Common finishes
- Polished or satin brass: warm, works with walnut and cream.
- Satin nickel or satin steel: cool and quiet, hides fingerprints well.
- Dark bronze or matte black: strong contrast on light doors.
- Chrome: bright and reflective.
Material and finish are different things
A finish is the surface; the material underneath decides strength and how the finish wears. Ask what a handle or hinge is made of as well as what colour it is.
Consistency
Keep one finish per door: handle, key rose, hinges and stopper. Across a house, one or two finishes are usually enough.
Care
Wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners, which cut through plated and lacquered finishes.
General guidance only. Figures given as typical come from published manufacturer data and standards summaries; always check the specification of the item you buy.
