Which finish is right for your project?
The quiet luxury of brass and bronze hardware never goes out of style. Timeless, distinctive and elegant, these versatile ‘warm’ metals can provide the perfect finishing touch to an interior, thanks to their inherent character, craftsmanship and authenticity. Brass and bronze have many similarities – but they also have some vital differences. Keep reading for more insights on which finish is best suited to your project.
What is the difference between brass and bronze?
Brass and bronze are both alloys of copper. Brass is created by mixing copper and zinc, while bronze is typically formed from copper and tin. The exact combinations of base metals affect colour, texture, strength, durability and the ageing process. High-quality modern architectural hardware is often made from solid brass and available in a range of finishes (which include bronze), but may also be cast in solid bronze for a premium weight and presence. Both metals are exceptionally durable and built to last for decades of everyday use, ageing gracefully over time.
Brass hardware: look, feel and finish
Brass has a bright, golden colour, and its mirror-like shine adds points of interest while catching the light brilliantly. Polished brass has the brightest and most eye-catching surface, with satin brass more matt, soft and subtle. At the opposite end of the scale, antique brass has a darker, more weathered look. Brass architectural hardware looks equally handsome in classic and contemporary spaces, especially when contrasted with dark, rich colours or paired with marble, teak, walnut and other luxury materials.
Bronze hardware: look, feel and finish
Bronze possesses a deeper, more grounded aesthetic than brass, with rich brown undertones (think of classic bronze sculptures), and a matt or textured finish that is very forgiving of fingerprints. The classic yet understated quality of bronze can work very well in heritage properties, and makes an interesting statement in modern projects. It also suits both rustic and industrial schemes, complementing timber, stone, ceramic, linen and other textured, natural materials.
How do brass and bronze age?
An unlacquered, ‘living’ brass finish will age gently, developing a softly ‘lived-in’ patina, especially where it is touched most frequently. Over time, bronze will gradually darken and gain beautiful depth, adding unique character to an interior. This evolution is decidedly not a flaw, but rather a natural process that celebrates the individual way in which a space is used.
Is brass or bronze hardware better for my project?
There is no right or wrong when it comes to choosing between brass and bronze hardware. Both metals are refined and inviting, offering enduring appeal, and both are designed to age beautifully over time. Brass tends to create a brighter, more expressive look, with bronze darker, more restrained and classic. Bronze is always cast, giving it a consistent, sculptural quality, while brass can be cast, cut, hammered or shaped, opening up a wider range of forms and finishes. How each piece ages and weathers will depend on the finish chosen, and the right material often goes hand in hand with the design and character of the hardware itself. Ultimately, it comes down to atmosphere. When making your decision, consider not only the property's architecture and design scheme, but also how the spaces will be used and how you want them to feel, both now and in the future.
Discover our Darwin collections in brass and bronze
Inspired by the organic forms found in nature, our Darwin collections showcase the artistry of traditional sand casting. This process creates flowing shapes and tactile surfaces, with each iteration completely unique. Our collections of pulls, handles and knobs are available in vibrant brass (with 16 different finishes) and softly textured, polished or antique bronze, designed to bring individuality and lasting character to interiors where every detail matters.
