Sketchbook: Gold

Molten, honeyed hues bring a gorgeous glow to modern design, flavored with a hint of mid-century. A few exquisitely ornamental designs balance out the overall simplicity and purity of form, expressed in glass, woods and brass. Subtle and abstracted geometrics create downplayed drama, while contrasting espresso tones amplify the whispery allure of gold. Understatement is the key, achieving a rich, layered look through complementary composites. Now that's 24-karat terrific.
All prices are suggested retail.

Streaks of Night, an original oil from The Natural Light, juxtaposes gold and light against somber dark ($1,700).

Mid-Century Modern gently informs the Ovalia Collection from DFIC, offered in cherry light, walnut and teak woods ($600 to $800).

Exquisite gold-laden objects debut from Accents by Design, including the Orsini glass vase and the sculptural leaf Lattice group.

Antique brass trim sets off Decorative Crafts' classic urn lamp, hand-blown in pale yellow glass ($450).

Golden tones add a warming glow to The New England Collection's wool and silk needlepoint rug, softening a crisp geometric motif ($60 to $69 per square foot).

From the Kathy Ireland Home Collection by Labs, saffron Byzantine roses strike an exotic chord with freeform wrapped stems ($170).

Zodax's reflective oval stunner outdoes run-of-the-mill mirrors with a tiered "necklace" in brilliant yellow gold ($260).

Honeyed hues emphasize the elegant lines of Bauer International's antique-inspired chair, thrown into sharp contrast against a dark wooden frame.