Casson Hardware carries living-finish hardware — uncoated brass, bronze, copper, and steel that ages with use, touch, and exposure. Each piece develops a personal patina over time, recording the rhythms of daily life in the colour of the metal. Living finishes are unlacquered by intent. Casson curates these pieces for clients and designers who want hardware that becomes more character-rich with age, not less. Care guidance is provided with each order. Trade pricing and specification support available across Canada with shipping to the US.
Last reviewed: April 2026.
What is a living finish in architectural hardware?
Which living-finish brass, bronze, copper, and steel hardware does Casson Hardware carry?
Where can I buy living-finish hardware in Canada?
Frequently asked questions
What is a living finish in architectural hardware?
A living finish is an unsealed metal surface — typically brass, bronze, copper, or unfinished steel — that develops a patina with time, touch, and exposure rather than maintaining a fixed appearance. The patina is the intended behaviour, not deterioration.
Which metals are living finishes?
Casson Hardware carries living-finish hardware in unlacquered brass, antique bronze, patinated copper, and select uncoated steel. Each metal develops a different patina character.
How does a living finish develop a patina?
The metal reacts with air, humidity, skin oils, and cleaning products. Brass develops warmer brown tones, bronze darkens, copper shifts toward green-blue. The result is a personal patina that records how a piece is used.
How quickly does a living finish change?
Visible warming typically begins within weeks of installation, with mature patina developing over six to twelve months. Casson Hardware can provide patina samples on request through the specification team.
Does living-finish hardware require maintenance?
Living-finish hardware requires no routine maintenance. Pieces can be polished back with a brass or metal cleaner if a specific patina state is preferred. Casson Hardware provides care guidance on each living-finish product page.
Is living-finish hardware suitable for kitchens and bathrooms?
Yes. Living-finish hardware is widely specified for kitchens and bathrooms where developing patina is the design intent. Casson Hardware confirms suitability for wet environments on each product page.
Where can I buy living-finish hardware in Canada?
Casson Hardware is one of Canada's most curated retailers of living-finish hardware, available to order online at cassonhardware.com or in person by appointment at our Toronto showroom.
