Kitchen trends tend to be timeless compared to other rooms in the home. Designing a kitchen can be expensive, so you'll want the look you choose to remain versatile for years to come.
While you can certainly change the look of your kitchen by changing the color of the walls or small decorative elements, the main kitchen units and kitchen countertops are often styled in a timeless style to ensure longevity.
But there's one kitchen trend we've been seeing a lot of in recent weeks. It's stainless steel. Stainless steel kitchens create a modern look, and it's a style homeowners are embracing this year for good reason. Stainless steel kitchens not only look stylish, but they are also an extremely durable material choice.
“We are used to seeing stainless steel kitchens in commercial spaces such as restaurants, but thanks to their versatility, they are becoming increasingly popular in residential projects as well,” says interior designer and VERDE Interior says Luis Carmona, founder of Design.
We spoke to interior designers to get their take on this seemingly popular kitchen trend, and to understand what the aesthetic and practical benefits are.
What are the benefits of stainless steel kitchens?
(Image credit: Future)
“In kitchen design, function is just as important as aesthetics, and the use of stainless steel can provide a timeless choice as it seamlessly marries visual appeal and practicality.” Nicholas Anthony explains Nico Rashides, Design Director. “Contemporary design features such as stainless steel backsplashes have become a staple of modern kitchens and offer many benefits that make them a preferred choice among homeowners.”
As Luis Carmona explains, one of the main advantages of stainless steel kitchens from a practical point of view is durability. “Stainless steel surfaces are used in commercial spaces and restaurants because they can withstand natural wear and tear well.” Stainless steel is corrosion resistant and resists spills, dirt, heat, food stains, and other wear and tear on your kitchen. Very durable against possible kitchen mishaps. This will extend the life of your kitchen without affecting its functionality. This is important for those who are looking for an alternative to standard kitchen finishing materials who do not want to lose any quality. ”
(Image credit: Future, James Merrell)
Stainless steel is not only a durable surface in the kitchen that can withstand heavy daily use, but it also has hygienic properties, which is another reason why it is adopted in kitchens. “Stainless steel surfaces are also hygienic, making them ideal for use in the kitchen,” says Luis Carmona. “Stainless steel can be easily wiped down and disinfected, allowing it to remain germ-free for long periods of time.”
“One of the important properties of stainless steel is that it is not porous. This allows food, liquids, bacteria, and other microscopic substances to stay on the surface, preventing it from forming on wood or improperly sealed marble or other It no longer penetrates the material like natural stone does, which makes cleaning and disinfecting stainless steel surfaces easier and more effective,” says Lewis.
As Lewis explains, stainless steel kitchens also have sustainability benefits. “Sustainability is also a big advantage when it comes to stainless steel kitchens.” Stainless steel is not harmful to the environment and can be recycled, which is a big plus for many designers and consumers alike. ”
Luis Carmona is the owner and lead designer of VERDE Interior Design. With nearly 20 years of experience in creative fields (interior design, advertising, and marketing), Carmona has combined his many passions into his one design studio, serving commercial and residential clients in both Houston and Dallas. We offer
On the other hand, it is also worth paying attention to the potential disadvantages of stainless steel kitchens. Niko Rasides explains: “Although stainless steel is relatively resistant to dirt and fingerprints, it can still show dirt on reflective surfaces and must be wiped regularly to maintain its original appearance. It is also prone to scratches. However, small scratches tend to blend into the overall finish over time. To always achieve a clean, modern kitchen aesthetic, consider where this material would best be used in your kitchen. We recommend.”
(Image credit: Future)
While it's clear that there are various benefits to choosing a stainless steel kitchen from a practicality point of view, the designer adds that stainless steel kitchens are also aesthetically pleasing and suitable for a wide range of design styles.
“Stainless steel brings a sophisticated, modern feel to any kitchen,” says Nico Rashides. “The reflective nature of the material not only gives a room a sense of spaciousness, but also complements a wide range of design styles, from industrial and minimalist kitchens to traditional kitchens.”
“Stainless steel’s neutral quality allows it to easily blend with a variety of color schemes and materials, establishing it as a versatile option for kitchens with a variety of aesthetics.”
How can you incorporate stainless steel into your kitchen?
(Image credit: Future, James Merrell)
“If you're thinking of embarking on this stainless steel journey, balance is key,” says Luis Carmona. Use existing elements of your home to balance the clean, minimalist aesthetic of stainless steel cabinets and countertops. Soft materials such as wooden floors, plaster walls, and natural stone can help create a nice symmetry between the more sterile, cooler surfaces of stainless steel and the warmer textures that wood or clay tiles provide. ”
“If your appliances are already made of stainless steel, choose a stainless steel countertop over the cabinet doors to even out the horizontal and vertical surfaces of this material. If you need an easy start. Start with a stainless steel kitchen island countertop to see what you like. Before you jump in, it's a good idea to dip your toe in the stainless steel pool to see if this is right for you. Luis Carmona says.
Interior designer Bethany Adams adds that even if you're on a budget, you can still make small changes to this look. “If redoing your entire kitchen isn't in your budget, choose stainless steel countertops and backsplashes for an affordable update.''
Bethany Adams has over 15 years of experience designing and project managing luxury residential projects throughout the United States. She founded her design firm in Louisville in 2015 and then worked for several designers and architects throughout her 10-year career in Chicago.
If you're looking for a durable, low-maintenance kitchen surface, stainless steel can be a great choice, especially if you like modern kitchen ideas. If you decide to go with this popular look, be sure to add warmth to other elements of your kitchen décor to ensure a homey look.
