Satin Nickel Versus Chrome Light Fixtures

Chrome

• Chrome light fixtures are usually made of brass that has been plated with chromium. Chrome was a popular finish during the 1930s and remains highly in demand today in light and plumbing fixtures. It's a hard-wearing finish that resists tarnish and stands up to years of use, making it a very practical choice in home decor. Chrome is a shiny silver metal that polishes to a bright, mirrorlike shine. Light fixtures in chrome may be used in modern decor because of its clean, shiny look, but it's also a perfect choice for anyone using a vintage or Art Deco-style design for their decor because of its association with the 1930s.

Nickel

• Satin nickel, also known as brushed nickel, isn't as shiny or reflective as chrome. Satin nickel is named because of its soft look, but nickel is also a soft metal. Over time and use, nickel finishes will rub off of fixtures and may tarnish. Satin nickel doesn't show spots and fingerprints as easily as a polished, shiny metal finish like chrome.

Designing with Metal

• Satin nickel has the old-fashioned look that makes it perfect for antique lamps and period home decor. Nickel was a popular metal finish prior to the 1930s, when chrome became popular with homeowners. Satin nickel has a soft, matte finish that creates a romantic, classic look. Bright, cold chrome is a little more modern and flashier in home design.

Mixing and Matching

• Light fixtures with chrome finishes and fixtures with satin nickel finishes may be paired together successfully. Both have a silver tone to them, and the softness of the satin nickel will contrast against the high-polished shine of chrome. Many homeowners try to match the metal on their light fixtures to the metal finish on their plumbing fixtures, but a mismatched look will work just as well. To create a cohesive look in your decor, use the same finish on all lighting fixtures in the same rooms or even throughout every room in the house.