Lighting is no longer just a practical element in interior design—it’s a focal point. In 2025, the spotlight is on lighting finishes that combine modern sophistication with a touch of timeless flair. Whether you’re upgrading a chandelier, adding sconces, or redoing your kitchen pendants, the finish you choose can make a huge impact on your home’s style.
This year, designers are embracing finishes that add warmth, texture, and contrast, breaking away from cold, clinical aesthetics and diving into bold, expressive materials. Let’s explore the top lighting finishes trending in 2025 and how to use them to create a refined, on-trend look.
1. Brushed Brass: The New Classic
Brushed brass continues to dominate lighting design in 2025—and for good reason. This warm metallic finish strikes the perfect balance between vintage charm and modern sophistication.
Why it’s trending:
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Adds warmth and depth to minimalist interiors
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Pairs beautifully with earth tones, wood, and marble
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Offers a luxurious yet approachable look
Best for:
Dining room chandeliers, bathroom sconces, kitchen pendants, and bedside lamps.
Pro Tip: Mix brushed brass with matte black for a high-contrast, designer-approved look.
2. Matte Black: Bold and Versatile
Matte black remains a mainstay in contemporary lighting, beloved for its ability to anchor a room without overpowering it. It works equally well in industrial, Scandinavian, and even traditional spaces.
Why it’s trending:
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Creates striking silhouettes against lighter backdrops
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Blends seamlessly with both warm and cool palettes
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Gives a modern, understated edge to any space
Best for:
Track lighting, wall sconces, minimalist chandeliers, and geometric fixtures.
Design Tip: Use matte black lighting to tie together other black hardware like cabinet pulls or faucets.
3. Polished Nickel: Timeless with a Twist
For those who love the elegance of chrome but want something softer, polished nickel is your finish for 2025. It brings a subtle shine without being overly reflective, making it a timeless addition to bathrooms and kitchens.
Why it’s trending:
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Cooler than brass, but warmer than chrome
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Adds sophistication to transitional interiors
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Complements both traditional and modern styles
Best for:
Vanity lights, pendant lighting, and classic lanterns.
Pair it with: White or navy cabinetry and marble countertops for a fresh, clean look.
4. Aged Bronze: Moody Elegance
Aged bronze (or oil-rubbed bronze) is making a strong comeback, especially in spaces that lean rustic, vintage, or industrial. It offers a rich, dark finish with subtle metallic undertones that add mood and depth.
Why it’s trending:
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Evokes Old World elegance with modern appeal
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Excellent for creating cozy, atmospheric spaces
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Works beautifully with terracotta, stone, and dark woods
Best for:
Statement chandeliers, dining room sconces, hallway lanterns.
Design Note: Combine aged bronze with soft warm lighting for a rich, inviting glow.
5. Mixed Metals: Best of Both Worlds
Designers are embracing mixed-metal lighting as a creative way to layer texture and tone. In 2025, it’s all about intentional contrast—pairing warm and cool finishes in a single fixture to make a bold statement.
Why it’s trending:
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Offers flexibility in spaces with mixed hardware
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Adds dimension and visual interest
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Allows you to blend old and new styles seamlessly
Popular combos:
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Brass + Black
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Nickel + Chrome
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Bronze + Copper
Best for:
Dining areas, modern kitchens, entryways with eclectic style.
6. Natural and Organic Finishes
As biophilic design continues to trend, we’re seeing more organic lighting finishes in the form of raw metals, hand-forged iron, and textured surfaces like patina, stone, and plaster.
Why it’s trending:
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Connects indoor spaces with nature
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Adds character and artisanal appeal
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Perfect for earthy, wellness-inspired interiors
Best for:
Boho lighting, rustic sconces, modern farmhouse pendants.
Tip: These finishes pair beautifully with woven textiles, indoor plants, and natural materials like rattan or jute.
7. Chrome and Glossy Finishes: Modern Revival
While matte and brushed textures have led the design scene in recent years, chrome and glossy metallics are making a stylish comeback in 2025—especially in modern and glam spaces.
Why it’s trending:
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Reflective surfaces add brightness and energy
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Offers a clean, sleek look in minimalist interiors
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Ideal for spaces that need a touch of drama
Best for:
Modern bathrooms, glam powder rooms, mirrored hallways.
Pair it with: Bold accent colors or monochrome palettes for maximum impact.
How to Choose the Right Lighting Finish
Choosing the right finish is all about context and contrast. Here are a few tips to help you get it right:
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Match the mood: Warm finishes like brass and bronze suit cozy, intimate spaces; cooler tones like nickel and chrome suit clean, modern rooms.
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Mix intentionally: If using multiple finishes, keep one consistent (e.g., all warm metals) and vary the texture.
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Tie it together: Coordinate your lighting finish with cabinet hardware, faucets, or door handles for a cohesive look.
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Don’t be afraid to be bold: Use dramatic finishes as focal points in otherwise neutral rooms.
Conclusion
In 2025, lighting finishes are as much about personality and style as they are about function. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of brass, the drama of matte black, or the creativity of mixed metals, there’s a finish that can elevate your space.
Lighting is no longer an afterthought—it’s a design statement. Choose finishes that reflect your taste, enhance your interior theme, and bring brilliance and beauty to every corner of your home.
