Black nickel is one of the most stylish finishes for sockets and switches available. It works perfectly with contemporary style decors and alongside black appliances like TVs, kettles and computer equipment. While it has a slightly more complex appearance than regular matt black finish, which makes it look more expensive, the same can also be said for black chrome finish, which tends to look very similar.

Black Nickel Toggle Switch
Black Nickel Toggle Switch

Black Nickel VS Black Chrome

You may have seen black chrome sockets and switches or downlights. This finish is simply chrome with a black tint; and black nickel is nickel with a black tint. Not all black nickel sockets and switches look the same, as some have a shiny, polished appearance, with others carrying a matt or satin finish. The latter often runs the risk of looking cheaper, especially on cheaper electrical fittings.

Whilst black chrome and black nickel look very similar, there are slight differences between chrome and nickel which subtly change the appearances.

What is black chrome?

Chrome plating gives the metal and slightly blue shine, and nickel has a softer, burnished appearance. With the black versions of these finishes, however, it is very difficult to tell them apart.

What is black nickel?

Black nickel has a black tint on a nickel finish. A polished nickel finish is mirror-like but with a silvery tint, black nickel gives is darker. Essentially, it is a black, mirror-like finish and can go well with black TVs, kettles and toasters.

Black nickel sockets tend to be far more common than black chrome sockets. As these finishes are so similar, it is common to simply go for the more available black nickel finish. When it comes to downlights, however black chrome downlights are far more common. These, much like socket and switch finishes, are very difficult to distinguish between, as the less common black nickel downlights look very similar.

Black Nickel Sockets
Black Nickel Sockets

Whether you are looking for black chrome sockets and switches or black nickel sockets and switches, it is important that you choose a collection that is well made, robust and well finished, as black nickel/chrome is a finish that can really suffer if the quality is poor. Cheaper black nickel sockets, even if metal, can have a plastic appearance and can spoil the overall appearance of the room.

FAQs

Is black nickel shiny or dull?

Black nickel tends to be shiny, unless otherwise stated. Most black nickel finishes will be polished, rather than satin or brushed.

Black nickel vs nickel?

Black nickel has a black tint to it, so it goes well alongside other black items like TVs, black kettles and toasters.

Black nickel vs gunmetal?

Gunmetal is a variety of bronze. Modern gunmetal tends to be composed of copper, tin, and zinc. Gunmetal is a shade of grey that has a bluish purple tinge. Black nickel however is not grey, but black.

Shop for black nickel sockets & switches or black nickel downlights at Elesi.

Shop for Black Nickel

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Black nickel is one of the most stylish finishes for sockets and switches available. It works perfectly with contemporary style decors and alongside black appliances like TVs, kettles and computer equipment. While it has a slightly more complex appearance than regular matt black finish, which makes it look more expensive, the same can also be […]

One of the more popular finishes for sockets, switches and light fittings in recent years is the soft and calming rose gold finish. Whilst similar to copper, yet slightly more mellow, rose gold tends to work well in more contemporary settings and can blend into backgrounds well. It also reflects beautiful colours too, making it perfect for light fittings, especially decorative pendant lights.

Rose Gold Lighting

A blend of yellow gold, copper and silver, rose gold can vary in colour depth depending on the ratio of yellow gold to copper. The more copper content in there will create more of a reddish rose colour. 14K rose gold has more of a rose pink colour than 18k rose gold due to the higher copper content in 14k and a higher yellow gold content in 18k.

First used at the start of the 19th century in jewellery, it featured in the famous Faberge Eggs, created by jeweller Carl Faberge. It later gained popularity in the West during the 1920s, making appearances in the form of engagement rings. Over the following decades, rose gold's popularity in jewelry has risen and fallen, however it is currently back in fashion.

The current rise in popularity has come with the trend of rose gold finish in the home too, as it makes many appearances on light fittings and electrical fittings. These items are rose gold plated, so are made with another type of metal, for example iron or steel- covered with a rose gold appearance.

When and where to use rose gold sockets and switches

Rose gold is slightly more subtle to copper, so whereas copper sockets and switches work well in a more industrial or vintage setting, rose gold sockets and switches really look the part in modern or contemporary settings. The key is to think about the other colours in the room. For example, if you have copper kettles and toasters, then it is best to choose copper electrical fittings.

What colours go well with a rose gold finish?

The pinkish-golden colour of rose gold works with soft colours. Avoid using with bold, harsh colours. According to House Tipster, navy blue is too cool to pair with rose gold, so if choosing a blue colour go for something with a warmth like caspian blue.

If you are looking to create a modern, elegant look then rose gold fittings with black furniture and walls can be very eye catching. Greys can create a softer look than black when mixed with rose gold. If choosing grey, go for something soft and warm.

Rose gold lighting

For a subtle elegance, rose gold downlights can add a slight touch of class. These are fairly simple to implement into an interior design plan as they don’t take up too much space, yet they inject the colour beautifully into the upper part of the room.

rose gold pendant lights

If you have higher ceilings, then rose gold pendant lights can provide a stunning centrepiece. Whether these are suspended above a breakfast bar, stairwell, in a hallway or in a calm living room, these can really pull a room together, and have the added benefit of reflecting the beautiful pinky-gold colour around the immediate area.

Browse our selection of rose gold downlights and rose gold pendant lights.

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We look at how Rose gold works well in more contemporary settings and why it’s also perfect for light fittings

Choosing the right lighting for a contemporary kitchen can be a bit of a challenge. Whilst there are many lighting principals and ideas that are common across all styles, there are many choices that are dependent on the décor and type of kitchen. A contemporary kitchen may suit different types of lighting to a more traditional kitchen. 

Contemporary Kitchen Lighting

If you’re wondering what sort of lighting to use in a contemporary kitchen, this depends on whether you have an open plan kitchen/living area or separate kitchen. There are many areas in a kitchen to be lit as well as types of lighting required. It tends to be better to use bright lights for preparing food, dimmer lighting for evening meals and background lighting when your kitchen is not in use.

Colour Temperature and Brightness

Areas that are used for food preparation need brighter, clear light, known as task lighting. This should have a fairly high colour temperature (at least 4000k) so that you can easily see the colour of the food, as well as anything else you are working on. This lighting should be close to daylight.

Colour Temperature Guide

Kitchen Light Fittings

In a contemporary kitchen the style ideas can vary widely according to taste but primarily consist of modern light fittings such as downlights and LED strips. Although downlights appear very slick recessed in the ceiling, modern colours can bring an essence of brightness to a contemporary kitchen. Downlights can be found in various finishes including rose gold, black nickel and brushed chrome. These are just three examples of how to introduce a different look to the plain white plastic downlights. You can also add in a dimmable downlight so you can change the brightness of the light to match the mood required at the time.

LED Downlights for the kitchen

With accessories becoming more widely available in rose gold and copper, you can easily combine finishes throughout the kitchen.

Also, by introducing two or three coloured pendant lights over a breakfast bar or island can instantly add a pop of colour and removing the edges from what can become a clinical environment.

Breakfast Bar Lighting Options

The breakfast bar area may not need the same sort of lighting as the worktops, as much like the dining room area, this is generally used for eating; however try not to choose a low colour temperature here, as you will want to see the food that you are eating. The context is key too: if you are likely to eat breakfast only here, you may want a higher colour temperature, like 4000k, so the light can play its part in waking you up. However if you are likely to want to eat evening meals here, you may be better off choosing something in the region of 3000k-3500k so that it creates more of a relaxing tone.

When choosing breakfast bar pendants or pendant lights to go over your kitchen diner table, the style is key. If you have a mainly white contemporary kitchen then white, simplistic style pendant lights will fit in well. If you have a lot of rose gold accessories in your kitchen, then choose pendants with a clean shape and a rose gold finish.

Breakfast Bar Lighting

The main consideration to take into account is the fact that the kitchen may require different types of lighting throughout. You won’t need the same sort of colour temperature and style above a worktop as you will above an area that is designed for socialising.

See our range of downlights which are dimmable and fire rated; and our range of pendants to complete your kitchen.

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Choosing the right lighting for a contemporary kitchen can be a bit of a challenge. Whilst there are many lighting principals and ideas that are common across all styles, there are many choices that are dependent on the décor and type of kitchen. A contemporary kitchen may suit different types of lighting to a more […]

There are a number of different common socket types including 13A sockets (with 3 holes, for regular UK plugs); USB sockets (for charging electrical devices); TV and satellite sockets and telephone sockets among others. You may have noticed 5 amp sockets, with three small round holes. These don’t fit regular electrical plugs, often come unswitched, and these are also known as lamp sockets and light sockets.

5 amp socket use

5 amp sockets are used on the lighting circuit, meaning they are switched on and off with the light switches in the room, rather than being used like regular plug sockets. They are designed for appliances that take less than a 5 amp current, for example floor lamps, table lamps and fans. These sockets do not work for larger appliances like fridges, washing machines and TVs.

Planning 5 Amp Socket Positions

If you are planning out the positioning of your sockets and switches, consider where appliances like floor and table lamps will need to be placed. 5 amp switches can work well around sofas and tables, as this is where lamps often tend to go. If you have a larger room, with a sofa away from the walls, you could consider using a 5 amp floor socket to avoid having wires spread across the floor.

Our 5 amp sockets come both unswitched and switched, offering extra flexibility. They also come in a variety of beautiful finishes including brushed chrome, polished chrome, brushed brass, antique brass and black nickel as well as white plastic.

5 amp sockets

Much like when choosing other sockets and switches for your home, make sure you choose a robust, durable 5 amp socket with a finish that really blends into the décor style of the room. Not only do these sockets can look subtle and stylish, but need to be positioned well. To find out more about choosing and positioning sockets and switches, read our blog posts: Matching Switch and Socket Finishes to Interior Design Styles; and Switch & Socket Function & Selection – What do I need?

Choose from our selection of 5 amp sockets.

Do 5 amp plugs have a fuse?

5 Amp plugs don’t have fuse cartridges as they should only be fitted to a maximum of a 6 Amp circuit. This will be fused at the distribution board.

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There are a number of different common socket types including 13A sockets (with 3 holes, for regular UK plugs); USB sockets (for charging electrical devices); TV and satellite sockets and telephone sockets among others. You may have noticed 5 amp sockets, with three small round holes. These don’t fit regular electrical plugs, often come unswitched, […]

When choosing where to position sockets and switches in the bedroom, there are some important considerations to take into account to ensure you make the right decisions and are comfortable with your choices for the long-run. The key factors to give though to include:

Style, Finish and Function

brushed chrome toggle switch

The switch and socket finish and how it works with your interior décor is an important consideration. Are you looking to create a modern or contemporary look? Is your style more Traditional or Period, Scandi or Neutral? Sockets and light switches come in a vast array of different colours and styles, and our quick guides to these and aspects to think about are:

  1. Style: The Style of Plate; Flat Plates are great for creating a crisp flush style and complement modern and contemporary finishes. A raised plate is more traditional and works well with period, Scandi and neutral home décor styles.
  2. Finish: Think about how the finish of the socket will go with your décor style. An antique brass finish, for example will work well with a classic or period style of interior, but a black nickel finish may suit contemporary better.
  3. Function: Think about what functionality is needed in your bedroom. This relates to the light switch type, the style of switch (dimmer, rocker or toggle) and the type of sockets needed. You may prefer to have a USB socket in certain places, for example.

Positioning Sockets & Switches

Choosing where to position sockets and switches in the bedroom is something that is often overlooked and undervalued. Whilst it may seem fairly simple at the outset, it can be infuriating down the line if this is not thought through. The most important aspects to think about are:

Accessibility– is it easy to get to your light switches and sockets? Nobody wants to have to walk across a room to turn off a light, so do you need multiple lights switches? For sockets it is best to think about issues like running extensions leads to bedside lamps which can be unsightly; and don’t forget the modern curse of having to charge your phone or electrical appliances: where do they need to be done? Do you want built in USBs in the sockets.

where to position sockets in bedroom

Visual Look – crowded plug sockets can look unsightly, so it is best if you can to position sockets where they are accessible, but not prominent, i.e. if you have a beside table with legs, then between the legs under the table is a good location. If the socket is above the bedside table then all of the power leads will be on show. If it is located behind a table which does not move easily, then access can be limited.

You may find that over time you decide to add furniture, table lamps, TVs and other electronics, and are unable to get the most out of them, or have to put up with leads running across the side of the room – go for additional sockets, one on each wall minimum (ideally two – then you future proof room layout) and either side of a bed.

Once you know the best place to position the bed, aim to position plug sockets on either side. You may want to use single or double sockets with USBs too, so you can charge devices like phones, tablets and e-book readers. Also sockets work well in the corners, where you are likely to position furniture or TVs. Consider a TV Co-axial socket in one corner – perhaps 2 locations if the want to move things around and plenty of sockets and data cable to future proof.

You may choose to have wall lights by the bed too. It would be worth putting the switche/s for these within a reachable distance from the bed. The issue that may arise is that if you decide to change the position of the bed, you may be stuck a little bit, so think carefully about the position you'd prefer. By having your sockets low down (as opposed to level with the bedside table) they won't look too out of place if you do decide to move all of the furniture to a new position.

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When choosing where to position sockets and switches in the bedroom, there are some important considerations to take into account to ensure you make the right decisions and are comfortable with your choices for the long-run. The key factors to give though to include: Style, Finish and Function The switch and socket finish and how […]

Have you ever wanted to create a bespoke switch on one plate? Maybe a 12 gang switch, with 4 intermediate switches and 8 2 way rocker switches; or a 2 gang switch with one intermediate and one retractive. Grid switches are the simplest and perhaps most cost effective way to do this.

Grid Switches Explained

What Are Grid Switches?

Grid switches come in separate parts. You can order a grid plate, which looks like a regular light switch plate, but without anything behind it and no switches built in. These come with grid frames, which allow you to fit everything together. You can also choose from a selection of grid modules. These are simply single switch modules that pop into place on the grid plate to create your bespoke switch. This allows you to create unusual or non-standard combinations, without the expense of getting it custom made by a factory.

How Do Grid Switches Work?

As the wiring goes through the grid modules, and the frame holds the modules in place on the plates, there is no need for any screwing or unscrewing.

Grid Switch Modules

When Would You Use Grid Switches?

You can use grid switches whenever you need a switch that you can't easily get hold of. There's nothing more frustrating than finding a socket and switch finish and style that you like, and finding all but one or two of the switches that you need in that finish. Grid switches make it less likely for that to happen.

How To Choose The Right Grid Switches?

The first questions you need to ask yourself are:

When deciding which function you need, think about what exactly you need the switch to control. Do you need to control light switches? Do you need a switch that works with smart home technology? Is an appliance switch needed? First you need to decide on the function needed, and how many switches are needed. When choosing the finish, you may need to simply go with the same finish as the other sockets and switches in the room. If you are just at the beginning of the planning process, read our guide on Matching Switch and Socket Finishes to Interior Design Styles.

What Are Front Loading and Back Loading Grid Switches?

There are a couple of different options when it comes to adding the switch modules: front loading and back loading. To put together a grid switch, the grid frame (yolk) is connected to the wall in with the modules, and then the plate is attached to the front. If the modules are front loading, they can be pushed in from the front, once the frame is screwed or clipped in place. If they are rear loading, they need to be attached from behind, before the frame is screwed or clipped on.

Browse our selection of grid switch plates and grid switch modules.

FAQs

Can I have dimmer switches and rocker switches on the same plate?

Absolutely! We do a variety of combination plates to suit almost every need, from a 2 gang rocker and dimmer combo, right up to an 8 gang with four rockers and four dimmers. There are a multitude of different combinations, with different positions for the switches you require. Take a look at the grid plate range to find the most suitable option for your needs.

Can I get these options in the Fusion range?

Yes, we do all of the plates in the Fusion range, so that you can have a completely matching set of switches no matter the size.

How can I tell which switch does what on such a large plate?

We do a customised engraving service for all metal switches, sockets, and grid plates. Check out our enquiry form to get a quote.

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Have you ever wanted to create a bespoke switch on one plate? Maybe a 12 gang switch, with 4 intermediate switches and 8 2 way rocker switches; or a 2 gang switch with one intermediate and one retractive. Grid switches are the simplest and perhaps most cost effective way to do this. What Are Grid […]

Choosing the right colours for your home or commercial property can be tricky. And even if you are happy with the colours in the room, you need to also think about electrical fixtures, door handles, photo frames and other features that can really add to the room.

Brushed Chrome LED Dimmers

Polished Chrome vs Brushed Chrome

One of the most common and popular finishes for sockets and switches is chrome. There are a number of different styles of chrome, with perhaps the most popular being brushed chrome and polished chrome. For a full run down of the differences between brushed chrome and polished chrome, read our blog post: Brushed Chrome Vs Polished Chrome.

The short explanation however, is that polished chrome has a mirror-like finish and is smooth. Brushed chrome isn't so reflective, but is good for hiding blemishes and finger prints.

Polished Chrome Sockets

Whilst they are both very versatile, they can be suited to slightly different styles of decor. Brushed chrome sockets and switches have a warm finish and are well suited to modern or contemporary style interiors. It can also work well in industrial themed settings. Polished chrome sockets and switches have a universal appeal and work well in modern or contemporary styles too, but also suit period decor styles like art deco. For more information, read our article on matching socket and switch finishes to interior design styles.

What Colour Goes With Chrome

As well as interior design styles, it's also good to think about the colours you are using in the space. Chrome, much like silver goes well with black, or white, as you can see with our black and white inserts on our sockets and switches.

Brushed Chrome Black and White Inserts

Other influential colours that work with many styles of chrome include dark / navy blue, royal blue, cream and burgundy. Even slightly soft or pastille blues can work well too. This really is a universal finish, so tends to work well with lots of different colours. The lightness of chrome allows for it to complement most styles without overpowering or taking attention away from the rest of the room.

See our selection of sockets and switches including brushed chrome and polished chrome.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

In this blog we look at what colours go well with different styles of chrome.

Updated April 2022.

In recent years, LED lights have gone from being available only as unsightly and partly covered in plastic, to being available in traditional or vintage styles. But LED also offers a number of benefits. Some you many know about and others you may not. In this article we look at some of the top benefits of LED lights.

Vintage Edison LED Bulbs

LEDs Are Longer Lasting Than Traditional Incandescent Bulbs

One of the factors that can put people off buying LED bulbs is the price. They tend to be slightly more expensive than incandescent bulbs. However if you take into account the long life of LEDs, over time LED bulbs can become cheaper than traditional incandescents.

LED bulbs don't burnout in the same way that other bulbs do. The filament in incandescent bulbs weakens over time, causing it to burn out; whereas the amount of light produced by LEDs gradually decreases in what is known as lumen depreciation. The lifetime of an LED is based on how long it takes for the output to decrease to 30%. So whilst the illumination will decrease overtime, the lifetime is much longer.  LEDs tend to have lifetime of 35,000-50,000 hours, compared to incandescents which have 750-2,000 hours.

LEDs Are More Energy Efficient Than Incandescent Bulbs

They can turn around 70% of their energy into light as they have a high lumen output per light. This makes them far more efficient than other bulbs, which give off heat. A 6 watt LED bulb can produce the same amount of light thata 40 watt incandescent bulb produces. Incandescent bulbs can get very hot but LED bulbs tend to be cooler.

LEDs Are Cost Effective To Run

As mentioned earlier, LEDs can often cost more money to purchase compared to incandescent bulbs, however they also cost a lot less to run, due to their energy efficiency. Therefore, in the long run, they offer savings. So if you take into account the lower energy costs, as well as the fact that you will not need to replace them so often, the savings can really add up.

As energy bills continue to rise in recent months, this benefit is more important than ever.

The Environmental Benefits of LED Bulbs

Whilst clean energy has a positive impact on carbon footprints, the energy efficiency of LEDs and other efficient electrical appliances has even more of a positive impact. Essentially, using clean energy is good, but not as good as using less energy. Therefore, an added benefit of the energy efficiency of LEDs is that they have less of an environmental impact.

The long life of LEDs also means that we purchase fewer over our lifetimes, which saves on material production and waste. Many office strip lights contain mercury as well as other chemicals according to an article on the environmental benefits of LED by SEPCO-Solar Lighting. These chemicals can have a negative effect on the environment.

Getting Started With LED Bulbs

If you are looking to make the switch to LED bulbs, but aren't sure which ones you need, start by reading our LED bulb buying guide. You can also browse through our selection of LED bulbs, and contact us if you have any questions.

Whilst in previous years, the drawback of LED bulbs has been that they haven't been available in many different styles (we often had to settle for unsightly plastic bulbs) more and more unique styles are becoming available all the time, including colour changing, vintage, smoked, various shapes and styles.

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Updated April 2022. In recent years, LED lights have gone from being available only as unsightly and partly covered in plastic, to being available in traditional or vintage styles. But LED also offers a number of benefits. Some you many know about and others you may not. In this article we look at some of […]

Vintage Edison LED Bulbs

If you've recently switched to LED light bulbs, or you have used them for a while but now want to use a dimmer switch with them, you may encounter some problems if you don't use the correct dimmer and LED bulbs. Using the incorrect bulbs or switches could lead you to experiencing flickering and buzzing, or no dim at all.

If you've experienced that problem, it is likely to be down to one of two things: the LED lighting you have chosen or the dimmer switch.

Do you have dimmable LED bulbs?

Traditional incandescent light bulbs can generally dim without issue, so don't need to be specifically dimmable, however not all LED bulbs are dimmable, and this is due to the way that LED bulbs and incandescent bulbs dim. Analogue dimming, with incandescent bulbs involves controlling the current to dim or brighten the light, whereas LED lights use Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) which involves the light going through a cycle of being on and off, so fast that you won’t be aware of it. So for a bulb to be 20% dimmer, it would need to be off 20% of the time.

Therefore, when planning the lighting in your home or business, if you wish to use a dimmer, you'll need to use dimmable LEDs, be they bulbs or downlights.

See our range of dimmable LED bulbs.

Are you using the correct dimmer switch for LED lights?

Some LED bulbs can work with the older leading edge dimmer switches, however it's more likely that they'll work with a more modern, trailing edge dimmer switch. (Need more information on these types of dimmers? Visit our blog Trailing Edge vs Leading Edge).These can be a little more expensive than older dimmers, but are more likely to stop issues including buzzing, humming, inability to achieve full brightness or premature bulb burnout.

Better yet, choosing one of our dimmers means you can choose. All of our dimmers contain Enkin dimmers, and the PDM150 allows you to choose between Trailing Edge and Leading edge at the touch of a button. And with soft-start, flicker-free technology, our dimmers will also prolong the life of your LED bulbs.

See our full range of LED dimmer switches.

FAQs

What if I don't want a traditional dimmer switch, is there an alternative?

Yes, we carry Dimming Toggle Switches that best suit traditional or period homes. These are a great alternative to the more modern style dimming knobs.

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If you’ve recently switched to LED light bulbs, or you have used them for a while but now want to use a dimmer switch with them, you may encounter some problems if you don’t use the correct dimmer and LED bulbs. Using the incorrect bulbs or switches could lead you to experiencing flickering and buzzing, […]

Brass has been a popular finish for sockets, switches, lighting, handles and other features around the home. With a timeless appearance, brass can complement multiple styles of decor, although it perhaps looks most at home in a traditional or classic interior. There are, however multiple types of brass finish including brushed brass, antique brass, burnished brass and polished brass.

In this article we look at the differences between polished brass and antique brass and which sort of styles of design suit each.

Polished Brass Sockets & Switches

Polished Brass SocketsPolished brass sockets and switches have a brash finish that has been polished and therefore have a mirror-like reflective surface, whilst still carrying the almost golden brass colour. This finish tends to be bright and shiny as well as very reflective. They gleam more and perhaps appear more eye catching than brushed brass (which has a more satin finished). But the downside is that they can show fingerprints or blemishes a lot more than other brass finishes.

Polished brass is a lot more bright and flashy than antique, brushed and satin brass. But it can look slightly less warm, though it is timeless and has been popular for a long time. It is best suited to traditional rooms, but has a neutral style that works well in more modern homes too.

Antique Brass Sockets & Switches

Antique Brass Toggle Switch

Antique brass or aged brass is more of a statement finish than polished brass. This beautiful finish is treated to appear aged and typically has a rich brown town with slightly golden undertones. With a warm finish, it doesn't shine or reflect anywhere near as much as polished brass. Therefore hides watermarks and blemishes so much better.

This finish is well suited to vintage, historical, or classic style rooms, however it looks great as a classic twist in a more modern decor. Cheaper sockets and switches can let down antique brass, as it really needs to look robust and strong in order to look the part, so be sure to go for higher quality antique brass sockets and switches.

This finish may not be quite as universal as polished brass, but when the style of decor calls for something more classic and eye-catching, antique brass is likely to fit the role.

Laquered Brass Vs Unlacquered Brass

When comparing these two finishes, it is very much down to personal preference.

Lacquered brass has a finish or surface coating that prevents the brass from ageing or tarnishing over time. This is a huge benefit because the finish can be enjoyed throughout the lifetime of its use. It will always retain its beautiful, rich colouring and will not fade or distort through weather or time. If you're looking for a low maintenance light or socket and switches, then this is a favourable option.

Whereas unlaquered brass does not have a surface coating for protection so it can age and tarnish overtime, however, its original finish can easily be restored by polishing it.

Burnished Brass Vs Antique Brass

The finish of antique brass appears aged and has a typically rich brown tone with golden undertones. This executive finish is not flashy. The subtleness of the finish makes it well suited to the decor of most homes, but is mostly suited to vintage and period style properties.

Burnished brass combines the aesthetics of bright polished brass with antique and weathered brass. Indeed, it's a finish that has the best of both worlds. Combining the gorgeous bright gold tones from polished brass and blending with the brown tones from antique or aged brass. Unlike polished brass, the golden colour is not shiny, it could continue to patina depending on the burnishing technique that is used.

Take a look at our full range of sockets and switches to find your perfect finish.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

In this article we look at the differences between polished brass and antique brass and which sort of styles of design suit each of them the most.