In a world where consumer trends and rapid change often dictate our purchases, it’s liberating to take a step back and think long-term. When decorating our homes, we should therefore look for materials and products that not only age gracefully, but also have good durability and a long lifespan. Two materials that meet these criteria are steel and brass. In this article, we’ll delve into how you can use steel and brass in your interior design for the benefit of both you and the environment.
Steel: A tribute to simplicity and timelessness
Steel is known for its strength and durability, and it is one of the most widely used materials in both construction and interior design. In addition to being robust and durable, steel has a timeless aesthetic that makes it easy to integrate into different styles.
A favorite in many kitchens and bathrooms, stainless steel is particularly prized for its ability to resist corrosion and stains. This means that products made from stainless steel can last for many years without losing their beauty or functionality. Consider investing in stainless steel interior design, countertops and kitchen sinks, as this will not only add a modern and industrial touch to your home, but will also ensure that your interior and furniture are built to last. In addition, steel countertops are extremely practical and hygienic, as they are incredibly easy to clean.
Brass: Warm, inviting and beautifully patinated
Where steel is often associated with coolness and minimalism, brass brings warmth and a sense of luxury into a space. Brass has a long history in the design world and has been rediscovered as a versatile and durable addition to modern interiors, as its golden hue adds a subtle elegance that can complement both classic and modern interior styles.
What really makes brass remarkable is its ability to patina over time. This natural aging process gives brass a unique character and depth that cannot be matched by other materials. Patination, on the other hand, has nothing to do with durability, as brass has an incredibly long lifespan and, like steel, is virtually indestructible. Use brass details such as shelves, faucets and handles along with hooks and trays, and let them age beautifully as they are used. If you want to go all in, it is incredibly beautiful with both countertops and kitchen sinks in real brass, which, in addition to its unique beauty, also has a natural antibacterial effect, making brass ideal for kitchen decor.
The combination of steel and brass: Create balance and contrast
If you dare, you can create a truly unique and playful interior by combining steel and brass. In a well-considered interior, it will create an exciting contrast between the cool and the warm, the modern and the classic. For example, a steel countertop in the kitchen can be matched with brass handles and a brass kitchen roll holder to create a harmonious balance. This combination also adds a layered depth to the room, which is both visually interesting and functional.
When mixing the two metals, it's important to keep proportions in mind. Too much of one can overwhelm a space, while a well-balanced combination will create a subtle elegance. Also, consider repeating elements of each metal throughout different rooms to create a cohesive aesthetic throughout the home.
Long-lasting products: An investment in quality
When you choose products made from steel and brass, you are investing not only in style, but also in quality. These materials are known for their incredible durability and ability to retain their beauty for many years. This means that while the investment itself may be higher than with cheaper materials, the long-term value and reduced need for replacement will ultimately make it a wise decision for both your wallet and the environment. If one day your steel and brass furnishings do need to be replaced, you can be happy that both materials have an almost infinite recycling cycle.
When buying new home furnishings, you should therefore look for high-quality products that have been manufactured with care and expertise. Pay attention to details such as welds, joints and finishes. High-quality steel and brass will often be thicker and have a more refined surface treatment due to the genuine, untreated material, making them both functional, long-lasting and beautiful additions to your home.
Maintenance: How to ensure the beauty of the materials for many years
Although steel and brass are known for their durability, there are a few tips and tricks you can use to care for and maintain their appearance and functionality. Stainless steel can be cleaned with a mild soap and water to prevent stains and keep it shiny. Avoid using abrasives as they can scratch the surface.
Brass, depending on the finish, can either be allowed to patina or polished to maintain its luster. If you choose to patina it requires minimal maintenance. If you prefer a more polished finish, use a brass cleaner and a soft cloth for occasional polishing. In any case, you should not use harsh cleaners on brass, but you can freshen up your brass the natural way with half a lemon dipped in baking soda. Gently rub it around the brass and rinse with clean water. This will wash away many stains and blemishes.
What both steel and brass have in common is that you should actually “saturate” the materials with a good, acid-free oil such as Vaseline or your olive oil from the kitchen cupboard at regular intervals, just like you would do with a raw wooden tabletop or cutting board. This will provide some protection and, not least, give the metals a really nice finish.
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