Reader question:
Hi, Every time I see your kitchen I can’t get over how amazing it is. I found a decorating site that identified top trends for kitchens in the years ahead. You’ve hit on most of them…the tile, the two tone, the open shelving etc. One that I don’t see is BRASS. Now, maybe I’m just showing my age, but I cannot walk down the path of brass… I remember ripping it out of too many places to start putting it back in. No.
What is your opinion of the brass trend?
Thanks for your great design posts. — Nora
Thanks, Nora!
Here are my thoughts:
What do I think of brass as a trend?
To me, brass feels less like a fleeting trend and more like a classic accent that can add warmth and character to a home. While brass has resurfaced in popularity in recent years, I’ve used it in small doses for years—long before it became fashionable again. My preference is for mellow, antiqued brass or warm gold tones rather than the bright, faux brass finishes that were common in many newer homes.
Brass and gold contribute a sense of history and an old-world touch that complements many decorating styles. In my kitchen the finish isn’t loud or overwhelming; it appears in subtle ways and is mixed with other metals like iron, silver, and copper for an eclectic, layered look. You’ll find brass on wall sconces, a few cabinet knobs, the animal pulls on our island, and on accessories such as frames, trays, and candlesticks.
Brass appears in other rooms too—on dresser hardware, chandeliers, wall sconces, and lamps. I’ve kept some pieces over multiple homes because they are timeless to me, not simply because they were trendy. Using a few well-chosen brass pieces lets the home feel warm and collected without committing to a single, dominant finish throughout.
So is my kitchen on trend or classic?
Classic elements often cycle back into popularity, but that doesn’t make them less tasteful once the trend fades. I like to blend items I love and already own with a few newer pieces, allowing my style to evolve naturally. Relying entirely on current trends can result in a home that quickly feels dated or contrived. A steadier approach—a foundation of timeless pieces mixed with occasional trend-driven accents—keeps a space feeling fresh and personal for years.
Features like open shelving, subway tile, and two-tone cabinets are popular now, but they’ve also been favorites of mine for a long time. In earlier remodels I used those same elements, paired with brass accessories, because they suit the aesthetic I enjoy. Bringing those classic touches into a new kitchen with subtle updates can make the room feel modern while retaining enduring appeal.
My advice: embrace the things you truly love, use everything in moderation, and mix styles and finishes. That combination creates a lasting, budget-friendly approach to decorating that can adapt gracefully over time.