Mixing Metals in Kitchen: Simple Style Tips
I wanted to update my kitchen without a full remodel, and mixing metals turned out to be an easy way to make it feel more stylish. If you’re thinking the same, you’re in the right spot.
Not sure how to combine finishes like brass, chrome, or black without clashing? I’ve been there, and it’s easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through it step by step.
You’ll learn simple pairing rules, where each metal works best, and tips for matching them to your kitchen’s vibe. I’ll also show you what to avoid so everything feels intentional.
Let’s get started!
Why Mix Metals in the Kitchen?
If you’ve ever felt like your kitchen looks too flat or uniform, this simple change makes a big difference.
Using more than one finish gives your kitchen that lived-in look, like it evolved over time rather than being copied from a catalog. It draws attention to your favorite details and adds a thoughtful, custom feel.
You might already have stainless steel appliances. I did, too, but I still wanted brass hardware and matte black fixtures. Instead of replacing everything, you can use contrast to your advantage.
It’s also a practical choice. If one finish gets discontinued or hard to find, you’re not locked in. You can pair something new, and it still works.
Mixing Metals in Kitchen Design: Tips That Work
Although there is no strict rulebook, these tips can help you achieve a nice, balanced look instead of a space that feels messy.
1. Keep it to 2–3 Metals
Use no more than two or three types of metal in your kitchen. That’s enough to make things interesting, but it still feels pulled together.
If you use too many metals, it can start to feel random. With fewer finishes, each one stands out without trying to compete. This also makes it easier to plan how they work with your cabinets, counters, and backsplash.
2. Pick a Main Metal
Choose one metal to use the most, accounting for approximately 60%-70% of all the metal items in the room. This keeps the look grounded and easy on the eyes.
Other metals can show up in smaller ways, such as in lights or handles, so the main finish still sets the tone. The largest metal areas, like appliances or cabinet pulls, usually work best for the main metal.
3. Focus on Contrast, Not Clashing
Pick metals that look different but still feel right together. For example, black and brass make a bold pair without fighting each other.
If two finishes seem to argue or pull attention in opposite directions, that’s a sign they might not work well together. Think about how your metals will fit with your kitchen’s overall style and mood.
4. Mix Finish Types
Try different surface textures in the same metal family. Brushed nickel, shiny chrome, and satin finishes can work well together.
Flat finishes feel more modern, while shiny ones feel a bit more fancy. You can choose based on looks, ease of cleaning, or both. If your metals are different colors, using the same surface type can help them look like they belong together.
5. Warm vs. Cool
Some metals feel warm, like brass, copper, or gold, while others are cool, like silver, chrome, and stainless steel.
It’s okay to mix warm and cool metals, but you’ll need to do it with care. Think about your paint, cabinets, and counters to see which mix works best. Black is a great neutral.
It complements both warm and cool metals and can help bring everything together.
Best Pairings for Mixing Metals in Kitchen Decor
These trusted pairings bring balance, texture, and personality to your kitchen. They add visual depth without clashing, helping you mix finishes in a way that feels intentional, stylish, and easy to pull off.
Brass and Black
Brass brings warmth, while black adds bold contrast. This mix creates a rich, stylish look that feels modern yet cozy without being too flashy.
Use black for large pieces like hardware or appliances. Add touches of brass through pendant lights, cabinet knobs, or faucets to keep the space balanced and eye-catching
Chrome and Nickel
Both finishes have cool tones and work well together. Chrome reflects more light, while nickel has a smoother, more subtle appearance.
They pair perfectly in white or gray kitchens. To keep the look soft and balanced, use chrome for faucets or lights and nickel for cabinet pulls.
Copper and Stainless Steel
Black feels strong and steady, while gold brings brightness. Together, they make a bold and stylish pair that adds depth and glow to your kitchen.
Use black on larger features like cabinets or appliances. Add gold in small touches, drawer pulls, faucets, or lighting for a shine that stands out without feeling too loud.
Oil-Rubbed Bronze and Brass
These two warm metals bring a cozy, classic feel. Bronze looks rich and aged, while brass adds a softer, more polished glow. Together, they look great with wood cabinets and natural stone.
Use bronze for bold features and brass for gentle highlights like handles or lights.
Where to Use Mixed Metals in Your Kitchen
Different spots in your kitchen are great for adding metal finishes. Here’s how to break it down.
1. Cabinet Handles and Pulls
This is where you’ll use your main metal the most. It keeps the space feeling steady and easy on the eyes.
You can still change things up, such as using knobs on the top cabinets and longer pulls on the bottom ones. This is an easy place to start if you’re new to mixing metals.
2. Faucets and Sinks
Faucets are great for showing off a second metal. A brass faucet can look great next to a white sink. Sinks come in many metal finishes now, like copper or black. Consider how they’ll look with your faucet and handles.
3. Lights
Pendant lights or hanging fixtures are a good place to try bold metal finishes. If your light is large, a lighter finish might help it feel less heavy. If it’s small, you can go darker or more dramatic.
Lights also help bring metal to different heights in the room, which keeps things interesting.
4. Appliances
Your appliances are usually the biggest metal items in the kitchen. Stainless steel is still the most common. If you choose stainless, you can add black, brass, or copper in smaller touches without it looking too busy.
Stick with one finish for all your big appliances so they feel consistent.
5. Hoods and Backsplashes
A metal hood can become the standout piece in your kitchen. Choose something that contrasts with your cabinets to really make it pop. You can also try small bits of metal in the backsplash, like tile accents or trim.
Keep these pieces in sync with your hardware or lighting to tie the room together.
Best Matches for Different Kitchen Styles
I’ve noticed that the style of your kitchen often points to certain metal combos that just work.
If you follow that lead, you can easily boost the overall look while still adding your own personal touch. It’s all about staying true to your kitchen’s feel while mixing in details that reflect your style.
| Kitchen Style | Recommended Metals |
|---|---|
| Modern | Chrome, matte black, brushed stainless |
| Farmhouse | Oil-rubbed bronze, copper, antique brass |
| Industrial | Raw steel, aluminum, pewter, copper |
| Transitional | Brass + nickel, brushed finishes |
| Boho | Mixed global metals, hammered textures |
Budget-Friendly & DIY Tips for Mixing Metals
You don’t need a full remodel or expensive materials to get that mixed-metal look. Here are a few easy, affordable ways to bring stylish finishes into your kitchen without spending much:
- Swap: Replace just a few cabinet knobs or pulls in a different finish to test the mix before committing.
- Spray: Use high-quality metallic spray paint to update old fixtures or hardware instead of buying new ones.
- Layer: Mix finishes through accessories like utensil holders, trays, or hanging hooks for subtle contrast.
- Thrift: Look for secondhand light fixtures, faucets, or decor in alternative finishes to mix in character on a budget.
Even small updates can shift the whole feel of your space. Start with what you have and build slowly, intentional layers make all the difference.
Conclusion
I’ve found that mixing metals in the kitchen is one of the easiest ways to add style and personality without doing a full renovation. If you’re looking for a quick update, this approach really works.
Now that you’ve seen the best combos, layout tips, and what to avoid, you’re ready to plan a look that feels fresh and balanced.
Start small, maybe swap out a few handles or update a light fixture. I tried that first, and it made a bigger difference than I expected. Just keep it simple and let each finish stand out in its own way.
Looking for more ways to upgrade your kitchen? Browse our other blog posts for practical tips that work with any style or budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should kitchen faucets match cabinet hardware?
Not necessarily. While matching can create a cohesive look, mixing different finishes can add depth. Just make sure the finishes complement each other in tone and style.
Can you mix stainless steel appliances with gold hardware?
Yes, you can. Stainless steel is a cool tone, while gold is warm, but pairing them works well when you balance them across the space and use a neutral like black to tie them together.
What metal finishes are classic in kitchen design?
Brushed nickel, matte black, and stainless steel are considered classic. They work well with various styles and mix easily with trendier finishes like brass or copper.
