Decorative metal has always had a special place in my heart, not just for its strength and durability but for the unique way it interacts with light, adding layers of depth and sophistication to any space it graces. As the founder and lead designer of the top interior design firm for co-op and condo lobby and hallway renovations in New York City (Sygrove Associates Design Group), I have discovered that decorative metal can transform a space, regardless of whether the building was built in 1926 or 1986.

Using decorative metal as a design element isn’t just about introducing a shiny object into a room; it’s about crafting an atmosphere that exudes elegance and a certain level of comfort that resonates with well-being and satisfaction. The way light dances off a perfectly placed metal detail or element can make a cramped space feel more open and airy, instantly lifting the mood.

From historic pre-war buildings to sleek mid-century modern gems, our firm has become a somewhat connoisseur of decorative metal. We’ve found ways to weave metal into our designs in both grand and subtle ways, whether through tiny accent pieces or as defining architectural elements. Our goal is always twofold: to enhance the building’s character and to add a dynamic visual impact that leaves a lasting impression.

I often say that metal is like the secret spice of design — just a touch can dramatically transform it from good to unforgettable. Let’s take a closer look at a few projects where this “secret spice” has made all the difference:

Take, for instance, our challenge at this project on the Upper East Side). Faced with the need to accommodate a large mail room within the lobby, we sought a solution that would not look like a box that overwhelms the design.

Our solution? A transparent yet visually defining room divider made from decorative metal panels, backed by tinted mirrors. This ingenious pairing not only “lightens” the visual weight of the room but also plays with reflections and light so that it nearly makes the “box” disappear. It’s like creating a semi-permeable boundary that invites curiosity while maintaining functionality.

Who says wall vents have to be boring? We certainly don’t think so at Sygove. We transformed these mundane necessities into objects of subtle beauty by employing decorative metal patterns. For this hallway renovation on the Upper East Side we replaced the outdated vented grilles with a sleek, metal design that blends seamlessly with the surrounding décor and adds a high-quality yet subtle architectural detail.

Details like these transform hallways from just a passageway into a welcoming environment that residents love coming home to.

For this Art Deco treasure, we infused harmony between the distinctive existing terrazzo floor pattern and the necessary radiator covers. The result? A seamless visual connection that not only serves its purpose but does so with style and grace. It’s like finding the missing piece of a puzzle that suddenly makes everything come alive.

Decorative metal panels inject variety and texture into high-traffic areas, creating zones of visual interest that guide and delight, such as this doorman station in the East Village. Metal is more than just a material to us; it’s a medium through which stories of spaces and those who inhabit them are told.

Updating the common areas of your New York area co-op or condo building not only breathes new life into it but can also help maintain or even boost apartment values. Refreshed spaces equal elevated appeal, making your building not just a place to live but an intelligent investment.

From Me: If any of these stories inspire you to think about the potential of updating the common areas of your building, let’s talk about how we can create magic for you, too.