Which Metal is for You?

Within the category of metal wallplates, two distinct forming processes are used: stamping and die-cast. It’s not important to choose a wallplate based on the manufacturing process, but understanding this process helps you understand why different Amerelle plates have different feels and finishes to them. Stamping uses a tool and die to press a metal blank into the desired wallplate shape, resulting in a perfectly formed yet economical wallplate with a simple, clean design. Amerelle’s popular Sonoma and Chelsea designs are stamped metal options to consider. On the other hand, die-cast wallplates generally feature more ornate designs that stamping alone can’t create. Die-casting involves forcing a molten metal into a cavity; because the molten metal flows freely, die-cast decorative plates can include more delicate, intricate shapes. Amerelle’s English Garden, Momfort, and Steps options are great examples of die-cast wallplates.

Photo: English Garden Collection, Aged Bronze

The finish options for metal wallplates are more expansive than for any other Amerelle wallplate category, and include painted white, antique bronze, brushed nickel, polished brass, and more. No matter which finish you choose, you’re getting a permanent coating that lasts the lifetime of the wallplate and resists scratches and scuffs. If the switchplates are the only change you’re making to your space, the wallplate finish may be dictated by the design elements already dominating your décor. Choose plates that coordinate wit your existing style. But if you’re fully remodeling your space, you’ll enjoy full creative leeway to choose any plate you want, letting your wallplates be the center of attention!

Photo: Century Collection, Chrome, Brushed Nickel, Antique Nickel, Matte Black

When you’re only upgrading your outlet wall covers and not contemplating a full remodel, it’s important to choose a wall cover that coordinates to your existing décor. If your current décor is ornate, an ornate metal wallplate such as our English Gardens or Filigree can blend seamlessly. If your décor consists of clean orthogonal style lines, consider a more classic-styled plate such as Steps, Century, or Metro Line. Mixing different finishes of metals can yield a great look with a depth that a single metal alone cannot achieve; read on below for more tips on decorating with mixed metals. If in doubt, matching to your existing finish is always a safe bet.

Mixing two metal finishes within a single space adds depth and interest to the room, but should be styled properly. Choose a dominant metal for the room; this finish should match your room’s tone (cool or warm). Cool metal finishes include nickel, chrome, and black, while warm finishes include brass, bronze, and gold. The secondary metal choice should contrast the dominant finish and be used sparingly. With their compact size, wallplates serve as the perfect accent piece to deliver a secondary finish to any room but can also be used to increase dominance of the primary metal if there is already a secondary finish present in the space. Avoid mixing non contrasting finishes like combining brass & bronze or nickel & chrome.