Knowledge Hub

Retailers, Brands and Interior designers,  work with many materials, but metal décor continues to stand out for its versatility and performance. Here are four key factors that highlight how metals compare to wood, glass, and ceramics:

1. Durability & Strength
   Metals like stainless steel, brass, and aluminium outperform wood and glass in high-traffic environments. They resist impact, humidity, and wear which make them ideal for hotels, restaurants, and commercial interiors.
2. Design Flexibility
   Metals can be shaped, textured, cast, engraved, and finished in countless ways. This makes them suitable for trays, bowls, lanterns, candle stands, planters, organizers, and decorative accents in a wide range of styles.
3. Aesthetic Versatility
   Brass and copper add luxury and warmth, while matte black or brushed steel creates a contemporary look, offering more visual range than ceramics or wood.
4. Sustainability & Longevity
   Metals are fully recyclable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance, making them a smart choice for eco-focused projects and European sustainability standards.

By understanding these material differences, B2B customers can choose décor objects that balance style, performance, and long-term value.

Each metal has its own personality. Here’s a quick guide to help you match materials with your design intent:

• Brass: A warm, golden alloy known for its vintage charm and durability. Ideal for luxury accents and classic interiors.
• Copper: Natural reddish glow, perfect for wellness spaces, kitchens, and standout decorative elements.
• Aluminum: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, suitable for modern, industrial, or minimalist styles.
• Stainless Steel: Sleek and strong. A favorite for bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial interiors.
• Blackened Steel: Offers a bold, matte look with industrial sophistication, often used in loft-style and contemporary settings.

Choosing the right metal means balancing function, finish, and flair – and we’re here to help you every step of the way.

Finishes transform the mood of metal. Here’s how to find the right one:

• Polished: A mirror-like shine that reflects light and adds a sense of luxury. Best for glam or upscale spaces.
• Brushed/Satin: Subtle texture that reduces glare and fingerprints. Works well in high-traffic areas.
• Antique/Patina: Aged look that brings character and depth. Great for rustic, vintage, or eclectic designs.
• Powder Coated: Adds color, protection, and durability — perfect for outdoor or themed interiors.
• Raw/Matte: Industrial and honest. A minimalist choice for modern or architectural spaces.

We offer custom finishing options on request, so your designs can be as bold or refined as you envision

• Laser Cutting: Ideal for precision, used for logos, patterns, and decorative screens.
• CNC Machining: Enables exact shaping for components that require fit or assembly.
• Spinning: Used for symmetrical items like vases, bowls, or pendant lights.
• Casting: Perfect for intricate details and ornamental objects.
• Welding & Soldering: Join metal elements structurally or decoratively.
• Hand Finishing: Adds artisanal value and uniqueness to each piece.

Knowing the right method helps tailor your designs for feasibility and budget.

Sustainable metal décor is becoming the new standard for European brands, retailers, and designers. Here are 10 reasons why recycled and eco-friendly manufacturing is being essential:

1. Fully Recyclable Materials – Brass, aluminium, copper, and stainless steel can be reused endlessly.
2. Lower Carbon Footprint – Recycled metals greatly reduce energy use during production.
3. Eco-Friendly Product Lines – Organizers, décor accents, candle holders, lanterns, trays, bowls, planters and other décor objects can all be produced sustainably.
4. Reduced Waste – Scrap metal is repurposed instead of discarded.
5. Cleaner Finishes – Powder coating and low-VOC lacquers replace chemical-heavy plating.
6. EU Compliance – Supports European environmental standards and green certifications.
7. Long Product Lifespan – Durable metals reduce replacement frequency.
8. Supports Circular Design – Encourages reuse and responsible material flow.
9. Eco-Luxury Appeal – Reclaimed copper, recycled aluminium and brass add authenticity to premium décor collections.
10. Lower Transport Impact – Responsible sourcing reduces emissions for EU buyers.

By choosing recycled and eco-friendly manufacturing, brands create décor collections that combine sustainability, quality, and long-term value.

Sourcing from Europe means choosing quality and convenience. Here’s why:

• Shorter Lead Times: Reduce your project timelines with faster shipping and easier logistics within the EU.
• Lower Import Hassles: No complex customs or VAT issues when sourcing within the EU-especially for bulk or repeat orders.
• Local Support & Flexibility: Work with a responsive team who understands your business environment, language, and urgency.

In today’s global marketplace, businesses are constantly looking for ways to streamline operations, reduce costs, and ensure that their supply chains run smoothly. One way to achieve this is by buying directly within the European Union (EU). As a B2B supplier based in Portugal, Hometals understands the challenges faced by brands, designers, and hospitality businesses when sourcing products from overseas. From customs duties and high shipping fees to delivery delays and tax complications, purchasing from outside the EU can become an expensive and time-consuming process.

By choosing a trusted EU-based supplier, you can avoid many of these pitfalls while enjoying a range of other key benefits. Here’s why buying from Portugal or within the EU should be your first choice when sourcing tailored metal products for your business.

Q1: Can I request custom sizes or finishes?
A: Yes. We specialize in made-to-order and private label manufacturing. Share your specs, and we’ll make it happen.

Q2: Can you help me design a product from scratch?
A: Absolutely. Share your sketches or ideas, and our team can assist with prototyping, and manufacturing.

Q3: Do you work with small batch orders or only bulk?
A: We cater to both. Whether you need prototypes or full-scale production, we’re flexible and ready.

Q3: How do I ensure the metal won’t tarnish or corrode?
A: We apply protective coatings where needed and offer guidance based on usage conditions. Brass and copper will naturally age unless sealed.

Q4: Can I customize the thickness or gauge of the metal?
A: Yes. We offer a range of gauges depending on product type and application.

Q5: Will finishes match across different metals?
A: We aim for consistency, but note that different base metals absorb finishes differently. We’ll provide samples for approval.

Q6: How do I maintain metal finishes over time?
A: Maintenance varies by finish. We provide care guides – for example, use a gentle cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners on polished metals.

Q7: How does your EU warehouse support my projects?
A: Our Lisbon-based facility reduces shipping times, simplifies VAT handling, and ensures quick delivery.