Brass or chrome taps, finishes compared
Choosing the finish of a tap is not only an aesthetic gesture, it is a technical choice. Polished chrome, brushed brass, bronze, nickel, PVD finishes, each has its own durability, maintenance and dialogue with stone and light. At Atelier Matière, we distribute TREEMME, STELLA and Zucchetti, which offer most of their collections in around ten different finishes.
Here are the three main families and how they age.
Chrome, classic and neutral
Polished chrome remains the standard of contemporary bathrooms, for its neutrality, its durability (electroplated deposit) and its price. It stands up very well to common household products, light scratches and thermal shocks. Its only drawback is that it shows water marks and fingerprints, regular drying keeps it crisp.
Brushed brass, warmth and durability
Brass is a copper-zinc alloy, dense, durable, which takes brushed finishes well. Untreated, it patinates naturally with time (progressive oxidation, warmer tone). Treated with PVD, it holds its original tone indefinitely. English Gold, Brushed Nickel and Antique Bronze finishes deliver a warmth that chrome does not have, ideal with marbles and warm stones.
PVD finishes, absolute stability
The PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) process deposits a nanometric metallic layer onto the brass through vapour phase. The result is a finish that does not alter, does not scratch in normal use and keeps its colour over time. TREEMME, STELLA and Zucchetti offer most of their collections in PVD, in every shade. A higher investment but unmatched durability.
Choosing a finish by use
For a heavily used contemporary bathroom (family, guests), chrome or PVD, no surprises. For a warm classic bathroom in white marble, PVD brushed brass. For a maximum signature gesture, special finishes from STELLA (brushed English Gold Sirius) or Zucchetti (BrushedBritishGold Helm). We show the finishes on the table in the showroom, that is the only way to choose.
Related selection
Let’s compose your project
Every material needs to be touched, compared and confronted with the light of the project. We welcome you by appointment in one of our two Paris showrooms to refine your selection.