Choosing a kitchen hardware finish is an important decision. The metal or color you choose will add or take away from the overall look and feel of your scheme. And while brass, nickel, and chrome have for so long reigned supreme, there's a new finish making waves.
Cue iron – a rather industrial material that's becoming increasingly popular in kitchen cabinet hardware ideas. Though it might seem like a choice that only really suits contemporary living, this material has lots of historic roots, making it a good fit for more traditional kitchens, too.
But is iron replacing brass? And is it an enduring hardware choice? We've turned to experts to find out if we should be swapping our brass hardware for iron, or if it's a fleeting kitchen hardware trend that simply won't endure.
Is iron the new brass in kitchen hardware and fixtures?
It's true that the likes of brass and chrome will always be considered timeless hardware choices, but that doesn't mean they are the only hardware finishes that have enduring appeal in the kitchen.
'Iron is definitely growing in popularity as renovators are seeking out high-quality, timeless materials that will work in both traditional and contemporary homes. Iron is also incredibly strong and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for kitchen hardware and high-traffic areas,' says Laura Styles, resident style advisor at Yester Home.
Iron has been a staple feature in some interior design styles – take Spanish revival for example, which heavily features iron beyond hardware to decor and furniture. The true appeal of it is that it works in period kitchens and modern ones when paired with the right colors.
'The beauty of iron hardware is that it beautifully compliments neutral color schemes which are eternally on trend, such as cool-toned dove grey and warmer biscuit beiges. The trick is to pair iron hardware and fixtures with lighter cabinetry or countertops to create a subtle contrast that still feels harmonious,' says Laura.
The revival of iron in kitchen design is also thanks to this year's shift towards a more lived-in style. It's the perfect material to choose for something that's unique without that new, shiny look. And, it's not just cabinet hardware that thrives with this finish. Look to lighting, shelf brackets, and pot rails, too.
'Renovators are recently favoring iron over more polished hardware, such as solid brass, as each piece of hardware often has its own distinct finish and texture, adding character and a sense of history and age to a space, which is really appealing for newly built homes,' she adds.
Introducing iron kitchen hardware isn't quite as simple as swapping handles. It requires more consideration to make sure it feels at home in your kitchen, rather than an afterthought of the design.
'Iron can be a tough and stern-looking material, so it’s important to introduce some softness into your overall kitchen scheme. Natural textiles will be your best friend, think airy linen cafe curtains and cotton cabinet skirts which will add warmth and dimension,' suggests Laura.
If iron hardware feels a little odd or misplaced in your existing scheme, adding additional decor that has that same timeworn or rustic appeal can instantly create a sense of cohesion. Laura advises: 'Incorporate decorative elements such as vintage wall art and woven baskets, for added comfort and character, and to create a unified feeling throughout your home.'
Shop iron hardware
This pendant light, shown in situ in the McGee & Co. image shown before, is a wonderful way to make iron hardware feel cohesive, tying various areas of your kitchen together.
This solid cast iron cabinet pull is probably the look that comes to mind when you think of iron. This design is simple with subtle texture – a perfect transitional style.
Floating shelving has become a staple in kitchen design. Simply swapping out shelf brackets for a decorative iron alternative is a subtle way to introduce the finish.
For something more decorative, these cabinet knobs, which come as a set of ten, feature a decorative backplate. They'd feel right at home in a Spanish-style kitchen.
A pot rail is a charming addition to a kitchen – and a space saving hack in small kitchens. This iron design will fit in nicely in most kitchen design styles.
Antique-style designs look right at home in a traditional kitchen, and this cabinet pull has a lighter finish. It comes in a ten-pack with five various size options.
Iron kitchen hardware is an old material that's making a comeback – and it's a great alternative to brass if you want to introduce a timeless finish to your scheme. Make sure it feels cohesive by introducing other complimentary finishes through lighting and decor to ensure your iron kitchen hardware truly shines.
