Kitchen design is full of a million and one decisions to make and a good chunk of those have to do with metal finishes. Selecting these finishes is a common hold up for homeowners with so many possibilities to choose from. We're debunking the belief that you must stick to one metal finish in a room and sharing our thoughts on mixing and matching materials to create customized and sophisticated kitchens.
WHAT METAL IN THE KITCHEN?
First, let's visualize where we are likely to find metal in a kitchen. Cabinetry hardware, plumbing fixtures (faucets, pot fillers, sink drains, etc) and kitchen appliances are almost always made of metal due to their functions. Decorative light fixtures, range hoods and furnishings can be metal but are also available in a variety of materials.
CABINETRY HARDWARE
APPLIANCES
PLUMBING FIXTURES
RANGE HOODS
LIGHTING FIXTURES
FURNISHING DETAILS
METAL TYPES + FINISHES
Without getting too science-y.... metals are chemical elements (think periodic table) made of varying properties and a range of natural coloration -- nickel, copper, gold, aluminum, iron, etc. These metals can also be combined to form alloys -- brass, bronze, steel, wrought iron, etc. We share this to understand that it isn't just the color of metal finishes that make a difference in decisions but their physical and chemical properties could be a factor as well.
For the sake of this post though, we are focusing on the color and aesthetics of these metals and how they work in kitchen design. Texture and shine complete the look with different finishes they can be given such as polished (shiny), matte (not shiny), antiqued (painted or tarnished to look aged) and hammered (dented and uneven). For more comparing and contrasting of metals and their finishes, check out this post we discovered.
WHY MIX + MATCH METALS?
Mixing metals adds interest, depth and timelessness to a design. Just like our recommendations to vary fabrics and mix and match pillows in your home, switching up your metal finishes will also create a unique and personalized space. Melding several styles and trends into one design keeps our clients' homes current because they're not relying on one "fashionable" trend to keep it cool, and this rings especially true for metals. Hardware finishes come and go in popularity so we like to sprinkle a few in when it works for the home's overall style.
Matching is definitely still part of the game here, too. Coordinating finishes throughout a room brings cohesiveness and balances out the mixing of other elements. Even the matching of all the cabinetry hardware in the same finish in a room gives a peaceful sense of familiarity regardless of the plumbing fixtures displaying a different finish.
HOW TO MIX + MATCH METALS
A general rule of thumb (which is sure to be broken in its time and place) would be to MIX between metal elements (hardware, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, appliances, etc can vary in finishes) and MATCH within metal elements (all the same finish for a set of hardware, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, appliances, etc). To clarify, a set could be all the hardware on the same colored cabinetry in a kitchen (versus the island cabinetry which might be different and call for an alternative hardware finish) or the group of pendants that hang over the island (which don't need to match the sconces on the opposite wall).
There are countless combinations of mixing and matching metals in the kitchen and not only one "right" way to do it, so we're sharing our thoughts behind twelve Blackband kitchen designs in varying styles to give you ideas on what works and why.
MIX + MATCH: INDUSTRIAL MODERN FARMHOUSE
HARDWARE: POLISHED NICKEL
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: MATTE BLACK
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: MATTE BLACK
FURNISHING DETAILS: --
We played with bold, black and white contrast in this kitchen balanced by natural wood tones and muted details. Polished nickel cabinetry hardware adds a crisp, clean touch to the doors and drawers without drawing too much attention. This subtle style gives way for the matte black fixtures to take center stage and capitalize on the home's industrial flair. The stainless steel appliances create large canvases of metal contributing further to the modern, industrial style. Check out #projectiris on Instagram for more photos of this home.
MOSTLY MATCH: ECLECTIC CHIC
HARDWARE: BRASS
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: STAINLESS STEEL
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: BRASS
FURNISHING DETAILS: BRASS
In a kitchen full of so much color and interest, we coordinated most of the metals here for a cohesive look. Pops of brass throughout make bold statements against the blue and white kitchen, while the stainless steel faucet "sinks" back into the white washed wall without garnishing too much attention. The stainless steel appliances also take a back seat to the brass accents yet offer a sleek and timeless cooking space. When it comes to mixing and matching, it's all about finding a balance -- not every detail can be in the spotlight at the same time. See the full tour on our blog.
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TOTAL MIX: MODERN RANCH
HARDWARE: LIGHT BRONZE
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: POLISHED NICKEL
HOOD: STAINLESS STEEL
LIGHTING: TWO-TONED BRASS
FURNISHING DETAILS: IRON
All of the metals come together like magic in this modern ranch house kitchen... and by magic we mean the creativity of the talented design team and the confidence of our trusting clients. The stainless steel hood and appliances harmonize beautifully with the gray hues in the surrounding cabinetry and neighboring stone wall while the scale of the commercial-sized hood speaks for its wow-factor. Two-toned brass pendants hang over the island offering both warm (brass) and cool (blackened brass) tones that are also visible in the light bronze cabinetry hardware. A polished nickel double-spout faucet sits in the middle of the masterpiece like a shiny new toy we all want to play with and boasts black gears that tie in with the iron base of the barstools. The stove top is styled with copper and brass salt and pepper grinders for the finishing touch and completely rounds out the range of metals. The majority of this home's photos are on hold for a publication coming out soon but we've shared a number of #projectsantaynez sneak peeks on our Instagram.
MOSTLY MATCH: FEMININE MODERN FARMHOUSE
HARDWARE: POLISHED NICKEL
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: STAINLESS STEEL
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: POLISHED NICKEL
FURNISHING DETAILS: ANTIQUE BRONZE
Subtle variations of soft grays give this kitchen a sense of serenity and simplicity. Keeping in the silver tones of metal finishes, stainless steel covers the appliances and plumbing fixtures, and polished nickel adds shine to the light fixtures and cabinetry hardware. Antique bronze nail heads on the barstools bring in a bit of depth and history to the sparkly new kitchen. Tour more of the fabulous #projectnewportcanyon on Instagram.
MIX + MATCH: HOLLYWOOD GLAM
HARDWARE: --
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: POLISHED CHROME
HOOD: STAINLESS STEEL
LIGHTING: --
FURNISHING DETAILS: BRASS
This modern kitchen is minimalistic in its use of metal. The design team opted for sleek, push-and-release cabinetry leaving no need for pulls and knobs, and a statement ceiling with surrounding recessed lights fit the bill in lieu of decorative lighting fixtures. Metal was thoughtfully used on the stainless steel hood and appliances coordinating with the incredible marble slab veining. Polished chrome dresses the plumbing fixtures for a "barely there" look while brushed brass makes a statement on the salon-like counter stools. More of this Bel Air home can be seen in our portfolio.
TOTAL MIX: TIMELESS TRADITIONAL
HARDWARE: BRONZE
APPLIANCES: SATIN CHROME
PLUMBING: POLISHED NICKEL
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: BRASS
FURNISHING DETAILS: --
This timeless kitchen design pulls trends from throughout the ages to keep it current. The statement French range is dressed with satin chrome details which share the silver tones of the polished nickel plumbing fixtures, but that's as close to a match as we're getting here. The bronze cabinetry hardware plays off the dark features of the room and actually exhibits an example of breaking our rule of thumb! Glass knobs are used on the island to accompany the bronze pulls -- an extra special touch of personality. Brass light fixtures line the ceiling for a pop of warmth to contrast the cool, gray tones in the kitchen. Tour the rest of this rad home in our portfolio.
TOTAL MIX: CAPE COD MEETS WEST INDIES
HARDWARE: ANTIQUED NICKEL
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: POLISHED NICKEL
HOOD: COPPER
LIGHTING: WEATHERED ZINC
FURNISHING DETAILS: --
Copper is the star of the show in this tropical paradise of a kitchen. The bright, rose gold tinted material is playful and practically indestructible making it a great choice for both aesthetics and function. Stainless steel appliances and polished nickel plumbing fixtures balance out the unique hood with more classic finishes. The antique nickel cabinetry hardware plays off the mid-tones of the wood elements and reveals an aged silver tone. Weathered zinc lanterns hang over the kitchen island contrasting the white ceiling and add three times the charm to the space. There is lots to love about #projectorchid in the full tour.
MIX + MATCH: MODERN FARMHOUSE
HARDWARE: POLISHED NICKEL + IRON
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: POLISHED NICKEL
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: IRON
FURNISHING DETAILS: IRON
This blue and white take on a modern farmhouse kitchen shows a pretty even share of mixing and matching, and it includes a great example of those hardware sets we talked about in our "rule of thumb" section above. Polished nickel hardware on the white cabinetry ties in with the sink faucet while a separate set of gray cabinetry is adorned with iron hardware to match the decorative lighting and barstools. The change in cabinetry hardware finishes works here because these too sets of cabinets are made distinct by there paint colors and locations. Stainless steel was chosen for the appliances that show (the refrigerator is covered by white cabinetry panels) for a clean look that deflects attention to the statement island. This modern farmhouse is also home to coastal bohemian accents, as seen in the #projectflowerstreets reveal.
MIX + MATCH: COASTAL CONTEMPORARY
HARDWARE: POLISHED CHROME
APPLIANCES: --
PLUMBING: POLISHED CHROME
HOOD: POLISHED STEEL
LIGHTING: BRONZE
FURNISHING DETAILS: BRONZE
This state-of-the-art kitchen keeps the cooking space sleek and clean with an abundance of polished steel. This mirrored finish on the commercial-sized range hood and glass cabinetry frames reflects the natural light and literally makes this kitchen shine. Polished chrome hardware and plumbing fixtures practically match the other silver finishes while chain link bronze light fixtures and barstool nail heads bring a course and aged metal to the mix. If you think the kitchen is incredible (and huge) just wait until you see the rest of this bayfront beauty.
TOTAL MATCH: BRIGHT + AIRY TRANSITIONAL
HARDWARE: POLISHED NICKEL
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: POLISHED CHROME
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: POLISHED NICKEL
FURNISHING DETAILS: POLISHED NICKEL
We're calling this kitchen makeover a total match since all the metal is in the silver family. Polished chrome covers the plumbing fixtures while a slightly warmer toned polished nickel is visible on the cabinetry hardware, lighting fixtures and barstool nail heads. Stainless steel appliances complete the silver theme and break up the back wall of white cabinetry. See the before and after story of this kitchen renovation on our blog.
MIX + MATCH: BOHEMIAN FARMHOUSE
HARDWARE: MATTE BLACK
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: MATTE BLACK
HOOD: --
LIGHTING: POLISHED NICKEL
FURNISHING DETAILS: IRON
This bright white kitchen with a bohemian flair mixes and matches metals to thoughtfully add contrast to the space. Matte black hardware defines the white cabinetry and multiple faucets while the polished nickel pendants dress the floating space without demanding recognition. The stainless steel appliances complete the modern farmhouse style with black knobs to tie into the iron barstools and dark details throughout.
MOSTLY MATCH: MODERN MEDITERRANEAN
HARDWARE: BRONZE
APPLIANCES: STAINLESS STEEL
PLUMBING: STAINLESS STEEL
HOOD: STAINLESS STEEL
LIGHTING: BLACK
FURNISHING DETAILS: STAINLESS STEEL
With intricate mosaic tiles making up the focal point of this kitchen, metal finishes play an important supporting role. Stainless steel is used throughout on the appliances, barstools, hood details and even back splash. Bronze knobs and pulls pair effortlessly with the rich wood cabinets and connect with the dark details of the light fixtures. Overall this kitchen is a beautiful showcase of mixing and matching materials. Check out the rest of #projectnewportcoast here.
As you can tell, there are so many ways to mix and match the metals in your kitchen. We hope with the inspiration from these tried and true designs that you feel more confident in making your next home project decision!
Do you have more kitchen design and hardware questions? Leave them in the comments below for us to answer on the blog!
CREDITS: BLACKBAND DESIGN // GRAYSTONE CUSTOM BUILDERS // TEALE ARCHITECTURE // RYAN GARVIN PHOTOGRAPHY // LIDO HOUSE HOTEL // RDO DEVELOPMENT // MATT WHITE CUSTOM HOMES // SINCLAIR ASSOCIATES ARCHITECTS // PATTERSON CUSTOM HOMES // ANDRADE ARCHITECTS // BRANDON ARCHITECTS // MIKEN CONSTRUCTION // WOLF DESIGN STUDIO // CORR CONTEMPORARY HOMES// TESSA NEUSTADT PHOTOGRAPHY // AMY BARTLAM INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHY // VANESSA LENTINE PHOTOGRAPHY // STAND ARCHITECTS // RS MYERS COMPANY
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