Rose gold was expected to be a flash in the pan. But against all odds, the warm hue has blossomed in recent years. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the qualities that make rose gold popular for interiors, how to include it in your home, and some inspiration for colour pairings.
From Fabergé eggs to fashionable phones
Rose gold was originally created in the 19th century, by Carl Fabergé – yes, of Fabergé Eggs fame. It was popular for feminine jewellery in the US during the 1920s Art Deco era, but after, that interest waned.
That is, until just a few years ago. Rose gold sashayed onto the interiors scene as the glamorous, new metallic on the block, seemingly because of a new iPhone colour introduced by Apple!
Many predicted it was merely a flash in the pan – owing to rose gold’s track record. The colour was unlikely to be a keeper, and would exit stage left in no time at all. Those predictions couldn’t be more wrong!
Enormously popular for its subtle warmth and gentle opulence, rose gold is, indeed, a keeper.
A mix of metallic pink and gold, rose gold paint shares some similarities with copper, but without the orangey notes. Where copper can sometimes have an industrial feel, rose gold is softer and usually more subtle. Most often, the colour is noticeably pink, but some rose gold paints have stronger gold notes.
How to include this blushing beauty in your home
Metallics often look their best when viewed at an angle or when used on a surface that has curves, lines or texture. This allows reflected light to show their beauty. Their other key benefit is that they provide a strong contrast, especially when used with matte or low-sheen surroundings and surfaces.
So, whilst they can be used for large, flat surfaces, like walls, they lend themselves particularly beautifully to furniture, patterning, detailing and accessories.
For the adventurous, using metallic paint in simple but unexpected ways can bring an added sense of richness, drama and playfulness. This is demonstrated perfectly by Frenchic fan, Claire Egglestone, who dared to be different with her front door, using a base of Al Fresco Dusky Blush with Metallics Regal Rosie on top. A trick you could use for any woodwork.
Natural partners for rose gold
The warm glow of rose gold tones works well with a wide variety of colours – from pale and interesting to dark and dramatic.
Nude and vintage pinks
While this is a tonal pairing, the gold notes provide just enough contrast to avoid too much of a match. Think Dusky Blush and Nougat (below). Add warm whites, ivory, cream or even beige for a calming, tonal palette.
Cool neutrals
Cool neutrals like grey can appear cold or washed out without some balance. That’s exactly why the likes of Swanky Pants and Posh Nelly will benefit from the warmth of rose gold. Include natural wood tones and plenty of soft white for a modern, fresh combination.
Greens and blues
Soft greens, teals and aqua shades look stunning with rose gold. The contrasting tones of these combinations offset each other with the cool green and blue notes of Steel Teal and After Midnight, for example, bringing a little freshness – nicely demonstrated on this beautiful chest of drawers by Frenchic fan, Mavis Wynne.
Black
Minimalistic and dramatic, black such as Blackjack or Panther will allow any metallic to shine. You can go all-out with these two for a super-glamourous look or include off-white to pare things down.
Navy
Softer than black, navy and rose gold is a sophisticated and smart teaming. Try Smooth Operator (below) and Hornblower. Admittedly a little unusual and unexpected, this combination is a great modern take for both colours.
Find your perfect pairings with Frenchic
Whether you’re going calm and tonal or contrasting rose gold with deep, dark colours, Frenchic makes it easy to find the perfect shade for your interiors (and exteriors!). We have over 150 wonderful paint colours across our many product ranges, so you can pair rose gold with blues, greens, blacks or neutrals on practically any project.
All our paints are chalk-based, self-priming and highly durable to give you long-lasting results without the hassle. Order a colour chart today or find your nearest Frenchic stockist to see our colours in person.
