As anyone who’s ever bought or remodeled a home knows, finishes come and go. They are part of those “easy to change out” accents that evolve as trends shift and change. This is one of the reasons we advocate Chicago kitchen and bath remodeling designs that can stand the test of time.

In this moment, it’s true that antique and brushed brass finishes are trending. It’s also true that they won’t remain in style forever.

Should I Use Antique or Brushed Brass In my Chicago Kitchen or Bath Remodel?

If you’re determining whether or not to use antique or brushed brass in your kitchen or bath renovation, spend some time asking the following questions:

Do you like it?

Set trends aside and ask yourself whether you like it or not. Brushed and antique brass are very stylized looks. They add warmth and charm but just as with gold vs silver debate – we all have our preferences. We would rarely advocate choosing a finish based on what’s trending, rather than what your personal preferences are, since you’re the one who will live with it.

Conversely, if you love these darker, warmer finishes but are worried they won’t remain trendy, install the plumbing fixtures anyway. You’ll get the look you prefer, knowing you can swap them out later if you tire of them or are ready to sell the house and feel the fixtures won’t appeal to homebuyers based on the design trends at that time.

How does it look with your design?

Let’s say you prefer the look of brushed nickel, but are torn because of the current trends – make your decision based on how they look with the other design selections. You might be surprised to see that the antique brass is a better fit than nickel options, or vice versa. If you’re torn – go with what “rings” when you see it all paired together in 3-D design representations.

Can you earn a “win” or bank bonus points with a partner?

Remodeling isn’t always the most warm and fuzzy process when it comes to couples with differing design tastes or opinions. If you got your way with the countertops and/or cabinetry selections – perhaps giving in to your partner’s choices on something like plumbing finishes or lighting trim is a wise move.

You got the permanent stuff, s/he gets the fixtures that can easily be changed out later. (Don't worry...we'll never tell who scored the most points).

Does it have to be all or nothing?

Maybe you’ll find that mixing-and-matching different finishes in a tasteful way is a better way to go. This is certainly the case in an open floor plan or open concept kitchen, where the kitchen is adjacent to other, main living areas.

Look for ways to incorporate a little of this and a little of that. Not only does it create more visual interest, it also prevents you from being in the “completely” outdated boat down the road.

The design team at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited is here to help you with questions like this, and all other aspects of your Chicago kitchen and bath remodeling projects. Give us a call or stop by our showroom for personalized design assistance. 847-729-1212.

Photo Credit: Decor Pad