You finally have your dream kitchen setup. All that’s left to do is choose your appliance finishes. Seems like a simple task compared to all the other decisions you’ve made up until this point, but there are actually quite a few things to consider. First off, stainless steel isn’t your only option, even though you see it everywhere and it’s super versatile. There are tons of other options to fit your unique style and help you make the most out of your dream kitchen.
Let’s take a look at the top five most popular appliance finishes and when they work best for your kitchen.
When to Choose Stainless Steel
Love it or leave it, stainless steel is certainly a popular appliance finish for many reasons. As a metal between light and dark, stainless steel is a safe neutral option to match nearly any color palette. The material has a look of quality, and this often comes with a sizeable price tag compared to other finishes. So deciding whether the splurge is worthwhile is a matter of personal budget and priorities. A downside is polished metal finishes look brighter but will show fingerprints more. If you want that polished shine, just be prepared for a little more maintenance to keep that shine.
When to Choose Black
Black is simultaneously a neutral color and a bold one, due to being so dramatically dark. For this reason, it can be a risky or safe choice for appliances, depending on what you’re pairing it with. Black and white is a classic color scheme for a reason. This combination is striking and dramatic, all without any trendy colors that might clash when viewed a few years later.
Black appliances paired with white cabinetry achieve this look with just enough black to be bold but not overbearing. Keep in mind, your appliances should be spread out enough so that the look isn’t too heavy or unbalanced. In a compact kitchen without much cabinetry, this look can make the kitchen seem darker than it really is.
When to Choose White
White appliances are usually not considered when refreshing or remodeling a kitchen, but there are new finishes that might make you reconsider. Instead of the typical textured white refrigerators, consider one with a polished flat surface. It’s a sophisticated look that looks clean and fresh. Kitchens with white or light cabinets look best with white appliances. It also works in kitchens that don’t have a lot of natural light or are compact. Consider white appliances if you have light countertops, such as marble or white quartz, so that all of your surfaces blend together for a seamless look. Brass handles and knobs can be added to warm up the space.If you have darkly painted or stained cabinetry, avoid white appliances.
When to Choose Paneled
Panel-ready appliances are designed to accommodate a custom door front that matches your surrounding cabinetry, rather than having their own front finish. This essentially camouflages the appliances. Besides letting you match the cabinet material, this also allows you to match the door profile and even the hardware for total consistency. You can panel multiple appliances or just ones in certain areas. Refrigerators are a popular choice to panel since they are generally very tall, wide and visually dominating. Usually, this finish choice requires more of an investment than standard appliances and can solve lots of little design dilemmas.
When to Choose Color
So far we’ve mostly looked at appliances that can blend into your color palette, but sometimes appliances can actually define your color palette. If you love the idea of true statement appliances, or you just think your kitchen needs a different look, maybe you should consider color. The pastel hues and checkerboard floors of the local burger joint don’t have to stay in the past. They’ll always look fresh and fun in a home kitchen. Pair a pale blue retro fridge with classic diner-inspired decor, contemporary furnishings or a blend of both to bring your own unique twist.
For more inspiration and kitchens we’ve designed in the past, check out our Pinterest board!