How to Style a Brushed Brass Bathroom
Brushed brass has withstood the test of time, weaving its golden charm into modern interiors. While its appeal is undeniable, the key lies in striking the right balance. When done well, a brushed brass bathroom can exude elegance, radiating both a vintage charm and modern sophistication. Overdo it, and you could end up with something that looks overdone and dated - that’s where we step in.
In this guide, we delve deep into the art of creating the perfect brushed brass bathroom. From handpicked fixtures to complementary accessories and materials, we'll help you create a bathroom that’s modern, trendy and warm.
Brushed brass bathroom fixtures:
Michelle Boudreau of Michelle Boudreau Design explains, “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.”
While it's possible to make a bold statement with a brushed brass bath, it's often more effective to select smaller brushed brass accessories. These subtle touches can be elegant accents in the space. This, balanced with the right colour palette, gives you a grounded and elevated look.
Opting for brushed brass bathroom taps
Brushed brass bathroom taps are easy-maintenance, highly durable and can add a warm tone to an otherwise cold sink. To set your brass taps to stand out, opt for a basin made of white marble or dark granite and complement with coordinating accessories such as a towel ring (more on this later).
Choosing a brushed brass bathroom mirror
A bathroom mirror isn't just a functional element; it's a statement piece, a reflection of your style, and it can even be the centrepiece of the room. When framed in brushed brass, a mirror can elevate the entire space, adding a layer of glamour and warmth.
Round or oval brushed brass mirrors create a certain softness, breaking the monotony of straight lines and adding a bit of flair. They can act as a gentle contrast in bathrooms with more angular designs. On the other hand, rectangular or square mirrors complement a minimalist aesthetic, reinforcing a modern and streamlined look.
Brushed brass accessories
Brushed brass isn't just about the big statement pieces; it's also in the finer details. Even the most functional fixtures can be transformed into dazzling design elements with a touch of brushed brass. Consider elevating your space with brushed brass basin wastes, towel rings, or shower valves.
While white or black toilets, towels, and shower fittings naturally complement brushed brass, creating a classic and dramatic contrast, there are other hues to consider. Soft pastels, like blush pink or sage green, can introduce a touch of warmth and sophistication. Earthy tones, such as taupe or terracotta, can ground the space, making the brass accents pop even more. For a more modern twist, deep navy or rich emerald can serve as a luxurious backdrop, allowing the brushed brass accessories to truly shine.
In essence, the magic of brushed brass lies in its versatility. Whether you're aiming for a minimalist aesthetic, a vintage charm, or a bold contemporary look, the right colour pairings can elevate your bathroom, turning everyday fixtures into design statements.
Which are the best brushed brass bathroom lights?
If you’re looking to enhance a warm, inviting atmosphere and take your brushed brass design to the next level, you can install lighting made with this material. Consider the following points when making your choice:
- Fixture type: Determine the type of lighting fixture that best suits your bathroom's layout and style. Wall sconces, ceiling lights, or pendant fixtures all have their unique advantages and can contribute to the overall ambience differently.
- Lighting placement: Think about where you need the most illumination in your bathroom and what kind of statement the brushed brass would make in that place. For example, installing a brushed brass pendant light directly above the bathtub could create a sense of luxury.
- Size and scale: Pay attention to the size and scale of the fixture relative to the size of your bathroom. A fixture that is too large or too small can disrupt the overall balance of the space.
How to bring a brushed brass design together:
Embracing the brushed brass trend in bathroom design is about more than just incorporating a popular material; it's about crafting a space that exudes warmth, luxury, and timeless elegance. To truly capture the essence of this trend and create a cohesive look, it's essential to strike the right balance between textures, colours, and materials.
Balance Brushed Brass with Muted Tones
Brushed brass, with its radiant sheen, has become a sought-after choice for anybody who wants a touch of sophistication in their bathrooms. To really help it stand out and capture attention, it's important to balance it with the right colour palette. Muted colours, particularly whites, greys, and neutrals, are the perfect partners. These shades don't just complement the brass but also instil a sense of tranquillity and calmness, turning the bathroom into a serene retreat.
Vanity units in soft neutrals or basins in understated whites can be the ideal backdrop for brushed brass fixtures. When these products are set against a wall painted in muted tones, the result is a blend of luxury and simplicity. The brass fixtures stand out, yet they don't overshadow, so that the bathroom remains a place of relaxation.
Contrast brass with other textures
Brushed brass, with its muted matte finish, is rich and sophisticated. However, to truly make it stand out and add layers of depth to your design, it's essential to play with contrasting textures. Think of your space as a canvas, and the textures you introduce as the layers that add depth, intrigue, and character.
One effective approach is to juxtapose the sheen of brushed brass with high-gloss elements. Imagine brushed brass taps set against a backdrop of glossy tiles. The reflective surface of the tiles amplifies the light, making the brass taps stand out even more. This interplay between matte and shine creates a dynamic visual interest, drawing the eye and adding a touch of modern flair.
But don't stop at glossy tiles. Consider introducing other textures like smooth marbles, rough stones, or even soft textiles. Each texture interacts differently with brushed brass, offering a myriad of design possibilities. For example, a brushed brass light fixture hanging above a rugged stone countertop can evoke an industrial-chic vibe, while the same fixture above a sleek marble surface leans more towards classic elegance.
In essence, contrasting textures is not just about aesthetics; it's about creating a tactile experience. It invites touch, evokes curiosity, and ensures that every corner of your space tells a unique story, with brushed brass playing the central role.
Avoid mixed metals
When curating the perfect brushed brass bathroom, harmony and cohesion are key. Brushed brass, with its distinctive warmth and elegance, can easily become the star of the show. But introducing multiple metals can risk overshadowing its beauty and making the space feel cluttered or disjointed.
Too many contrasting metallic tones can disrupt the visual flow, making the room look busy rather than integrated. Instead, let the brushed brass shine by making it the primary metal in the room.
That said, if there's a need to introduce another metal, it's good to opt for something that complements rather than competes. Warm-toned materials, such as matt black, can offer a contemporary edge without detracting from the brass's charm. Similarly, chrome, with its neutral sheen, can subtly enhance the space without causing a visual clash.
Transform your bathroom into a sanctuary of elegance with brushed brass. Dive into 34 St John's curated collection of premium fixtures and accessories, and elevate your space today
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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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![How to Pull Off an Open Plan Bedroom Bathroom Design]()
How to Pull Off an Open Plan Bedroom Bathroom Design
Imagine a space where morning light spills across Italian marble floors, sweeping from your silk-draped bed to your freestanding stone bath. An open plan bedroom bathroom revolutionises the way we think about personal space, offering a fresh approach to modern living. This guide will take you through the essential elements of creating a successful open plan design, from practical considerations to luxury finishes. Whether you're renovating or building from scratch, you'll discover how to craft a space that perfectly maintains the privacy and comfort you need. Making Space Work Smarter The secret to an exceptional open plan layout lies in how you'll actually live in it. Map out your morning routine, from the first stretch in bed to your final glance in the mirror. Position your vanity unit where natural light hits your face, not your back. Consider placing your shower or tub where you can glimpse the morning sky. A partial wall at 4-5 feet height can house plumbing while doubling as a backdrop for your bed. https://pin.it/76sQe36Xr Choosing Materials That Last Skip the standard bathroom tiles. Instead, experiment with continuous surfaces that can handle both wet and dry areas. Polished concrete flows beautifully from bedroom to bathroom, developing a rich patina over time. For walls, marine-grade teak brings warmth while withstanding moisture. If marble catches your eye, book-matched slabs create dramatic impact, consider carrying a single piece up the wall and across the floor. Every material you choose will be on constant display, so invest in quality that can handle daily exposure to moisture. https://pin.it/7DVvJ88PH Making Privacy Work Make sure to address the elephant in the room - privacy. Consider installing electrochromic glass panels that switch from clear to opaque. Or take inspiration from Japanese architecture with sliding wooden screens that double as art pieces. Think of privacy elements as art installations that enhance rather than divide your space. https://pin.it/1RI2V8e43 Mastering the Light Your lighting should tell a story throughout the day, starting with discreet LED strips tucked beneath floating vanities and along floor transitions to guide your midnight wanderings with a gentle glow. By your bed, mount reading lights that pivot smoothly to wash your bathroom space in warmth when desired. Let nature play its part by carving out a skylight above your shower, where sunlight paints shifting patterns across marble and glass. https://pin.it/NeM0pHYdf Controlling Climate and Comfort The most important aspect of open plan bathrooms is perfecting the climate control. Install a multi-speed ventilation system with separate fans for shower and toilet areas. Underfloor heating should extend throughout the entire space, with separate zones for wet and dry areas. Position air vents strategically to prevent steam from condensing on your bedroom mirrors and to keep your bedding fresh. Adding a heated towel rack will also help manage moisture while keeping linens fresh and ready for use. https://pin.it/4eqSukEUE Smart Storage Solutions Your space should work like a well-designed yacht where every inch serves a purpose. Create a shower niche visible from your bed with enough depth to showcase art pieces when not storing toiletries. Place a rotating closet system within arm's reach of your shower, ensuring tomorrow's outfit is always perfectly positioned for your morning routine. The artistry lies in concealing these storage solutions so thoroughly that they vanish into your design. Getting the Details Right Success lies in the details that bridge both spaces. Install a surround-sound speaker system with waterproof bathroom speakers that sync perfectly with your bedroom audio, letting your music flow seamlessly as you move between spaces. Select unified fixtures and accessories in brass throughout, from your shower head to your bedside lamps. Try to hide charging stations inside vanity drawers where your devices can power up while staying protected from bathroom steam. Position a beverage station where it's reachable from both your bed and bath, perfect for morning coffee while you run the shower or evening tea as you wind down. These thoughtful connections between bedroom and bathroom spaces transform two rooms into one luxurious retreat where every detail feels considered. https://pin.it/6GEAhra34 -
![How to Create a Boutique Hotel Style Bathroom]()
How to Create a Boutique Hotel Style Bathroom
That moment when you swing open a hotel bathroom door and your breath catches, it's not just clever marketing at work. Forget the myth that you need massive square footage, what matters most is the strategic choices that transform your daily routine into a retreat experience. Whether you're planning a full renovation or looking to upgrade your existing space, we want to show you how to create a hotel style bathroom that makes you feel like you're on vacation every single day. https://pin.it/4zwJ9TLQP Take Inspiration from Hotel Styles The world's most memorable boutique hotels each tell a unique design story. Consider the minimalist theme of Copenhagen's hotels, where fluted wooden vanities meet curved mirrors and matte black fixtures. Or step into a Parisian bathroom where bold marble contrasts with industrial black metalwork and vintage-inspired lighting. For a more relaxed vibe, look to Australia's coastal hotels, where bleached wood meets textured limestone and oversized windows blur the line between indoors and out. https://pin.it/5naKT5V8x Choose a Relaxing Colour Palette Colour sets the mood for your daily rituals. The most spa-like hotel bathrooms start with a powerful base; think crisp whites with subtle grey veining, creamy stone that catches morning light, or charcoal that grounds the space. Layer in contrast through fixtures and finishes, matte black taps against white tiles create visual anchors, while brushed brass brings warmth to cool greys. The trick lies in restraint, limit yourself to three finishes and let natural materials add subtle variations. https://pin.it/3kboxkJ8l Add Fluted Furniture for Texture Transform flat surfaces into visual stories with fluted details, a design tactic borrowed from the world's leading hotels. A fluted wooden vanity turns a basic storage piece into a sculptural element. Modern boutique hotels often use this architectural detail in unexpected ways, think curved fluted tiles wrapping around a shower enclosure, or a reeded glass partition that separates the vanity from the toilet. https://pin.it/VImnFOOlb Focus on Comfortable Lighting Light makes or breaks a bathroom's atmosphere, it's why hotel bathrooms always seem to make you look better. The secret lies in strategic layering; mount sconces at eye level to eliminate unflattering shadows, install dimmable downlights for tasks, and add a backlit mirror that creates that coveted soft glow around your reflection. Install dimmers on every circuit, including the shower light, and watch your bathroom transform into a personal sanctuary. No single light source should do all the work, it's the interplay between layers that creates that perfect boutique hotel ambiance. https://pin.it/1Qynhg4Zm Choose High-Quality Materials The magic of hotel bathrooms isn't just what you see, it's what you touch. Focus your design plans on the daily contact points, taps that feel perfectly weighted, shower controls that turn with precision, drawers that glide shut silently. Choose large-format porcelain tiles that give you premium looks with practical benefits, better durability, easier cleaning, and none of the maintenance headaches. When it comes to brassware, invest in finishes that get better with age. Quality shows in the details, the smooth edges of a vanity top, the solid feel of a shower screen, the precise alignment of tile work. https://pin.it/1P47NeaDO Include a Freestanding Bath or Walk-In Shower The heart of every standout hotel bathroom is either a statement shower or bath that makes you want to linger. A freestanding tub, thoughtfully positioned to catch natural light, transforms your evenings into a moment of escape. If you have a smaller bathroom, consider a walk-in shower with floor-to-ceiling glass creates that same sense of luxury while making your bathroom feel larger than it is. https://pin.it/HDY4atFVp Layer Soft Textiles Invest in properly weighted towels that get softer with each wash, and buy extras so you can rotate them like hotels do. A deeply cushioned bath mat in pure cotton or bamboo makes that first step out of the shower feel indulgent. Skip the budget bathrobes and find one that's worthy of keeping on display, think waffle-weave cotton or soft linen that looks better and slightly rumpled. Keep your palette tonal with warm whites, soft greys, or deep charcoals to create that considered look. Then master the art of display, roll your hand towels instead of folding them, stack your bath sheets with precision, and keep your robe draped. https://pin.it/4Theqqge8 Keep Storage Simple and Tidy Start with a vanity unit that works hard, think deep drawers with internal organisers, a hidden electrical socket for your toothbrush, and a designated spot for every daily essential. If you're adding open shelving, treat it like a display space rather than storage, a few carefully chosen trinkets in natural materials make more impact than a cluster of products. Incorporate a med-cabinet behind your mirror for those less-than-photogenic necessities, and consider built-in shower niches that keep shampoo bottles off the floor. The goal isn't minimal living, it's smart storage that lets you keep everything you need within reach while maintaining that calm, collected hotel feeling. https://pin.it/5Z0CdyDQk Add a Touch of Greenery Boutique hotels know that greenery connects you to that holiday feeling faster than any design trick. Choose plants that love steamy conditions, a cascading fern creating shadows in your shower alcove, a glossy lily thriving on your vanity, or a statement monstera commanding attention in a corner. Try to think beyond the basic bathroom plant, keep your pots simple in natural materials like terracotta or concrete. And here's the insider tip; one oversized plant makes more impact than several small ones. https://pin.it/1T0gAwx18 Finish with Personal Touches Creating a boutique hotel-inspired bathroom is about focusing on the elements that matter most, whether that's a rainfall shower that drenches away stress or perfectly positioned lights that make every reflection flattering. Keep your palette restrained, your storage smart, and your materials honest. When each element serves both form and function, you'll create a space that feels like your own personal sanctuary, no room service required. For more guidance, you can consult our bathroom design service, where experts are ready to help bring your vision to life. -
![15 Ideas for a Glam Black and White Bathroom Design]()
15 Ideas for a Glam Black and White Bathroom Design
When it comes to bathroom design, few combinations capture attention like black and white. These two colours are uniquely versatile. They fit effortlessly into various styles but are most at home in a glamorous, luxury-inspired setting Let’s dive into 15 ways to create a stunning black and white bathroom that matches your vision of glamour. 1. Add a pop of colour to keep things bright https://pin.it/2ZElYT4VK Choosing a colour to compliment the backdrop of black and white has to be chosen carefully. When aiming for glam, only a handful of colours fit the bill, like dark greens, bold reds, gold or brass, and deep blues. While these colours are on the darker end of the spectrum, they still make a powerful statement the moment you step into your bathroom. To create this effect, consider using the colour in a standout piece like a vanity unit, an accent wall, or a unique decorative sculpture. 2. Use art to switch up the scenery https://pin.it/7eEIJeTab Art is a brilliant way to express your personality through design, adding a deeply personal touch to your home. While it’s key to showcase your individual style, be sure to choose art pieces that complement the glam black and white theme. Framed artwork has long been popular for creating a focal point, but current trends are taking it a step further, with art extending beyond frames and onto the walls themselves for a more immersive experience. 3. Make it feel warmer with brass or matte black taps https://pin.it/27CFQyjrF Adding a bit of glam and luxury to a monochrome bathroom can be as simple as upgrading your shower or basin taps. Brass or matte black taps will give the space a fresh, sophisticated edge. Your hard furnishings are also the best way to modernise your space - so if your bathroom is feeling a little dated and needs bringing into the present, perhaps consider trendy metals and a fresh paint job before a complete refurbishment. 4. Give the space texture with fluted furniture (super trendy) https://pin.it/7FNtpmvTD Fluted furniture is a huge trend at the moment. You’ll find fluted breakfast bars, fluted vanity units or even beds in all of the top hotels and bars. Adding texture to our furniture gives it a unique edge, especially with the high-end feel of a monochrome theme. These pieces act as subtle focal points. To round out the look, consider adding more fluted furniture to the space. 5. Be very specific about your lighting https://pin.it/26R0edJhw Setting the tone in your bathroom with adjustable lighting is a perfect way to create an immersive spa-like experience. In a black and white bathroom, lighting can brighten beautifully against the white during the day or soften into a moody ambiance in the evening. For a touch of added glamour in your bathroom, consider smart lighting that gradually dims as the day transitions to night. 6. Install floor-to-ceiling mirrors https://pin.it/4Ibw2B91M A full-height mirror transforms your bathroom's sense of space. Position it opposite a window to bounce natural light throughout the room, or place it behind your vanity to create depth. Consider adding a subtle frame in matt black or brass to tie it into your colour scheme. 7. Choose natural stone https://pin.it/53wBamQrb Marble remains the ultimate choice for a monochrome bathroom. Black and white marble creates natural pattern variation without overwhelming the space. Use it for your worktops, splashbacks or shower walls. If marble exceeds your budget, porcelain tiles with a marble effect are a great alternative. You can also opt for stone-look baths, as they offer all luxurious and natural-looking benefits of stone without the cold surface 8. Mix your patterns https://pin.it/2FI9cadL0 Combine different patterns whilst keeping your colour scheme strict. A patterned floor paired with white wall tiles creates interest without too much chaos. The key is to vary the scale - try large floor patterns with smaller wall details 9. Frame your windows https://pin.it/5VowTNBcV Window treatments deserve attention in a monochrome scheme. Opt for: Roman blinds in water-resistant fabric Plantation shutters in pure white Simple roller blinds with black trim The right window dressing helps manage light and maintains privacy whilst complementing your design. 10. Create clever storage https://pin.it/1I16gUgWx Storage solutions should blend seamlessly into your scheme. Tall wall cabinets in matt black hide everyday items and minimise clutter, whilst open shelving in white offers space to display your favourite pieces. Remember to include a mix of hidden and visible storage. 11. Layer your lighting https://pin.it/7w01Elmz4 Your bathroom needs three lighting types: task lighting around mirrors, ambient lighting for general illumination, and accent lighting to highlight features. Install dimmers on each circuit to control the mood. 12. Select statement tiles https://pin.it/2dkuNrFKA Make one surface the star. A black herringbone pattern on the floor paired with plain white walls creates impact without overwhelming the space. Keep other elements simple when using statement tiles, and switch up the texture with plush white towels on show. 13. Add a touch of nature https://pin.it/6oHidmYpA Introduce organic materials to soften the stark black and white palette. A wooden bath mat, woven baskets, or potted plants can break up the monochrome scheme and add warmth. Think about bringing in natural textures like: Rattan toilet roll holders Wooden shelving Terracotta plant pots Woven storage baskets These natural elements prevent the bathroom from feeling too clinical, adding depth and character to your monochrome design. They also create a connection with nature, making the space feel more inviting and lived-in. Choose pieces with simple lines that won't compete with your black and white theme, but instead complement the overall aesthetic. A single large plant with dark green leaves can be really striking against a white backdrop. 14. Consider your shower screen https://pin.it/bu9gVTEpp Shower screens offer a chance to add character. Clear glass with black framework creates an industrial edge, whilst plain glass with minimal fixtures maintains simplicity. Choose a finish that matches your other metalwork. 15. Create zones https://pin.it/4fvBS29kk Define different areas through thoughtful design. Use tiles to create a shower zone, or paint to highlight the bath area. These subtle divisions help organise the space whilst maintaining visual flow. We love this zoned bathroom because they’ve used different patterns, materials and colours in quite a small space - and it works!
