Many elements can make a kitchen look obviously dated, such as dark cherry cabinets, beige speckled granite countertops, or Tuscan-style finishes. But there is one common kitchen decor decision that can make your kitchen feel tired in a more subtle way: using the same metal finishes everywhere.
Why Using Matching Metals Looks Outdated
Choosing the same metal finish for every knob, pull, fixture, and appliance doesn’t scream design crime at first glance. But it can date a kitchen in the same way that an avocado sink can betray the era in which it was renovated.
When trends swing in one direction—like the shift from the cool-toned chrome finishes of the ’90s to the penchant for warm brass in recent years—all-silver finishes look dated. Now that chrome has made a comeback in kitchen and home design, all-brass finishes risk looking out of date.
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How Matching Metals Became Popular
Matching metals is a practical and easy way to create a cohesive design. Chrome was trendy during the Art Deco era, shiny gold fixtures embodied the bling of the ’80s, and black metal hardware became the go-to during the peak modern farmhouse style craze of the 2020s.
Ignore trends and future-proof your kitchen design by incorporating mixed metal finishes. Here are some pro tips on how to pull off this layered look for a timeless aesthetic.
Meet the Expert
Jojo Barr is the London-based founder and lead designer of House Nine Design Studio.
Mix Different Types of Metal
“Don’t be afraid to mix metals,” says interior designer Jojo Barr. “Matching your finishes will create a monochromatic and dated look. Mixing them up adds interest and character.”
Use a custom combination of brass, bronze, rose gold, copper, silver, chrome, or black metal on cabinet pulls, knobs, faucets, lighting, or appliances.
Choose a Primary Metal
Getting the ratio of metals right is key to a harmonious design. If you’re new at mixing metals, try this simple formula.
“Start with a dominant metal that sets the tone for the room, and then select one or two additional metals to complement it,” Barr says. “This creates a cohesive look without overwhelming the space.”
Pair Varied Finishes
“Mix metals with different finishes—polished, matte, brushed—to add texture and depth,” Barr says. “For example, polished brass can pair beautifully with matte black or bronze.”
Blend Cool and Warm Tones
When pairing metals, consider the interplay between cool and warm tones. Black and gold is always elegant, for example.
Barr suggests pairing cool metals such as chrome, nickel, and silver with neutrals such as black and bronze, or grounding warm metals like polished brass, antique brass, copper, and gold with a neutral bronze tone.
Use Different Finishes of a Single Metal
In addition to mixing metal types, Barr suggests layering finishes of the same metal to add visual interest. This could mean alternating polished, brushed, antiqued, satin, and unlacquered brass and pairing it with matte black metal, for example.
Balance Metals Throughout
To successfully mix metals, Barr suggests scattering a combination of metal finishes throughout on lighting fixtures, kitchen hardware, and decorative items to create highlights around the room.
“Distribute different metals evenly throughout the space to avoid clumping and ensure a balanced appearance,” she says.