Brass lighting is back ' but it's not that shiny, lacquered fake-brass of the recent past. Traditional style is trending in interior design, as classic lines and updated colors combine in what designers love to call 'New Trad'. Brass lighting and hardware that are left to age naturally develop a soft, rich patina that never goes out of style. This 'living finish' gives interiors a grounded feeling, like a stylish hotel that's been around for a hundred years:
Brass Lighting Warms Up A Gray Kitchen
After several years of interiors dominated by cool, gray tones, it's not surprising that we're gravitating to sunnier hues. Gold and brass are trending, and mustard is the hot new accent color. The low-key glimmer of brass adds understated glamour. Brass lighting, faucets and hardware add sparkle and warmth to our beloved white and gray.
Use Brass In Brushed Or Vintage Finishes
As long as it's properly cared for, brass is extremely durable and can last a lifetime (or longer). Real, unsealed brass lighting will show fingerprints and oxidize over time to a darker color, unless it's polished regularly. If you want consistent color and low maintenance, choose a brass-look finish instead of solid brass lighting. This wall sconce has a warm, golden hue and brushed surface, as if it's aged just a bit:
Aged brass finishes have their own charm ' just like antique door knobs or old buildings, oxidized brass is nostalgic and familiar. With a darker brass finish and matte black, this modern task lamp has a vintage, mid-century vibe:
Dark, Moody Kitchens Need Brass Lighting
Dark, moody rooms are another interior design trend that loves the metallic glow of brass. We love the low-lustre sparkle of brass handles and shelf hardware in this new English kitchen:
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Dark, rich colors and brass accents have stood for quality and luxury ever since the first brasseries opened in Paris. Modern designers give this combination a fresh edge, adding brass hardware to high-end appliances. Look for brass door pulls and knobs to hit appliance showrooms near you ' if they haven't already! This handsome stove adds a touch of glamour to a kitchen, but the real drama comes from the amazing brass-surfaced backsplash:
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Of course, it's possible to have too much of a good thing. We got tired of brass when every doorknob, light switch and chandelier was bright, shiny, and brassy. How should you use brass lighting in today's home? Think of it as an accent, like jewelry. Just a touch can be enough, like the matte brass arms of this light fixture: