The verdigris patina that is formed on certain metals when they are exposed to the elements has become part of a popular design trend used in buildings, landscapes and interior design. While the naturally occurring process that creates the bright blue and green colors may take time, there are methods to speed up the process on smaller items. However, a faux finish may work best for some projects.
Metals such as brass, bronze and copper are known for the texture and color that forms on their surface when left outdoors. These green, blue and rust colors are commonly referred to as verdigris. The most well-known example of a verdigris finish is likely the Statue of Liberty. Visitors are often surprised to learn the statue's bright color is not from paint.
This naturally occurring patina is produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. Most often, this occurs when metal is exposed to air or seawater, becoming weathered over time. The coloring may develop quickly or may take years, depending on whether the environment is urban or industrial and what elements are found in the area.
The beautiful greens, blues and rust colors of this patina are quite popular with building designers, landscapers and interior decorators. While it may take some time to develop the patina by leaving metals exposed to the elements, building designers and landscapers typically account for this process in their planning. However, interior decorators often work with materials and furnishings that wouldn't hold up to outdoor elements for an extended period of time. Other methods that either speed up or mimic the process may be more suitable for these applications.
As the trend of using metals in the home continues to grow, interior decorators are increasingly incorporating elements with a verdigris finish into their design plans. The bright colors offer a unique twist to the rustic flare many homeowners desire. For pieces and areas that would not tolerate exposure to the weather, an artificial process or faux finish may be used.
Most artificial methods use only simple household ingredients, such as salt, white vinegar and dish soap. However, there are likely many variations that would result in a suitable verdigris finish. Smaller pieces used throughout the home, such as planters, lamp bases and picture frames, would be perfect for this type of treatment.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Incorporating verdigris colors into exterior or interior design projects will add some punch to an otherwise rustic design. The trend will likely continue as the use of metals in interior design gains popularity. The best method for achieving this look will depend on where it's being applied and the intended use of the piece.
Metals such as brass, bronze and copper are known for the texture and color that forms on their surface when left outdoors. These green, blue and rust colors are commonly referred to as verdigris. The most well-known example of a verdigris finish is likely the Statue of Liberty. Visitors are often surprised to learn the statue's bright color is not from paint.
This naturally occurring patina is produced by oxidation or other chemical processes. Most often, this occurs when metal is exposed to air or seawater, becoming weathered over time. The coloring may develop quickly or may take years, depending on whether the environment is urban or industrial and what elements are found in the area.
The beautiful greens, blues and rust colors of this patina are quite popular with building designers, landscapers and interior decorators. While it may take some time to develop the patina by leaving metals exposed to the elements, building designers and landscapers typically account for this process in their planning. However, interior decorators often work with materials and furnishings that wouldn't hold up to outdoor elements for an extended period of time. Other methods that either speed up or mimic the process may be more suitable for these applications.
As the trend of using metals in the home continues to grow, interior decorators are increasingly incorporating elements with a verdigris finish into their design plans. The bright colors offer a unique twist to the rustic flare many homeowners desire. For pieces and areas that would not tolerate exposure to the weather, an artificial process or faux finish may be used.
Most artificial methods use only simple household ingredients, such as salt, white vinegar and dish soap. However, there are likely many variations that would result in a suitable verdigris finish. Smaller pieces used throughout the home, such as planters, lamp bases and picture frames, would be perfect for this type of treatment.
To achieve a verdigris finish on larger areas or on elements that are not made from metal, it may be best to apply a faux finish. Home improvement stores and craft centers often carry kits that contain everything needed to create a faux finish of this type, but it can easily be achieved using various shades of blue, green and metallic paints. A faux finish would be ideal for headboards, kitchen cabinets or even an accent wall.
Incorporating verdigris colors into exterior or interior design projects will add some punch to an otherwise rustic design. The trend will likely continue as the use of metals in interior design gains popularity. The best method for achieving this look will depend on where it's being applied and the intended use of the piece.
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