Metal kitchen cabinets offer a sleek, modern look that can elevate any kitchen design. With creative decorating techniques, you can transform basic metal cabinets into a stylish focal point. This comprehensive guide will provide tips and ideas to help you decorate metal kitchen cabinets with ease.

Choose a Color Scheme

The color you choose for your metal cabinets will set the tone for your entire kitchen. Go bold with a vibrant color to make the cabinets a dramatic statement piece. Opt for classic white for a clean, crisp look. Or try a neutral shade like gray for a subtle style.

Consider the undertones of your cabinet color as well. Cool undertones like blue, green and gray work well with stainless steel and chrome hardware. Warm metal cabinet colors with yellow, red or orange undertones pair nicely with brass, bronze or antique metals.

Some popular color choices for metal kitchen cabinets include:

• White – Clean and brightens up the space
• Black – Sophisticated and dramatic
• Gray – Versatile neutral with cool undertones
• Navy Blue – Rich color with industrial feel
• Red – Makes a bold, vibrant statement

Once you select a cabinet color, choose accent hues that complement it. For white cabinets, shades of blue, green or yellow create a fresh look. Pair black cabinets with pops of red, orange or chartreuse. Neutral gray cabinets work with almost any accent color.

Add Interesting Hardware

Updating the hardware is an easy way to transform plain metal cabinets. Swap out dull old handles and knobs for ones that match your design aesthetic.

• Sleek bar handles in stainless steel, chrome or nickel have a modern vibe.
• Vintage-inspired handles with curved or angled shapes add charm.
• Knobs in various shapes, sizes and materials create visual interest.
• Matte black hardware makes a sophisticated statement.
• Hammered metal handles give an industrial, rustic look.

Make sure new hardware fits the scale of your cabinets. Oversize hardware looks best on larger cabinet fronts. Opt for smaller handles and knobs on narrow cupboard doors.

Mix and match knobs and handles for a custom look. Use one style on the upper cabinets and a different type below for defined zones.

Add Trim and Molding

Another easy upgrade is adding trim pieces and molding to basic metal cabinets. Frame doors and side panels with attractive trim to create shaker-style cabinets. Install crown molding along the top of wall cabinets to give them a built-in look.

Some popular trim choices include:

• Stainless steel or aluminum trim for contemporary style
• Wood trim pieces stained or painted to match cabinets
• Decorative molding like rope, beadboard or raised panels

Trim can match the cabinet color for a clean, seamless look. Use a contrasting trim color to make it stand out. Black or white trim often pairs well with bold cabinet hues.

Install New Doors

Replacing original doors offers a quick update for outdated metal cabinets. New doors come in a variety of styles to match any look.

• Slab doors – sleek, minimalist and modern
• Shaker doors – classic style with clean lines
• Glass-front doors – open up the space and add illumination
• Paneled doors – timeless design with dimensional detail
• Distressed or textured doors – add visual interest

Choose doors to complement your cabinet’s color and the overall kitchen style. For modern designs, slab doors in matching metal finishes keep everything streamlined. Glass-front doors add depth to traditional kitchens.

Mix and match door styles to give an eclectic feel. Use glass doors only on the uppers or just a few lower cabinets. updating your cabinet’s doors can entirely transform the look.

Add Interior Lighting

Installing interior lighting inside metal cabinets creates brilliant illumination and a gorgeous glow. Puck lights, LED strips and rod lights are all good options.

Place battery-operated wire lights along the top cabinet interior to shine down when opened. Install LED strips on the upper inside back of wall cabinets to cast soft ambient lighting. Under-cabinet lighting also highlights the metal finish nicely.

Use dimmers or smart bulbs to control cabinet lighting. Set different scenes like bright task lighting or soft mood illumination. Turn on cabinet lighting to showcase pretty dishware and glassware displays.

Use Decorative Interior Elements

Take advantage of the utilitarian nature of metal cabinets by adding functional interior fittings and racks. Organizational elements also provide decorative value with interesting shapes and finishes.

Some ideas for cabinet interiors include:

• Glass or metal shelves for visible storage
• Slide-out trays, racks and drawers
• Wine glass holders
• Tiered organizers and lazy susans
• Hooks for hanging utensils
• Spice racks
• Pull-out mixer shelves

Look for interior fittings in materials like stainless steel, aluminum, chrome or glass that complement your metal cabinets. Use them in select cabinets to maximize form and function.

Consider Two-Tone Cabinets

Go beyond one color with a two-tone metal cabinet scheme. Pairing mixes materials can look quite striking. Some chic combinations include:

• Black cabinets with brass hardware
• Navy blue cabinets with gold trim
• Stainless steel cabinets with black baseboards
• White cabinets with chrome handles
• Gray cabinets with copper accents

Two-tone kitchen cabinets make it easy to create distinct zones. Use one finish on upper cabinets and a different one below to define the space. Paint or wrap island cabinets in a contrasting color from the perimeter ones.

Add Glass Cabinet Doors

Incorporating glass door inserts takes metal cabinets from boring to brilliant. The transparent panes break up all the solid metal for visual relief while still showing off pretty dishware.

For a unifying look, opt for smoked gray, frosted or translucent glass. Or go with clear glass for an unfettered display. Use glass inserts only in select cabinets to create a point of interest. Try glass doors on just the upper cabinets or bookend ends for a balanced look.

Illuminate with Under Cabinet Lighting

There’s no better way to create a focal point than with strategic lighting. Under cabinet lights positioned over and below the sink highlight this functional area and provide task lighting. Long LED light strips installed under wall cabinets wash backsplashes and countertops with a pretty glow.

Choose lighting strips or puck lights in neutral white or cool blue hues. Dim them to set the right mood for prep tasks or dining. Control lights with remote dimmers or Wi-Fi-enabled smart lighting.

Add Mirrored Backsplash

For contemporary glam, install a mirrored backsplash behind metal cabinets. The reflective surface amplifies light and the kitchen’s dimensions. It also doubles the visual impact of the fab metal finish.

A mirrored backsplash fits right in with modern and contemporary kitchens. Keep the look clean and streamlined by framing the mirror sheets with thin metal strips the same finish as the cabinets.

Display Pretty Dishware

Take advantage of the clean, sleek look of metal cabinets by showing off pretty dishware, glasses and collectibles. Style open shelving or glass-front cabinets with:

• Colorful glassware and mugs
• Patterned or colorful dinnerware
• Metallic serving bowls and trays
• Vintage cake stands

Arrange items symmetrically or artfully for an eye-catching display. Complement dishes with decorative objects like fruit bowls, vases or candles for a layered look. Use risers or varying shelf heights to create dimension.

Add Warm Metal Accents

The industrial look of stainless steel or aluminum cabinets comes to life with the addition of warm metal accents. Brushed brass, bronze, copper or gold accents offset the cooler tones and add cozy style.

Some ways to incorporate warm metals:

• Knobs and pulls in bronze, brass or gold
• Metallic finish barstools or kitchen island
• Vintage-style brass lighting
• Hammered copper pots and pans on open shelves
• Aged metal signs or wall art

Rustic penny tile backsplashes also complement the modern coldness of metal with inviting warmth. Keep accessories minimal for just a light touch of coziness.

Paint the Interior

Painting the interior of metal cabinets transforms them with color while letting the exteriors shine. The surprise pop of color inside adds personality. Opt for a dramatic color like red or turquoise for maximum contrast. Or try something more mellow like light green or robin’s egg blue.

Adhere to the existing cabinet shape with color-blocking. Paint just the sides a different hue than shelves and backs. Try coordinating colors on uppers and lowers. Fanciful patterns like checks or diagonals also liven up interiors.

Paint only provides pops of color inside select cabinets. That leaves the rest to show off the sleek metal finish. For a cohesive accent, coordinate the interior paint color with kitchen wall color or accents.

Add Vertical Gardens

Give industrial metal cabinets a breath of fresh life with vertical garden installations. Use wall space between tall cabinets to mount planter boxes. Opt for stainless steel planters that mimic the cabinet finish. Or contrast metal cabinets with wooden planter boxes.

Add greenery above cabinets as well. Install floating shelves fitted with planters to grow herbs and succulents. For a seamless look, choose plants like sansevieria that can thrive without direct sunlight. Their height draws the eye up and adds life.

Incorporate Butcher Block

The natural wood tones of butcher block offer the perfect complement to shiny metal cabinets. Whether used for countertops, an island or cutting boards, butcher block warms up the space.

Opt for lighter-colored woods like maple or birch to keep things light and bright. Darker exotic woods like walnut also pair nicely with bold cabinet colors.

Consider using butcher block for only part of the countertop surface. Use it on the island or just for a section of countertop by the range. Use the ultra-durable surface for food prep while keeping easy-to-clean metal or stone surrounding it.

Add Wood Shelving

Wood shelving and accent walls help break up all the hard lines and metal. Natural wood adds warmth and contrasts with the industrial edge.

Floating wood wall shelves give a place to show off pretty accent pieces. Attach them to walls painted a coordinating accent color to make them pop. Enclose a small recess like by a breakfast nook with wood either as shelving or accent wall.

Use wood shelves inside select metal cabinets to add display space and a rustic touch. Finish them to match or stain a darker color for contrast. The natural material offsets all the gleaming metal.

Embrace Mixed Metals

Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix metal finishes for added dimension. Pairing stainless steel with blackened steel or oil-rubbed bronze can look ultra-modern.

Mixed metals work for cabinet finishes, hardware, fixtures, and decor accents. Just be sure the combination complements each other. Keep the look cohesive by limiting mixed metals to finishes in the same color family like warm gold with aged brass.

If combining several metals, let one finish dominate. Use the second metal only for accent hardware like pulls, lighting or faucets. Match metals in finishes versus colors for harmony. The combined metallic textures add interest.

Add Warm Contrasts

Look to wood, leather, greenery and other organic materials to soft drop temperature in an all-metal kitchen. Pops of contrasting elements prevent a cold, sterile feeling.

Ways to warm up metal kitchen cabinets:

• Floating wood wall shelves
• Butcher block countertops or islands
• Plant filled galvanized buckets
• Vintage ladder used as a spice rack
• Ceramic vessels displayed on open shelves
• Wire baskets for produce storage
• Leather barstools or kitchen mats
• Rustic wood cutting boards and utensils

Use warm contrasts only in select areas as accents. For example, stick to wood bar stools instead of cabinets for a more balanced look. The small touches of contrast add just the right amount of coziness.

Finish with Fresh Florals

Nothing warms up a space better than fresh florals and greenery. A weekend farmers’ market bouquet displayed on the countertop or mounted metal shelves softens the space.

Choose loose flower bundles in white, pink or other soft colors. Ferns and eucalyptus greens mixed with flowers keep floral arrangements looking light. Repurpose colorful enameled pots or pitchers as impromptu vases.

If you don’t have a green thumb, go for faux flowers and plants. Opt for high-quality silk greenery in simple pots that looks realistic. Use them to add permanent pops of green and color.

Add Warm Lighting

Cool overhead lighting has its function but can feel stark. Layer in elements like pendant lamps, sconces and under cabinet lighting for ambiance.

Choose fixtures with warm lighting elements like incandescent bulbs, transparent lampshades or a brass finish. Look for interesting shapes like curved arcs or spheres to contrast with the cabinet’s straight lines.

Position lighting elements near metal cabinet surfaces to highlight the sleek finish. Accent warm light around a breakfast nook or sink area where people gather. Keep the overall lighting scheme minimal and focused on accent areas.

Incorporate Patterned Tile

Liven up a neutral metal kitchen with showstopping patterned tile. Geometric tile backsplashes or floors bring vibrancy. Handpainted Spanish tiles behind the stove create a focal point.

Stick to just one area for tile so it doesn’t compete with dramatic cabinets. Use it selectively on the backsplash or floor. Pair with simple metal pendant lights, stainless stools and plain countertops.

If your cabinets are colorful, stick to simple white or neutral subway tile. Let the cabinet color be the star and adorn it with basic metal hardware and minimal accents.

Add Architectural Interest

Unique architectural elements contrast beautifully with contemporary cabinetry. Try adding:

• Exposed brick backsplash or accent wall
• Wood beam shelves
• Reclaimed wood plank tiles
• Salvaged barn doors
• Custom metal window hood
• Concrete or stone accents

Keep the lines and shape simple to complement metal’s clean look. Monochrome color schemes also keep the focus on the cabinets. Add your unique focal point near the cabinets to highlight them.

Infuse Your Style

When decorating metal kitchen cabinets, don’t be afraid to add unique personal touches. Infuse your style into the space with:

• Vintage signs or framed photos on cabinet fronts
• Collections like antique dishware or cookbooks on open shelves
• Custom monogram or name sign above stove
• Meaningful art, fabrics or accent colors
• Stylized dishware and kitchen tools

Even metal kitchens need hominess. Play up your passions whether it’s travel, music or Champagne. Keep accents minimal and meaningful for a polished look.

The sleek, versatile look of metal kitchen cabinets pairs well with many styles. From industrial lofts to modern farmhouse, this adaptable kitchen staple works everywhere. With creative styling and decorating, you can take basic metal cabinets and turn them into a focal point full of personality. Use these tips and ideas to design a space that’s distinctly you.

FAQs About Decorating Metal Kitchen Cabinets

What are popular ways to upgrade basic metal cabinets?

Some easy DIY upgrades for metal cabinets include:

• Adding new hardware like knobs, pulls or handles
• Installing trendy shaker-style trim or molding
• Painting or wrapping exterior in a new color
• Adding glass door inserts
• Changing doors to paneled, shaker or glass-front
• Installing interior lighting like puck lights or LED strips
• Adding organizational fittings like pull-out shelves

How do you brighten up dark metal cabinets?

If your metal cabinets are a dark finish like black or espresso, brighten them up by:

• Choosing light countertops and backsplash
• Painting walls a soft white or light gray
• Adding glass cabinet doors
• Installing plenty of interior lighting
• Decorating with greenery, wood and soft fabrics
• Accenting with shiny chrome or stainless steel

What type of look do two-tone kitchen cabinets create?

Using two different finishes or colors on kitchen cabinets creates visual interest and defines work zones. Some stylish two-tone combinations include:

• Black lower cabinets with white uppers
• Wood base cabinets with color-washed uppers
• Matte black island with brass accents

Go for high contrast to make the two colors really stand out. Keep finishes cohesive like cool silvers with warm golds.

Should metal kitchen cabinets match other metals and hardware?

Matching cabinet finish with metals like lighting and hardware creates a streamlined, harmonious look. However, mixing metals can look modern and eclectic if done right.

Some guidelines for mixing metals:

• Limit mix to 2-3 finishes
• Choose metals with similar undertones
• Allow one metal to dominate
• Add contrasting metal strategically as accents

What type of look do glass cabinet doors create?

Glass cabinet doors create an airier, lighter look in kitchens. They showcase dishes and collectibles while still keeping items contained. Glass fronts work in almost any kitchen style from modern to traditional.

Frosted, smoked or patterned glass looks elegant. Clear glass maximizes visibility. Use glass doors sparingly to create a focal point and highlight favorite pieces.

How can you add personality and warmth to metal cabinets?

Make sleek metal cabinets warmer and homier with:

• Natural materials like wood, stone, greenery
• Incandescent, vintage or pendant lighting
• Fabric accents like curtains, slipcovers, rugs
• Art, photos, framed prints and personal collections
• Warm paint colors like reds, oranges and yellows
• Antique, rustic or vintage accents

Adding personal touches showcases your style and gives a highly personalized feel.

Conclusion

With limitless options for colors, materials and decor, metal kitchen cabinets can be customized to suit any taste. Getting creative with cabinet finishes, hardware, lighting and styling transforms basic metal cabinets into a stunning focal point. The key is blending colors, textures and materials that enhance the metal’s sleek, reflective properties. With these decorating ideas