10 Brass Decor Ideas to Try in Your Home
Brass decor has been popping up in homes and retail stores more and more, though its popularity traces back decades. Brass became popular during the Victorian era when it was used in high-end homes. Because of its softness and versatility, Victorian craftsmen used brass to create intricate designs and motifs for furniture, fireplaces, and accent pieces like jewelry boxes and doorknobs. Historically, brass was a luxury material, but it became more widely available with technology and cultural advances.
In the 20th century, brass once again became a popular choice for light fixtures and lamps. Its warm hue accented the wood tones and earthy palettes of midcentury modern homes in the ’50s and ’60s. Today, brass is making another comeback, but in a new way with dainty accents and vintage nods. Here are our best tips for decorating with brass in your home.
Install Brass Sconces
Annie Schlechter
Take inspiration from midcentury modern design and consider installing brass sconces in your home. They’re a simple way to bring light and warmth to compact spaces like hallways, bathrooms, or reading nooks. Brass sconces are available in a variety of sizes and shapes, each offering a warm, golden glow to your room. If you’re comfortable with electrical work, you can install the sconces yourself, or you can always hire a professional electrician for the job.
Try a Brass Bed Frame
David Land
Consider a brass bed frame when updating your bedroom. Brass offers both durability and style—important qualities for a long-lasting bed. Its golden hue serves as a versatile neutral that works well with both warm and cool color palettes, ensuring your bed frame complements any design scheme over time.
When incorporating a brass bed frame, consider coordinating it with other elements in your space. You could match it with brass bedside lamps, or choose a unique light fixture with a brass finish for added cohesion.
Repurpose Brass Trays
Brie Williams
Think beyond the tabletop with your brass trays by hanging them on the wall. While they serve well as catch-alls, brass trays can add a unique touch to a vintage-inspired gallery wall. You can gather several trays to create a display or integrate one or two into an existing setup for extra shine and dimension. To hang them, use an adhesive or hooks designed to support the tray’s weight without leaving marks when removed.
Add a Collection of Candlesticks
John Bessler
Using brass candlesticks is an effortless way to introduce a touch of brass into your home decor. Whether placed individually or in groups of three, they look stunning on bookshelves or mantels. Arrange them along your dining table for an elegant centerpiece that sets the mood.
When searching for vintage brass candlesticks, look for various heights and shapes, and consider those that accommodate both taper and pillar candles. Mixing different styles can create a visually intriguing display. Be sure to clean and polish your candlesticks regularly to maintain their classic golden sheen.
Hang a Brass Mirror
John Granen
Brass mirrors, with their Victorian-era details, offer both style and practicality. A floor mirror with ornate brass accents can be leaned against a wall to catch the eye and open up your space visually. You might also place a smaller brass mirror on a table to establish a charming vanity area. Pair the mirror with small brass items like trays, jewelry boxes, or decorative dishes for added allure.
Match Brass Fixtures
Annie Schlechter
Enhance your bathroom with brass accents for a fresh yet inviting atmosphere. Begin by replacing drawer hardware with brass designs, and include matching towel holders and wall sconces. Introduce a vanity mirror with a metallic finish for added polish. If you’re planning a more extensive refresh, think about updating faucets and shower hardware with brass elements like a brass showerhead, knobs, or a curtain rod.
Decorate with Brass Frames and Accents
John Gruen
Switching from wooden frames to brass is an easy yet impactful update for your decor. Look for brass frames at vintage stores and use them for personal photos or online prints. To achieve a curated appearance, mix frames of different sizes, shapes, and textures. Display them together on a wall or disperse them across a bookshelf to link your favorite knick-knacks.
Brass Statement Piece
Annie Schlechter
Brass light fixtures have been a staple in home decor for decades, enhancing spaces with their eye-catching finishes. A brass finish complements any style, allowing the fixture to shine. For a traditional look, consider a single-ring chandelier. If you prefer something more playful, search for fixtures with multiple angled arms and round bulbs. You might also opt for a collection of brass pendants to achieve both styles.
Swap In Brass Handles and Pulls
Dane Tashima
Give your kitchen a stylish update by replacing cabinet handles and drawer pulls with brass ones. For striking contrast, layer brass handles on navy, olive green, or black cabinets, or maintain a clean aesthetic with white or cream cabinets. Enhance cohesion by coordinating the brass accents with other kitchen elements, such as bar stools with brass legs or add brass pendant lights above your kitchen island.
Brass Flatware
Adam Albright
Upgrade your dinner table by exchanging your utensils for elegant brass flatware. With its sleek finish, brass flatware adds a pop of color and sophistication to any setting. It pairs seamlessly with various color schemes for tablecloths, plates, and centerpieces, making it an ideal choice for year-round and seasonal hosts. For an even more cohesive look, coordinate the flatware with brass-rimmed plates, napkin rings, and drinkware.
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