At Gregory Croxford Living, we understand that true luxury resides in permanence—in materials chosen for their integrity, patina, and enduring appeal. Among these, solid brass stands apart. Rich in character and steeped in heritage, it is the finish of choice for those seeking to create interiors of lasting beauty.

As exclusive distributors of Armac Martin, Birmingham’s premier maker of fine brass hardware since 1929, we bring their masterfully crafted collections to Australia’s most discerning designers and clients. Their suite of finishes is as nuanced as it is extensive, offering a palette that speaks in quiet, elegant tones—each with its own lifecycle and its own care requirements. This is not hardware that merely completes a space; it refines it. Below, we offer guidance on preserving the beauty and integrity of these exquisite finishes.

Living Finishes: Designed to Evolve

Also known as unlacquered brass, living finishes are left uncoated, allowing the metal to develop a natural patina as it reacts with air and moisture. This ageing process gives each piece a unique character that reflects its environment and use.

Perfect for those who value an organic aesthetic, living finishes are ideal for interiors where tactile warmth and authenticity are paramount, such as kitchens with aged tapware to heritage-style bathrooms.

When caring for unlacquered brass, avoid abrasive cleaners and wipe gently with a dry, lint-free cloth. A damp cloth with mild detergent may be used occasionally, but always dry thoroughly to prevent water spots. Armac Martin’s aged brass (BEL), dark aged brass (DAB), and aged copper (AGC) are standout finishes in this category, favoured for their nuanced depth and living character.

Lacquered Finishes: Low-Maintenance Elegance

Lacquered brass is treated with a protective coating to preserve its appearance over time. It won’t patinate, making it ideal for those who prefer a consistent finish with minimal upkeep.

Finishes such as satin brass lacquered (SBL) or satin antique satin lacquered (SAS) are popular in transitional interiors that blend classic forms with modern restraint. To care for this finish, wipe gently with a damp cloth and mild detergent when needed. Always dry the hardware to avoid surface marks.

Plated Finishes: Crisp, Contemporary, Durable

Brass-plated finishes are achieved through electroplating—depositing a fine layer of metal (typically nickel or chrome) over solid brass. These finishes resist tarnish and oxidation, making them well-suited to high-traffic areas like bathrooms, laundry rooms and utility rooms.

Choose from polished, satin, or hand-burnished options, including polished nickel (PNP), satin chrome (SCP) and aged nickel (NBP). Each delivers a different tone—from warm silvers to cool industrial greys—ideal for more contemporary or minimal schemes. In maintaining plated finishes, clean with a soft cloth and occasionally use a quality metal polish or a mild detergent solution, then dry completely after cleaning.