As you can probably imagine, I see my fair share of stainless steel and brushed nickel finishes in plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware. It's pretty much been the "go to" finish for ages. Some clients will go for shiny chrome, which I happen to love as it enhances any contemporary design very nicely, thank-you-very-much. It's also usually less expensive. However today I would love to invite you to consider another option that has captured my attention of late.
It's what I call "the new brass". There is just something about the look that appeals. Perhaps it's because it's such a complete departure from stainless? New brass looks like old brass which is its charm and it's definitely more at home in traditional types of design. Classic design can be fresh new and yes, even modern. The Elan Vital faucet, by Watermark Designs, shown above, features their New Age Brass finish and you can customize it however you wish, sort of like a Tinker Toy! It's also available in 38 other finishes.
There is just something about this little ensemble that I love. It's greater than the sum of its parts. You can find out all the deets here.A word of advice, if you're loving this look too and considering brass, make sure to specify "un-lacquered brass". This finish will change over time developing a patina. If you're not up for that, you can get lacquered brass which has a protective coating and keeps the finish stable.The following pic, courtesy of Houzz.com is what I mean about traditional design crossing over into modern territory. The marble, brass and even the artwork are all traditional elements arranged in a lean simplicity that screams (ok perhaps it whispers) modern.
Note the door hardware is chrome and that's ok! There is a perfect balance of brass.