Champagne Bronze Cabinet Pulls, Knobs & Latches - The Complete Guide
champagne bronze cabinet hardware is a popular choice for kitchen and bathroom remodeling. In this complete guide, we'll walk you through how to select, install, and care for knobs, pulls, and latches in this sophisticated bronze finish.
An Introduction to Champagne Bronze Cabinet Hardware
Champagne bronze combines the richness of gold with the subtle contrast of black bronze undertones. This blend of metals creates a finish that is both luxurious and highly flexible from a design perspective. The versatility of champagne bronze allows it to work in traditional spaces as well as modern, transitional, coastal, and farmhouse decors.
Beyond looks, bronze is valued for its durability. Made from solid brass, bronze alloys exhibit excellent corrosion resistance and strength. While susceptible to tarnishing over time with use and environmental exposure, bronze finishes can regain their original brilliance with proper care and maintenance.
Benefits of Choosing Bronze Hardware Finishes
- Timeless, classic aesthetic
- Matches wide range of design styles
- Warm, upscale appearance
- Durable, long-lasting material
How to Select Cabinet Hardware in a Champagne Bronze Finish
When choosing champagne bronze cabinet hardware, consider the existing features of your space as well as the overall look you wish to achieve.
Ensure Design Cohesion
Look at the other finishes already present in your kitchen or bath space. Champagne bronze is designed to coordinate with brass, gold, nickel, chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and stainless steel accents. If introducing multiple metal finishes, use champagne bronze to tie the overall space together in harmony.
Match Hardware to Cabinet Characteristics
Take stock of your existing cabinet fronts in terms of dimensions, shape, and functionality. Pulls work best on drawer fronts, while latches secure hinged cabinet doors. Ensure the scale, design, and mechanisms of hardware complements the intended use of the cabinets.
Select Among Finish Options
Champagne bronze comes in polished, brushed, and distressed variations. Polished exhibits a smooth, shiny appearance while brushed is textured with fine lined brushing. Distressed lends an antique, timeworn look.
What to Look for in Quality Champagne Bronze Hardware
Not all cabinet hardware is made equal. Look for markers of excellence when evaluating options:
- Solid brass or bronze construction
- Grade 2 or higher security ratings on latches
- Smooth opening and closing functionality
- Reputable manufacturer warranties
- Compliance with BHMA standards
High-end brands known for champagne bronze hardware include Rocky Mountain Hardware, Emtek, and Rejuvenation. Products made from durable materials, protective finishes, and advanced production methods tend to have greater longevity.
Installing Champagne Bronze Cabinet Hardware
Gather the Right Supplies
Have ready the necessary tools, including a tape measure, pencil, drill with Phillips head bit, hammer, and screwdriver compatible with mounting screws. Refer to manufacturer guidelines for pre-drilling advice.
Step-by-Step Installation Process
- Remove existing hardware
- Measure and mark new hardware positions
- Drill pilot holes if needed
- Secure hardware with mounting screws
- Test functionality of opening/closing mechanisms
- Make any necessary adjustments
Take care when drilling pilot holes and driving in screws to avoid damaging cabinet fronts. Installation is easier with a helping hand - just be patient!
Caring for Bronze Hardware
Champagne bronze finishes will develop a lovely, unique patina over time with handling and environmental exposure. But keep your hardware looking its best by:- Dusting periodically with a soft, dry cloth
- Using mild soap and water to clean grease and dirt
- Applying paste wax or rubbing alcohol to address minor tarnish
- Avoiding harsh chemicals that can strip protective finishes
Be careful not to drop hardware during cleaning. Immediately address any loose screws or malfunctioning mechanisms to prevent further wear and tear.
Designing Your Space Around Champagne Bronze
When thoughtfully integrated, champagne bronze hardware lends rooms a refined yet understated elegance. Here are some ideas for incorporating bronze finishes into your decor:
Lean Into the Warm Metal Tones
Group other fixtures like lamps, light fixtures, and appliances in similar brass, gold and bronze finishes. Metallics in this color family create cohesive harmony.
Accent With Neutrals and Natural Textures
Allow the hardware to shine against backdrops like white cabinetry, beige stone surfaces, and wooden accents. The richness of bronze pops beautifully against clean, neutral palettes.
Pair champagne bronze with contrasting metals like black nickel or antique steel. Coordinate these finishes throughout the space for a more dynamic, layered metal look.
However you choose to implement it, a dash of champagne bronze is sure to add a touch of luxury to any interior space.