The popular Millennial gray trend has been a staple in interior design for almost a decade, but in 2025, warmer and more vibrant interiors are taking center stage. Designers are calling for a return to comfort, curves, and playfulness in home aesthetics, with brass emerging as a key element. Here are some expert tips on incorporating brass into your decor.
Sustainable, versatile brass design
Dan Bochichio of Albany-based Bocain Designs highlights brass as a sustainable and sophisticated material that adds warmth to any space. Its durability and adaptability make it a timeless choice for both modern and classic interior designs. Brass can be used on light fixtures, furniture legs, and cabinet knobs, providing flexibility in design options.
Mixing metals is a current trend, so don’t be afraid to pair brass with other metallic finishes. Forest Rose, a lifestyle blogger, suggests combining a matte black faucet with warm brass cabinet pulls for a unique and inviting look.
Brass complements various design styles, from baroque to brutalism, and develops a unique patina over time, adding character to fixtures. Erica Shepard, a designer, notes that brass has a timeless appeal that can enhance both modern and vintage decor.
Brass: the blend of old and new
Brass has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire and continues to add warmth and luxury to interiors. The metal’s durability and golden glow make it a go-to choice for adding touches of old-world charm. Whether used in period pieces or modern homes, brass exudes a sense of tradition and comfort.
Meri Wick from Westbrook Inn emphasizes the timelessness and authenticity that brass decor brings to interiors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Pairing brass accents with rich woods and vintage elements can elevate the overall aesthetic of a space.
Art deco and brass
The art deco movement embraced geometric designs and metallic finishes, symbolizing modernity and progress. Brass played a significant role in art deco interiors, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication. The use of brass in lighting fixtures and furniture pieces continues to evoke the glamour of the early 1900s.
Indoors, art deco styling with brass accents creates a lavish look that celebrates the era’s focus on modern design and innovation.
Mid-century modern and brass
Brass seamlessly integrates with the vintage aesthetic of mid-century modern design. Hannah Boyce from The Boutique Handle Co. suggests pairing brass with deep colors like green, blue, or burnt orange to create a classic mid-century modern look. Incorporating brass hardware into furniture pieces can add a touch of luxury and elegance to interiors.
Brass became a prominent metallic finish during the mid-century era, as seen in popular culture references like Mad Men.
Enhancing coziness with brass accents
Small brass accents can add warmth and sophistication to any space. Incorporating brass mirrors, sconces, or decorative objects can create a cozy atmosphere and elevate the overall design aesthetic. Brass touches can enhance the charm and character of a home, making it feel inviting and unique.
Brass in renovation projects
If you’re considering a renovation, incorporating brass elements can add a touch of elegance and style to your space. Brass tub legs, cabinet pulls, and knobs can update the look of a bathroom or kitchen, creating a modern and sophisticated feel. Experts recommend mixing brass with other metals for a vintage-inspired yet contemporary look.
Image courtesy of Ashley Burk Design