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Modern Matter Blog
Best Brass Finish and Cabinet Color Pairings
Our Favorite Combinations
Choosing the right cabinet hardware can transform a space—but with so many finishes and colors to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. At Modern Matter, we love helping customers find pairings that elevate their design vision. Today, we’re sharing our favorite combinations of brass hardware finishes and cabinet colors—plus some tips on what to consider when choosing between lacquered and unlacquered brass.
Design by Heather Chadduck Hillegas for theColonialWilliamsburg's Designer in Residence Program at the Nelson-Galt House. Photography Annie Schlechter. Image courtesy of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation
What Is a Brass Finish—and Why Does It Matter?
A brass finish is the final treatment applied to brass hardware, and it plays a major role in how the piece looks, feels, and ages. The right finish not only enhances the aesthetic but also affects durability and maintenance.
There are two main types of finishes to consider:
Lacquered Brass Finishes
Lacquered finishes are sealed with a clear protective topcoat that prevents oxidation and aging. They retain their original color and shine over time, with little to no maintenance required. This makes them ideal for anyone who wants a polished, consistent look.
Our lacquered finishes include:
- Polished Brass
- Polished Nickel
- Dark Bronze
- Oil-Rubbed Bronze
- Antique Pewter
Unlacquered Brass Finishes (Living Finishes)
Unlacquered finishes are left unsealed, allowing the brass to naturally patina over time. Exposure to air, moisture, and touch creates a unique aged look that evolves with use. These “living finishes” are a favorite for those who love a softer, organic, and time-worn feel.
Our unlacquered finishes include:
- Unlacquered Brass
- Burnished Brass
You can learn more about our lacquered finishes here and unlacquered finishes here.
Interior by Pure Salt Interiors. Photography by Vanessa Lentine
Interior by Kat Black Deisgns. Photography by Becca Lea Photo
1. Burnished Brass and White Cabinets
Timeless Elegance
Burnished brass has a soft, aged look that brings warmth without the shine. Paired with crisp white cabinets, it creates a clean but lived-in feel that works beautifully in both traditional and transitional spaces.
Why we love it: The contrast is subtle but impactful. White cabinetry keeps things fresh and bright, while burnished brass hardware adds depth and a hint of vintage character. This combo shines in kitchens, laundry rooms, or baths where timeless elegance is the goal.
Interior by Pure Salt Interiors. Photography by Vanessa Lentine
Interior by Mark D. Sikes. Photography by Amy Neunsinger
Interior by Happy Hive Design. Photography by Meghan Balcom Photography
2. Polished Brass and Colored Cabinets
Bold and Luxurious
Polished brass brings high shine and glamour—so why not lean in with bold cabinet colors? Think deep navy, emerald green, or even matte black. This pairing makes a statement without feeling overdone.
Why we love it: The warmth of polished brass enhances rich tones and adds a luxurious, editorial finish. It’s the perfect way to give cabinetry a fashion-forward upgrade.
Design tip: Use unlacquered brass if you want a more lived-in look, or polished brass for a more high-shine look of lacquered brass.
Interior by Kerri Pilchik Design. Photography by Kirsten Francis
Interior by Bena Langford from Studio Lang New York. Photography by Olivia Morales Photography
Interior by Charlotte Lucas. Photography by Chris Edwards
Interior by Swell Decor Photography by Laura Sumrak
3. Polished Nickel and White Cabinets
Sleek and Sophisticated
Not quite silver, not quite chrome—polished nickel has a soft warmth and a high-end look that makes it a designer favorite. When paired with white cabinets, the result is sleek, bright, and effortlessly modern.
Why we love it: This pairing balances clean lines with subtle warmth. It’s a great option for contemporary kitchens or baths where you want to stay neutral but avoid the coldness of chrome.
Bonus: Due to its lacquered nature, polished nickel resists tarnishing and has a timeless quality that won’t go out of style.
Interior by Chad Graci for the FLOWER Magazine Baton Rouge Showhouse. Photography by Paul Costello
Interior by Liz Williams Interiors. Photography by Emily Followill Photography
Interior by Jenn Cameron Interiors. Photography by Whitney Wasson Photography
4. Dark Bronze and Neutral Cabinets
Moody and Modern
Dark bronze hardware offers a dramatic, matte finish that pairs beautifully with taupe, beige, gray, mushroom, and other earthy neutrals. This combination feels grounded, architectural, and sophisticated.
Why we love it: It’s modern without being stark. Neutral cabinet colors soften the depth of dark bronze, creating a layered and luxurious palette that’s both warm and minimal.
Perfect for: Homeowners or designers looking to avoid trendy extremes and commit to a palette that feels elevated yet inviting.
Interior by Pure Salt Interiors. Photography by Vanessa Lentine
Interior by Avenue ID Designs. Photography by Madeline Tolle
Interior by Pure Salt Interiors. Photography by Vanessa Lentine
Final Thoughts
When it comes to choosing cabinet hardware, the finish makes all the difference. Whether you're drawn to the patina of unlacquered brass or the shine of lacquered finishes, the right pairing with your cabinet color can anchor your design and elevate your space. At Modern Matter, we offer high-quality brass hardware in eight finishes—so you can find your perfect match.
Looking for more design inspiration?
Browse our full collection of brass cabinet hardware and explore interior design inspiration and learn how to use our hardware to bring your vision to life.
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