If you're designing your kitchen from scratch, you can choose from black, white, or stainless steel appliances (or choose a more unique hue). But if you're simply updating your kitchen, your appliances should stay the same, and your space's color scheme should follow suit.
Stainless steel appliances are classic and give a stylish yet durable look to your kitchen design. But when it comes to walls, cabinets, or small accent items, what colors go best with these timeless appliances? We spoke to interior designers to learn their favorite hues to pair with stainless steel kitchen appliances. He gave it to me. From warm neutrals to striking jewel tones, there's a color for everyone. Here's what experts say:
What colors go best with stainless steel appliances?
Stainless steel appliances may feel limiting to your kitchen's color scheme, but there are plenty of perfect shades. These are the shades that designers say work best when using stainless steel.
1. White and off-white
(Image credit: Karissa Widder Photography / Audrey Scheck Design)
White kitchens have been around for a long time and give a clean, classic look that is second to none. But these days, designers say they're seeing an increase in warm whites and deeper shades. Audrey Scheck, interior designer and founder of Audrey Scheck Design, says one of her favorite stainless steel kitchens is a “creamy white” color.
“While there's nothing wrong with a white kitchen, we prefer a creamy white with warm brown undertones to offset the coldness of stainless steel. Creamy White and Stainless Steel To pair steel, try painting the cabinets a warm white, or using backsplash tiles that are more ivory than pure white,” says Audrey.
Jessica Cinnamon, interior designer and founder of Jessica Cinnamon Design, agrees that “white and off-white are forever classics.” But clients and designers alike are now craving more inviting kitchen designs, she added.
“More clients are now looking to break away from the classic white kitchen look and are introducing warm wood tones and colors,” says Jessica.
Jessica Cinnamon is an interior designer and founder of Jessica Cinnamon Design, a residential and commercial company based in Canada.
2. Greige or taupe
(Image credit: Future)
Although the popularity of gray kitchen cabinets seems to be waning, warmer versions of the flagship shade are on trend and pair beautifully with stainless steel. Brandon Lange of BZ Interiors shares that taupe and “greige” tones give it a welcoming look.
“Stainless steel appliances pair well with warm neutral colors such as taupe or greige for a warm, calming look that balances the coolness of metal,” he says.
Audrey agreed, adding that greige kitchen cabinets “hide the harshness of the stainless steel in the kitchen.” She says these warm neutral colors easily tie together your kitchen design, so you can experiment with brighter colors in other areas of your kitchen.
“Greige is an easy-to-use neutral that pairs well with whatever accents you incorporate throughout the space, while giving you the flexibility to make bolder decisions elsewhere,” says Audrey.
Audrey Scheck has more than six years of experience in remodeling and remodeling and leads Audrey Scheck Design, a full-service interior design firm based in Austin, Texas.
3. Rustic green
(Image credit: Cate Black Photography / Audrey Scheck Design)
Earth tones are all the rage right now, and the kitchen is no exception. These natural, warm tones bring warmth and sophistication to stainless steel kitchens, and designers are especially intrigued by rustic green kitchens.
“Leaning into earth tones like muddy green provides a nice, gentle transition between the color and the metallic finish of stainless steel.” To further blend this style, layer the warmth with wood accents. Masu. Look for pendant lights with wooden details, or style your kitchen countertops with wooden risers and boards,” says Audrey.
Designer Emma Berrill says the warm tones “blend well” with the cool stainless steel and “flatten out the space.” She suggested shades of burgundy, taupe, or light green, adding, “Green kitchens are always great.”
Emma Berrill is the founder of her eponymous design firm based in New York. After Emma trained at her design school in New York, she worked on various international projects until she settled in New York. She was recently named a Top Emerging Designer to Watch by Lonny Mag.
4. Stained wood
(Image courtesy of Morrison Interiors)
Paint isn't your only option for adding a little more life to your kitchen space. Becky Sher, interior designer and founder of Becky Shea Design, suggests staining the kitchen cabinets next to stainless steel appliances.
Stainless steel appliances add a modern, sophisticated touch to any kitchen space. When paired with furniture, I always prefer warm stained wood or dark painted options to create a striking contrast,” she says.
Becky Shea is a full-service interior designer and lifestyle entrepreneur in New York City. She co-founded her own studio, Becky Shea Design, and currently works as a creative director. Her work is rooted in a love of natural materials that celebrates sustainability and the craftsmanship of local artisan communities.
5. Black accents
(Image credit: Ali Budd Interiors/Alex Lukey)
Decorating with black is difficult because black instantly brings strength and contrast. But according to the designers, a small amount of deep shades pairs beautifully with stainless steel appliances. Becky suggests Benjamin Moore's Black Beauty. This is a warm black shade that easily compliments stainless steel.
“This bold choice not only enhances the sophistication of stainless steel appliances, but also adds a luxurious, contemporary feel to the overall aesthetic,” she says.
Brandon also suggests using black as an accent color, but says that incorporating crisp white creates a cohesive, “streamlined” look. The combination of black, white, and steel creates a chic design that will last for a long time.
6. Dark blue
(Image credit: Davonport)
Richard Davonport, Managing Director of UK-based bespoke kitchen brand Davonport, says: “Tasteful and appealing, dark blue is a perfect color for any kitchen, whether you choose a modern or traditional kitchen style. It also adds atmosphere to the kitchen.”
Richard says that even when paired with traditional cabinetry, deep blue tones make kitchens with stainless steel appliances more contemporary, truly giving you the best of both worlds. A blue kitchen is eye-catching and interesting.
“The silver tone of the stainless steel complements the cool tones of blue, creating a crisp color palette that gives your kitchen a sophisticated feel,” he added.
Richard Davonport is a fine cabinet maker and designer and Managing Director of Davonport, a UK-based bespoke kitchen brand.
7. Jewel tone
(Image credit: Neptune)
Devin Kimmel, architect and managing principal at Kimmel Studio Architects, says stainless steel appliances are “versatile and neutral” in kitchen design plans and “complement a variety of factory finishes.”
“For transitional decor or traditional styles, we recommend cool tones such as crisp whites, muted blue tones, luxurious green hues, and light wood stains. These colors work well with stainless steel and It creates a harmonious balance and enhances the overall beauty,” he says.
But if you're looking for a bolder color, Dani Crawford, lead interior designer and senior associate at Kimmel Studio Architects, says “unexpected pops of color” can be used in modern or contemporary kitchens. He adds that it works well.
“Jewel tones and vibrant hues like orange can inject character and vibrancy into a space,” she says. She says, “By incorporating unconventional colors from time to time, you can create a visually striking and contemporary look while still coordinating with stainless steel appliances.”
Dani Crawford, ASID, is a senior associate and principal interior designer at Kimmel Studio Architects, an architecture firm based in Annapolis, Maryland.
Combining color schemes and stainless steel appliances is very easy when you know the wide range of options available. Enhance the shine of stainless steel and create a kitchen that reflects your personality by choosing the right shade.
