9 Matte Black and Warm Metallic Finishes for Kitchens and Baths

For years, stainless steel, satin nickel, and polished chrome have been the go-to finishes in kitchens and baths. And while those looks aren’t likely to go away, manufacturers are introducing—and consumers are beginning to embrace—the modern appeal of matte blacks and warm metallics such as brushed bronze or rose gold.

Matte blacks offer a softer take on the hue, while providing an elegant complement to popular white cabinetry and subway tile. "We've seen a significant growth in black hardware finishes, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down," says Christine Zimmer, product manager for Top Knobs. "The high contrast of black hardware against the lighter colors often used on walls add a modern feel and a touch of drama to bathroom designs." 

Bronze, gold, and coppers, showing up in light fixtures, faucets, and, now, appliances, combine a contemporary look with a touch of warmth. It’s not the shiny brass that fell by the wayside a decade ago, but soothing in brushed, soft, and rosy hues.

“Traditionally, silver- and gray-toned faucet finishes have dominated the kitchen and bath landscape. But over the past year or so, we’ve noticed a definite increase in gold and brass finishes,” says Noah Taft, senior vice president of marketing and sales for California Faucets, which offers artisan finishes including French gold, satin brass, and satin bronze. “Rich gold tones infuse the kitchen with the look of luxury, while brass tones allow you to capture a more ‘industrial’ or ‘steampunk’ vibe.” 

Here are nine products featuring these matte blacks and warm metallics.