Warm metallics: time to shine

A far cry from shiny chrome, metallics are now focused around softer, more subtle tones such as copper and brass. With finishes ranging from polished and brushed to burnished and weathered, they offer plenty of versatility, too – they can work in any scheme, from the most traditional to the most contemporary.

At Catchpole & Rye we’re experiencing a lot of interest in our copper, nickel and brass baths – the glamorous sheen looks dramatic and reflects light, making them a great choice if your room is lacking in natural light. Brass in particular is enjoying a strong comeback, and we can see why; the warm, pale-yellow hue offers a more muted, contemporary take on gold. It stands out beautifully against a dark background:

And makes a white scheme feel even lighter and brighter.

We’re also seeing the more understated aesthetic of the brushed finish becoming more and more popular. In a room that all-too-often feels sterile and cold, it injects warm, textural depth.

Of course, metallics don’t have to be shiny. An untreated or weathered bath has a matte look that will develop and change organically over time. Equally well suited to a rustic farmhouse or a rough-luxe scheme, it’s a hard-working, industrial look that makes an impact without being gaudy or ostentatious.

For an even more striking effect, consider a verdigris finish. This beautiful green patina, which forms on copper and brass, is the result of oxidisation and, like a favourite leather chair, just gets better with age!

Mixing metals, once something of a design faux pas, is now positively encouraged, with mirror-like nickel sitting happily alongside aged copper or brushed brass. This bath, for example, has a brushed copper exterior and a silver nickel interior – the different metals and finishes provide wonderful contrast.

Sometimes less is more, as this bath exemplifies. The unassuming painted exterior fades into the background, allowing the eye to be drawn straight to the luxurious, glowing interior.

If you prefer a low-key approach, use metallics as a highlight rather than a dominant material. Even a few metallic accents can lift a room, so focus your attention on details such as taps, towel rails, mirrors or perhaps a cistern. When paired with white sanitaryware and natural materials such as wood and marble, they will add instant warmth and character.

The spotlight might be shining brightly on metallics at the moment, but at Catchpole & Rye the focus is on timeless quality, not passing trends. Our baths are built to last by skilled craftspeople, using manufacturing techniques that have not changed in 100 years. And what better way to ensure longevity than with beautiful, strong and resilient metals?

To see the full range of finishes available and learn more about the craftsmanship that goes into our products, visit one of our showrooms or request a brochure.