Whether you are selecting finishes for plumbing fixtures or hardware, the choices can be overwhelming. Selecting the right finish for your home is very important and there are many factors to consider when making this decision. We will take a look at the pros and cons of standard and elevated finishes on the market.
Standard Finish Selections – Pros and Cons
Polished Chrome
Pros:
- The most affordable and cost-effective option on the market
- Classic and will never go out of style
- Can easily be used in combination with other metal finishes
- Easy to match this finish across different brands
Cons:
- Shows fingerprints and, therefore requires more maintenance in terms of wiping and cleaning
- Not the most visually appealing choice on the market
Brushed Nickel
Pros:
- Classic finish that you will never get tired of
- Appeals to homebuyers and adds resale value
- Lots of options available on the market
- Does not show fingerprints easily
Cons:
- More expensive than polished chrome
- Finishes do not match across different brands so you often have to purchase plumbing fixtures from the same manufacturer
Polished Nickel
Pros:
- Classic finish that looks very elevated
- Can add a luxurious feel to a kitchen or bathroom
- Adds resale value to a home
- Has a warm undertone and can work well with neutral tiles
Cons:
- The most expensive option on the market for standard finishes
- Requires a lot of upkeep to maintain the look
Elevated Finish Selections – Pros and Cons
Matte Black
Pros:
- Works well in modern and contemporary spaces
- One of the most forgiving finishes to match across different brands
- Lots of matching options for accessories, lighting, and hardware
- Does not show fingerprints and is very easy to maintain
Cons:
- Trendy – Tends to go in and out of style and is not everyone’s cup of tea
- Can feel overpowering
Satin Brass
Pros:
- Can complement various design styles
- Durable and high-quality
- Warm undertone allows for a more refined look within a space
Cons:
- Follows design trends and tends to come in and out of style
- Requires a high budget because of premium pricing across the board for fixtures, fittings, and accessories
- Very difficult to match as finishes across brands vary drastically
Oil Rubbed Bronze.
Pros:
- Unique finish to set your space apart and create an impact
- Adds a high-end feel to a home
- Does not show watermarks and fingerprints so it is easy to maintain
- Patinas with age – You either love it or hate it
- Finishes are somewhat easy to match across different brands
Cons:
- Does not work well with every design style – Tends to be more traditional or rustic
- The finish patinas with age and changes colour over time, this is not for everyone
- Premium pricing and one of the most expensive options on the market
- Finishes will be somewhat easy to match across brands but won’t be perfect as it can vary slightly
Selecting the Right Finish for Your Space
Now that we have looked at the pros and cons of the most common finishes there are a few other important factors to take into consideration when choosing the right metal finish for your home.
1. Who will be using the space?
If the space will be primarily used by children then it might be best to stick to the more basic finishes such as polished chrome or brushed nickel. These finishes will easily complement bright colours and fun patterns. They are also much less expensive so you won’t need to worry about fixtures getting damaged.
2. How long do you plan on living in the home?
If you are not renovating your forever home, then it is important to look at resale value. Basic finishes appeal more to potential buyers as not everyone is keen on the latest design trends. Think about if it is worth it to spend extra on higher-end finishes if you will not enjoy them for a long period of time.
3. Does the finish match the design style of the home?
Not every finish is appropriate for every design style. It is important to maintain a consistent look throughout the entire home. If you are someone who constantly loves to make changes to your home decor, then consider using more standard finishes as they tend to work with various design styles and colour schemes. This will give you the flexibility and freedom to have fun with colours and patterns, and easily mix and match furniture, fittings, and accessories.
Mixing Metals!
Don’t be afraid to mix metals! Whether it is in a tiny powder room or a large kitchen, we love to mix and match metals within the same space. This is an excellent way for homeowners to utilize elevated finishes without breaking the bank and provides the wow factor without going overboard with trendy finishes. Mixing metals allows homeowners to experiment, be creative, add character, and have fun with design!
