In this home story, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant aesthetic of chrome and a futuristic interior style. Zia (@home.with.zia) takes us into her world, where shine meets modern elegance to create an ambience that's both timeless and visionary.
Zia, please introduce yourself: who are you and what do you do?
I'm Grazia, I go by Zia, and I live in Hamburg in Germany. At the moment I work freelance in set styling and also as a content creator for interior and food photography and videography.
Your Instagram account was only set up recently. Can you tell us a little about that decision – why did you start?
Everyone who visited me was always really enthusiastic. That's when I first had the idea of sharing the design of my flat with more people than just my guests.
I then spent a few years thinking about photographing my home, but I knew it would take an enormous amount of time. I'm very determined, and when I start something, I see it through. It was only when I went freelance and had the flexibility that I was sure I'd have enough time to present my flat on Instagram.
Your interior style is totally space age! What inspired you?
I've always felt that "different" things excite me more than what most people like. I also have a real weakness for cool tones and materials that, in their pure state, (literally) shine and gleam. I always liked the futuristic style in films – especially spaceships, for example. That's when I first noticed that I like things that seem to come from outer space.
The style is futuristic, but also somehow timeless, isn't it?
Absolutely! And chrome accessories always look elegant. The style is understated but still has a strong presence, and it's very easy to combine with colours and other materials.
What tips do you have for choosing accessories if our customers want to emphasise the chrome or silver look?
I think you can go for "more is more". In my opinion, it's never too much, because chrome always plays its own, very prominent supporting role.
A glamorous supporting role. What contrasts or splashes of colour do you add alongside the chrome colour scheme?
Personally, I really like a monochrome look with a hint of cool colour. That's why you'll currently find mint in my home, with beautiful Yves Klein blue as an eye-catcher. These two shades go really well with the chrome and silver look. They don't steal the show, but they make it stand out at the same time.
Now for all the homemakers, mums and dads among our readers: do you spend a lot of time cleaning? What are the challenges of caring for and cleaning chrome or silver surfaces?
If you have guests who like touching things, you may have to wipe off fingerprints afterwards, but otherwise they're very easy-going surfaces. With aluminium and steel in particular, I like the natural patina that develops. It gives some pieces a nice used look.
How do you bring warmth to your flat despite the cool interior?
Lamps! During the day I love the cool look, and in the evening the lamps (or candles) transform the atmosphere into a completely different, very cosy world. That keeps it exciting and varied for me, which I really like!
In summer, the play of shadows combined with the shiny surfaces makes it look completely different again from the darker months.
And which light sources do you prefer to show off the shine of chrome or silver at its best?
The built-in spotlights make some pieces really shine. And combined with different lamps at different heights and in different light colours, the mood of the pieces changes, because they also catch and even reflect the light.
Do you actually have a favourite room at home?
Luckily, I have an open-plan living space, so I don't have to choose. I particularly like the fact that I've created different areas where I can retreat and relax, depending on my mood.
What have you learned about combining chrome or silver furniture?
How easy-going these materials are… they ALWAYS go together, and that makes styling so much easier. With their elegance and simplicity, they also suit any interior style.
So chrome is for everyone. Which trends in chrome or silver interiors are you following at the moment?
Definitely lamps. Luckily! I find lamps in a full chrome look really special, because they look great even when they're switched off and work as perfect decoration.
Is there a special story behind any of your chrome or silver pieces of furniture?
Oh yes, a very special one! I was lucky enough to snap up a shelf from an online classifieds site. It was built by an artist in the 1970s, so it's a few years older than me and truly unique.
Knowing that nobody else has this design makes it really special for me. The studio where we picked it up was fascinating too. There were records, instruments and awards hanging and standing everywhere. A wonderful atmosphere!
Thank you so much for these wonderful insights, Zia!
www.instagram.com/home.with.zia
