If you’ve been here for a while, this may sound familiar: silver is back.
In 2024, we saw a significant shift. After years of warm brass dominating cabinet hardware, lighting, and plumbing fixtures, silver-toned metals began to gain momentum.
This shift began quietly in late 2023 and became more clear in early 2024. I wrote about it at the time. (You can find that post here.)
And yet, not long after, brass, whose resurgence began around 2016, returned to popularity.
Now, just a year later, here we are again. Silver is having another moment. But this time, it’s a little different.
What is driving today’s return isn’t fixtures. It’s the reemergence of silver and pewter in accessories and functional pieces. Things like heirloom candlesticks, serving pieces, trays, and collected objects that bring heritage and patina to a home. It’s the increased use of these pieces that has influenced hardware and fixture finishes to follow suit.
This is not a new trend. It’s a continuation, an interpretation, of what we saw in 2024.
In my 2024 article about the return of silvers, I outlined what the “silvers trend” is and the different finishes silver includes, from polished nickel to pewter. You can read it here.
And while we’re on the subject, let’s be clear: Brass is not out. It never was.
Well-executed brass, whether polished, aged, or unlacquered, will always have a place in a well-designed home. Ultimately, understanding these trends and creating a timeless home is not about choosing brass or silver over the other. It’s about understanding how to use each well.
I’ve also written about brass, what defines its enduring appeal and the range of finishes it includes, as well as what distinguishes today’s brass from that of the 1990’s. You can read that article here.
More Than a Trend
Both brass and silvers are often described as “trending,” but the reality is more nuanced. What we’re seeing is not the rise of something new but a renewed appreciation for materials that have long had a place in timeless design.
While trends come and go, materials like brass and silver continue to endure. When used with intention, both feel like something that has always belonged.
A Thoughtful Next Step
If you’re considering updating your home or building a new home and aren’t quite sure which direction to take, I’d be happy to help.
My Designer By Your Side consulting service offers expert guidance so your home feels cohesive, timeless, and reflective of how you live, without the overwhelm.
And for clients who do not want to carry the weight of the process themselves, through our full-service design offering we manage the process from beginning to end.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are silver finishes back in style in 2026?
Yes. Silver finishes, including nickel and chrome, are gaining significant popularity in 2026 in interior design. This is a continuation of a shift that began in late 2023.
Is brass still in style for home design?
Yes. Brass remains a staple finish in interior design. It is timeless and brings warmth and depth to a space.
Are brass and silver just trends, or are they timeless?
The popularity of both brass and silver comes and goes but both are timeless materials. Their longevity comes from the details of the finish and how they’re used.
Should I choose brass or silver for my home?
Both can work beautifully. The key is using each finish intentionally so that it compliments your home and reflects your personal style. We often recommend mixing brass and silver finishes in homes to achieve an elevated, timeless, look.
How do I choose between brass and silver finishes?
It depends on your personal style and your home’s style. Thoughtful guidance ensures your whatever you choose feels cohesive, timeless, and aligned with your goals for your home.
