Seven Finishes You Should Know About Before Remodeling

If you are in the process of remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, fixture finishes will be a big part of your selection process. While Chrome and Brushed Nickel are two of the most popular options, there are many other beautiful finishes out there that can add the element of texture and interest to your home. In the past year or so, we have seen brass make a big comeback, while matte black has gained momentum as well. Oil rubbed bronze has always been an undervalued, yet readily available option, while finishes such as copper and white aren’t seen as often, but can really make a statement. Below is a list of some of my favorite unique finishes that are trending currently, along with the pros and cons related to them!

Antique Brass
· Not your shiny brass from the 80’s
· Has a muted luster which is both sophisticated and warm
· Lends itself to an updated vintage feel
· Compliments neutral color palettes, wood, and other natural materials
· The antique finish makes it easy to clean, and it won’t show finger prints or water marks
· Becoming more readily available, but is still more expensive than your standard chrome

Copper
· An alternative to gold or brass
· Adds shine and warmth
· Available in multiple finish options – brushed is more modern, while hammered is more rustic
· Works well with a natural, rustic aesthetic; it is seen often in cabin or farmhouse settings
· A little difficult to find, and requires more maintenance than some of the “brushed” options
· Develops a beautiful patina over time

Matte Black
· Starting to make a comeback in contemporary styles
· A popular choice because it coordinates well with just about everything
· Very sleek and makes a bold statement
· It’s brushed texture makes it easy to clean and it doesn’t show fingerprints
· Fairly easy to find, but more expensive than your standard finishes

Oil Rubbed Bronze
· Just as readily available as chrome or brushed nickel
· Adds a more traditional feel
· Lends itself to a Tuscan or Mediterranean aesthetic
· Adds a nice pop of contrast against a white/cream cabinet or counter
· Easily coordinates with other finishes

White
· Available in durable plastic and porcelain
· Can act a a contrasting statement, or blend seamlessly with an all-white bathroom or kitchen
· It has a whimsical feel, and works well with modern and farmhouse styles
· Easy to clean, but not as durable as metal
· Can be difficult to find, but the durable plastic is typically cheaper than metal fixtures.

Polished Nickel
· Revels a golden luster that standard chrome does not
· Has a richer, more elegant feel
· A vintage choice that lends itself to traditional styles
· Tends to show finger prints and water marks more than brushed finishes
· Is fairly similar in price to chrome fixtures

Pewter
· An under-utilized finish, it has a warmth and charm that chrome does not possess
· It lends itself to tarnish, and wears well with age
· It’s rustic quality adds an appealing, old-fashioned note
· Not as common for plumbing fixtures, but quite common for cabinet hardware
· Complements many colors, including grays and neutrals

Hannah Tindall is an Associate Senior Designer at Habitar Design, a leading Interior Design firm in Chicago. Habitar Design specializes in luxury home, kitchen, and bathroom designs and remodels.