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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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