Not every bold bathroom needs to be black and white. Antique brass and gunmetal are two of our most distinctive finishes — both full of character, but very different in mood. Here's how to tell them apart and pick the right one for your space.
The Quick Answer
- Choose Antique Brass for a warm, aged, heritage-style look — ideal for period homes and traditional interiors.
- Choose Gunmetal for a bold, moody, modern look with more depth than matte black — ideal for contemporary spaces wanting a darker statement.
Antique Brass: Warm and Aged
Antique brass carries a soft golden-brown tone with natural tonal variation, echoing original brass fittings from decades past. It suits:
- Federation, Victorian and Edwardian-style homes
- Traditional interiors and heritage renovations
- Spaces styled around timber, marble, and classic tiling
Gunmetal: Bold and Moody
Gunmetal is a deep charcoal-grey finish with a subtle sheen — darker and more dramatic than antique brass, but softer and more forgiving than matte black. It suits:
- Modern, industrial-inspired interiors
- Spaces wanting a dark finish without matte black's starkness
- Homes styled around concrete, dark stone, or moody colour palettes
Side-by-Side
| Antique Brass | Gunmetal | |
|---|---|---|
| Mood | Warm, aged, characterful | Bold, dark, industrial |
| Best for | Period and heritage homes | Modern, moody interiors |
| Pairs with | Timber, marble, subway tile | Dark stone, concrete, black cabinetry |
| Fingerprint resistance | High | High |
How to Choose
- Renovating a character home? Antique brass will feel architecturally at home.
- Want a dark, dramatic finish with a bit more warmth than matte black? Gunmetal is your answer.
- Not sure? Order sample discs of both and compare them in your own lighting before deciding.
Shop Both Finishes
- Browse Antique Brass Tapware
- Browse Gunmetal Tapware
Every piece is crafted from solid brass, WaterMark certified, and shipped free, Australia-wide.
