Kitchen remodels provide the opportunity to create a beautiful and functional space that reflects your personal style. This week we’re looking at five stunning kitchens that artfully combine different finishes and materials for unique, eclectic looks. From mixing metals to pairing natural stone with painted cabinets, these kitchens demonstrate creative ways to blend various design elements into a cohesive whole.
Combining Metals for an Industrial Chic Look
One trendy look is blending metal finishes like brass, copper, and stainless steel for an industrial chic aesthetic. The key is selecting metal tones and textures that complement each other.
For example, pairing cool stainless steel appliances with the warmth of copper backsplash tiles and bronze cabinet hardware. Or using brushed brass lighting fixtures and accessories to add glamour to the utilitarian look of metal shelves and factory-style pendant lights.
Beyond just metals, introducing wood elements can provide contrast and keep the look feeling grounded and natural. Open shelving, butcher block countertops and exposed ceiling beams are all ways to infuse wood into a mixed metal scheme.
Contrasting Natural Stone with Colorful Cabinets
Another stunning approach is playing natural stone against brightly colored, painted cabinetry. Quintessential stones like granite, marble and travertine inherently lend a sense of elegance. Their organic veining and natural patina make a bold statement.
Painting the cabinets in a vivid, saturated hue contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones of the stone. Think emerald green or sapphire blue cabinets paired with white marble countertops and backsplash. Or vibrant orange cabinets with creamy beige travertine floors.
To keep the look harmonious, stick to a color family, like cool blues with gray-veined marble or warm reds with brown and beige granite. For hardware and fixtures, choose an aged brass or bronze to tie everything together.
Combining Modern and Rustic Elements
The blend of modern and rustic is a perennially popular kitchen trend. The key to nailing this look is all about balance. Too much of one style and the kitchen veers into over-the-top farmhouse or sterile minimalism.
Create synergy by combining sleek surfaces with reclaimed wood accents. For example, soapstone or quartzite countertops have an organic texture that works beautifully with repurposed wood shelves and beams.
Another way to marry modern with rustic is through a mix of finishes and details. Try pairing whitewashed cabinets with black metal hardware, or concrete floors with a cozy brick backsplash.
Complementing Cool Tones with Warm Woods
Cool-toned kitchens in shades of gray, blue and green are tranquil and timeless. But gray cabinets, floors and walls exclusively can feel sterile. Injecting warmth through natural wood keeps the look serene without being stark.
Rich wood countertops, shelves and butcher block islands bring an organic accent to the sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Reclaimed woods like barn siding work especially well in creating cozy contrast.
For a more eclectic spin, consider combining painted gray shaker cabinets with a brick or stone backsplash and old-fashioned wood flooring. Distressed wood beams, shelves and furnishings also add inviting texture.
Mixing Modern White with Rustic Charm
An effective combination that continues gaining popularity is pairing bright white, modern finishes with rugged, reclaimed wood accents. Clean-lined white cabinetry and sleek marble or quartz countertops create a fresh, airy look.
Integrating elements like brick backsplashes or concrete floors adds organic texture. Barn wood shelves, rough-hewn beams and furniture root the space with rustic charm.
Copper and brass details, like vintage pendant lighting and hardware, also coordinate beautifully with white and wood for an upscale take on modern farmhouse style.
Key Tips for Mixing Kitchen Finishes
- Choose 3-4 finishes at most for a cohesive look.
- Pair matte surfaces, like wood and stone, with shiny metals and lacquered cabinets.
- Anchor eclectic mixes with a neutral backdrop, like white walls.
- Repeat colors and textures in multiple elements for harmony.
- Maintain an overall color scheme for unity.
- Incorporate personal style, era-blending and conversation-starter pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular kitchen design trends right now?
Some top kitchen trends include mixing metals, two-tone cabinetry, statement backsplashes, black stainless steel appliances, industrial styling with concrete and wood, integrated technology, and eco-friendly designs using recycled and sustainable materials.
How do I choose finishes that work well together?
Aim for a mix of textures and sheens. Pair sleek and shiny finishes like metal and glass with organic matte surfaces like wood and stone. Complement cool grays and whites with warm wood tones. Anchor modern mixes with traditional touches.
What mistakes should I avoid when combining different finishes?
Don’t choose too many different finishes and styles. Limit yourself to 3 or 4 complementary ones. Avoid overly matchy or themed looks. Don’t pair finishes that are too similar and compete, like two types of stone. Don’t overwhelm the space with too many colors or busy patterns.
Should I mix contemporary and traditional elements in my kitchen?
Yes, blending modern and traditional can create a uniquely personal kitchen. Vintage finishes like subway tile, brick backsplashes, and reclaimed wood add charm and texture to sleek, contemporary designs. Try anchoring an eclectic mix with classic white cabinetry for timeless appeal.
What are unique alternatives to traditional kitchen backsplashes?
Creative backsplash ideas include metal like tin or copper, bold patterned tile, brick or stacked stone, finished wood, unconventional materials like glass and mirror, and painted or wallpapered walls.
Conclusion
Artfully blending different kitchen finishes and materials results in designer, magazine-worthy style. From harmonious mixes of metals and woods to contrasting stone and painted cabinets, the possibilities are endless. Keep finishes cohesive by limiting your palette and repeating colors, shapes and textures. Let your personal taste shine through in the details for a custom look that suits your lifestyle. With the right creative mix of finishes, you can design a kitchen that expertly melds form and function.
