How to Select the Right Lighting Finish for Your Space


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How to Select the Right Lighting Finish for Your Space

Beyond illumination, finishes reflect personal style and design vision 


Lighting is more than just illumination—it shapes the mood, style and character of a space. At SONNEMAN, our finishes mirror a modernist sensibility and streamlined design approach, offering options for any space. Whether you're drawn to the warmth of brass, the silkiness of chrome, or the bold simplicity of black and white, the right finish aligns with your personal style, design vision and existing elements like paint colors, wood tones or textiles.

Consider Tonality

Lighting finishes play a pivotal role in setting the tone of a space. With its warm, golden hues, brass, like the recently introduced Scepter Bath Bar, adds depth and richness. It complements both traditional and modern styles while pairing beautifully with earthy palettes like deep burgundy, terracotta and forest green. Reflecting light with a soft glow, brass imbues spaces with warmth.

On the cooler side of the spectrum, SONNEMAN’s chrome finishes, including the Polished Chrome of the Chimes Chandelier and Bright Satin Aluminum, offer a silvery luster and modern sensibility. Chrome pairs seamlessly with cooler palettes such as eggshell whites, navy blues and sage greens, creating a clean, contemporary feeling. Its reflective surfaces amplify light, brightening spaces with a crisp and charismatic appeal.

Mix Metals Thoughtfully

While brass and chrome have distinct visual and tonal qualities, they can also mesh beautifully together to create a layered design statement. Consider using brass for accent lighting—like wall sconces—and chrome ceiling fixtures for a refined contrast, balancing warmth and clarity. Thoughtfully mixing metals adds depth and visual intrigue without overwhelming the room.

Make it Black and White

For a minimalist appeal, black and white finishes provide a versatile foundation that can create contrast and cohesion. Satin White fixtures, like the Suspenders Freeform Tri-Bar, offer a light, airy presence that blends seamlessly into neutral palettes and amplifies natural light. In contrast, Satin Black fixtures, such as the Systema Staccato Linear Pendant, make a bold, graphic statement, adding focus and contrast. Both finishes are available in a satin texture that delivers a subtle sheen and depth for a polished yet understated appearance.

Finishes are in the details, influencing the atmosphere, style and cohesion of space while reflecting light in unique ways. Whether you gravitate towards warmth of brass, the sleek modernity of chrome, or the minimalist appeal of satin black and white, SONNEMAN’s finishes provide the perfect illumination to elevate your space.

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