Brushed Brass: The Bathroom Trend of 2024

Published by: Kevin Sears

18th October 23

Bathroom Ideas

Reading Time: 2 mins 27 secs

If you’ve spent any time on Pinterest or interior design blogs this year, you’ll have heard people talking about the brushed brass bathroom trend. A statement in any space, including it in your bathroom is a great way to make a design that stands out from the crowd. 

But why exactly is brushed brass so popular right now? And how can you implement it without making your bathroom look too dated or too striking? These are the questions we consider in this guide, looking at tips for creating an elevated and contemporary space that features the metal. 

What is brushed brass?

Brushed brass is a stylish and sophisticated finish characterised by its warm, golden appearance and matt textured surface. Unlike polished brass, which is often glossy or shiny, in brushed brass, the metal undergoes a finishing process that involves brushing or sanding. The result is that it has fine, parallel lines or grains. 

The allure of brushed brass

Brushed brass was a staple of 80’s interior design, famed for its luxurious and opulent appearance. And, in 2024, we’re seeing a resurgence as interior designers show just how versatile this metal can be. 

Offering both vintage appeal with a contemporary edge, an edgy look with a welcoming aesthetic, it’s the perfect complement to a warm-toned bathroom.  Some of the other advantages of using it in your space include: 

  • Durability. Brushed brass is known for its resilience and resistance to tarnish.
  • Ease. Brushed brass is relatively easy to clean and maintain.
  • Enhanced light. Brushed brass amplifies and reflects light, making your bathroom appear brighter and more inviting.

How to incorporate brushed brass in a modern bathroom design

These are the five key tips to follow to ensure that brushed brass doesn’t overwhelm your bathroom design…  

Use it sparingly

As Michelle Boudreau of Michelle Boudreau Design describes, “Brass should be used sparingly, simply, and thoughtfully as a touch or a small detail. You don't want the subtle, magical glow of brass to become blinding.”

Choosing a brushed brass basin waste, towel ring or shower valve, for example, is a great way to add a subtle glint that catches the eye without overpowering. 


Opt for accents

Once you have a few key brushed brass fixtures, you can also incorporate accents such as soap dispensers and toothbrush holders. These will draw the eye and create a cohesive look that manages to remain elevated. 

Contrast it with the right colour palette 

To allow the brass to take centre stage, the rest of your colour palette should be more subtle and muted. Think soft whites, cool greys, and deep blacks. These neutral tones provide a sleek backdrop that allows the brushed brass accents to shine as the focal point. 

Be careful about which metals you mix

Metal mixing is a controversial point in interior design, but you can navigate the issue by keeping brushed brass as your dominant choice and then choosing complementary tones such as brushed nickel, matte black, or chrome which share similar muted or matte finishes.

Balance textures in the space

One way to create depth and interest in your bathroom is by pairing brushed brass with a smoother surface like glossy tiles or sleek acrylic. Just be careful not to add too many contrasting textures.  

Ready to transform your bathroom into a space that’s always ahead of the trends? Look to St John for all of your brushed brass bathroom furniture and accessory  needs and timeless design advice. 

Kevin Sears

About Kevin Sears

Kevin Sears is a bathroom and interior design blogger here at 34 St John. He creates original content utilising his extensive knowledge of the bathroom industry and latest trends.

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