The "old money" aesthetic is having a major revival. It's understated, refined, and rich with heritage — a style that feels like it was passed down through generations, not picked out of a catalog. And one of the easiest ways to bring this timeless elegance into your home? Brass accents.
Brass especially in unlacquered or antique finishes — has that warm, patinated beauty that looks aged and collected over time. When used thoughtfully, it brings charm, depth, and quiet sophistication to every corner of your home.
Let’s explore how you can use brass details to achieve that effortlessly elegant, old-money look.
What is the "Old Money" Aesthetic?
This design style draws inspiration from classic European interiors, historic homes, Ivy League libraries, and aristocratic estates. It’s about restraint, quality, and tradition, not showy displays or flashy trends. The old money aesthetic combines natural materials, deep neutral tones, antique objects, and a sense of permanence.
Key design elements include:
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Dark wood finishes (mahogany, walnut)
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Rich color palettes (deep green, navy, cream, burgundy)
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Linen, velvet, leather, and wool textures
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Oil paintings, bookshelves, and vintage accessories
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Aged brass and other warm metals
Brass fits perfectly in this mix , It looks storied, not trendy. Aged or unlacquered brass especially evokes the feeling of a family heirloom, or a detail from a well-lived manor.
Why Brass Works So Well
Brass is one of the few materials that actually gets better with age. As it oxidizes, it darkens, spots, and develops a unique patina that feels natural, rich, and vintage. This transformation tells a story , one of history and legacy , exactly what the old money style embodies.
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Unlacquered brass gains character with time.
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Durable and timeless, it feels intentional, not mass-produced.
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Warm, soft sheen complements natural tones and materials.
If you're decorating a space with heritage charm in mind, brass is the finishing touch that makes everything feel complete.
Where to Use Brass Accents for Old Money Vibes
Here’s how you can integrate brass into every room for maximum elegance , without overdoing it.
1. Brass Gallery Rails on Shelves
Start small but impactful with a Rustic Brass Gallery Shelf Rail. Inspired by vintage libraries and apothecaries, this simple addition instantly makes your shelves feel custom, elevated, and intentional.
It works beautifully on:
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Kitchen shelves (for spices, glassware, or small dishes)
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Bathroom shelves (with perfumes, rolled towels, or skincare)
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Office or reading nooks (to hold books or collectibles)
🛒 Shop it here:
👉 Rustic Brass Gallery Shelf Rail – Atlas Finest
2. Brass Pot Racks in the Kitchen
Old-money kitchens are warm, lived-in, and functional. Think: hanging copper pots, butcher block countertops, and cast iron. A brass pot rack adds not only practicality, but a strong visual anchor.
Hang it above your island or stove to display:
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Copper cookware
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Enamel Dutch ovens
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Brass ladles and utensils
This gives your kitchen that "French country manor meets English estate" look — practical but refined.
3. Unlacquered Brass Floating Shelves
Add character and elegance to blank walls with floating brass shelves. These are perfect for:
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Bathrooms (for rolled towels, apothecary jars, or candle holders)
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Bedrooms (with books, vases, or framed mini portraits)
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Hallways (as a chic landing zone or display space)
🛒 Available at Atlas Finest:
👉 Unlacquered Brass Floating Shelf
Their minimal silhouette and rich finish make them feel architectural and artful — without being loud.
4. Brass Lighting Fixtures
Lighting is one of the most overlooked yet most powerful ways to transform a space. With brass lighting, you're not just illuminating your home — you're creating atmosphere.
Try:
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Brass wall sconces in bathrooms, hallways, or reading nooks
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Classic copper pendant lights over a kitchen island or dining table
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A picture light to highlight your favorite painting or photo
💡 Discover the full collection here:
👉 Brass Lighting – Atlas Finest
These pieces feel like they belong in an old villa in Tuscany or a brownstone in Boston. They age gracefully and never go out of style.
5. Subtle Brass Hardware
If you want a lower-commitment way to add brass, swap your:
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Cabinet handles
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Drawer pulls
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Door knobs
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Bathroom faucets
…for ones made of unlacquered brass. These small details make a big difference, especially when paired with rich wood or marble.
✔ Styling tip: Pair brass hardware with dark green or navy cabinetry and creamy countertops for a timeless contrast.
Styling Tips: How to Complete the Look
Once your brass pieces are in place, pull the whole space together by layering other textures and details that speak to the old money spirit.
Complement Brass With:
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Velvet armchairs or tufted headboards
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Leather-bound books and vintage artwork
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Aged wood furniture and built-in shelves
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Wool rugs or Persian carpets
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White linen curtains and crisp cotton sheets
Keep your palette muted and elegant. Old money style doesn’t scream for attention — it whispers.
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Looking to elevate your home decor? Discover expert tips on styling with brass in this Redfin article.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
To keep the look authentic and elevated, avoid overly shiny or lacquered brass finishes. The goal is to look collected, not brand new.
Also, don’t overdo it. A few well-placed brass touches in each room are more powerful than cluttered, over-matched accessories.
Final Thoughts
Brass is more than just a trend , it’s a material with soul. When thoughtfully incorporated into your home, it brings warmth, elegance, and a deep sense of timelessness. It connects you to the past while remaining eternally stylish.
By choosing unlacquered or antique brass accents , like gallery rails, floating shelves, pot racks, and classic lighting .You’re not just decorating. You’re telling a story. One of legacy, good taste, and quiet confidence.
🛍 Ready to bring home the look?
Explore handcrafted brass accents at
👉 Atlas Finest – Brass Collection