Brass is Back – ybarraDESIGN

Source: Lyndee Galloway

Brass is back, wow, those are three words I never thought I would say! I have been a die-hard bronze fixture gal up until this year, but brass has been raising her hand in the design world increasingly in 2020 and will continue to make herself known in 2021 as warmer colors taking center stage.

To be clear, this is not necessary the brass you may, or may be too young to, remember from the 70s that was all shiny, waving her hands and shouting look at me. Brass comes in many finishes and you might be surprised to find that you are drawn to one of them.

Satin or brushed brass

Satin brass has a smooth matt finish that is subtle and does not show fingerprints or water spots, will not tarnish and is warm and bright. Brushed brass is similar except it generally has more distinct brush marks. This is the easiest brass to get behind for a warm finish and no bright shine.

Antique brass

Antique brass is treated so that it looks aged and it is typically a right deep brown shade with gold undertones. This is not my favorite finish, but it works well in historic Victorian or colonial settings.

Polished brass

Yes, she had to rear her ugly head. This is the one to avoid both because it is dated but if you need more reasons, it shows fingerprints, water spots and is more easily scratched. Enough said – this one should still exit stage left promptly.

Now, where to use brass? I do not recommend that you go change out all your hardware, but rather that you introduce some brass as a supporting actor. Some of the easiest places to do this are cabinet pulls, mirrors, barstools, light fixtures, lamps and maybe faucets. I am still on the fence on this last one as I prefer a mixed metal look unless you have a very traditional design. Brass pairs amazingly well with natural wood which is also replacing all white bathrooms and kitchens.

Rather than going all brass, mixing metal finishes adds interest and warmth. In my new bathroom, I am planning to use matte black (another 2020 trend continuing into 2021) fixtures and satin gold mirrors with mixed metal light fixtures to tie it all together. Mixed metal fixtures are really having a moment and I am soo in for it.

In case you are not convinced yet, here is some eye candy to get your wheels turning. You can also check out my lighting round-ups on sconces, master bedroom lighting, flush mount lighting, and table lamps – many of the lights featured come in brass even if it is not shown on the picture so feel free to click and see.