Brass fixtures can add a touch of elegance and vintage charm to a bathroom. However, choosing the right colors to complement brass bathroom hardware can be tricky. Here are some tips on picking paint colors, tiles, and other finishes that will create a cohesive look when paired with brass fixtures in the bathroom.
Warm Neutral Paint Colors
Brass has warm, golden undertones. Cool paint colors like blues and grays can clash with the bold warmth of brass. Instead, look to warm neutrals like:
- Beige
- Light tan
- Warm gray
- Almond
- Mushroom
- Greige (a mix of gray and beige)
These paint colors will complement the yellow and golden tones in brass hardware and fixtures. Warm white paint also pairs beautifully with brass. Stay away from stark whites, which can look too harsh and cold against the metallic warmth of brass accents.
Earthy Tones
In addition to warm neutrals, earthy tones are an excellent choice for complementing brass bathroom fixtures. Consider moody paint colors like:
- Chocolate brown
- Espresso
- Terracotta
- Mustard yellow
- Burnt orange
- Deep green
These richer colors accentuate the glossy, golden shine of brass beautifully. Pair black brass fixtures with a deep charcoal or black paint for a dramatic, glamorous look.
Metallic Accents
Don’t be afraid to complement brass with other metallics. Polished nickel, chrome, and stainless steel can be mixed and matched with brass hardware. Try a brass faucet paired with nickel sconces and a chrome mirror frame.
You can also bring in metallics through wallpaper, tile, or textiles. A little bit of metallic sparkle amplifies the effect of brass fixtures. Just be careful not to go overboard with too many mixed metals in a small space.
Warm Wood Tones
Natural wood finishes like walnut, oak, and mahogany work beautifully with brass. The rich, warm wood tones pick up the hints of orange and brown in the brass. Use wood flooring, wainscoting, cabinets, or furniture to tie the space together.
Distressed wood with aged patinas can provide an extra level of complementary texture and color variation when paired with brass fixtures.
Black and White
A classic black and white color palette allows the brass fixtures to really stand out and pop. Try a black and white tile floor or shower surround to make the brass vanity and fixtures the focal point of the room.
Crisp white walls serve as the perfect neutral backdrop for brass fixtures and golden lighting. Add black bath mats, towels, shower curtains or artwork for contrast.
Pastels and Jewel Tones
Contrary to popular belief, bright colors can actually pair nicely with brass if done right. Soft pastels like powder blue, lavender and mint green add a touch of brightness but don’t clash or fight with the brass tones.
You can also try punchier jewel tones like sapphire, emerald or amethyst. The key is choosing colors with yellow, orange or red undertones that complement (rather than fight against) the color of the brass fixtures. Just make sure it’s not a bright primary color like a fire engine red.
Patterns and Textures
Patterns and textures are a great way to incorporate color while still allowing the brass fixtures to shine. Try a wallpaper or shower curtain with a warm neutral or metallic pattern. Tile with Moroccan-inspired shapes and colorful mosaics complement brass beautifully.
Natural stone surfaces like marble, travertine and limestone also pair nicely with brass fixtures, as do materials like bamboo, jute, rattan and woven textures. The more neutral variation within the patterns and textures allows the brass to stand out.
Conclusion
When selecting colors to go with brass bathroom fixtures, stick to warm, earthy tones that pick up on the natural properties of the brass metal. Cooler colors tend to clash with the bold warmth of the brass. Don’t be afraid to also bring in some metallic shine or rich pattern and texture. With the right complementary color scheme, brass hardware and fixtures can add timeless character and a touch of luxury to any bathroom design.
