Mixed Metal Cabinet Hardware: The Eastern Washington Design Trend Taking Over
Walk through any newly renovated kitchen in Spokane, Airway Heights, or Colville, and you’ll notice something striking: homeowners are ditching the old “everything must match” rule. The hottest trend sweeping through Eastern Washington homes? Mixed metal cabinet hardware that combines warm brass, sleek matte black, and rich bronze finishes in stunning harmony.
This design revolution makes perfect sense for our region. Eastern Washington’s mountain-modern aesthetic embraces the contrast between rustic warmth and contemporary sophistication—exactly what mixed metal cabinet hardware delivers. Instead of choosing just one finish, savvy homeowners are creating depth and visual interest by thoughtfully combining different metallic tones throughout their kitchens and bathrooms.
Our region’s unique design preferences make it the perfect backdrop for this trend. Spokane homes often feature warm wood tones, natural stone elements, and cozy textures that complement multiple metal finishes beautifully. The abundant natural light filtering through our expansive windows highlights the subtle differences between bronze cabinet pulls, matte black hinges, and brass knobs in ways that create genuine visual drama.
Why Mixed Metals Work So Well in Eastern Washington Homes
Local designers consistently report that Eastern Washington homeowners are particularly drawn to combinations that reflect our stunning landscape. Think warm metals that echo autumn aspens paired with darker tones reminiscent of basalt columns and winter pines. This isn’t just following a national trend—we’re creating something uniquely ours.
The key to success lies in understanding our region’s natural color palette. The warm browns of our Ponderosa pines, the cool grays of our granite outcroppings, and the golden hues of our wheat fields all translate beautifully into mixed metal combinations. When you choose hardware that echoes these natural elements, your kitchen feels connected to the Eastern Washington landscape we all love.
From Kettle Falls to Airway Heights, we’re seeing homeowners embrace three particularly popular approaches:
The Mountain Modern Mix: Combine warm brass cabinet pulls on upper cabinets with matte black hardware on lower cabinets and islands. This creates visual weight at the bottom while keeping upper areas feeling light and airy—perfect for our preference for open, bright kitchen spaces.
The Rustic Refined Approach: Pair oil-rubbed bronze knobs with brushed gold pulls and black iron hinges. This combination works especially well in homes that blend farmhouse charm with contemporary function.
The Subtle Sophisticate: Layer brushed nickel, champagne bronze, and antique brass for a more understated mixed metal look. This appeals to homeowners who want trend-forward style without dramatic contrast.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Mixed Metal Hardware
Installing mixed metal cabinet hardware requires strategic planning, but it’s absolutely achievable for weekend DIY enthusiasts. Here’s your actionable roadmap to success:
Start by mapping out your entire kitchen on paper, marking which finish goes where. The secret is creating intentional patterns rather than random placement. Consider the 60-30-10 rule: choose one metal finish for 60% of your hardware (typically your main cabinet pulls), a second finish for 30% (perhaps island hardware or upper cabinet knobs), and use your third finish sparingly at 10% for accent pieces.
Before you commit, test your combination in your actual lighting conditions. Eastern Washington’s abundant natural light can make metals appear dramatically different than they do under store lighting. Take samples home and observe them throughout the day—morning light, afternoon sun, and evening artificial lighting will all affect how your metals look together.
When installing, maintain balance through repetition. Don’t use each finish only once—repeat each metal in at least two different areas to create cohesion. If you choose brass pulls for your perimeter cabinets, consider brass knobs for accent pieces or brass backplates for some of your black hardware.
Popular Combinations Flying Off Our Shelves
Based on what Eastern Washington customers are choosing most at our Spokane, Airway Heights, Colville, and Kettle Falls locations, here are the winning combinations:
Warm brass bar pulls paired with matte black cup pulls create stunning contrast while maintaining warmth. Add oil-rubbed bronze hinges for the perfect finishing touch that ties both finishes together.
Brushed gold knobs combined with flat black cabinet pulls offer a more contemporary feel, especially when paired with brushed nickel hinges for subtle sophistication.
For those who prefer understated elegance, champagne bronze pulls mixed with matte black knobs and antique brass specialty hardware creates depth without overwhelming the space.
Don’t forget to consider your existing fixtures. If you have oil-rubbed bronze faucets or black stainless appliances, incorporate those finishes into your hardware mix for a cohesive look that feels intentional.
Ready to explore mixed metal cabinet hardware for your Eastern Washington home? Visit any of our Builders Supply & Home Center locations to see these trending finishes in person. Our hardware specialists understand our region’s unique style and can help you create the perfect combination for your space. You can also browse our full selection online at bldrsupply.epicor-inet.com and transform your cabinets from ordinary to extraordinary with the mixed metal trend that’s taking Eastern Washington by storm.