When it comes to choosing door handles, knobs, and other hardware for your home, the material and finish play a huge role – not only in aesthetics but also in durability and functionality. From gleaming chrome to classic brass, each metal and finish brings its own charm, strengths and practical benefits. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular types of metals and finishes used in door, window and cupboard fittings, to help you make the right choice for your interiors.
Chrome – Sleek, Modern and Versatile
Chrome is one of the most popular finishes for modern interiors, prized for its mirror-like shine and minimalist appeal. Typically applied as a plating over another metal such as brass or steel, chrome offers a highly reflective surface that resists corrosion and tarnishing.
Benefits of Chrome:
- Modern aesthetic: Ideal for contemporary or minimalist designs.
- Durability: Resistant to scratches, rust and corrosion.
- Easy to clean: A quick wipe keeps it sparkling.
- Versatile: Complements a wide range of colour schemes and decor styles.
Chrome is particularly well-suited to kitchens and bathrooms where high humidity could be a concern, thanks to its protective properties.
Brass – Timeless, Warm and Classic
Brass is a traditional favourite, known for its warm golden hue and vintage charm. Solid brass fittings are made from an alloy of copper and zinc, making them strong, antimicrobial and long-lasting. Brass has long been favoured by many for its durability and versatility too, with ironmongery companies such as Heritage Brass specialising in producing a whole range of exquisitely designed high quality brass fittings.
Benefits of Brass:
- Classic appeal: Works beautifully in traditional or heritage-style homes.
- Naturally antimicrobial: Helps reduce the spread of germs—a great choice for busy households.
- Highly durable: Resistant to cracking and corrosion.
- Ages gracefully: Develops a rich patina over time (or can be polished to retain its shine).
Brass is ideal for homes with a more classic or period-style design, and is commonly used in both interior and exterior fittings.
Bronze – Rustic, Rich and Full of Character
Bronze fittings offer a darker, more rustic finish with deep brown tones and subtle coppery highlights. Oil-rubbed or antiqued bronze finishes are particularly popular for those seeking an aged or artisanal look.
Benefits of Bronze:
- Distinctive character: Each piece can develop a unique patina over time.
- Strong and sturdy: Bronze is highly resistant to wear and corrosion.
- Low maintenance: Natural ageing adds to its charm rather than diminishing it.
- Ideal for rustic or industrial interiors.
Oil-rubbed bronze, in particular, is often chosen for country homes, cottages or spaces with an industrial edge.
Stainless Steel – Practical, Durable and Contemporary
Stainless steel is a common material for modern hardware thanks to its sleek appearance and incredible strength. It’s often chosen for commercial settings, but increasingly finds a place in contemporary residential homes.
Benefits of Stainless Steel:
- Corrosion-resistant: Perfect for bathrooms, kitchens and external doors.
- Highly durable: Can withstand frequent use and heavy handling.
- Modern look: Simple and understated.
- Hygienic: Easy to clean and maintain.
Stainless steel is a great option for homeowners who value clean lines and long-term reliability.
Nickel – Subtle, Stylish and Sophisticated
Nickel is a subtle alternative to chrome, with a softer, more muted finish. Available in both polished nickel and brushed (or satin) nickel, it provides elegance without the high shine.
Benefits of Nickel:
- Warm tones: Works well with greys, creams and pastels.
- Refined look: A sophisticated choice for transitional or modern-classic interiors.
- Durable finish: Resistant to tarnishing when properly cared for.
- Low-maintenance: Brushed options hide fingerprints and water spots.
Nickel finishes are ideal for those who want a balance between classic and contemporary.
Black (Matte or Satin) – Bold, Modern and Minimal
Black door and cabinet hardware has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, particularly in matte or satin finishes. While not a metal itself, black finishes are often applied to materials like stainless steel or zinc.
Benefits of Black Finishes:
- Bold contrast: Creates a striking look against white or light-coloured doors and cupboards.
- Contemporary style: Perfect for modern, Scandinavian or industrial interiors.
- Conceals fingerprints and smudges: Especially in matte finishes.
- Versatile pairing: Works beautifully with wood, stone, and monochrome palettes.
Black hardware brings a stylish edge to interiors and can be used to make a subtle statement or a bold design feature.
Pewter – Soft, Subtle and Understated
Pewter finishes offer a soft, muted tone somewhere between silver and grey. Often used to evoke a rustic or vintage feel, pewter works particularly well in country kitchens and traditional interiors.
Benefits of Pewter:
- Understated elegance: Ideal for creating a lived-in, homely feel.
- Low maintenance: Hides marks well and doesn’t show fingerprints.
- Unique tone: Works well with both warm and cool colour schemes.
- Textural variety: Often available in hammered or antiqued finishes for added character.
Pewter adds a gentle touch of charm without overpowering a room’s design.
Summary: Choosing the Right Metal and Finish
| Material/Finish | Style | Best For | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrome | Modern | Kitchens, Bathrooms | Sleek, durable, easy to clean |
| Brass | Traditional | Period homes, Front doors | Warm, classic, antimicrobial |
| Bronze | Rustic/Industrial | Country homes, Statement fittings | Aged look, strong, low maintenance |
| Stainless Steel | Contemporary | High-traffic areas | Tough, corrosion-resistant |
| Nickel | Transitional | Bedrooms, Living areas | Soft shine, elegant, refined |
| Black (Matte) | Modern/Minimalist | Kitchens, Modern homes | Bold, hides fingerprints |
| Pewter | Traditional/Rustic | Cottages, Country kitchens | Subtle, textured, classic |
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right material and finish for your door, window, and cupboard fittings can transform the look and feel of your home. Whether you’re aiming for sleek and modern or classic and timeless, there’s a metal to suit every style. Consider not just the aesthetic, but also the practical benefits—like resistance to wear, ease of maintenance and how the material ages over time.
When selected thoughtfully, these small details can elevate your entire interior design and provide years of lasting function and beauty.
