Bronze finishes provide consumers with very versatile colors for cabinet hardware. This range of finishes can be used in classic and contemporary hardware designs for your kitchen or bathroom. In recent years, oil rubbed bronze finishes, in particular, have become extremely popular for kitchen and bathroom accents such as cabinet hardware.
The savvy consumer should be aware that many manufacturers offer smooth, uniform bronze finishes designated ‘oil rubbed bronze’ which are actually plated bronze finishes. Plated bronze finishes can be beautiful and are optimal for those seeking a warm yet uniform look.
The colour, in fact the very textured look of a real oil rubbed bronze finish is considered ‘vivid’ and stretches from black to a golden brown coloration over time. Those desiring such an authentic oil rubbed bronze finish should be aware that it will change as the oils in your hands ‘ripen’ the finish on your knobs and pulls. This diverse patina can add depth and texture to hardware accents.
We can compare the vivid look of oil rubbed bronze finishes to yarn dye batches when knitting or crocheting. It has been suggested that yarn be purchased from a dye lot to create a better looking garment. With oil rubbed bronze knobs and pulls, it’s best to buy an extra item or two to take your style into the future in case a knob or pull needs to be replaced or additional cabinetry is added to your space.
We hope that this short article will serve as a starting point for consumers to educate themselves on the range of bronze finishes and the pros and cons of uniform vs. hardware finishes for living cabinets. Both purists who revel in the natural range of vivid finishes and those looking for consistency should clarify their selections with their hardware supplier and send inquiries to manufacturers directly if necessary.
