One of the most striking kitchen trends to emerge over the past year is the rise of designing with metallics, especially metallics in cool tones – think patinated silver, chrome, nickel, and stainless steel. Sleek, shiny, and refreshingly understated, these finishes offer a sophisticated alternative to the dominance of warm brass and gold tones. First making waves at Milan Design Week last spring, the cool metallics trend is set to gain momentum into 2025. Yet, it’s not about replacing warm metal finishes entirely; the real beauty of these cooler tones lies in their versatility. In a similar way to a neutral colour, they seamlessly complement a variety of shades, materials, and finishes, bringing balance and depth to any kitchen. Read on to discover how to incorporate metallic finishes into your space, without sacrificing warmth or character.

Choose patinated and brushed finishes

Forget the harsh, sterile vibe of professional-style polished steel kitchens – designing with metallics in 2025 is all about embracing finishes that exude a softer, more lived-in elegance. Our bespoke Patinated Silver doors, showcased here in the Tandon Project, are a perfect example. This unique liquid metallic finish is meticulously hand-applied in layers, then polished and burnished to achieve a beautifully textured, time-worn patina. The result is a rich, tactile surface that blends effortlessly within both modern and transitional kitchens. For hardware, brushed nickel and brushed steel bring a subtle, understated shine, adding a refined industrial edge to cabinetry or kitchen island designs. Beyond aesthetics, opting for patinated and brushed metals has practical perks – fingerprints and smudges are far less noticeable, making these finishes as functional as they are stylish.

Take a balanced approach

To incorporate metallics into your kitchen without overpowering the space, focus on standout features like a kitchen island. Pair your statement island with solid lacquered paint colours and natural materials like stone and wood for contrast and warmth. In our Mangat Project, the island showcases Grey Bronze metallic doors from our Studio range, creating a striking contrast against the timeless Shaker-style cabinetry. To tie the look together, introduce metallic touches through lighting fixtures, taps, and appliances, ensuring a cohesive, stylish, and effortlessly balanced design.

Mix it up

We’re so over precision matched metallics – the modern approach to designing with metals is all about relaxed, eclectic combinations. Mixing finishes like brushed steel, patinated silver, and warm brass, bronze or copper creates depth and visual interest, steering clear of a contrived, rigidly coordinated look. Our Fawnbrake Project nails this approach, pairing a sleek island in Matt Patinated Silver with copper splashbacks and hardware for a warm, modern industrial vibe. Once again, the key to pulling off this layered style is balance: stick to a cohesive palette and let one metallic take centre stage, while the others play supporting roles to create a harmonious yet dynamic design.

Work in wood

Combining metallic finishes with wood in the kitchen is a brilliant and effective way to create a design that feels warm, grounded, and inviting. The rich sheen of metals contrasts beautifully with the natural texture and warmth of wood, striking a perfect balance between modern minimalism and fluid, organic comfort. One standout pairing is Grey Bronze metallic with Walnut veneer, as seen in our Rush Project (in collaboration with Rush Interiors), which features cabinetry from our Studio collection. The deep, lustrous tones of the walnut amplify the subtle warmth of the metallic finish, while the wood’s grain adds depth and texture. This blend not only softens the cool grey tones in the metallic doors but, when paired with antique brass handles and bronze mirrored splashbacks, creates a space that feels effortlessly elevated, with a timeless, layered sophistication. Bravo Rushim!

What is the best metal for interior design?

The best metal for interior design largely depends on the mood and aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve. Polished brass and gold are luxurious choices, perfect for adding a high-end look in an urban setting, while unlacquered copper and brass, left to age and patina, can feel more vintage and rural. Stainless steel works well in modern, minimalist spaces, offering sleekness and durability – ideal for designs that lean into professional chef’s kitchen vibes. For a more refined and classical look, matt or brushed nickel provides subtle elegance. Blackened, dark bronze and graphite metallics are more masculine and are best used in small doses to cut through other colours and finishes without overpowering.

Designing with metallics is easier than you might think. Read our detailed guide on how we work at Roundhouse and find out what to expect when we work together.