Matte Black, Brass, or Chrome? A Guide to Choosing the Right Finish
Choosing finishes might sound like a small detail, but it can make a big impact. The right finish can pull a space together, while the wrong one can feel just a little… off. If you’re standing in front of samples, wondering “Matte black or brass?” or “Is chrome still in style?” — you’re not alone. SWARC Supply is ready to assist you on your hardware selection process.
This guide breaks down three of the most popular options and helps make hardware finish selection feel simple, not stressful.
Matte Black: Modern, Bold, and Timeless
Matte black is everywhere right now — and for good reason.
Why do people love it
Clean and modern without feeling cold
Works with almost any color palette
Hides fingerprints and smudges better than shiny finishes
Matte black shines (ironically) in modern, industrial, and minimalist spaces. It adds contrast, especially against light cabinets, stone surfaces, or natural wood.
Things to keep in mind
Can feel heavy if overused in small spaces
Best paired with warm textures like wood or stone
Great for: kitchens, bathrooms, statement hardware, and contemporary projects.
Brass: Warm, Classic, and Full of Character
Brass brings instant warmth and personality to a space. Whether polished or brushed, it has a way of feeling both classic and current.
Why do people love it
Adds warmth and elegance
Pairs beautifully with white, navy, green, and natural materials
Ages gracefully, especially with brushed or unlacquered options
Brass works especially well when you want a space to feel inviting and a little elevated.
Things to keep in mind
Polished brass shows fingerprints more easily
Too much shine can feel flashy in some spaces
Great for: kitchens, bathrooms, bars, and anywhere you want a touch of luxury without going over the top.
Chrome: Bright, Clean, and Reliable
Chrome has been around forever — and it’s not going anywhere.
Why do people love it
Clean, reflective, and crisp
Easy to match with appliances and fixtures
Durable and budget-friendly
Chrome is a safe choice that still looks great, especially in bright spaces with lots of light.
Things to keep in mind
Shows water spots and fingerprints
Can feel a bit cold if not balanced with warmer materials
Great for: bathrooms, utility spaces, and projects where consistency and durability matter most.
How to Choose the Right Finish (Without Overthinking It)
If you’re stuck between options, here are a few simple questions to guide your hardware finish selection:
What’s the overall style?
Modern → Matte black
Classic or transitional → Brass
Clean and timeless → ChromeWhat finishes are already in the space?
Look at appliances, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. Matching tones (not necessarily exact finishes) creates harmony.Who will use the space?
High-traffic areas benefit from finishes that hide wear and fingerprints.Do you want contrast or cohesion?
Matte black pops against light surfaces. Brass warms things up. Chrome blends in and keeps things simple.
Can You Mix Finishes? Yes — Thoughtfully
Mixing finishes isn’t a design mistake anymore. In fact, it often makes a space more interesting.
A good rule of thumb:
Choose one main finish
Add one secondary finish for contrast
Keep the rest consistent
For example: brass cabinet pulls with matte black lighting, or chrome fixtures with black accents.
Why SWARC Supply Is a Trusted Partner in the Details
At SWARC Supply, finishes aren’t just a trend — they’re part of a bigger design conversation. With deep experience serving both wholesale professionals and home design clients, the team understands how finishes perform in real-world projects, not just on a mood board.
Whether you’re sourcing at scale or selecting details for your own home, SWARC Supply offers:
Curated, high-quality materials
Knowledgeable guidance from people who understand design and construction
Trusted products that look great and last
When it comes to hardware finish selection, having the right partner makes all the difference.
Final Takeaway
There’s no single “right” finish — just the right finish for your space.
Choose matte black for bold contrast
Choose brass for warmth and character
Choose chrome for clean, timeless simplicity
And if you need help narrowing it down, SWARC Supply is always here to help you choose finishes with confidence — from the first idea to the final install.