FINISH FOCUS: What Makes Unlacquered Brass So Special?

When it comes to ironmongery and interior details, few finishes offer the same character and timeless beauty as unlacquered brass. Also known as raw brass, this material is often described as having a “living finish” — and for good reason. Unlike coated or plated finishes, unlacquered brass ages naturally, developing a unique patina over time that tells the story of your space.

So why is unlacquered brass hardware so special, and why are designers and homeowners increasingly choosing it for their interiors? Let’s take a closer look.

1. A Living, Evolving Finish

Unlike lacquered or polished finishes, unlacquered brass is left raw, meaning it is exposed to the environment. This allows it to change with time:

It may darken, deepen in colour, or develop rich tones of bronze and gold.
Each handle, hinge, or fitting becomes one-of-a-kind.
The finish evolves based on touch, climate, and use, giving it a truly personal quality.

This “living finish” is what makes raw brass so distinctive — no two pieces will ever look the same.

2. Timeless and Authentic

Unlacquered brass has been used for centuries in traditional buildings and historic properties, making it the perfect choice for heritage projects. But it’s not just about history — in contemporary interiors, its warm golden tones add depth and authenticity that more “perfect” finishes can’t replicate.

Where polished chrome or stainless steel feel modern and sleek, raw brass feels grounded and timeless, bridging old-world charm with modern design.

3. The Luxury of Natural Materials

There’s something undeniably luxurious about materials that age gracefully. Just as leather develops a rich patina, or natural stone gains character with wear, unlacquered brass celebrates imperfection.

It’s this organic quality that appeals to interior designers — a contrast to overly uniform, factory-finished materials. Choosing raw brass means embracing craftsmanship and nature at their finest.

4. Versatility Across Styles

One of the reasons unlacquered brass hardware is so sought after is its versatility:

In classic interiors, it enhances period features and heritage details.
In modern spaces, it adds warmth to minimalist designs.
In industrial or rustic settings, it complements raw materials like timber, stone, and steel.

Whether you’re using it for door handles, hinges, taps, or cabinet knobs, raw brass adapts beautifully to its surroundings.

5. Easy to Care For — or Leave Untouched

Another special quality of unlacquered brass is its flexibility when it comes to care.

If you love the natural aged look, you can simply let it patinate naturally with no maintenance required.
If you prefer the brighter golden tones, it can be easily polished back to its original shine using a brass cleaner.

This gives you the choice between a rustic, lived-in aesthetic or a more polished appearance.

Why Choose Unlacquered Brass?

To put it simply, unlacquered brass is special because it tells a story. Every touch, every year, and every change in light leaves its mark, creating a finish that is unique to your home.

It’s warm, luxurious, and authentic — a material that connects the past and present, while adapting beautifully to the future.

If you’re looking for ironmongery that grows with your interior and adds character over time, raw brass is the perfect choice.

View our Unlacquered Brass Range here

Watch a short video where you can learn more about this finish in our Tupai range.

Unlacquered Brass starts as a bright, shiny, glamorous finish that gradually develops a unique aged look influenced by its environment and use – fingerprints, oxidation, and light all become part of its story.

The Harrogate knob has been left to naturally age and develop a patina through handling and environmental exposure for a vintage or antique look. View more.