Simple Ways to Decorate with Feng Shui: The METAL element
This is the fourth article in a series that gives you simple ways to decorate with each of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. For broader introduction to the five elements read my Feng Shui 101 article about the Five Elements.
Using design elements to create the energy of METAL
This article gives you a taste and real examples of what you can use to decorate and design with the metal element. You can choose the level and amount of the element you want to bring in to your space. I will give you: a metal element paint option, accessories to bring metal energy into an office, and a simple way to bring the natural energy of metal into your space.
Why you should consider adding the metal element to your design:
- It increases productivity
- It is all about simplifying and organizing
- If you are feeling disorganized and scattered
- To connect with helpful people and timely opportunities
- If you need to communicate more clearly and articulately
Boosting ‘metal’ element areas of the bagua
You can also use the décor ideas below to enhance an area of the bagua. You can use metal in the following areas/guas of your home: Helpful People (Qian) and Children (Dui). It is also appropriate to use the metal element in your career area (Kan) as it supports and holds water. Read my Feng Shui 101 article for more information about the bagua.
Bringing in the metal element with design:
Metal element paint colour: For paint colour, you can use greys and whites (also tinted whites and very pale blue) to bring the energy of metal into a space. Metal chi is the energy of completion and productivity. If it works with your design, consider painting a wall in your Helpful People area (Qian) a clean and simple grey. Remember: grey doesn’t need to be cold, I love Sherwin Williams Dorian Gray which is a lovely warm, mid-tone grey. Tip: clearing the clutter, and having crisp, white walls is a simple way to increase productivity in your workspace (note: remember to add some life with small hits of colour or plants).
Metal element accessories: Accessorizing is an easy and flexible way to bring the five elements into a space. You can choose how much or little you would like to add: a toss pillow, a rug, piece of art or lighting. Tip: you can add a dramatic feature to your space with lighting. This orb lighting fixture brings in metal energy because of its finish and shape; round and spherical shapes represent the metal element.
Metal element - the real deal: The simplest and most straightforward way to bring the metal element into a space is with a metallic object. For example, I have a beautiful, large piece of pyrite (fool’s gold) supporting me in my office. Tip: brass is super hot right now. You can use brass planter pots or something like these adorable table sculptures from West Elm.
Next week: Simple Ways to Decorate with Feng Shui: The WATER element