Stainless steel, such a familiar material yet, with the exception of sinks and appliances, remains underutilized in the kitchen. My guess is that most envision the industrial look of a chef’s kitchen, with its racks of pots, pans, and utensils all arranged to maximize efficiency rather than aesthetics. Yes, it can be a sterile material, but when used in the right way, it can be quite sexy too—chic even! Here are three ways to work with stainless steel so your kitchen feels like home and not your local diner.
1. Industrial Eclectic: Keep it casual with eclectic touches

If you do prefer a slightly more industrial look, mix in eclectic accessories and unexpected materials to add warmth. The kitchen above incorporates contemporary artwork and zig-zag bar stools. The wood floor also adds to its homey feel.

While this kitchen includes industrial features like exposed ductwork and concrete floors, its eclectic grouping of cabinets and shelving add whimsy. It’s a great idea for DIYers!
2. Material Mix: Use steel accents with wood or vice versa

For a space with sophisticated appeal, try mixing wood and stainless steel in unexpected ways. The above kitchen may be my favorite example of this pairing. A stainless steel breakfast bar provides a sleek focalpoint amidst richly-stained oak cabinetry.

This kitchen balances stainless steel cabinetry with walnut shelving. Although these shelves are custom made, a similar look can be achieved with store-bought options.
3. White Balance: In small spaces, temper steel’s industrial edge with white

To ensure stainless steel doesn’t overwhelm your space, counter it with white. You can see it used here for the cabinets, appliances, and backsplash of this small kitchen. However, the space still feels open and airy thanks to bare, white walls in lieu of upper cabinets.

Similarly, the designer of this kitchen opted for white walls over cabinetry. A custom-made island adds more lightness to the space.
These are just a few examples of stainless steel’s endless possibilities. Which use is your favorite?