Choose the ideal finish for your interior scheme, renovation or building project
Few design choices have the enduring appeal of solid brass and bronze hardware. Both offer warmth, craftsmanship and authenticity, adding depth and distinction to prestige projects, from modern homes to period renovations. While these two beautiful metals have much in common, they also possess key differences. Read on to discover our insights on how to choose between them.
Brass versus bronze
Brass and bronze are both alloys of copper, but while brass is made from a mix of copper and zinc, bronze is (usually) formed from copper combined with tin. The specific combinations of each base metal influence the final colour, texture, strength, durability and even the ageing process of the hardware. Today, high-quality architectural hardware is often made from solid brass and available in a wide variety of different finishes (including bronze), or may be cast in solid bronze for a premium look and feel.
Why choose brass hardware?
The warm gold colour and brilliant shine of brass introduce irresistible points of interest and reflect light around a room. Polished brass is bright and eye-catching, satin brass has a softer, more subtle effect, and antique brass is darker and more weathered in appearance. Brass hardware can complement both contemporary and traditional schemes, and creates a superb effect when combined with rich, dark colours and luxury materials such as walnut, teak and marble.
Why choose bronze hardware?
Bronze has a warm tone that is deeper and richer than brass (picture the timeless artistry of an ancient sculpture). Its surface can be matt or textured, making it ideal for disguising fingerprints. Both metals are exceptionally durable and built to cope with normal use for many decades. Subtle and classic, bronze suits heritage projects perfectly, and creates an interesting look in a contemporary interior. It also works for both industrial and rustic schemes, complementing timber, stone, ceramic, linen and other textured, natural materials.
Do brass and bronze age well?
Both metals age gracefully, a natural process that develops character and enriches an interior. No two pieces are alike, with the gradual evolution of the metal's appearance depending on time, the environment and how the hardware is used and handled. An unlacquered brass piece reacts to oxygen, moisture and the oils in our hands, and its colour will change, perhaps slightly unevenly. Over time, unlacquered bronze, too, will gradually develop a deeper, darker patina. These are known as 'living' finishes for good reason: their slow changes reflect and enhance our experience of using a space, telling a unique and individual story.
Is brass or bronze hardware better for my project?
There is no absolute right or wrong choice between brass and bronze hardware. Both metals possess an innate elegance and warmth, with a timeless appeal that feels effortlessly enduring, and both are designed to age beautifully over time. Brass often has a brighter, more distinctive presence, while bronze brings a deeper, quieter sophistication with a more classic sensibility. 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, the decision is really about atmosphere. Consider not only the property's architecture and interior language, but also how the spaces will be experienced and how you wish them to feel, both now and for years to come.
Discover unique bronze and brass hardware from our brands Rocky Mountain Hardware and Evaanna
Every state-of-the-art piece by Rocky Mountain Hardware is individually cast from art-grade molten bronze, creating unique character and luxury. Each product is then given a hand-applied patina that only grows richer and more lustrous as the years go by. Evaanna, meanwhile, creates functional, durable art objects using traditional metalsmithing techniques. In soft shapes to perfectly fit your grip, they are made of solid brass and bronze to serve you for a lifetime.
Contact us today to discover unique brass and bronze hardware to complement your project.
