This month, we’re listening closely to the surfaces and materials that make interiors sing. From the shimmer of chrome to the organic hush of mycelium, new finishes are stepping into the spotlight with both beauty and intention. We’re exploring how designers are using metal, tile, and even fungi to add texture, tone, and a little unexpected harmony to residential spaces. Consider this your material mix tape.

CHROME IF YOU WANT TO

Chrome is staging a comeback, and it’s bringing the drama. Once the darling of Bauhaus minds and Baughman lounges, it’s back in a big way. We’re spotting it in sculptural lighting, tubular chairs, and coffee tables with serious presence. The shine is crisp, the lines are clear, and the effect is bold. Paired with soft textiles, wood, or plaster, chrome stands out on its own. A little goes a long way, so using it requires skill and finesse.

THEY HAD TILE, THEY HAD GRACE

Zellige tile has officially graduated from the backsplash. Designers are pushing this centuries-old Moroccan tile into more sculptural roles, utilizing its subtle variations and high-gloss or matte finish to envelop entire rooms in texture. We’re seeing it laid vertically in showers for a modern, monolithic look, or used to build floating vanities and tiled sinks with depth and presence. Offbeat patterns, such as checkerboards, stripes, and basket-weaves, give zellige a graphic punch without losing its organic charm. The trick is to embrace the irregularity. The variation in tone and surface is the point, not the problem.

GIRLS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUNGI

SHINY HAPPY PEOPLE

Metal wall cladding is evolving, and De Castelli is leading the charge. Its recent work in bronze with wood inlay isn’t just beautiful, it’s the result of advanced fabrication that allows for precision cuts, custom finishes, and seamless integration with other materials. The technology behind it makes the surface feel tailored and architectural without tipping into ornament. In the right space, it brings depth and visual structure that feel grounded and elevated.