There’s something unmistakable about brass and copper in a kitchen. They have weight. They catch the light in a way stainless steel rarely does. They age with use, not wear out. In the UAE, where homes blend contemporary living with tradition, these metals aren’t just functional — they feel right at home.
Brass and copper pieces are showing up everywhere these days: on open shelves, at lavish dining tables, and even in minimalist kitchens. Not because they’re a trend, but because they work beautifully and bring a bit of warmth to spaces that are often cool and clean.
At Zenn Casa, we’ve seen customers choose these pieces again and again — not purely for looks, but because they actually improve everyday life. Here’s a guide to the brass-and-copper essentials that every UAE home should consider, how to care for them, and why they still matter in a world full of shiny alternatives.
Why Brass & Copper Belong in Your Kitchen
First, let’s clear something up: brass and copper aren’t just “decor pieces.” They’re hardworking materials that have been used for centuries around the world — in the Middle East, India, North Africa, Turkey — places where heat, hospitality, and beautiful food are part of daily life.
In Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, kitchens are often busy places. Pots bubble, coffee brews, guests arrive, and the table gets busy. Pieces made from brass and copper sit well in that oscillation between tradition and modern use. They look good. They last long if you care for them properly. And they quietly make the kitchen feel like a home, not just a workspace.
Must-Have Brass & Copper Pieces for Every Kitchen
Here are a few essentials from our collection that fit naturally into UAE homes, no matter how you cook or host.
Copper Brass Collection — Zenn Casa:
Let’s break down some favourites worth considering.
1. Copper Water Bottles & Jugs
Copper drinkware isn’t just a wellness accessory. Many UAE households prefer it as a daily habit — especially in warm months. A pure copper water bottle cools water naturally and has a historical legacy behind it.
- As per Ayurveda, promotes immunity and good for digestion
- Promotes skin health
- Makes a thoughtful gift too
And when it’s time for guests? A copper jug stands as a heritage piece.
2. Brass Serving Pieces
From Brass dry fruit box to smaller serving bowls, brass serveware has a way of turning something simple into something special.
Maybe you’re serving dates after iftar. Maybe it’s a Friday lunch with family. A brass tray or bowl doesn’t make the food taste different — but it makes the moment feel different. That little bit of tradition under your fingertips has a way of grounding the whole meal.
3. Decorative Brass & Copper Accents
These aren’t essentials you have to use every day. They’re elements that give character to your space.
Brass pieces work with wood, glass, monochromes, and bold colours. You’ll see kitchens across the UAE mixing them with marble counters, open shelving, and even industrial tiles. They don’t compete with your style; they just quietly belong.
How to Clean Copper and Brass — A Practical Guide
Now, let’s talk about a question we get more than any other:
“How do I clean copper and brass without damaging them?”
This is important. Because these metals — meaning they change with time — and most people want to keep them shiny without making them look plastic or over-polished.
Here’s the thing: patience helps. Gentle products work best. You don’t have to scrub hard. Just follow a simple routine.
1. Warm Water + Mild Soap
For everyday cleaning, warm water with a gentle soap will do. Rinse well, dry immediately with a soft cloth. Leaving water on the surface invites spots.
2. Lemon + Salt for Copper
This is old-school, and it actually works: cut a lemon in half, dip it in salt, and rub gently. It lifts tarnish well. Rinse and dry.
3. Tamarind Paste for Brass
Soften the tamarind in warm water. Remove the seeds and fiber. Apply, let it sit, scrub with soft sponge and rinse off. The black or green tarnish will go away and the brass looks lighter. In couple of days it will regain its color back.
Caring Tips That Actually Work
- Dry immediately after washing
- Avoid strong detergents
- Don’t soak for long periods
- Keep away from very acidic foods when stored
- Wipe spills quickly
These habits make copper and brass feel like old friends — familiar, loved, and well-kept.
Why UAE Homes Love These Pieces
Here’s a little observation from the field: people here want pieces that suit social living. Kitchens here aren’t closed off. They open into dining and lounge areas. Guests stand around tables. Conversations happen over coffee. These metals fit naturally into that flow.
Brass and copper feel good next to:
- Wooden serving trays
- Neutral ceramics
- Glassware with colour
- Linen tablecloths
They sit well with both minimal and rich interior styles.
And something else — they age. Most things in a modern home stay pristine. Brass and copper quietly change. Spots appear, tones shift. That’s not damage. That’s patina. That’s history starting to wear in your home.
FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between brass and copper?
Brass is an alloy — mostly copper mixed with zinc. Pure copper feels warmer in tone; brass often looks more golden.
Q: How to clean copper and brass without harsh chemicals?
Use gentle methods: lemon + salt for copper, tamarind paste for brass, warm water and mild soap for everyday cleaning.
Q: Will polishing remove the character of the piece?
If you polish excessively, yes, it can look too new. A gentle hand with a soft cloth maintains warmth and character.
Q: Can I use copper items every day?
Absolutely. Copper drinkware, trays, jugs — they’re all made for regular use. Just follow basic care steps.
Q: Do brass and copper go with modern décor?
Yes. They add warmth and texture that balance modern lines and materials like glass, marble, and steel.
Wrapping Up
Brass and copper kitchen pieces aren’t about show. They’re about presence. They bring history into modern homes in a way that feels personal, not staged. They serve → they look good → they age well. Few things fit into this cycle of life so naturally.
If you’ve ever hesitated, wondering whether these metals are “too old-fashioned,” think again. In UAE homes, they’ve become quietly preferred for practical reasons and the memories they help create. A copper jug shared at iftar. A brass bowl is passed around during Ramadan. A warm brass tray hosting dates at a weekend brunch.
They’re not just kitchen items. They’re the pieces family remembers. You are keeping your traditions and your heritage alive.
Explore our brass & copper collection.
