Can You Use Metallic on Kitchen Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinets come in a wide variety of materials, finishes, and colors. Metallic finishes, like brushed nickel, copper, bronze, and stainless steel, have become increasingly popular for kitchen cabinets and hardware. So can you use a metallic finish on your kitchen cabinets? The short answer is yes – metallic is a fantastic choice to give your kitchen an updated, stylish look.

Benefits of Using Metallic Finishes on Kitchen Cabinets

There are many benefits to choosing a metallic finish for kitchen cabinets:

• Contemporary Style – Metallic finishes lend a modern, sleek, contemporary edge to kitchen design. Metallic finishes pair beautifully with other current trends like black stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops, and glass tile backsplashes.
• Reflective Surface – The glossy, mirrored surface of metallic finishes bounces light around the kitchen, making the space feel bright and airy. Metallics add shine and glamour.
• Texture and Depth – Metallic finishes like brushed nickel and hammered copper add visual texture and dimension to kitchen cabinets. The finishes make cabinets feel elevated and custom.
• Durability – Quality metallic finishes like stainless steel are extremely durable and scratch-resistant, ideal for the wear and tear of a kitchen. Metallic cabinets are easy to clean and maintain.
• On-Trend – Metallic kitchen decor is hugely popular at the moment, seen across appliances, hardware, lighting fixtures, and more. Metallic cabinets align with current design preferences.

Types of Metallic Finishes for Cabinets

There are many metal finish options to consider for kitchen cabinets:

Stainless Steel

• Sleek, professional look
• Available in various sheens like brushed and mirrored
• Extremely durable and fingerprint-resistant

Nickel

• Warm, soft silver color
• Pairs well with cool-toned color schemes
• Brushed nickel is popular for cabinet hardware

Copper

• Warm, reddish-orange tone
• Can range from dark antiqued to shiny polished copper
• Gives an elegant, ornate aesthetic

Bronze

• Rich gold/brown color
• Has an antique, timeworn appearance
• Great for traditional, Tuscan, or farmhouse kitchens

Pewter

• Silvery-gray color
• Slightly darker and warmer than other metallics
• Often with a subtly brushed or hammered texture

Gold

• Glamorous and luxury appeal
• Available in matte, satin, or high-gloss
• Best for contemporary or transitional spaces

Tips for Using Metallic Finishes

When working with metallic finishes in your kitchen, keep these tips in mind:

• Mix Metals Cautiously – It’s generally best to use one primary metal finish throughout to keep the look cohesive. Combining too many metals can look disjointed.
• Consider the Undertones – Choose metals whose undertones complement your cabinet color and kitchen color scheme. For example, bronze pairs better with warm wood cabinets while nickel suits crisp white.
• Use Accents – A little metallic goes a long way. Use metallic finishes strategically on select cabinets, hardware, or fixtures as accents against more neutral cabinetry.
• Mind the Lighting – Metallics look best in well-lit kitchens. Make sure to use lighting that highlights their reflective nature.
• Watch Out for Scratches – Although durable, darker metals like bronze can show scratches. Take care around high-traffic areas like lower cabinets.
• Clean Regularly – Clean metallic surfaces frequently using the proper metal cleaners and polishes to maintain their luster. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

Ideas for Incorporating Metallic Kitchen Cabinets

If you decide to go bold with all-metallic kitchen cabinets, here are some stylish ideas:

Modern Minimalist

White or light wood countertops with sleek stainless steel cabinets creates a refined modern look. Add in a geometric tile backsplash and modern gold hardware.

Sophisticated Contrast

Crisp white upper cabinets paired with rich copper-toned base cabinets makes a striking statement. Use brass hardware and black granite countertops.

Vintage Charm

Hammered copper cabinets, a farmhouse sink, and hexagon tile backsplash give off vintage character. Use vintage-style bronze hardware.

Tropical Paradies

For a glam tropical vibe, pair glossy gold lacquer cabinets with quartzite countertops. Add in woven barstools, rattan pendants, and greenery.

Industrial Edge

Matte black cabinets with a stainless steel island has an edgy industrial feel. Contrast with wood shelving and marble tile backsplash.

Conclusion

Metallic finishes definitely take kitchen cabinets to the next level. They add instant polish, depth, and luxury to kitchens of any size or style. Just select metallic finishes that coordinate with your kitchen’s overall design scheme. Then enjoy the glamour, shine, and visual texture metallics bring to your everyday cooking space. With the right approach, you can absolutely use metallic on kitchen cabinets to stunning effect.