Find a Metal Finish That’s Right for Your Kitchen
From matte black to shiny chrome.
When designing a kitchen, the details matter just as much as the big elements like cabinets and countertops. The finish you choose for light fixtures, faucets, and hardware may feel like a small design choice, but it can have a large impact on the overall look and feel of your kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of different metal finishes to help you find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
In this guide:
Chrome
Stainless Steel
Nickel
Copper
Bronze
Brass
Gold
Matte Black
Chrome
Chrome fixtures are usually made of brass or steel that has been plated with a chrome finish to give them an extra shiny, silver appearance. While chrome is resistant to corrosion, the finish makes it prone to scratching. The reflective surface offers a sleek, polished look, but it easily shows water spots and fingerprints – requiring frequent cleaning. Chrome hardware works well in industrial and modern kitchens and is often an affordable alternative to other metals.
If you like the appearance of silvery hardware but want something that is easier to maintain, opt for stainless steel. Stainless steel faucets and hardware are extremely durable, low maintenance, and versatile – suitable for the wear and tear of any style kitchen. While stainless steel has limited color options, this makes it easy to match your hardware to your appliances.
Nickel is a warmer metal alternative to chrome or stainless steel fixtures and can range in color from a muted gold to a warm silver. It comes in a variety of finishes including brushed, satin, and polished nickel which allows you to choose the level of shine you prefer. Because of that variety, shopping from the same brand can help you create a coordinated look. It’s also a durable material, though it may require occasional polishing to prevent tarnishing.
Copper hardware has a distinct reddish hue that is sure to make a unique statement in your kitchen, and its antimicrobial properties can help you keep a clean home. Copper naturally oxidizes over time, which can add to its charm – but if you prefer a shiny appearance, regular polishing is required. Though beautiful, copper is a soft metal that is more prone to dents and scratches than other materials.
Like copper, bronze fixtures have a warm tint to them. Though they tend to be darker and come in various shades – oil-rubbed bronze has a nearly black appearance, venetian bronze tends to be dark brown, and brushed bronze has a lighter, golden hue. The variety of finishes gives bronze fixtures and hardware a timeless look – perfect for rustic, farmhouse, and traditional kitchens – though it can be pricier and less modern than other metals.
Brass is durable and timeless metal that offers a more subtle look than gold when used in your kitchen hardware. It comes in both polished and antique finishes so you can choose if you want something more shiny or dull. It is naturally antimicrobial and durable, though prone to tarnishing if it is not properly sealed.
Gold offers an elegant and eye-catching material for your kitchen hardware that pairs well with a variety of styles from modern to traditional. Depending on the finish, gold fixtures can show smudges and might require more frequent cleaning. While real gold-plated fixtures can be expensive, they are a durable option. On the other hand, low-quality gold hardware is more prone to chipping or discoloration over time, so high-quality fixtures may be a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Unlike polished metals, matte black fixtures are easy to maintain and are good at concealing water smudges and fingerprints. They bring a sleek, modern aesthetic to your kitchen and can be used to create contrast among lighter surroundings. While matte black hardware is versatile and trendy, it doesn’t have the same timeless appeal as some other metals.
Tip!
Looking to add some new metal fixtures to your kitchen? Read our guides How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet and How to Install Cabinet Hardware for helpful tips during your DIY remodel.
