A living finish is a metal finish that is unlacquered, meaning it has no protective coating.

Because the metal is exposed, it reacts naturally with air, water, and touch, gradually developing a patina over time.

Living finishes are commonly found on:

• Brass taps

• Nickel taps

• Copper bathroom fittings

• Shower valves and shower heads

Unlike chrome or lacquered finishes that stay the same colour, a living finish changes naturally as it ages. Many homeowners choose living brass taps specifically for this evolving character.

Over time, the metal develops a unique surface tone known as a patina, giving the bathroom a softer, more traditional appearance.

Living brass taps are designed to change colour. Because the finish is unlacquered, the surface reacts with oxygen and moisture, causing a process called oxidation. This results in a natural patina forming on the metal.

Depending on the environment, living brass taps may:

• Darken slightly

• Develop warmer tones

• Show variation where the tap is touched frequently

This change is not damage or wear. It is simply the natural ageing process of the metal.

The speed at which a living finish develops a patina varies depending on several environmental factors.

These include:

• Humidity levels

• Water exposure

• Cleaning products used

• Frequency of use

In busy bathrooms or kitchens, changes can begin to appear within a few weeks. In quieter areas, the ageing process may take several months or even years.

Because every home environment is different, no two living finish taps will age in the same way.

Living finish taps are generally low maintenance, particularly if you appreciate the natural patina that develops over time.

For everyday care, simply:

• Clean with mild soap and water

• Avoid abrasive or harsh cleaning products

• Wipe dry with a soft cloth if desired

If you prefer to maintain the original bright brass look, the taps will require occasional polishing.

This flexibility allows homeowners to choose between:

• A naturally aged finish

• A polished, brighter brass appearance

For more information take a look at Ashbee and Stone’s product care guide.

It is not possible to completely stop a living finish from ageing unless the metal is sealed with lacquer.

However, you can slow the patina process by applying:

• Protective wax

• Light oil

• Regular polishing

These treatments create a temporary barrier that reduces oxidation, although the patina will gradually return.

For many people, the developing patina is one of the main reasons for choosing a living finish.

Living brass taps can be polished back to a brighter finish. A gentle brass metal polish will remove the surface patina and restore the original tone of the metal. Since the finish remains unlacquered, the ageing process will continue after polishing. This means homeowners can reset the finish whenever they wish, allowing the tap to age again naturally.

Each tap develops its own unique patina.

The ageing process is influenced by:

• How often the tap is touched

• Water exposure

• Humidity

• Cleaning habits

For example, areas touched regularly may remain brighter, while other areas may darken faster.

This variation is one of the defining characteristics of living finishes and contributes to their natural, handcrafted appearance.

Brass is a highly durable metal that has been used in plumbing for centuries.

High-quality brass taps are:

• Strong and long-lasting

• Resistant to corrosion

• Suitable for bathrooms and kitchens

The changing colour of the finish does not affect the durability or performance of the tap.

In some environments, brass can develop small green or blue tones as part of the natural oxidation process. This is similar to the patina seen on aged copper and brass surfaces. In most bathrooms this effect is subtle, and it can be polished away if desired.

Yes, unlacquered brass taps and shower fittings are suitable for bathrooms and showers. Because showers are exposed to more water and humidity, the patina may develop slightly faster than on basin taps.

Many homeowners appreciate this effect because it creates a soft, aged finish that complements traditional and classic bathroom designs.

Brass is a relatively durable metal, although like most finishes it can develop light surface marks over time. With living finishes, small scratches tend to blend into the patina, making them far less noticeable than on polished chrome surfaces. This makes living finishes particularly popular in bathrooms designed to age gracefully over time.

Living finishes are increasingly popular in bathroom design because they offer:

• A natural, evolving appearance

• A warm alternative to chrome

• A finish that develops character over time

• A timeless look suited to both traditional and modern bathrooms

Unlike static finishes, living brass taps become more unique as they age, making each piece slightly different.

Living finish taps are designed to age naturally over time. Unlike lacquered or plated finishes, the metal is left exposed, allowing it to develop a unique patina through contact with air, water, and everyday use. This natural ageing process creates character, warmth, and individuality, making living brass, copper, and nickel finishes increasingly popular in both traditional and contemporary bathrooms.

For a coordinated look, Ashbee & Stone offers a range of taps, showers, and bathroom fittings in matching living finishes, allowing you to create a beautifully consistent design throughout your space.