'This elevates any room and works every time' – these chic finds prove the unexpected chrome theory is the design trick every room needs

It's retro, it's chic, and it works in even the coziest of corners

butter yellow kitchen with wooden floors, chrome backsplash and a chrome extractor hood with a wooden round table and chrome chairs
(Image credit: Hollie Bowden / Genevieve Lutkin)

And just like that, chrome feels fresh again. Once associated with glossy modern kitchens and ultra-minimalist bathrooms, chrome has recently taken on a softer, more stylish edge – and as a life-long brass addict, I'm surprised by how much I love this trend.

Coined by expert Tash Bradley, director of interior design at Lick, the 'unexpected chrome theory' proves that the chrome decor trend can elevate any home. Skeptical? I was, too, but after testing it out in my own home, I can confirm: it works.

Her theory, that adding a sleek chrome accent to a warm-toned room instantly elevates the space, pairs beautifully with any interior design style and can be done in the smallest but most impactful of ways. Keep scrolling to shop my edit of the chicest chrome decor out there.

What is the 'unexpected chrome theory'?

So what is the so-called unexpected chrome theory, exactly? 'It’s simple,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'Every room benefits from a hit of chrome, even if the rest of the space is warm, earthy, or historically opposed to it. Just like the unexpected red theory, chrome acts as a friction point – a gleaming punctuation mark that keeps a room from feeling too safe, too tonal, or too expected.'

A touch of chrome cuts through cozy color schemes with just the right amount of contrast. It’s the perfect way to break up all those earthy hues we’ve been leaning into lately – think the rise of butter yellow and decorating with neutrals.

In her post on the return to chrome, Tash says: 'This elevates any room and works every time…trust me! Adding a cool chrome accent adds an element of contrast that breaks up a warm scheme and gives it a really effortlessly designed feel. This could be a small side table, lighting, retro chairs (the 70s did it best when it comes to chrome chairs), artwork, finishes (like a tap or handles), or something as small and simple as a lamp or water jug.'

stripe drenched living room with white and blue striped wallpaper on the walls and ceiling, a white couch, gallery wall and a chrome floor lamp

(Image credit: Lindsay Rhodes / Photography Mary Craven)

'After years of brass banding and golden accents, chrome is finally back in the spotlight – or rather, playing an unexpected supporting role in spaces,' agrees interior designer Bethany Adams.

'More casual than brass, this finish is popping up on design details meant to shine, but not overpower a space. Worried about how chrome will mix with your other metal finishes? Don't be. Like a mirror, chrome reflects whatever surrounds it, and therefore goes with everything,' she adds.

Shop 9 chic unexpected chrome home decor finds

From softly sculptural lamps to bistro-inspired serveware and retro stools, each of these finds embraces the spirit of the unexpected chrome theory.


Don’t underestimate the power of a little chrome. If you’re curious to try something unexpected for yourself, take a look at the 'one bold choice' TikTok design hack that is an easy-to-follow guide to make your home more unique.

Charlotte Olby
Style & Trends Editor

Charlotte is the style and trends editor at Homes and Gardens and has been with the team since Christmas 2023. Following a 5 year career in Fashion, she has worked at many women's glossy magazines including Grazia, Stylist, and Hello!, and as Interiors Editor for British heritage department store Liberty. Her role at H&G fuses her love of style with her passion for interior design, and she is currently undergoing her second home renovation - you can follow her journey over on @olbyhome

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