The Art of Mixing Hardware Finishes: How to Combine Metals with Confidence
Gemma Welch
When it comes to designing a kitchen, bathroom, or even a piece of furniture, one of the most exciting finishing touches is hardware. Knobs, pulls, taps, and fixtures may be small, but they carry big design impact. Gone are the days when every handle and hinge had to match perfectly — today, designers are confidently mixing metals to create spaces full of depth, warmth, and personality.
So how do you pull off this trend without making your room look mismatched? Let’s dive into the art of mixing hardware finishes.
Why Mix Metals?
Mixing finishes allows you to:
Add Dimension – Layering tones like warm brass with cool chrome makes a space feel richer and more intentional.
Balance Warm & Cool Tones – Brass or bronze warms up cooler cabinets and tiles, while chrome or nickel brings a crisp, fresh edge.
Highlight Features – A statement tap in black or bronze stands out beautifully when paired with subtler chrome or brass handles.
Designer Tips for Mixing Metals
1. Choose a Dominant Finish
Start with one main metal that makes up around 70% of your hardware. This keeps the design grounded. The secondary finish acts as an accent. For example, in a kitchen, you might use brass knobs on most cabinets, then introduce matte black pulls on the island drawers.
2. Stick to 2–3 Finishes
Mixing too many metals can feel chaotic. Aim for two finishes, or three if you’re confident. Brass and black is a timeless pairing; chrome and bronze also work well together.
3. Keep Tones Consistent
Warm tones (brass, gold, bronze) pair naturally, while cool tones (chrome, nickel, stainless steel) work together too. Combining one from each category adds balance, but make sure the undertones don’t clash.
4. Repeat Each Finish at Least Twice
If you introduce a finish, use it in at least two places so it feels intentional. For example, a black tap paired with black cabinet pulls ties the look together, even if most of the hardware is brass.
5. Use Lighting & Accessories to Blend
Metallic accents aren’t limited to hardware — think light fittings, stools, picture frames, or even small kitchen appliances. These help distribute finishes evenly through the space.
Inspiring Examples
Kitchen: Brass knobs on white upper cabinets, matte black pulls on the island, and a chrome tap to tie in with stainless steel appliances.
Bathroom: Oil-rubbed bronze vanity pulls paired with a polished nickel faucet and shower trim for a layered, spa-like feel.
Living Room Built-ins: A mix of black cup pulls and brass knobs for character, with a brass lamp nearby to echo the finish.
Final Thoughts
Mixing hardware finishes is all about balance and intention. By choosing a dominant finish, repeating accents, and keeping tones harmonious, you can achieve a designer look that feels curated rather than cluttered. Whether you’re refreshing your kitchen, upgrading your bathroom, or styling built-in furniture, don’t be afraid to mix metals — it’s the detail that elevates your space.
