Mixed Metal Kitchen Cabinet Hardware Trends
Mixed metal kitchen cabinet hardware involves combining different metal finishes, such as brass, nickel, and copper, in a cohesive and visually appealing way. The appeal of mixed metals comes from the added texture, character, and visual interest it brings to a kitchen design. With the ability to create a unique, custom look not found in matching hardware sets, mixed metal cabinet hardware is an on-trend way to showcase your personal style.
Whether you're renovating your kitchen or simply swapping out dated hardware, read on to discover how mixed metals can elevate your space.
The Benefits of Mixing Metals
There are several advantages to choosing mixed metal finishes for your kitchen cabinet hardware:
- Adds visual texture and dimension - the interplay of different metal finishes creates depth.
- Brings character and charm to the kitchen - mixed metals feel custom, unique, and artistic.
- Allows you to combine your favorite metals into one cohesive look.
- Provides contrast between upper and lower cabinets.
- Gives you flexibility to swap out accents over time.
The beauty of mixed metal hardware lies in its lack of rigid matching. Combining metal finishes creates movement and interest to draw the eye throughout the kitchen. If you love the look of matte black knobs but also adore brass pulls, mixed metals allow you to incorporate both.
Tips for Mixing Metal Finishes
What are some tips to follow when designing your mixed metal kitchen?
Choose finishes with similar undertones
Even though each piece may have a distinct look, try to mix metals with complementary undertones. For example, pair warm antiqued brass with brushed bronze or combine cool polished nickel with stainless steel. This creates cohesion between the different hardware pieces.
Start with consistency in styles
When first incorporating mixed metals, keep the hardware styles consistent. For example, use different metal knobs but all the same design. As you get comfortable mixing metals, you can vary shapes and styles more.
Carry mixed metals into fixtures and accents
For a purposeful mixed metal look, include cabinet hardware, lighting, plumbing fixtures, and decor accents in the same finishes. Tie it all together with other metals like blackened steel pots and pans.
Style Ideas for Mixed Metal Hardware
How you apply mixed metals depends on the look you want to achieve. Here are some style ideas:
Modern and Contemporary
For a sleek modern kitchen, combine polished chrome, matte black, and brushed nickel hardware. Continue the mixed metals into the sink, faucet, and lighting.
Traditional and Classic
In a traditional kitchen, antique brass and oil-rubbed bronze have an elegant, timeless feel. Use vintage-inspired hardware mixed with black iron pulls.
Farmhouse and Rustic
For farmhouse style, mix antique copper and galvanized metal cabinet hardware. Add in a stainless steel apron-front sink and pendant lights.
Transitional and Eclectic
If you enjoy blending modern and traditional elements, combine brushed brass, satin nickel, and aged copper hardware for an eclectic style.
Choosing Your Mixed Metal Hardware
When selecting mixed metal hardware, consider the range of options:
Knobs and Pulls
For mixed metal cabinet knobs and pulls, choose complementary finishes and styles that fit your kitchen's aesthetic. Using different metals helps differentiate upper and lower cabinets.
Hinges
Look for hinges with metal finishes matching your hardware. Or keep hinges simple in matte black or brass so they fade into the cabinetry.
Handles and Backplates
Mix up the look of your kitchen with metal cabinet door handles and decorative backplates in bronze, nickel, and antique brass.
Where to Use Mixed Metals
There are several places to incorporate mixed metal finishes within your kitchen design:
Upper vs. Lower Cabinets
Use one metal for upper cabinets, like brushed bronze, and a different finish for lowers, like champagne brass. This defines each section.
Kitchen Island
Make your kitchen island the mixed metal focal point. Consider a statement hardware mix of black, copper, and chrome.
Fixtures
Include kitchen and pendant lighting, the kitchen faucet, and sink in mixed metal finishes that match your hardware.
Appliances
Look for appliances with metal finishes like the stainless steel range paired with a brass hood and black refrigerator.
Buying Tips
Here are a few tips when purchasing mixed metal kitchen cabinet hardware:
Assess your existing cabinetry
Look at your current kitchen cabinets and layout to select the right mixed metal hardware. Measure to get the accurate size and number of pieces needed.
Find quality hardware
Buy solidly constructed hardware from reputable brands for durability. Feel the weight and test mechanisms before purchasing.
Consider the finishes
Understand how living with different metal finishes may alter their look over time due to fingerprints and other wear.
Set your budget
Well-made mixed metal hardware ranges widely in price. Set realistic expectations before you start shopping to avoid overspending.
Installing Your Mixed Metal Hardware
Installing your new mixed metal hardware requires care and patience. Follow these tips:
Remove old hardware
Take off existing handles and knobs. Degrease the doors and let them dry completely.
Fill old holes and drill new ones
Fill any old screw holes with wood filler and sand smooth. Refer to the template and drill new holes.
Attach the hardware
Place a piece of tape over the hardware as you attach it to prevent scratches. Secure using the provided screws.
Finish up
Wipe down the cabinets to remove any dust. Reattach doors and drawers to complete the look.
With the ability to reflect your personal taste through unique combinations, mixed metal kitchen cabinet hardware opens up many creative possibilities. Keep the overall look cohesive by choosing complementary finishes and carrying mixed metals throughout your kitchen design. The resulting look will be stylish, custom, and completely your own.
As you reimagine your kitchen, don't be afraid to think outside the hardware box. Mixed metal cabinet hardware provides that ideal balance of form and function while letting your inner designer shine.