Designers Say Stainless Steel Appliances Are No Longer
Interior designers report a shift away from stainless steel as the dominant kitchen finish, with clients preferring warmer metals, colored enamels, and
Stainless steel appliances are losing their status as the automatic choice for kitchens, according to designers polled by Southern Living. The material, once a major upgrade from colored appliances popular in the 1980s and 90s, is now facing competition from warmer finishes.
Lauren Saab, founder of Saab Studios in Dallas, Texas, states that stainless steel will always be a classic but is "no longer the default." She notes that warmer metals and colored enamel finishes are increasingly popular because they feel more personal. Susan Lin of Susan Lin Design in South Florida agrees. "Stainless steel is now losing its dominance in kitchen design," Lin says. She observes clients moving away from its stark feel toward warmer, low-key atmospheres with neutral or retro looks.
The Rise of Panel-Ready Appliances
A key trend replacing stainless steel's prominence is the use of panel-ready appliances. Donen Kemnitz, founder of Favorite Design Co. In Boerne, Texas, explains their appeal. "Panel-ready appliances give your kitchen a cohesive look that allows the other elements of your kitchen to maintain the focus," Kemnitz says. He suggests that practical appliances like dishwashers and microwaves do not need to draw attention. This approach integrates appliances into cabinetry for a seamless appearance.
Mixing Finishes for a Balanced Kitchen
For homeowners not ready to fully abandon stainless steel, designers recommend a mixed approach. Lauren Saab advises keeping some stainless steel appliances while introducing paneled options. She argues this mix achieves a timeless, warm, and inviting kitchen. "Stainless steel works best when it seems intentional, with touches of texture and contrast surrounding it," Saab explains. Instead of an all-stainless suite, she suggests investing in one statement piece, like a panel-ready refrigerator that blends with cabinetry. This combination of seamless and standout elements is presented as a balanced solution.
The shift indicates a broader move toward customization in kitchen design. The desire for a personalized, layered aesthetic is driving the exploration of finishes beyond the once-ubiquitous stainless steel. The trend debate highlights how appliance finishes are now considered integral to a kitchen's overall atmosphere and design narrative.
