Kitchen design: mixing metals, wood, and stone
Welcome, design enthusiasts, to a journey of sensory delight as we delve into the transformative power of texture in kitchen design. Beyond the visual appeal, texture adds depth, warmth, and character to a space, turning your kitchen into a haven of style and sophistication.
In this blog post, we'll explore the art of incorporating different materials – metals, wood, and stone – to infuse your kitchen with a tactile richness that engages both the eye and the touch.
Metallic Marvels
Introducing metals into your kitchen design can instantly elevate its aesthetic appeal. From the industrial allure of stainless steel to the warmth of copper or brass, incorporating metallic finishes adds a contemporary edge.
Let your appliances set the scene
A gold-colored hot water tap from hotwatertaps.com, a gunmetal double oven, or a steel and gold range cooker from Lacance can be the starting point of your design. Everything can then work around those eye-catching appliances we all lust after.
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds, Hot Water Taps has been pioneering work in the development of boiling water taps.
For a modern and visually striking atmosphere in your kitchen, go for the sleek black or stainless steel finish for your appliances and mix it with brushed nickel hardware, or even a statement metal backsplash against gloss cabinet surfaces.
If this look is too cold for you, consider a combination of cool metals with neutral-colored wood. Use complimentary pendant lights to soften the overall look.
Is it ok to mix metals in my kitchen design?
While it can feel daunting, mixing metals in the kitchen is easier than you'd think. Take time to explore the various metal finishes and create mood boards for the overall look. Keep the metal finishes to just two, use one main color (e.g., your cabinets) and up to two accent colors (maybe on a kitchen island and your pendants).
When it comes to mixing metals, you can check out the Seasonsincolour kitchen renovation and remember that you can play with the handles, your faucets, or even lighting fixtures to discover the perfect metallic accents for your kitchen. This is all about being creative and having fun!
Fall for the Warmth of Wood
In an era where the connection to nature is highly valued, wooden kitchens provide a way to bring the outdoors inside. The organic and earthy feel of wood fosters a sense of harmony with the environment, creating a tranquil space that goes beyond mere functionality.
So it comes as no surprise that wooden kitchens have become a trend for several compelling reasons, blending functionality, aesthetics, and a timeless appeal.
The versatility of wood
Wood is an incredibly versatile material, offering a wide range of options in terms of species, finishes, and styles. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of reclaimed wood, the clean lines of light oak, or the rich tones of dark walnut, there's a wooden style to suit every taste and design preference.
This versatility makes it easy to integrate wooden elements into various kitchen aesthetics and mix them with more contemporary finishes including metals. It holds its own as we can see in many spaces that champion the Japandi style.
The natural grain and warmth of wood provide a beautiful contrast to the coolness of other materials, creating a harmonious balance that is both inviting and timeless.
1. Roundhouse Kitchens, 3. John Lewis of Hungerford, 5. Sebastian Cox for deVOL, 2,4 and 6: accessories from H&M
Sturdy and Serene Stone
Stone surfaces in the kitchen not only exude luxury but also provide durability and a connection to nature. Granite or marble countertops, stone flooring, or even a textured stone backsplash can introduce a timeless and sophisticated ambiance. The tactile quality of stone adds depth, making your kitchen a visually engaging space.
Visit your local stone supplier to explore different types of stone and finishes (like matt or gloss). Choose a stone that complements your overall design vision and lifestyle, ensuring a durable and stunning addition to your kitchen.
"Blending different materials in kitchen design is like perfecting a special dish: each element must work well with the others to create balance. Kitchen taps can play a crucial role in this mix, linking the modern look of stainless steel, wood's natural warmth, and stone's timeless beauty. They ensure that the kitchen doesn't just look good but works well too, making them a key piece in achieving a kitchen that’s as functional as it is beautiful." - Hot Water Taps
Aged bronze, brass, and stainless steel , wood and stone in the Seasonsincolour kitchen
Creating a Harmonious Blend
The magic of great design lies in the harmonious combination of these textures. Mix and match metals, wood, and stone to strike a balance between sleek sophistication and natural warmth.
For example, pair a stainless steel backsplash with wooden cabinetry and granite countertops for a captivating and well-balanced kitchen design.
Experiment with mood boards or online design tools to visualize the interplay of different textures in your kitchen. Seek inspiration from design magazines or online platforms to refine your vision.
Bringing it all together
Texture is the secret ingredient that can turn a functional kitchen into a visual masterpiece. By incorporating the tactile allure of metals, wood, and stone, you're not just creating a kitchen – you're crafting a sensory experience.
Embrace the variety of textures available and embark on a design journey that will transform your kitchen into a space that is as inviting to the touch as it is to the eye. Happy designing!
Jenny Kakoudakis likes to blog about interiors. She launched award-winning Seasons in Colour in 2014. When she is not chasing criminals out of the financial system (her day job), she gets creative by redecorating her own home.
Download her free bathroom renovation guide here.
