It wasn’t that long ago that metal sinks and tapware came in one colour: chrome. Thankfully, those days are gone, and there’s now an exciting range of brushed finishes that will complement your kitchen, bathroom or laundry perfectly. Made from solid brass or stainless steel, brushed metal finishes hide fingerprints, water spots and smudges due to its textured nature, making it great for high traffic rooms. So, whether you’re in the middle of a full-blown renovation or just looking for an easy update for your wet areas, these on-trend finishes will make the space shine.
Brushed Gunmetal
Edgy but without the in-your-face boldness of black, brushed gun metal is a great option if you’re after a timeless and subtle finish. It complements most designs styles and colour schemes and is available in both traditional and modern tapware styles. It’s also one of the most durable finishes and doesn’t leave soap scum and watermarks.
Best for: Industrial, Minimalist, Modern and Rustic design styles
Brushed nickel
Similar to chrome in colour but with a muted, slightly matte appearance, brushed nickel fixtures are a timeless choice that are still very much on trend. As it’s subdued enough not to overpower any textures or patterns, it works in almost any setting (though is best in schemes featuring warm colours due to its natural yellow or white shine) and is a great match for terrazzo tiles.
Best for: Hamptons, Country Style, Scandinavian, and Modern design styles
Brushed brass gold
Brushed brass gold fixtures instantly adds a muted sense of luxury, elegance and warmth to a space. It’s usually reserved for more traditional and heritage style homes but more modern designs have seen this finish showing up in contemporary spaces, making a striking statement when used in an all-white space with timber accents. Unlike raw or living brass fixtures, brushed brass gold will not patina with time so it will stay looking as good as it did on install day.
Best for: Contemporary, Traditional, Modern, Boho-luxe and Hamptons design styles
Brushed stainless steel
A no-fuss all-rounder that’s durable, hygienic, easy to clean, and features a muted, matte finish that suits cool tones (think blues, greens). It’s rust-resistant and a master at disguising fingerprints, making it a good choice for high traffic households. However not all stainless-steel is created equal, with inexpensive options using a lower gauge, or thinner, type of stainless steel which can flex so be sure to invest in quality craftsmanship.
Best for: Modern and Industrial design styles
Brushed copper
Like brass gold, brushed copper will light up a room with its soft, rosy glow. It pairs beautifully with natural textures (particularly travertine tiles), a neutral palette, and shines where there’s ample light. It’s also excellent at highlighting subtle undertones in muted, warm colours. Luxe without being too showy.
Best for: Industrial, Contemporary, Traditional, Rustic, and Modern Farmhouse design styles
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