Home » Blog » DIY Home Projects » Mixing Hardware Finishes

Mixing Hardware Finishes

As we move into 2025, one of the most exciting trends in home decor is the art of mixing hardware finishes. Honestly, I really don’t love the word – or even the idea – of a trend. I firmly believe houses should feel authentic and tell your story. And because of that very reason, I am so happy to see folks embracing mixed metals. Gone are the days of needing every single piece of hardware to match exactly. So, if you’ve been wondering, can I mix hardware finishes in my home? The answer is yes—and not only can you, but you should!

black and white bathroom with large mirror

What Happened to Matchy Matchy?

Ok, so why the step away from matchy matchy? Well, we’ve seen this with other things – from throw pillows and paint to art work and gallery walls. In general, I think a lot of folks (myself included) are tired of homes looking like showrooms or carbon copies of one instagram page to another.

So, mixing hardware finishes it is. Not only does this give you a lot more design freedom and make remodels a bit easier, it create a more personalized, layered look that feels fresh and modern. Now, I will say, there are a few handy tricks to keep it feeling pulled together, so read through to grab those.

How to Mix Hardware Finishes Without Overdoing It

Ok, so now that we’ve covered why combining colors is a good thing, let’s go over how to do it with intention.

1. Choose Two or Three:

A lot of folks are worried mixing hardware finishes will make it look all clashy and haphazard. This happens more when there is no plan and hardware is just thrown together, a little of this and a little of that. Sticking to two or three metal finishes keeps things from feeling chaotic. And even then, you can keep it general – for example, don’t worry about getting the gold finishes to match exactly, if they’re in the same family that counts as one.

black and gold wire pendant light with mixed hardware finishes

2. Stick With Similar Style

One thing I find super helpful when mixing hardware finishes is choosing one style. For example, if all of the hardware elements have a modern design, but in different colors they will still feel consistent. Or maybe they all have an art deco vibe but different colors – this would work too.

3. Go With Similar Undertones

Just like I preach about paint undertones, metals have them too. Stick to finishes that have similar undertones. Brass, oil rubbed bronze, and gold are warm, while chrome and silver are cooler. Matte black, on the underhand, would serve more as a neutral so it’s easy to pair with others. Try to balance warm finishes with other warm finishes, and the same with cool ones, to keep things feeling cohesive.

4. Start with One Finish

I think it helps to start with one finish, maybe it’s the main one or maybe it’s an element in a remodel that’s not changing. I’m currently sprucing up my bathroom and the silver faucet is not in my budget to change, so I’m going to keep that and build from there.

modern kitchen with mixed gold cabinet knobs, stainless steel oven, and coffee bar area

5. Keep Plumbing Consistent

When we’re mixing hardware finishes, it helps to keep the plumbing all one finish. Think of it as all one unit and then layer in other details. For example, you might have a matte black bathroom shower head and faucet and satin brass cabinet knobs.

Find Your Home Decor Style

Common Hardware Combos

When combining options, there are some tried and true duos. Curious about black and gold kitchen hardware or chrome and satin nickel bathroom accessories? Check out some great hardware combinations:

  • Brushed Nickel and Matte Black: This is a classic, yet fresh combo that works well with Transitional and Modern Decor
  • Gold or Brass and Black: Pairing these warm golden metals with a neutral black is a great way to add warmth – polished gold will add some art deco glam while brushed brass brings an aged or refined vibe
  • Polished Chrome and Black: Those shiny faucets in traditional homes work well with black hardware which adds some depth and contrast
  • Oil Rubbed Bronze and Copper: Both being on the warm side, this duo works well together for a more traditional or industrial feel

How about polished chrome and brushed or satin nickel? Well, even though they are both silver, the chrome is usually on the cool side (blue undertones) while the brushed nickel is warmer so they can be tough to bring together.

There are so many types of finish colors, this Finish Description Guide is helpful to see the differences.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, mixing hardware finishes isn’t just about following a trend—it’s about making your home feel authentic. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to mixing finishes, but there is a way to do it intentionally, with a plan that feels cohesive.

Doesn’t it feel good to let go of the pressure to match everything perfectly? Instead focus on layering hardware that complements each other for a really authentic, layered look.

Curious about more layering? Check out my post on How to Mix Design Styles.