Mixing metal finishes in the bathroom can add visual interest. But be careful, if you use too many types of metal, your design will look sloppy rather than intentional.

Common Bathroom Metal Finishes

From faucets to light fixtures, choosing the right metal can give your bathroom the look you’re after.

Chrome

Chrome is popular for its shiny silver appearance. It blends with other metal finishes and complements many color schemes. Chrome fixtures are ideal for bathrooms since they’re easy to clean and maintain.

Polished Brass

Polished brass is a warm, classic metal finish. It can give any design a sense of luxury and works well in vintage-inspired spaces.

Matte Black

Matte black is a trendy metal finish that hides fingerprints and water spots. It’s popular for modern and farmhouse-style designs.

Oil-Rubbed Bronze

Oil-rubbed bronze is distressed black, with hints of bronze peaking through. It’s suitable for rustic and earthy-styled spaces.

Brushed Nickel

Brushed nickel is a subdued silver. It’s a versatile metal finish ideal for traditional and modern bathroom designs.

Practical Ideas for Mixing Bathroom Metals

There are endless possibilities to explore when mixing bathroom metals.

Faucet and Hardware Combinations

Choose a dominant metal and complement it with a secondary one. For instance, you could pair a chrome faucet with matte black towel bars.

Mirrors and Lighting Fixtures

Mixing metals in mirrors and lighting fixtures adds depth and dimension. You could pair a matte black vanity light with a polished brass mirror.

Accessorizing With Metallic Accents

If you’re not ready to mix and match permanent fixtures like your lighting, faucets, and mirror, bring in other metallic elements through these items:

HooksSoap dispensersStorage containersShower curtain rod and rings

How To Pick The Right Metal Finishes for Your Bathroom Style

Not sure what metals to choose? Consider these points:

Identify Your Preferred Design Style

Modern and Minimalist: Modern and minimalist design styles feel clean and uncluttered. They feature sleek lines and geometric shapes. Chrome, stainless steel, and matte black finishes offer a simple and contemporary aesthetic.Rustic and Industrial: The design style combines raw, natural materials featuring a rough, unfinished look. Oil-rubbed bronze, brushed nickel, or copper enhance this design’s rugged appearance.Classic and Elegant: Classic and elegant bathroom design styles incorporate ornate and intricate details. Choose brushed nickel, polished brass, or gold to complement this design style.Bohemian and Eclectic: These design styles adopt the unconventional mixing of textures, colors, and patterns. An eclectic or bohemian bathroom mix of antique bronze, brass, and copper is ideal.

Consider the Size and Layout of Your Bathroom

Lighter metal finishes, such as chrome or brushed nickel, are suitable for smaller spaces. Opt for darker finishes such as oil-rubbed bronze or matte black for larger bathrooms. They add depth and character to the room.

Factor in Maintenance Requirements and Durability

There are metal finishes that need more maintenance than others. Chrome and stainless steel are often low-maintenance and resistant to water spots.

You may also find stainless steel finishes that resist fingerprint smudges. In contrast, brass, bronze, and copper tend to develop a patina over time. Regular polishing may be necessary to maintain their appearance.

Complement Existing Bathroom Fixtures and Elements

The existing fixtures and elements are worth considering when choosing metal finishes. For example, pair your vintage clawfoot tub with brass or gold finishes. Choose chrome or stainless steel finishes if your bathroom has modern fixtures.

Choose Finishes Based on the Desired Atmosphere

Warm and Inviting: Brass, oil-rubbed bronze, and copper exude comfort and coziness. The finishes have a natural warmth and can make your bathroom feel more welcoming.

Use contrasting materials and textures to create visual interest when blending metal finishes. You could pair polished brass faucets with matte copper towel bars to complement the cabinet hardware.

Sleek and Contemporary: Pick metal finishes with a minimalist aesthetic to achieve this atmosphere. Chrome, stainless steel, and polished nickel suit this bathroom design style.

Maintain a consistent color temperature throughout the bathroom when blending these metal finishes. For instance, you could pair chrome faucets with polished nickel towel bars and stainless steel cabinet hardware. Adding small amounts of matte black or brushed gold accents contrasts the design.

Timeless and Sophisticated: Choose metal finishes that evoke feelings of refinement and elegance. Choose brushed gold, satin nickel, or aged brass for a classic aesthetic. Blending these finishes creates harmony and consistency in a bathroom design.