February 4, 2025

Brass, Bronze, or Gold? Decoding Warm Metal Finishes & How to Choose the Right One

Warm metals are having a major design moment, with brass, bronze, and gold bringing a rich, elevated warmth to interiors. But while they share a similar golden hue, each metal has distinct characteristics—from their durability and ageing process to their undertones and best applications.

“Choosing the right warm metal is about more than just colour,” says Rosanne Spagnolo, interior designer and Castella hardware specialist. “Each finish brings a different texture, depth, and feel to a space. It’s about understanding not just what looks good, but what will wear beautifully over time.”

So, how do you know which is right for your project? Here’s how to decode brass, bronze, and gold finishes, and how to pair them effortlessly with your interiors.

George Street Chambers by Archway – Photography by Chelsea Rieck feat. Chelase in Satin Brass

Brass: The Chameleon of Warm Metals

Brass has been a mainstay in interiors for centuries, loved for its rich, golden warmth and ability to age beautifully over time. It bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary styles, making it a versatile choice for a range of interiors—from heritage homes to modern apartments.

Beyond aesthetics, brass is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it an excellent choice for coastal homes, high-humidity areas, and spaces prone to wear and tear, such as kitchens and bathrooms. Unlike some metals that require protective coatings, solid brass develops a patina over time, giving it an evolving character that adds depth and authenticity to a space.

“Brass works beautifully in spaces where you want warmth and longevity,” says Rosanne Spagnolo, interior designer and Castella hardware specialist. “Whether polished to a mirror finish or aged with a soft patina, it has an elegance that never dates.”

But not all brass finishes behave the same way—understanding the differences will help you choose the right one for your space:

Lacquered Brass: Sealed with a protective coating, this finish retains its original shine and prevents oxidation. It’s ideal for those who want a pristine, polished look without the maintenance.
Unlacquered (Living) Brass: Left untreated, this finish naturally develops a patina over time, deepening in colour and adding character. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of aged materials.
Brushed Brass: A softer, muted finish with a subtle texture that resists fingerprints, making it ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
Antique or Aged Brass: A finish that’s pre-oxidised to mimic years of natural patina, perfect for adding an old-world charm to classic and vintage-inspired interiors.

Brass pairs effortlessly with a variety of materials, from natural stone and timber to deep, moody paint colours. It’s a natural fit for coastal interiors where durability is key, but it also adds a luxe, heritage-inspired touch to classic kitchens, high-end bathrooms, and spaces where warmth and refinement are desired.

Best for:

Classic and contemporary kitchens
Coastal homes (brass doesn’t rust)
Bathrooms and high-use spaces
Heritage-inspired interiors

**Try this look:** **Castella’s Gallant or Portal handles** in brushed brass for a refined yet understated warmth. Bexhill bar handle in Aged Brass

A walnut timber cabinet with a minimalist lip pull by Castella in bronze, along with a solid brass Henry Wilson lamp — showcasing how different materials and finishes compliment each other — Project Casa Piva designed by BE Architecture – Photography by Timothy Kaye featuring Ledge in Bronze

Bronze: Understated, Rich, and Full of Depth

Bronze offers a more earthy, muted take on warm metals, bringing depth and richness to a space without the high shine of brass or gold. It works particularly well in warm-toned interiors, where it complements natural materials like timber, stone, and linen.

Unlike brass, which starts bright and ages over time, bronze often comes pre-aged with its signature deep tone. It naturally oxidises over time, developing a unique patina that works beautifully in interiors that embrace natural textures and soft, tonal palettes.

“Bronze brings warmth in a more subtle way,” says Rosanne. “It feels grounded, refined, and effortlessly timeless.”

Best for:

Interiors with warm palettes
Spaces aiming for a modern yet timeless aesthetic
Designs embracing quiet luxury and refined materials
Kitchens and bathrooms where durability is key

**Try this look:** Whatever you want… bronze collection or actual products. Tuscan foundry sand-casted d pull handle in Dark Bronze

Juniper House by Dylan Farrell – Photography by Felix Forest feat. Vogue handle in matt white

Gold: A Spectrum of Luxury & Style

Gold finishes exude warmth, sophistication, and a touch of opulence, making them a favourite for both high-end contemporary and vintage-inspired interiors. Unlike brass and bronze, gold finishes are typically achieved through plating, powder coating, or PVD, ensuring a consistent colour that doesn’t patina over time.

However, not all gold finishes are created equal—their level of shine and reflectivity plays a major role in defining the aesthetic of a space:

Polished Gold – A high-shine finish that exudes luxury and boldness. Ideal for statement pieces in Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, or highly decorative spaces.
Brushed Gold – A more subdued, refined finish with soft texture, diffusing light for a warmer, contemporary look. Pairs beautifully with organic materials like timber and linen.
Matt Gold – The most understated of gold finishes, muted and sophisticated, bringing warmth without the gloss. Works well in minimalist and modern interiors.

“Gold makes a statement,” says Rosanne. “It brings warmth and refinement, but the right finish ensures it complements rather than overwhelms the space.”

Best for:

High-end contemporary interiors
Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, and maximalist spaces
Kitchens and bathrooms needing a touch of warmth and polish
Pairing with deep hues like navy, emerald, and burgundy

Try this look: Whatever you want… gold collection or actual products

How to Choose the Right One for Your Space

Not sure which warm metal to go with? Consider these expert tips:

Think about ageing. If you love a lived-in patina, go for unlacquered brass or bronze. If you prefer a finish that stays pristine, gold or lacquered brass is the better choice.
Match the mood. Brass brings warmth, bronze offers depth, and gold delivers glamour—consider what best aligns with your design vision.
Look at your existing finishes. Warm timber floors pair beautifully with brass or bronze, while gold hardware works well with deep, luxurious tones.
Test the lighting. Metals interact with light differently—polished finishes reflect light and feel more dynamic, while brushed and matte finishes absorb light for a softer effect.

Kitchen project by Enigma Interiors feat. Clement cabinet handle in Brushed Brass

Warm metals aren’t just about aesthetics—they shape the mood, depth, and longevity of a space. Whether you lean towards the evolving character of brass, the rich subtlety of bronze, or the statement polish of gold, choosing the right hardware can completely transform your design.

“Hardware is the detail that ties everything together,” says Rosanne. “It’s not just about looks—it’s about how the space feels, functions, and evolves over time.”