3 Min. Read

Do you think stainless steel is a finish of yesterday? In an older post, “Has Stainless Steel Worn Out Its Welcome?”, we discussed if its popularity is fading in the appliance industry. Manufacturers are certainly moving in different directions, and each is promoting what they think is the “next stainless steel.” This could mean white, black, slate, or more bespoke finishes depending on who you talk to.

For most homeowners, stainless steel remains one of the most popular finish choices. From what we've seen, the majority of our customers select stainless steel to pair with their new kitchen cabinets and kitchen redesign. However, there are still plenty of other finishes to choose from that could add some personality and style to your design. If you’re wondering what finish will work with your kitchen, here are some tips for matching appliance finishes with your cabinetry.

White Kitchen Appliances

As a general rule, white appliances should only be used in kitchens with white kitchen cabinets. This creates a unified, clean aesthetic which allows you to focus on the cabinets and design. Choosing to use white appliances with kitchen cabinets of any other finish also tends to look outdated. Interior designers will even refer to this look as an “apartment kitchen.”


Shaker white kitchen cabinets with a white and gold range and cream and brown marble countertopsShaker white kitchen cabinets with a white and gold range and cream and brown marble countertops
Newport shaker kitchen cabinets in Lily

Black Kitchen Appliances

For black appliances, you have a little more freedom with kitchen design as they tend to pair well with a range of darker finishes. Use black appliances with both wood and painted finishes. Avoid medium-toned woods, however, because the contrast can be strange. 

For a typical black-and-white kitchen, black appliances and white kitchen cabinets can work together depending on the balance. If you’re interested in taking this route, try tying in the black of the appliances with other aspects of the kitchen. Dark countertops or oil rubbed bronze light fixtures will help create balance as well as a more dramatic design.


Shaker kitchen cabinets in dark brown stain with black appliancesShaker kitchen cabinets in dark brown stain with black appliances
Shaker kitchen cabinets in dark brown stain

Stainless Steel Kitchen Appliances

One reason why stainless steel is such a popular choice for appliances is because it looks great with any cabinet finish. There’s no other finish like that. Plus, it’s great for resale. From white and ivory paints to medium-toned woods and dark finishes of all kinds, stainless steel should be a nice complement to the design.

You May Like to Read Kitchen Appliances Beyond Stainless Steel 


White shaker kitchen cabinets with stainless steel appliancesWhite shaker kitchen cabinets with stainless steel appliances
White shaker kitchen cabinets

Custom Paneled Kitchen Appliances

Ordering custom wood panels for your appliances can be on the more expensive side, but if you'd rather not worry about what finish to purchase, this is the perfect option. Not only will it seamlessly blend into your new kitchen remodel, but paneled appliances create a more elevated look. Additionally, you don't have to panel every appliance. Some homeowners choose to do custom paneling for the refrigerator only because it stands out the most, but leave the rest in stainless steel or the appliances that allow you to choose the accent colors.


White and light wood bespoke shaker kitchen cabinets with custom paneled appliances and oil rubbed bronze accentsWhite and light wood bespoke shaker kitchen cabinets with custom paneled appliances and oil rubbed bronze accents
Harrison shaker kitchen cabinets in Maple Sandalwood and Dry-brushed Cottage White

If you find yourself having trouble selecting the right appliance finish for your design, start by creating a mood board. This will help you see the big picture view of what your kitchen will look like. As you see the different finishes and colors together, experiment by swapping some out and see how the mood of the design changes. 

 

Still not confident? Contact a CliqStudios kitchen designer for help today!