Choosing hardware for your home can feel overwhelming—after all, the right finish can tie a room together, while the wrong one can clash or fade into the background. From door hinges and locksets to cabinet knobs and pulls, every choice plays a role in your overall design.
Among themany finishes available—including polished nickel, chrome, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze—polished brass remains one of the most timeless and versatile. The warm, golden hue of this finish adds an elegant touch and enhances durability, making it a go-to choice for DIY homeowners and interior designers.
In this guide, we cover whatpolished brass is, where it works best, and why it remains a top choice for both classic and modern homes.
What Is Polished Brass?
Polished brass—also known as bright brass—is a solid brass alloy, composed of copper and zinc, that has been buffed to a highly reflective shine and typically sealed with a protective lacquer. This coating prevents the finish from tarnishing or developing a patina over time, resulting in a bright, mirror-like surface.
Due to its reflective golden tone, polished brass is often mistaken for gold itself. However, polished brass is actually more practical, affordable, and durable for everyday use.
Best Uses of Polished Brass
Polished brass is best used in every space! Adding polished brass also doesn’t require a full remodel—sometimes, swapping in this finish on your hardware is enough to refresh the entire room's look.
Entryways and Outdoor Spaces
A brass lockset or handle on your front door creates a warm welcome for your guests, and the lacquer coating helps polished brass withstand exposure. Inside your entryway,brass doorstops, hooks, coat racks, or umbrella stands add a cozy charm.
Living Rooms
In living areas, polished brass is perfect for accent details that tie a design scheme together. Use it onshelving brackets, fireplace accessories, or entertainment cabinet hardware to create continuity with other brass accents, like picture frames or lighting fixtures.
Kitchens
Kitchens are high-traffic spaces, and polished brass excels here due to its durability and consistent shine. Brasscabinet pulls,knobs, andhinges hold up well to daily wear while offering a luxurious contrast against simple painted cabinetry or modern marble countertops.
Bedrooms
Polished brass knobs and pulls on dressers or nightstands introduce a warm, golden glow that softens the atmosphere, creating a cozy ambiance. Against painted or darker wood furniture, brass is prominent without being flashy. Even small details—like a polished brass lamp base or closet door hardware—add a subtle layer of warmth.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms often rely on cool materials like porcelain, tile, and chrome fixtures. Adding polished brassbathroom hardware on vanities, towel bars, or cabinet pulls balances these cooler tones with warmth.
Offices
Home offices benefit from polished brass because of its ability to add personality without overwhelming the space. Polished brass desk hardware, drawer pulls, or even a statement lamp introduce polish (literally and figuratively) into a work environment. The finish pairs well with dark wood desks or painted built-ins, creating a professional yet stylish atmosphere.
Why Choose a Polished Brass Finish?
Many people choose hardware in a polished brass finish due to its blend of practicality and beauty. Here’s why you should also consider choosing this finish:
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Durable & Reliable: Brass is stronger and more resilient than softer metals, such as aluminum. Its sturdy composition makes it ideal for high-touch hardware, like cabinet pulls and doorknobs.
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Long-Lasting: With proper care, polished brass maintains its luster for years. The lacquer coating prevents tarnishing, keeping it shiny with minimal upkeep.
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Decorative Appeal: Its warm golden glow instantly adds sophistication to modern homes and elegance to traditional homes. Whether paired with dark cabinetry, bold wall colors, or patterned wallpaper, polished brass adds a glamorous accent that never feels outdated.
Final Thoughts
Ready to dive deeper into finishes? Download theUltimate Guide to Hardware Finishes for expert insights on how to choose, care for, and style every type of finish—including polished brass.
FAQs About Polished Brass
1. What Metals Go With Polished Brass?
Many metals go with polished brass, including polished nickel, black, antique brass, and more. Here is why these finishes work well alongside polished brass:
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Chrome & Polished Nickel: The cool undertones of silver finishes balance the warmth of brass, creating a crisp, modern look.
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Oil-Rubbed Bronze & Black: Dark finishes contrast with polished brass, highlighting its golden shine.
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Brushed Gold or Antique Brass: Layering brass tones adds warmth and visual contrast without clashing.
2. How Do You Protect Polished Brass?
Most polished brass hardware comes with a lacquer coating that protects against tarnish. However, you can also take the following steps to keep it looking its best:
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Clean with a soft, damp cloth instead of abrasive cleaners.
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Avoid harsh chemicals that may strip the lacquer.
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For unlacquered brass (sometimes sold for those who prefer natural aging), apply a light polish and wax periodically to prevent oxidation.