The Beauty of Time

3 min read · Inspiration

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Aged brass kitchen mixer and spray on a marble benchtop above a white butler sink

Embracing natural materials has become the new focus for interior design in recent years in response to the trend of bringing the outdoors in to connect with nature and the desire to be surrounded by authentic and organic objects in our homes. Organic finishes such as natural stone, timber and brass are now more prominent features in New Zealand homes, due to the appeal of their aging process.

For those who love a unique living appearance, Plumbline’s organic finishes evolve over time, taking on a patina and oxidisation dependent on its environment, adding to the natural beauty of your tapware.

The Natural Beauty of Organic Tapware

Organic finishes are raw metals that are left un-lacquered or coated meaning they will naturally patina and age over time. Perfect for adding character to industrial, or contemporary settings, the look and feel of organic or living finishes will get their own individual character, whether it’s exterior tapware that faces the elements of nature, or interior pieces that are constantly touched and handled.

Organic brass tapware detail
Organic brass tapware detail
Organic brass tapware detail
Organic brass tapware detail

What is Patina?

Patina is a layer of green or brown that develops over some metal finishes such as bronze and brass as it ages. Exposure to natural elements like air, heat, and water naturally cause these metals to change appearance over time. Natural patina can take years to form on some tapware depending on the atmospheric conditions and the type of finish the tapware has. There are always variations in how the patina will form and how long it takes—the only guarantee is that it will eventually change. When the patina forms, it provides a protective layer to tapware materials, which will allow your tapware to stay functional for longer.

Metals, such as natural Brass, that are polished or brushed will generally darken over time, whereas Brass that has been aged or pre-oxidised, will lighten where it is touched and handled. If desired, Organic finishes can be maintained to their near-original state with regular cleaning, buffing, or waxing.

Organic brass tapware in a finished interior
Organic brass tapware in a finished interior

Add Character to Your Home

Organic finishes are now more commonly recognised in the design space as exciting ‘living’ materials which give another dimension to great design. Brass tapware has often been chosen for traditional or heritage style bathrooms and kitchens, but now it’s seen more and more in contemporary settings, adding an air of elegance to any bathroom or kitchen.

All white bathrooms with timber accents are a classic look and when paired with an Organic brass finish, adds subtle glamour and warmth that creates a timeless result. Brass tapware can also warm a cool toned bathroom. If you have navy blue or moody greys, brass can warm the interior to create a balanced look. And if you’re after a rustic, beachy aesthetic in your bathroom sanctuary, organic tapware is perfect for that relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.

Plumbline offers uncoated brass tapware in our Buddy by Progetto and Nicolazzi collections, including Polished Brass, Brushed Brass and Aged Brass, as well as matching accessories to complete the look.

Brass finishes changing as they patinate over time
Brass finishes changing as they patinate over time
Polished brass tapware
Polished brass tapware

Polished Brass Organic

A timeless classic, this natural beauty provides elegant detailing that complements a range of designs and spaces. Its mirror finish adds a rich and luxurious dimension to modern or traditional environments and its ability to age gracefully adds to its charm.

Brushed Brass Organic

The understated elegance of Brushed Brass adds a unique and stylish touch to any bathroom or kitchen space, bringing vibrancy and colour to your home. With its delicate brushed texture and subtle shine, Brushed Brass offers versatility for a range of styles, from minimal and ultra-modern to industrial or traditional designs.

Brushed brass tapware
Brushed brass tapware
Brushed brass tapware detail
Brushed brass tapware detail

Aged Brass Organic

For those who want a more subtle and darker tone brass finish, Aged Brass is an exquisite finish that enhances the most sophisticated designs. This finish is achieved by accelerating the aging process with a chemical treatment onto the untreated, brushed brass base, which develops golden highlights over time. Commonly used within contemporary settings, it provides a deep, warming contrast to light or solid colour surfaces, as well as a rich, dark complementary tone to darker ones.

“il fascino dell’ età — the charm of age”
Aged brass tapware detail
Aged brass tapware detail
Aged brass tapware detail
Aged brass tapware detail