From Beautiful Living by Valerie Darden, Rock Point
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Brushed gold fixtures and accents can take your modern kitchen or bath into designer-level territory. Warmer than chrome, gold is both soft and classy. Though the metal has been trendy in recent years, it’s still a classic option with plenty of longevity—and there’s no rule that says that if you add gold to your space, you have to go gold exclusively.
“It is perfectly okay to mix metals in every room,” explains designer Valerie Darden in her book, Beautiful Living, which will be published in October 2024. That said, don’t mix metals that look too similar. “Brass and gold are way too close in appearance,” explains Darden, “and can clash when placed together in a room.” Instead, try pairing gold with stainless steel, which is one of her favorite metal match-ups, particularly in the kitchen.
Some of these golden accents are inexpensive updates that DIYers can install in an hour; others are more permanent (and expensive) options that require professional installation. See how easy it to give your space a luxe look, whatever your budget.
This innovative finish, designed to coat any wood surface in the home, is made with real metal particles for an authentic look and feel. It also unlocks design opportunities, as it can be applied to complex shapes such as a range hood, that are difficult to achieve with sheet metal. The Grothouse Anvil Metal line includes eight coatings: Axel, Kratos, Ferrum, Medallion, Exodus, Magnum (shown), Palladium, and Argentum. Every application is made to order on a substrate fabricated to the customer’s specifications.
Rejuvenation Winslow Console Sink
Photo: Rejuvenation
Rejuvenation’s Winslow console sink is 42 inches wide, and one heck of a statement piece. We like it because it can be installed to comply with ADA requirements—it’s a terrific choice for homeowners who are thinking about their long-term comfort. Available in white Carrara or Nero Marquina marble.
Kraus Pull-Down Kitchen Faucet
Photo: Kraus
Kräus’ Britt commercial-style faucet is sure to be the centerpiece of any modern kitchen. The industrial design features an open-coil spout in brushed gold and a pull-down sprayer with an extended range of motion. The dual-function spray head offers two different pressures for standard and more heavy-duty rinsing, while an easy retract hose makes it simple to fill pots and reach around the sink. Its 18-inch height will fit under most kitchen cabinets.
Bertazzoni Colezzione Metalli Gold Decor Set
We think Bertazzoni products are pretty next-level in and of themselves, but there is apparently a way to trick them out even more: Customers can swap out the range’s standard knobs and handle finials for gold-plated Bertazzoni Collezione Metalli versions, a super easy, albeit not inexpensive, DIY kitchen refresh. Home chefs who want this look but have stoves from other manufacturers might check Etsy for universal gold stove knobs that will fit their appliances.
Delta’s Linden Monitor 17 series tub and shower trim in Champagne Bronze has an unusual two-in-one design that hides a removable hand shower in the center of the main spray head. Two settings allow for a full-body spray or a fast massage option, and an included pressure-balanced valve cartridge helps ensure consistent water temperature. For those hoping to conserve water, a pause feature allows users to reduce the flow to a trickle while lathering. The company’s universal shower valve must be purchased separately to complete the unit.
KES Paper Towel Holder
Photo: Amazon
For those who want to try brushed gold accents but are afraid of commitment, the KES paper towel holder might be the ideal piece with which to start. Its best feature is the weighted base, which prevents it from tipping as you tear off a sheet of paper, while the padded anti-slip surface helps to keep it in place. The holder can accommodate large rolls with a nearly 8-inch diameter base. The rustproof stainless-steel construction protects against corrosion, and a matte brushed brass finish keeps it looking good.
Kraus Ramus Bathroom Faucet
Photo: Wayfair
For shoppers looking for a brushed gold single-hole bath faucet, Kraus’ modern Ramus faucet is an excellent option. The solid brass design includes a single handle for a sleek look, while features such as a rust-resistant finish, ceramic cartridge, and water-saving aerator ensure efficient functioning. The unit comes equipped with a lift rod drain and pre-attached water lines for easy installation.
Marmolux Toilet Paper and Towel Holder Set
Photo: Amazon
Match your new gold fixtures with this minimalist brushed gold bathroom set. The ensemble from Marmolux includes a standard-size slide-on toilet paper holder, a towel ring, and a smaller towel hook. The solid metal construction and vacuum coated finish are resistant to scratches and corrosion. The set comes with hardware to help with installation.
Lordear Farmhouse Sink
Photo: Amazon
Are you on board with the farmhouse vibe, but prefer a more modern look? Lordear’s gold apron-front farmhouse sink might be just the accent you’re looking for. Its unique gunmetal matte brushed gold finish has focal-point potential while providing scratch-, corrosion-, and rust-resistance. Its single bowl is 33 inches wide and gently sloped along the bottom to encourage fast drainage. It comes with an installation template and instructions, a dish grid, and a strainer.
Wade Logan Brushed Gold Sconce
Photo: Wayfair
The Wade Logan sconce can be mounted with the globe above or below the steel mount. The sconce is 10 inches tall and rated for damp spaces, so a pair would perfectly bookend a bathroom mirror (or even a soaking tub). It’s compatible with dimmer switches, too, if bathroom mood lighting is your thing.