Finishing Touches That Deliver: Decorative Metal Switchgear for Modern Interiors

    Wednesday 30th July 2025


    Decorative Switches & Sockets...


    Discover how CESCO’s metal switchgear enhances interiors from boutique hotels to modern offices.


    In the world of modern interiors, functionality and design no longer sit at opposite ends. The switch and socket—once chosen solely for their utility—are now celebrated as small yet powerful accents in interior aesthetics. Whether you’re redesigning a residential space, fitting out a high-end commercial unit, or curating a luxurious hotel suite, the detail matters. And few details command attention quite like
    decorative metal switches and sockets.

    CESCO, a respected name in Irish electrical supply, has carved out a reputation for products that combine technical reliability with striking visual appeal. Their collection of decorative finishes—including

    —offers professionals and homeowners a rich palette of options to complement any design theme. These finishes are not just colour variations; they’re expressions of texture, ambience, and personality.

    Whether you’re designing a minimalist loft or a sleek office space, the finishing touch can make or break the atmosphere. And that finishing touch often lies in the smallest details—elegant metal sockets, tactile switches, and polished faceplates. Let’s explore the beauty and utility of these finishes and how CESCO is redefining what it means to build with both style and safety.


    Why Style Now Matters as Much as Function

    There was a time when the choice of switches and sockets was purely about practicality. But as home and interior design have evolved, so too have our expectations of the items we use every day. Homeowners, architects, and even electricians are now factoring design aesthetics into every corner of a space. With open-plan kitchens, exposed feature walls, and ambient lighting schemes becoming standard, visible electrical points need to contribute to the overall look, not detract from it.

    Decorative metal switches and sockets allow a room to feel finished, thoughtful, and coordinated. They’re available in flat plate, raised plate, and screwless versions—ideal for clean, modern lines. CESCO understands that no two projects are the same, which is why their finishes are so carefully curated.

    Antique Brass: Timeless Warmth Meets Vintage Appeal

    Antique brass has made a serious comeback in recent years. It's the go-to finish for spaces where heritage and warmth intersect. Think Victorian-style living rooms, dark-toned libraries, or dining areas with walnut accents and exposed brickwork. The soft sheen of antique brass complements natural textures and gives rooms a sense of history without feeling dated.

    CESCO’s antique brass switches and sockets are manufactured with a brushed texture that catches the light in subtle ways. They pair beautifully with dark wall colours like navy, forest green, and even charcoal grey. This finish is often chosen for boutique hotels or residential renovations that aim to retain period charm while integrating modern functionality.

    Black Nickel: Sophistication with an Urban Edge

    For ultra-modern spaces, black nickel is the finish of choice. With its sleek, mirror-like surface and deep, smoky hue, it adds drama and class without overwhelming the design. This finish fits perfectly in luxury apartments, tech-savvy homes, and commercial interiors aiming for a high-end, contemporary look.

    CESCO’s black nickel range includes everything from dimmers and USB sockets to standard rocker switches, all designed with that reflective elegance in mind. What makes black nickel special is its versatility—it can either be a statement or a subtle enhancement, depending on what it's paired with. In a room with matte surfaces and clean lines, it pops. In darker, ambient settings, it blends beautifully.

    Copper: Bold, Warm, and Undeniably Trendy



    Copper has taken the design world by storm. Once relegated to plumbing and cookware, copper is now a front-runner in lighting, hardware, and, of course, switches and sockets. Its rich, orange-pink tone brings warmth to cool interiors and energy to more neutral colour palettes.

    In kitchens, copper switches complement metal splashbacks, pendant lighting, and brushed taps. In bathrooms, they work alongside exposed pipework for an industrial-chic effect. CESCO’s copper finish has been engineered to resist fingerprints and maintain its beauty over time, perfect for spaces where both beauty and durability matter.


    Gunmetal: Industrial Cool with a Designer Finish

    Gunmetal finishes are perfect for interiors that combine raw materials like concrete, glass and steel. Darker than stainless steel and less reflective than black nickel, gunmetal is the understated hero of the industrial design world. 

    From loft apartments with visible ductwork to minimalist office spaces with high-contrast interiors, CESCO’s gunmetal switches and sockets offer an edgy, refined finish. They pair incredibly well with greys, blacks, and reclaimed woods. Designers often favour gunmetal for its ability to enhance without overshadowing the broader design narrative.


    Granite Blue: The Unexpected Statement Piece

    One of the most unique options in CESCO’s decorative range is granite blue—a moody, dusky hue that bridges the gap between neutral and standout. It’s not often you find colour in metal switchgear that feels both bold and classy, but granite blue nails it.

    This finish is ideal for creative residential builds or boutique commercial interiors that want to push boundaries. Use it against light plaster walls for a vibrant pop, or on navy-painted surfaces for a tone-on-tone effect that’s incredibly stylish. CESCO’s granite blue fittings are also treated for durability, ensuring that colour never comes at the cost of performance.

    Stainless Steel: Modern Minimalism, Always in Style


    The most universal finish in any decorative electrical range is undoubtedly stainless steel. It’s crisp, modern, and matches virtually every colour scheme. Whether bushed or polished, stainless steel brings a clean and professional look to kitchens, offices, and communal areas.

    CESCO offers both flat and curved styles in stainless steel, with features like matching rocker switches, integrated USB ports, and LED indicators for extra functionality. What makes stainless steel so enduring is its blend of practicality and polish—it’s easy to clean, corrosion-resistant, and timeless.


    CESCO Ireland

    When Irish professionals search “CESCO Ireland location,” they’re not just looking for directions—they’re seeking fast, local access to the very best electrical products on the market. Cesco Ireland, located at 92 Lagan Road, Dublin Industrial Estate, Glasnevin, Dublin 11, is a well-established name in electrical supply, known for its technical knowledge, exceptional customer service, and deep product expertise.
    As a trusted distributor, CESCO plays a crucial role in ensuring that high-quality decorative metal switches and sockets—across all finishes like antique brass, black nickel, copper, gunmetal, granite blue, and stainless steel
    —are available throughout Ireland. Electricians, specifiers, and project managers rely on Cesco not only for product access but also for sound technical advice. They understand the importance of balancing design aesthetics with electrical safety, and they help customers choose the right finish and function for their space.

    This partnership means that whether you're renovating a period home in Galway or fitting out a smart tech hub in Cork, you can count on CESCO products being locally stocked and expertly supported. Cesco ensures that innovation and quality meet the Irish market with speed, knowledge, and trust.


    Frequently Asked Questions...

    1. What is the difference between antique brass and copper switches & sockets?
    Antique brass offers a warm, antique finish that works beautifully in classical or heritage settings, while copper brings a brighter, reddish tone ideal for modern or industrial-chic designs. Both are available through CESCO and can be stocked locally via CESCO Ireland, ensuring easy access and expert advice.

    2. Are black nickel and gunmetal finishes durable for everyday use?

    Absolutely. Black nickel provides a glossy, mirror-like surface perfect for contemporary spaces, while gunmetal delivers a subtler, industrial sheen. Both finishes are zinc-alloy plated for longevity and scratch resistance. Cesco Ireland regularly treats these finishes as “colour of the month,” showcasing their popularity in stock.

    3. Can I find granite blue decorative sockets at Cesco Ireland, and what makes them unique?

    Yes! Cesco Ireland lists granite blue switches and sockets as a key aesthetic option, backed by their recent “colour of the month” highlight. This dusky, elegant blue breaks away from neutral tones, offering personality without overwhelming the design.

    4. Is stainless steel still a practical choice compared to decorative metal finishes?

    Definitely. Stainless steel remains a timeless option—sleek, minimal, and highly resistant to fingerprint marks and corrosion. CESCO’s stainless steel plates suit both modern industrial and clean residential spaces, and CESCO ensures easy availability across Ireland thanks to its Dublin 11 location.

    5. Can I get USB-integrated decorative sockets in finishes like gunmetal or granite blue?
     Yes. CESCO offers decorative sockets with integrated USB charging in many finishes, including gunmetal and granite blue. Cesco Ireland stocks these variants online, offering fast delivery and on-site advice through their Dublin headquarters.

    6. What interior styles pair best with each finish?

    • Antique brass suits Victorian or rustic schemes
    • Copper thrives in industrial kitchens or bathrooms
    • Black nickel elevates minimalist or tech-heavy interiors
    • Gunmetal complements loft spaces with exposed materials
    • Granite blue adds bold contrast to neutral walls
    • Stainless steel works in ultra-modern or clinical designs
    Cesco Ireland often showcases these finishes in mood-board style displays at their Dublin branch and online store.

    7. How can I order bespoke decorative socket combos from Cesco?

    Simply contact Cesco Ireland via phone or email from their Dublin office (01 830 9689 or info@cesco.ie) and request colour samples or UPS faceplate combos in finishes like gunmetal or granite blue. Their showroom and online setup allow quick product recommendations and fast dispatch