Galvanized metal decor items are a staple for a number of decor styles, such as industrial, rustic and farmhouse chic. This versatile metal can be found in pieces that are both new and shiny as well as those that are aged, with a rusted patina. Pieces that are aged can add extra character to a living space, especially for lovers of vintage items. Galvanized metal can be used indoors as well as outdoors: The steel is coated with zinc to help protect it from the elements. Mind you, harsh weather and acidic environments can hasten aging and rust, but this can add authentic charm to the metal.

Alone or in a grouping, pendants can change the mood of a room.

An industrial galvanized metal table can be a versatile addition to a room.

This is perfect for display or storage.

Here the bottom box is turned upside down as a stand for the top box.

Here are 18 pieces that we found that would add personality to a home’s decor.

A hefty industrial-style coffee table like this one from Blue Ocean Traders is a wonderful piece to anchor a living room. Aside from an expansive galvanized metal top, the table’s second shelf is made from a commercial style mesh that adds to the vibe. The casters make it easy to move and complete the piece nicely. Here it is paired with a rustic wooden trug, which tones down the coldness of the metal and brings in a touch of farmhouse style.

An industrial galvanized metal table can be a versatile addition to a room.

If you like a more global style, this galvanized metal table from Jelan has a totally different style. Unlike most other galvanized pieces, it doesn’t have a heavy industrial feeling and could work with contemporary decor. It’s a bit rustic but definitely would not work with a farmhouse style.

It’s possible to find galvanized metal that doesn’t conform to typical rustic or industrial styles.

Including a large galvanized metal container in a room also adds character. These can serve as plant holders, umbrella stands, storage bins — anything your heart desires. They also make great containers for seasonal decor, such as fall arrangements, holiday greenery or dried summer blooms. Use your imagination to make the most of these pieces.

Blue Ocean Traders has many vintage galvanized metal pieces.

For a generous dose of vintage, try incorporating a piece that is heavily aged, like these, also from Blue Ocean Traders. The metal cabinet is suitable for just about any space, from the living room to the bathroom. The milk cans are partially rusted and really convey a spirit of repurposing. Farmhouse and shabby chic decor styles would benefit most from these types of pieces.

The number of metal pieces used can increase the impact.

Large galvanized metal buckets in an unusual design are good for storage bins for everything from firewood to towels and magazines. Extra details like brass grommets and edging, along with rope handles, make them special. These from Elk Group International are a functional display item that lends an industrial element to your decor.

The open grid design of these buckets is very different.

With its rusted edges and rivets, a vintage style galvanized metal cabinet goes well with the eclectic accessories displayed here. From IMAX, this cabinet features casters and a wooden top. The front of each drawer has a label slot, which is a charming industrial detail. It would be easy to play up a different decor style by swapping out the accessories for edgy industrial pieces or items with a farmhouse feel.

This small piece has a big but versatile presence.

With a similar look and a smaller size, this tabletop storage cabinet also has a weathered finish. A bit like an old library card catalog, the small drawers have a label slot and are perfect for storing small necessities in a stylish way. This piece from VIP Home and Garden is more rustic than industrial, especially when paired with an eclectic cabinet that features multiple types of wood and drawer fronts.

This is a really charming piece that could be used in any room of the home.

Lighting is another way to incorporate galvanized metal in your home. Choose fixtures made entirely of metal, or those that just have metal accents. Pendants from IMAX come in different sizes and styles, each one including this awesome metal finish. While the pendants with a white ceramic base feel newer in style, the others look like upcycled farm pieces. Either way, they add an element of complexity to a room.

Alone or in a grouping, pendants can change the mood of a room.

Galvanized washtubs are some of the cleverest pieces to include in decor, either outside or inside. The most obvious use is as a planter, however these tubs are wonderful for entertaining when used as an ice bucket for bottled beverages. This tub from Park Hill can display or store all sorts of household items, depending on where you put it.

A touch of rust gives it a well-used feel.

Just as versatile are galvanized metal containers because they can be purely decorative or function as a storage piece. These boxes from Peacock Park look like a vintage trunk from the outside, but don’t have a lid. Decorative locks and wooden handles are paired with functional rope handles, making these very useful. Load up your party supplies to take out onto the deck, fill them with greenery or display extra towels by the bathtub.

Here the bottom box is turned upside down as a stand for the top box.

Vintage style signs are really fun and this one from Peacock Park is fantastic in combination with the vintage map. This is a sophisticated combination that elevates the galvanized metal sign from just so-so to extra special. The aged patina on the sign make it feel like it came straight from the wall of a French bistro.

Skillful combinations of decor can make a simple piece have more impact.

Corrugated galvanized metal has a totally different personality and almost always feels upcycled. The material is common in industrial settings and has also found use in farming. Sometimes corrugated metal sheets are used on walls, but here the material it is incorporated into a small cabinet from Three Hands.

Rustic wood makes this piece appropriate for farmhouse and eclectic styles.

Planters are a cool way to use galvanized metal and these hanging styles from VIP Garden and Home are like short troughs. The rough rope hangers add to the rustic feel. These would look wonderful on a front porch or in a sunny room and could be filled with other types of arrangements, not just living plants.

These are more rustic than industrial.

For a full-on rustic or industrial vibe, there’s noting better than a large shelving unit. Depending on the types of pieces you display, it can alter the mood of the piece. Here, country style accessories help land it squarely in the farmhouse style. With edgy pieces or items that have an urban edge, it would definitely be more of an industrial piece. It’s wonderful how the personality of a basic galvanized metal piece can be changed!

This is perfect for display or storage.

If that’s too much metal for your taste, how about a small galvanized shelf, perfect for displaying a small accessories or necessities? The graduated sizes of galvanized metal trays, paired with the warm wood, have country styling. It’s a smaller piece that could work in lots of places: In a bathroom, towels and toiletries can be stored on this, or in a living space it can simply display treasured pieces.

The small size makes this versatile as well.

In a brilliant upcycle from farm tub to cushy bench, these galvanized metal pieces are useful for extra seating for guests or a place to change your shoes. The solid neutral upholstery is a more refined choice than a country print would be. Place one in an entryway, bedroom or guest room for a rustic touch.

A really portable piece, you could move this to wherever it is needed.

Another small occasion piece is this galvanized metal bookstand and side table. It is not an aged finish, which makes it easy to use in almost any decor scheme. Store the books and magazines in current rotation on the bottom shelf and perch your tea cup on the top. The small size makes it ideal for a reading nook.

So incredibly useful, almost any home could use this table.

Either as purely decorative elements or as functional pieces, galvanized metal items can add dimension to a home’s decor. Carefully considering what type of item to include and how to style it makes all the difference. Any of these pieces could help refresh a space. How will you add galvanized metal decor to your home?