Brass & Bronze
Brass and bronze are alloys that bring a unique, living warmth to an interior. Unlike inert materials, they are in a constant, slow dialogue with their environment, their surfaces developing a rich patina that records the passage of time and the touch of a hand. We use these metals not for their initial shine, but for this capacity to age with grace. They are materials that feel solid and permanent, yet are full of life, their character deepening and improving with every year.
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Surface Properties
Natural Antimicrobial Surface
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Copper and its alloys, like brass and bronze, are inherently antimicrobial. This is due to the oligodynamic effect, where the ions in the metal are lethal to bacteria, viruses, and other microbes. This is not a chemical coating, but a permanent, physical property of the material itself. We use these alloys for high-touch surfaces like door handles, tapware, and handrails, creating elements that are not only beautiful but also contribute to a healthier indoor environment through their scientifically-proven hygienic properties.
Acoustic Dampening
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A polished finish closes the pores of the stone and creates a near-mirror-like surface that reveals the full depth, colour, and crystalline structure of the material. We use this not to create bling, but to create a dynamic dialogue with light. A polished surface brings movement into a space, reflecting the shifting light of the day and the subtle colours of the surrounding environment, making the material feel alive and responsive.
Controlled Patination
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Patination is the process of accelerating the natural aging of the metal’s surface. By applying specific chemical compounds (like sulphur or nitrates), we can create a range of stable, beautiful finishes, from a deep, statuary bronze to a rich, chocolate brown. This is a craft that allows us to control the story of age, creating a surface that has the depth and character of a century-old antique from day one. It is a way of adding a layer of history and artistry to a new space.
Quiet Papers
Brass & Bronze in High-Touch Architectural Hardware
A study on using unlacquered brass for all the door handles, light switches, and cabinet pulls in a family home, focusing on the material’s antimicrobial properties and the beautiful patina that develops with use.
Brass & Bronze in a Custom-Fabricated Staircase Balustrade
An exploration of using solid, patinated bronze for a staircase balustrade, highlighting its acoustic dampening qualities (reducing vibration and sound) and its satisfying, substantial feel.
Brass & Bronze in a Minimalist Kitchen
A case study on using a custom-fabricated, aged brass sink and tapware, celebrating the material’s living finish and its ability to tell the story of daily use in a busy, functional space.