Lacquered Brushed Brass vs. PVD Brushed Brass: Which Finish is Right for Your Project?

Choosing the perfect hardware is often the final flourish of a renovation, but with the rise of new manufacturing technologies, the choices can be overwhelming. At Manovella, two of our most popular finishes are Brushed Brass (Lacquered) and Brushed Brass PVD.

At a glance, they both offer that stunning, golden glow that has defined modern Australian interiors. However, they are created differently, perform differently, and suit different environments. In this guide, we break down the science, the style, and the longevity of each to help you decide which is right for your home.

The Science: How are they made?

Brushed Brass (Lacquered)

Lacquering is a traditional finishing process where a high-quality, clear protective coating is applied over the brushed solid brass. This "seals" the brass, preventing the natural oxidation (patina) that occurs when raw brass is exposed to air. It results in a smooth, consistent finish with a classic glow.

• The Look: Warm, lustrous, and classic.
• The Feel: Exceptionally smooth and "silky" to the touch.

Brushed Brass PVD

PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition. Instead of a topical coating, the handles are placed in a high-tech vacuum chamber where a "vapor" of hard-wearing metal is bonded to the surface at a molecular level. It’s the same process used on luxury watches and surgical tools.

• The Look: Crisp, uniform, and modern.
• The Feel: Incredibly dense and "hard" to the touch.

Durability: The "High-Traffic" Test

If your kitchen is the heart of a busy family home, durability is likely your top priority.

PVD is the gold standard for toughness. Because the finish is bonded at a molecular level, it is virtually impossible to chip, fade, or scratch. It is highly resistant to corrosion from salty air (coastal living) and the natural oils on our hands.

Lacquered Brass is beautiful and durable for standard residential use, but as it is a topical coating, it is more delicate than PVD. Over many years of heavy use, or if cleaned with harsh chemicals, the lacquer can eventually wear down or "break," allowing the brass underneath to begin its natural aging process.

Expert Tip: If you wear rings every day or have a high-frequency household, PVD is your best friend. The hardness of the coating is significantly higher than a lacquer, meaning your jewelry or fingernails won't leave micro-scratches on the handle over time.

Aesthetics & Tapware Matching

The biggest factor in your decision will likely be your tapware.

• Matching PVD Taps: If you have invested in PVD tapware (like those from Abi Interiors, Phoenix, or Meir), our Brushed Brass PVD handles are the ideal match. The PVD process produces a specific satin sheen that is consistent across different fixtures.
• Matching Traditional Brass: If your tapware has a softer "Satin" look or a more traditional gold tone, the Lacquered range often provides a warmer, more seamless match.

Comparison at a Glance

Which one should you choose?

Choose Brushed Brass (Lacquered) if:

• You are looking for a classic, warm brass look for a bedroom or wardrobe.
• You prefer a silky-smooth, soft-to-the-touch aesthetic.
• You are working within a specific budget but still want the premium weight of solid brass.

Choose Brushed Brass PVD if:

• You are fitting out a high-use kitchen, laundry, or bathroom.
• You live near the ocean and need maximum corrosion resistance.
• You want your hardware to look "brand new" for decades without the risk of the finish wearing thin.
• You have already purchased PVD tapware and want a perfect match.

See the difference for yourself

Still unsure? We always recommend seeing the finishes in your own light. You can order samples or visit our Mordialloc showroom (by appointment) to compare them side-by-side.