If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom update, cabinet hardware is one of the smallest details that can make the biggest visual impact. As design trends continue to shift toward warmer and more natural interiors, many homeowners are asking the same question: is brass cabinet hardware still in style?
The answer is a resounding yes — and in many cases, brass is more popular now than ever. Modern brass finishes have evolved beyond the shiny, yellow tones of the past, offering timeless appeal that works beautifully in both classic and contemporary spaces.
Why Brass Cabinet Hardware Remains Popular
Brass cabinet hardware continues to stand out because it brings warmth and character that cooler metal finishes often lack. While chrome and stainless steel can feel sleek and modern, they sometimes create a cold or industrial look. Brass, on the other hand, adds softness and depth, making kitchens and bathrooms feel more welcoming.
Interior designers are increasingly favoring materials that feel intentional and enduring rather than trendy. Solid brass hardware fits perfectly into this movement. It offers visual richness, subtle texture, and a sense of craftsmanship that mass-produced materials can’t replicate.
Another reason brass remains in style is its versatility. Today’s brass cabinet knobs and drawer pulls are available in a wide range of finishes, including satin brass, brushed brass, antique brass, and unlacquered brass. These variations allow brass to complement everything from modern white kitchens to dark wood cabinetry and even bold, colorful designs.
Modern Brass vs. Traditional Brass
When people think brass is outdated, they’re often imagining highly polished, yellow-toned hardware from decades past. Modern brass finishes are much more refined.
Satin and brushed brass provide a softer, muted appearance that blends seamlessly with today’s interiors. Aged and antique brass finishes offer depth and character without feeling overly ornate. Even unlacquered brass — which naturally develops a patina over time — has gained popularity for homeowners who appreciate organic aging and lived-in beauty.
Because of these updated options, brass cabinet hardware no longer feels locked into one design style. It works just as well in a contemporary kitchen as it does in a traditional or transitional home.
How Brass Cabinet Hardware Compares to Other Finishes
Matte black hardware has dominated design trends for several years, but many homeowners are now looking for alternatives that feel warmer and less stark. Brushed nickel remains a safe, neutral choice, but it often lacks personality. Brass fills the gap between classic and modern, offering contrast without overpowering the space.
Unlike trend-driven finishes that cycle quickly, brass has proven its longevity. Its ability to adapt to changing cabinetry colors and design styles is one of the reasons it continues to perform well year after year.
When Brass Cabinet Hardware Works Best
Brass hardware pairs especially well with white cabinets, cream tones, and natural wood finishes. It also complements popular materials such as marble, quartz, and butcher block countertops.
In kitchens, brass drawer pulls and cabinet handles can instantly elevate the room, creating a focal point without requiring a full renovation. In bathrooms, brass cabinet knobs and appliance pulls add warmth that balances stone surfaces and tile.
Even mixing metals has become more accepted in modern design. Brass can be paired intentionally with matte black lighting or stainless steel appliances, as long as the finishes are thoughtfully distributed throughout the space.
Is Brass Cabinet Hardware a Trend or a Timeless Choice?
While brass is certainly having a moment, it is not a short-lived trend. Its history in interior design spans centuries, and today’s updated finishes have only strengthened its appeal.
High-quality solid brass cabinet hardware tends to age gracefully, resist corrosion, and maintain its structural integrity far better than zinc or aluminum alternatives. This makes it not only a design choice, but a practical investment for homeowners seeking durability and longevity.
So, is brass cabinet hardware still in style? Without question — yes.
As home design moves toward warmer palettes, natural materials, and thoughtful details, brass continues to stand out as a finish that feels elegant yet approachable. Whether you choose brass cabinet knobs, drawer pulls, or appliance handles, this metal offers timeless beauty that adapts effortlessly to evolving design trends.
If you’re looking for cabinet hardware that adds warmth, sophistication, and lasting value to your space, brass remains one of the most stylish choices available.