Timeless vs. Trendy: Choosing the Perfect Metallic for Your Cabinet Hardware

Tatum
Aug 13
3 min read

Hello décor friend,

When it comes to cabinet hardware, few choices make as much of an impact for such a small detail. Those little knobs and pulls are like the jewelry of your kitchen, bathroom, or built-ins—adding style, personality, and sometimes even a little drama. But here’s the age-old design question: should you choose timeless metallics that will look great for decades, or embrace trendy metals that reflect the moment’s hottest styles?

Let’s explore the differences so you can make a confident choice.

The Case for Timeless Metallics

Timeless metallics are those classic finishes that have stood the test of time. Think polished chrome, brushed nickel, and oil-rubbed bronze. These finishes have been in use for generations, and their staying power comes from their versatility and ability to blend with a variety of design styles.

Brushed Nickel – Soft, muted, and universally appealing, brushed nickel works beautifully in both traditional and modern settings. Its understated look makes it an easy pairing with most color palettes.
Polished Chrome – Crisp and reflective, chrome has a clean, tailored feel. It’s perfect for contemporary kitchens and bathrooms, yet still works in more classic interiors.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze – Warm and inviting, this finish brings depth and a touch of Old World charm, making it a staple in farmhouse, traditional, or rustic-inspired spaces.

Designer Tip

If you want your cabinet hardware to look “right” for years without the risk of it feeling dated, timeless metallics are your safest bet. They also tend to be more widely available, which means replacing or adding pieces down the road is easy.

The Case for Trendy Metals

Trendy metals are the bold, of-the-moment finishes that make a design statement. These include matte black, unlacquered brass, brushed gold, copper, and mixed metal designs. While they may not have the decades-long track record of their timeless counterparts, they offer a unique way to infuse your space with personality.

Matte Black – Sleek and dramatic, matte black creates high contrast and works especially well with light cabinetry. It’s modern, graphic, and chic.
Unlacquered Brass – This living finish changes over time, developing a patina that feels warm and storied. It’s a designer favorite for adding vintage character.
Brushed Gold – Soft and luxe, brushed gold leans warm without being too shiny. It can add elegance to both modern and traditional spaces.
Copper – Rich and eye-catching, copper is perfect for rustic or eclectic interiors, and pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood and stone.

The biggest draw of trendy metals is their ability to make a space feel fresh and fashion-forward. The trade-off? They may fall out of style more quickly, and matching them later can be a challenge if you want to expand the look.

Finding Your Perfect Balance

One smart approach is to use timeless metallics for most of your cabinetry, then introduce trendy finishes in smaller doses—like on an island, a vanity, or built-in shelving. That way, you can enjoy the current look you love without committing your whole space to it.

Hardware may be a small detail, but it’s one that can completely shift the mood of your home. Whether you lean toward the tried-and-true or the bold-and-now, choose what makes you smile every time you open a drawer. After all, that’s the most timeless choice of all.

Need an extra dose of “design confidence”. I’m here. We can schedule an online design consultation so you can move forward with your design projects. https://www.cavendishlanedesign.com/contact