By: Sherri Pfeifer
When it comes to kitchen design, the details make all the difference. Cabinet hardware might seem like a small choice, but the finish you select has the power to transform the entire mood of your space. Two of today’s most sought-after options—Champagne Gold and Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze (BORB)—sit on opposite ends of the style spectrum, yet both bring a unique personality and warmth to your kitchen.
So, how do you decide which finish is right for your cabinets, style, and lifestyle? Let’s break it down.
The Look and Feel
Champagne Gold
Soft, refined, and elegant, Champagne Gold offers a muted take on classic brass. Unlike shiny yellow golds, this finish leans toward a warm golden champagne hue with subtle sophistication. It pairs luxury with modern restraint—perfect if you want warmth without flash.
Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze
On the other hand, Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze delivers richness and depth. Its dark brown base with copper undertones adds instant character and a grounded feel to your kitchen. This finish feels timeless yet rustic, lending itself beautifully to traditional, farmhouse, or transitional kitchens.
Best Cabinet Colors and Stains
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Champagne Gold
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Looks stunning on white cabinets for a bright, airy feel.
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Elevates greige, taupe, and soft painted cabinets by adding just the right amount of glam.
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On natural light woods, Champagne Gold enhances warmth without overpowering the wood grain.
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Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze
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Pairs beautifully with white shaker cabinets for a bold contrast.
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Complements medium to dark wood stains like walnut, cherry, or espresso, where the dark finish blends naturally.
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Works well with navy or deep green painted cabinets, offering richness and dramatic appeal.
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Style Pairings
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Champagne Gold
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Perfect for modern, transitional, and glam kitchens.
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Enhances minimalist spaces with a subtle touch of luxe.
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Ideal if you’re aiming for a soft modern farmhouse look with an elevated edge.
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Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze
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Well-suited for farmhouse, rustic, and traditional kitchens.
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Adds vintage charm in spaces with exposed beams or natural stone.
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Complements industrial style kitchens with darker accents and iron details.
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When to Use Each Finish
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Choose Champagne Gold if…
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You want your hardware to feel fresh, contemporary, and on-trend.
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Your kitchen uses lighter cabinetry and neutral tones.
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You’re looking for a warm metallic that doesn’t overpower.
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Choose Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze if…
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You prefer cozy, grounded, and timeless design.
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Your cabinets are darker, or you’re aiming for contrast on white.
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You love the character of aged, artisan finishes.
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Why Not Mix?
More homeowners are mixing finishes to create depth and personality. A two-tone kitchen (for example, a light island with Champagne Gold and darker perimeter cabinets with BORB) can create balance and visual interest. The key is consistency within zones—don’t scatter both finishes randomly.
Final Thoughts
Both Champagne Gold and Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze have staying power. Champagne Gold feels chic, modern, and fresh, while Brushed Oil Rubbed Bronze remains a classic with warmth and depth. The right choice depends on your cabinet color, the mood you want to set, and the story your kitchen tells.
Whether you lean toward light elegance or dark richness, one thing is certain: the right hardware finish will turn your cabinets into a statement.
