Industrial design has always celebrated the beauty of honest materials—steel, timber, concrete, exposed piping, and lived-in textures that tell a story. But over the past decade, designers and homeowners have found clever ways to soften the style’s intensity without losing its character. One standout solution? Incorporating brass cabinetry and brass-accented joinery.
While industrial interiors lean heavily on raw finishes, brass has emerged as the ideal counterbalance. Its warm, golden undertones introduce a refined elegance that elevates the entire space. And when paired thoughtfully with other hardware choices—such as experimenting with different configurations or even mixing knobs and pulls—you can enhance both the aesthetic and functional depth of your cabinetry.
Below, we explore why brass cabinets have become a hero of modern industrial design and how to incorporate them seamlessly into your home.
Why Brass Works So Well in Industrial Design
It bridges warmth and strength
Industrial spaces often feature cool tones and hard edges. Brass, with its subtle glow, introduces warmth without compromising the boldness of the aesthetic. Its presence tempers the harshness of concrete, blackened steel, or reclaimed timber, creating a more balanced environment.
It develops a natural patina
One of the most compelling aspects of brass is its ability to age gracefully. Over time, it takes on a patina that deepens its character—perfect for industrial interiors that value authenticity and evolution. Whether polished or unlacquered, brass offers a lived-in feel that complements the rawness of industrial style.
It complements industrial colour palettes
Monochromes, charcoals, deep greens, rust tones, and sandy neutrals all pair beautifully with brass. Its versatility allows it to blend with both moody and minimalist palettes, making it a reliable choice for designers seeking cohesion.
Ways to Incorporate Brass Cabinets into Your Industrial Interior
Pair with dark cabinetry
Matte black or deep-charcoal cabinets create a stunning contrast with brass fronts or brass hardware. This combination emphasises depth and creates a bold, high-impact visual statement.
Use brass mesh panels
Introducing mesh details—often seen in industrial shelving—can make cabinetry feel lighter while still preserving its structural feel. Brass mesh adds refinement to what is typically a utilitarian detail.
Choose oversized handles or statement pulls
Industrial design thrives on exaggerated proportions. Chunky brass handles, elongated pulls, or sculptural knobs can deliver visual weight and tie in beautifully with other metallic elements such as lighting fixtures or tapware.
Blend textures
Combining smooth brass surfaces with rougher materials—such as concrete benchtops, exposed brick, or reclaimed timber—creates a signature industrial balance. Each contrast strengthens the effect of the other.
Brass Cabinet Finishes That Suit Industrial Aesthetics
Unlacquered brass
This finish is ideal if you want your cabinetry to tell a story over time. The patina will shift as it interacts with touch, humidity, and air—adding to the feel of organic ageing.
Brushed brass
With its soft, linear texture, brushed brass offers sophistication without strong reflectivity. It complements matte finishes and delivers a refined industrial look.
Aged or antique brass
Pre-aged brass is perfect for those who want instant character. The darker tones blend beautifully with industrial backdrops and help cabinetry feel grounded and established.
Satin brass
A balanced finish that offers a gentle sheen and smooth appearance, satin brass is a go-to choice for contemporary industrial spaces that feel polished yet understated.
Design Tips for a Cohesive Industrial-Brass Interior
Anchor your metallics thoughtfully
Brass doesn’t need to match every other metal in the room, but there should be intention behind your selections. Brass pairs well with black steel, pewter, and aged bronze, creating a layered look without overwhelming the senses.
Repeat brass throughout the space
A few well-placed brass elements—cabinet handles, lighting fixtures, tapware, and furniture accents—create visual continuity and prevent the cabinetry from feeling isolated.
Balance hard and soft materials
Pair brass cabinetry with soft furnishings such as linen bar stools, warm timber flooring, or textured rugs to avoid a space that feels too cold or industrial-heavy.
Keep lines simple and functional
Industrial interiors thrive on clean, unfussy design. Choose cabinetry with straightforward profiles, subtle detailing, and hardware that enhances, rather than competes with, the overall aesthetic.
Brass cabinets offer a remarkable way to elevate industrial design, striking a perfect chord between raw and refined.
Their warmth, evolving character, and timeless elegance make them one of the most impactful choices for modern interiors seeking depth and sophistication. Whether you’re renovating a warehouse apartment, updating a modern kitchen, or crafting a statement bathroom, brass cabinetry can instantly transform your industrial aesthetic—bringing balance, beauty, and enduring appeal to your space.
