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The closer we get to the new year, the more ready we are to say our goodbyes—to overdone design trends, that is. Monstera leaves and slouchy sofas are two fads we’ll be leaving behind in 2021 as we lean into mushroom-inspired decor and straight-edge furniture. So what will stick? When we polled our Instagram followers on what decor ideas they were still into (and which ones they were ready to move on from), it became clear: Brass isn’t going anywhere (68 percent of you affirmed that you’re still loving it). The least we can do, though, is try to bring it into our spaces in ways beyond globe table lamps, cabinet handles, and coffee-table legs. So we gathered some fresh ideas for introducing the beloved metal.
Skip Shaker Millwork for Something Shiny…
Unlacquered brass fronts make Liz Gardner’s Minneapolis kitchen radiate. The key when opting for a dramatic finish is not overcomplicating the rest (white marble countertops keep this space feeling calm). If you are afraid of the commitment, opt for a multicolored scheme like Joy Cho did. She paired brass doors with navy blue and mauve tones in her Los Angeles office kitchen.
…Or Try It on the Backsplash
Another unexpected way to bring brass into the kitchen that’s not simple hardware: the backsplash. In one sliver of this family’s kitchen (where there’s no chance for moisture), designer Kate Hayes put up a sheet of aged brass.
Make Your Plumbing a Focal Point
Meet the metal’s new best friend: stone. An old-world bathroom with a giant limestone sink appears complete with exposed brass plumbing—p-trap pipe, wall-mount faucet, and all. Top it off with sconces that look like taper candles.
Not up for a reno? Here are six brass finds you can shop stat:
