Design-forward ways to style your iron brackets for modern and rustic spaces

Wrought iron has always been a cornerstone of rugged design, but it shines even brighter when paired thoughtfully with contrasting materials. At Old West Iron, we hand-forge every corner bracket to last a lifetime—and while their strength speaks for itself, it’s their versatility that sets them apart.

Whether you’re outfitting a modern farmhouse, cabin retreat, or industrial loft, here are five materials that beautifully complement our metal corner brackets and angle braces.

1. Wood: A Timeless Pairing

Best for: open shelving, timber frame accents, cabinetry

Nothing pairs with iron like natural wood. The warmth and texture of raw or stained wood creates contrast against the cool solidity of forged metal. Try matte black brackets on reclaimed pine for a farmhouse look, or go bold with hammered iron straps on dark walnut beams for a lodge-style vibe.

Styling Tip: Mix finishes intentionally—warm woods like cherry pair best with oil-rubbed bronze or rust patina brackets, while raw pine works well with raw iron or beeswax finishes.

2. Glass: Industrial Elegance

Best for: modern furniture, minimalist shelving, display cases

Pairing glass with metal brackets creates a clean, industrial aesthetic. Think: floating glass shelves supported by matte black or oil-rubbed bronze angle braces, or a tempered-glass tabletop anchored by sculptural corner brackets.

Styling Tip: Use sculptural or scroll-style brackets as visual anchors beneath glass tops. Keep hardware minimal for sleek settings, or ornate for statement-making contrast.

3. Leather: Unexpected Warmth

Best for: strap shelving, hanging systems, decor

Leather and iron may seem like an unlikely pair, but together they add earthy texture and a sense of old-world craftsmanship. Try using leather straps looped through iron brackets to support shelving, or incorporate leather elements in your wall decor and tie-backs for a frontier-inspired interior.

Styling Tip: Use distressed finishes like our rust patina or hand-rubbed bronze to highlight the natural aging of leather over time.

4. Concrete: Urban Meets Rustic

Best for: outdoor kitchens, bathroom vanities, shelving

Concrete slabs and countertops offer a weighty, modern feel—but pairing them with rugged iron hardware keeps the space grounded. Use heavy-duty corner braces to support floating concrete shelves or to reinforce vanities in industrial-style baths.

Styling Tip: Stick to clean lines and minimal ornamentation with concrete. Powder-coated or beeswax black finishes offer a sleek, rust-resistant option for damp environments.

5. Stone or Brick: Architectural Integrity

Best for: fireplaces, outdoor structures, rustic kitchens

Pairing iron brackets with natural stone or exposed brick honors traditional architecture while providing the utility your space needs. Use them under thick stone shelves, mantles, or outdoor ledges to visually support weight while enhancing character.

Styling Tip: Choose chunky, distressed brackets with old-world details—like scrolls or hammered edges—to match the texture of your masonry materials.

Want to See It in Action?

Need design inspiration or want to better understand the difference between functional and sculptural brackets? We break it down in this article on Medium →

Final Thoughts: Material Mixing with Purpose

Whether your style is refined or rustic, mixing materials adds visual richness and authenticity to your space. With dozens of bracket styles and ten+ hand-painted finishes to choose from, you can create a custom pairing that fits your vision and your build.

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Written by the Old West Iron Forge Team — crafting authentic American ironwork from our Idaho forge since 2011. Experience-backed, veteran-built, and proudly Made in the USA.