel like having a roaring fire.
They also serve to hide ugly fireplaces, turning eyesores into eye candy.
"We're also seeing a demand for wrought-iron fireplace tools, even for gas fireplaces," she says.
Finally, look to the light for iron, as iron chandeliers remain aglow, and wrought-iron lamps are incorporating diverse materials like wood for a richer, stronger look.
